To choose a Swiss Army knife well, start from how you will use it rather than from the number of tools. A 58 mm model is enough for everyday life and slips onto a key ring, a 91 mm model covers most needs (hiking, picnics, small repairs) and a 111 mm model with a locking blade suits more demanding jobs. Every tool added makes the knife thicker and heavier: the right Swiss Army knife is the one you will actually carry in your pocket.
Victorinox and Wenger: what is the difference today?
Two makers produced the Swiss Army knife for many years: Victorinox, founded in 1884 by Karl Elsener in Ibach (canton of Schwyz), and Wenger, based in Delémont in the Jura. Victorinox took over Wenger in 2005, then folded the Wenger pocket knives into its own range in 2013. In practice, if you are looking for a "Wenger" today, you will find its heirs under the Victorinox brand, notably in the Evolution line, such as the Evowood 14 with walnut handle.
Other Swiss makers also offer multi-tool knives, such as Swiza in Delémont. You can see our whole selection in the Swiss Army knives collection.
Size: the first criterion to settle
58 mm: the key ring companion
Small blade, scissors, nail file with screwdriver, tweezers: the 58 mm format takes care of small everyday tasks without cluttering your pocket. The Victorinox Classic is the typical example. It does not replace a proper knife for cutting bread or wood, but it never leaves your side.
84 to 93 mm: the "classic" Swiss Army knife
This is the format everyone thinks of, and the most versatile. At 91 mm, the Victorinox Spartan brings together the essentials: two blades, corkscrew, can opener, bottle opener with screwdriver and reamer. Add scissors and a wood saw and you arrive at the Victorinox Huntsman, a benchmark for hiking.
111 mm and above: for demanding jobs
The large models offer a longer, usually locking blade that can often be opened with one hand. Victorinox's Soldier's knife 08, at 111 mm, is the one issued to Swiss soldiers since 2008. This format suits camping, outdoor work or the workshop, but it is better carried in a sheath than at the bottom of a jacket pocket.
How many tools do you really need?
A knife with 30 functions is impressive, but it quickly becomes heavy and thick. Most users regularly use three or four tools. Before buying, list the ones you will use:
- Large and small blade: the basics, for cutting, peeling and opening a parcel.
- Corkscrew and bottle opener: essential for a picnic.
- Screwdriver: very handy in town and at home.
- Scissors: for a thread, a label, a nail or a plaster.
- Wood saw: for camping and the garden.
- Specialist tools: fish scaler for angling, pliers, magnifying glass and so on.
Our advice: choose the smallest model that holds every tool on your list, and nothing more.
Choosing by use
Everyday and in town
A 58 mm model or a flat model such as the Swisscard Classic, which fits in a wallet, is more than enough.
Hiking, camping and picnics
A 91 mm model with saw and scissors, such as the Huntsman, covers the essentials: cutting cheese, trimming a branch, repairing a strap.
Fishing and specific activities
Some models are designed for a particular pastime, such as the Victorinox Angler with its fish scaler and hook disgorger.
A first Swiss Army knife as a gift
The Spartan remains a safe choice: complete, slim and durable. In the wood version, the Spartan Wood adds a warmer touch.
Handle and finish
The classic red handle is made of synthetic material, which is hard-wearing and light. Wooden versions (walnut) age beautifully over time. Aluminium (Alox) handles, with their ribbed finish, allow slimmer knives for the same number of tools. To carry the large models, consider a suitable sheath.
Frequently asked questions
Should I buy a Victorinox or a Wenger?
Wenger pocket knives have been part of the Victorinox range since 2013. Today the question is therefore mostly about choosing between the different Victorinox lines, including the Evolution line inherited from Wenger.
What size of Swiss Army knife should I choose?
58 mm for light everyday use, 91 mm for all-round use, 111 mm and above if you need a large locking blade.
Which is the most versatile Swiss Army knife?
A 91 mm model with two blades, scissors, wood saw, corkscrew and screwdriver, such as the Huntsman, meets the vast majority of needs.
Can you take a Swiss Army knife on a plane?
As a general rule, knives are not allowed in cabin baggage. Place it in your hold luggage and check the rules of your airline and airport before departure.
How do you look after a Swiss Army knife?
Rinse it in lukewarm water, open and close the tools to clear out residue, dry it thoroughly and put a drop of suitable oil on the joints. Avoid the dishwasher.
Knives are sold only to customers aged 18 and over. Carrying a knife is regulated by law: find out about the legislation in force wherever you take it.