To give the right Swiss Army knife, start from the person and what they will really do with it. For a child accompanied by an adult, choose a small, simple model or a blade that locks in the open position. For a hiker, a 91 mm model with a wood saw and scissors covers the essentials. For a DIY enthusiast, go for a better-equipped model, with pliers, files or a Phillips screwdriver. Here are our suggestions, chosen from the Victorinox and Swiza knives available in our Geneva shop.
Three questions to ask before choosing
- Who will use it, and how often? Occasional use calls for a different knife from daily use.
- Where will it be carried? On a key ring, in a pocket, in a rucksack or in a toolbox.
- Which tools will really be used? A slim knife that gets used is better than a thirty-function model that stays at the bottom of a drawer.
For a full overview of sizes and ranges, see also our guide How to Choose a Swiss Army Knife.
A Swiss Army knife for a child
A first knife is a real learning moment. It is bought by an adult (sales are restricted to customers aged 18 and over) and used under their supervision while the right reflexes are acquired: cutting with the blade moving away from yourself, closing the knife before moving about, putting it away after use.
Small and simple: the Victorinox Classic
At 58 mm, the Victorinox Classic 0.6223 combines a small blade, scissors, a nail file with screwdriver, tweezers and a toothpick. Its short blade reassures parents, and its key ring format makes it a companion you will not leave at home.
A blade that does not close on the fingers: the Swiza D01
The Swiza D01 combines a 75 mm blade with a safety lock operated by the cross, an awl with needle eye, a corkscrew and tweezers. Once open, the blade stays locked and cannot close during cutting, a real asset for learning. Its non-slip ribs ensure a good grip. Larger (9.7 cm closed), it suits a child who is already confident, always supervised.
A Swiss Army knife for a hiker
In the mountains, needs are concrete: cutting bread and cheese, trimming a branch, repairing a strap, opening a tin.
The all-rounder: Victorinox Huntsman
The Victorinox Huntsman 1.3713 (91 mm, 15 functions) brings together large and small blades, scissors, wood saw, corkscrew, can opener, bottle opener with screwdriver, awl and multi-purpose hook. It is the model we recommend most often to walkers: complete without becoming bulky. If scissors are not essential, the Camper, on the same base with a wood saw, is a little slimmer.
For the bivouac and demanding cuts: Victorinox Nomad
With its 111 mm and locking blade, the Victorinox Nomad 0.8353.3 offers more grip and safety for camp tasks. It keeps the useful tools (corkscrew, can opener, bottle opener with screwdriver, awl) and is ideally carried in a sheath or on a belt.
A Swiss Army knife for a DIY enthusiast
The DIY enthusiast values above all the tools that save a trip back to the workshop.
A small toolbox: Victorinox Handyman
The Victorinox Handyman 1.3773 adds scissors, a wood saw, a metal file, a hook and multi-purpose pliers to the basic functions. Tightening a nut, cutting a wire, adjusting a part: it helps out in most situations, at home or in the garden.
Sturdy and screwdriver-focused: Swiza D04
The Swiza D04 combines a 75 mm stainless blade with a safety lock, a Phillips screwdriver, a bottle opener with 6 mm flat screwdriver, a can opener with 3 mm flat screwdriver and a reaming awl. An excellent knife for the drawer or the car. For enthusiasts who want the maximum number of tools, the Victorinox Swisschamp, the most fully equipped in the brand's range, is one to discover in the shop.
And what about Wenger?
Many customers still ask us for a "Wenger". Victorinox took over the brand in 2005 and folded its pocket knives into its own range in 2013: it is therefore at Victorinox that you find its heirs today. For a Swiss alternative, Swiza, in Delémont, offers locking-blade knives with a contemporary design. Compare all the models in our Swiss Army knives collection or in the Swiza selection.
Making the gift more personal
A sheath protects the knife and makes it easier to carry, especially for the 111 mm models. Engraving a first name or initials also turns a tool into a keepsake: ask us about the possibilities for the model you choose.
Frequently asked questions
From what age can you give a Swiss Army knife?
There is no single age: it all depends on the child's maturity and supervision. The knife is bought by an adult and used under their supervision until the right movements have been learned.
Locking blade or not for a first knife?
A blade that locks in the open position stops it closing on the fingers during cutting. It is a real advantage for learning, provided you know how to release it properly.
Which Swiss Army knife for hiking?
A 91 mm model with two blades, scissors and a wood saw, such as the Victorinox Huntsman, meets the vast majority of needs in the mountains.
Are more functions necessarily better?
No. Each tool adds thickness and weight. The best knife is the one that contains the tools useful to the person, and nothing more.
Can a knife received as a gift be exchanged?
Yes, for online orders, under our returns conditions. In the shop, we are happy to advise you before you buy so that you get it right first time.
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.