Swiss Army Knives: What Are They Good For?

The Swiss Army knife is a modern day miracle with its many indoor and outdoor uses.  From its inception in Switzerland in 1891 the Swiss Army knife has captivated multi-tool users for over 100 years.  Originally intended as a pocket knife for the Swiss Army with its transition into a multi-tool gadget almost anyone can find a reason to have one.  Let’s take a look at how many different and unique tools can fit into one little pocket sized gadget.

Tools on the earlier models
•    Screwdriver
•    Can Opener
•    Tweezers
•    Toothpick
•    Bottle Opener
•    Wire Stripper
•    Ball Point Pen
•    Phillips Head Screwdriver
•    Saw

Tools on a newer Swiss Army knife
•    Magnifying Glass
•    Nail File
•    Scissors
•    MP3 Player
•    USB Drive with memory stick features
•    Laser Pointer
•    LED Light – not quite a Surfire Flashlight
•    Divot Repair Tool for golf

They are relatively light weight and made out of aluminum alloy and stainless steel.  The idea was to create a device that was easy to carry with you anywhere and have as many different tools available to you as you would ever need at one time.  You can find uses for it almost anywhere and it’s a great device to carry with you when camping and hiking.  Remember not to leave it in your pocket while boarding an airline these days, they will be confiscated.

Since Victorinox began producing the famed knife it’s been a favorite around the world.  It’s only true competitor was the Wenger Company which Victorinox purchased in 2005 eliminating the competition.  Many companies have tried to create their own versions but have failed to provide the same quality product.  The superior craftsmanship, ingenuity, versatility and materials that go in to creating these knives are unrivaled.  Today the company sells around 50,000 knives to the Swiss Army each year.  The rest of production goes into exports with the United States being the largest buyer.  They make excellent Father’s Day and Anniversary gifts and you can find a use for it anywhere.