Agreed. Been carrying a Ranger for ages. It stays in my pocket, and I never leave home without it. Plus, being an old Ranger myself, it's just fitting that SAK named it so.
It’s a very good choice. It has all my favorite tools except pliers. I sometimes also carry a handyman and a huntsman, but the ranger is a great compromise between the two. Especially, when I also carry the small knipex pliers. Gotta have a corkscrew!
@@willeam1986 Hi William, thanks for taking the time to reply. I got the 145 mm Mini needle nose combination pliers . This is 5.7 inches . I also got the knipex mini waterpump pliers and the knipex co bolt mini bolt cutters plus the pic quic stubby multi bit screw driver with 4 extra long pic quic bits . Also I got the 14 inch ,ovalised ,tool steel gorilla bar. The whole kit is heavy and bulky ,but it easily fits in my urban get home bag ( maxpedition falcon 2 ) and is the ultimate shtf urban survival tool kit ...
The dog isn't so noticeable but, I can hear it. That ranger looks great. You're helping me realize little by little that a beat up SAK is ok to carry and my ocd doesn't have to ruin it for me. Keep up the great work
Just got one and tricked it out with solid green plus scales (for the pen), an eyeglass screwdriver, and a pin. I was tempted to get the handyman, but I am completely satisfied with my Ranger. (If I want small pliers I can always carry a Leatherman Squirt or Style PS) I personally think the Ranger is the thickest that a Swiss army knife can get and still have satisfying ergonomics and elegance. Just my opinion, but I think anything bigger than 5 layers and SAKs become a little cumbersome and clunky to use. Yes, I sort of miss the inline Philips that I have on my Explorer, but other than that, the Ranger is the perfect heavy duty SAK for me. Especially if you're going to use it in the outdoors for bushcraft, I really don't know why you would ever get a Huntsman or Fieldmaster over the Ranger. For only one more very narrow layer and a fraction of an ounce more, you get the use of a file, chisel, and a small flathead.
With the exception of the bit exchanger on the leatherman..if you don't deal with odd fasteners..in my opinion a sak in combination with a pair of knipex cobra pliers like the xs or 125mm with get more work done that any plier based mutitool I use the sak pliers all the time to hold nuts while using the cobras for the bolts for example
I have to agree with you, a swiss army knife has to have a corkscrew. The small flathead on the can opener works fine on most philips head anyway. I have a Huntsman and a Swiss Champ, and that Ranger looks like the perfect balance between function and size. I always miss the metal file with my Huntsman.
I really enjoy carrying my new pioneer x these days, but still have and sometimes carry a Ranger I picked up in switzerland during a visit to my uncle when he was stationed in Germany in 1987. At that time it had the option for black celidor scales. a great tool selection.
My top 5 favorites are: #1) Swiss Champ #2) Trekker #3) Huntsman #4) Cybertool #5) Compact tied with Walker. I like the Huntsman because it has the scissors and the saw making it a good urban and wilderness edc at a good carry size. I have no need for the Ranger, Explorer, Master Tradesmen, or even the Huntsman because I carry the Swiss Champ everyday. I buy different models to put into kits that I put in glove boxes and emergency bags. But if I had to pick only one, I would pick the Swiss Champ, its got it all except a bit driver like the Cybertool.
I really like the Ranger but the Handyman adds the pliers, which I've used over and over again. I don't have a problem carrying bulkier SAKs, including the Swisschamp.
My Ranger is my favorite overall. Mine has been my 'pack knife' for about 10 years. My favorite EDC is the Super Tinker. I've been carrying one since I was 12 (more than 35 years). My first was a gift from my grandfather and has been retired to the keepsake box. Recently, I lost the replacement and now own my 3rd Super Tinker. Which, despite not having the corkscrew is totally a Swiss Army Knife!
Yep. Forced to agree. Probably one of the best models Victorinox have ever made. Got one yesterday, and it cost me nothing. Used a gift card to pay for it.
Love this model, i have 2, one older "camping" one, not as old as this since it has a smooth corkscrew, and a newer one, differences are basically that the newer has the new more aggressive metal file (love it!), And also the old one has a full shape liber between file and saw, while on the new one the same liner is shaped down like the others... Best tool set ever, though I mostly carry a climber or a sportsman in everyday life since... Well... Bulk and weight. But the ranger is the go to for outdoorsy days, can do everything.
I like the Ranger, but I still like my Champion C better. I like having my magnifying glass. I did a review and actually started a fire with the 8x magnifying glass. Going to try with the 6x next.
Gotta say by far my favorite SAK is the Ranger. I have 3 of them all with plus scales I put on to make them a step or two handier. lol One is always in the car, a second is in my 10 essentials kit I take on all hikes or other outdoor trips/outings and the third I keep at home or take anywhere else I may need. Yeah, my favorite is the Ranger. I believe it is also the smallest SAK to have the underrated metal saw. Nice collection of oldies but goodies you have.
There are models like the Automobile and Mountaineer which have the file in 3 and 4 layers respectively, but the Ranger is without a doubt the best SAK ever.
I’d like to have one like the Ranger, with all the back tools, only leave out the scissors/hook layer, and replace the corkscrew with a Philips driver. That would be a sweet 4 layer, loaded with options but still small enough to fit in the watch pocket of my jeans, and it would be very handy at work.
Love your videos, I have my beloved astronaut which has the back Phillips instead or the cork screw. I have ordered the ranger and can’t wait to put into rotation 👍
Use the same 3 SAKs even though I have better ones, a Camper, Farmer and old style Victorinox German Army Knife. Have a Huntsman and one of those Delemont things, rarely use them. Don't know why. Think the Ranger looks fantastic, very useful but it would probably be a waste of money for me.
Eh, define "better steel"... For most people a knife that can rust is perceived as worse than one that blunts more easily, so I get their choice of steel here.
that said I have the same SAK same year and use it daily in my work as a carpenter. It seems to be the thinnest model without one "unnecessary" tool. Evenings I carry a compact. Liking your videos, keep up the good work for the community, thanks !
This is a good knife. But it's not worth more than $35. I don’t think even the most superduper Victorinox is worth more than $50. Once you get more features it's just parlor tricks, not actual functionality. But we know most SAKs are for show, given the popularity of websites and videos.
@@swizzarmygrizz That's a really unusual one ! I've only had the regular ones and never seen the small versions of it ? I do hope they can fix it for you ! I've had problems in the past with older models repaired in Ibach !
Agreed. Been carrying a Ranger for ages. It stays in my pocket, and I never leave home without it. Plus, being an old Ranger myself, it's just fitting that SAK named it so.
It’s a very good choice. It has all my favorite tools except pliers. I sometimes also carry a handyman and a huntsman, but the ranger is a great compromise between the two. Especially, when I also carry the small knipex pliers. Gotta have a corkscrew!
SAK pliers are worthless. So are those little open-end wrenches..
I think I have to agree. This one is a knife you carry easily without to much weight!
They’re all the best, but the Ranger is the best.
I've recently replaced my leathermsn surge with the ranger ,plus a pair of knipex mini needle nose combination pliers.
Best move ever .
This is exactly what I’m thinking of switching to as well. How has it been working for you? Did you go 4” or 5” Knipex?
@@willeam1986
Hi William, thanks for taking the time to reply.
I got the 145 mm
Mini needle nose combination pliers .
This is 5.7 inches .
I also got the knipex mini waterpump pliers and the knipex co bolt mini bolt cutters plus the pic quic stubby multi bit screw driver with 4 extra long pic quic bits .
Also I got the 14 inch ,ovalised ,tool steel gorilla bar.
The whole kit is heavy and bulky ,but it easily fits in my urban get home bag ( maxpedition falcon 2 )
and is the ultimate shtf urban survival tool kit ...
The dog isn't so noticeable but, I can hear it. That ranger looks great. You're helping me realize little by little that a beat up SAK is ok to carry and my ocd doesn't have to ruin it for me. Keep up the great work
Just got one and tricked it out with solid green plus scales (for the pen), an eyeglass screwdriver, and a pin. I was tempted to get the handyman, but I am completely satisfied with my Ranger. (If I want small pliers I can always carry a Leatherman Squirt or Style PS) I personally think the Ranger is the thickest that a Swiss army knife can get and still have satisfying ergonomics and elegance. Just my opinion, but I think anything bigger than 5 layers and SAKs become a little cumbersome and clunky to use. Yes, I sort of miss the inline Philips that I have on my Explorer, but other than that, the Ranger is the perfect heavy duty SAK for me. Especially if you're going to use it in the outdoors for bushcraft, I really don't know why you would ever get a Huntsman or Fieldmaster over the Ranger. For only one more very narrow layer and a fraction of an ounce more, you get the use of a file, chisel, and a small flathead.
You’re very right.
With the exception of the bit exchanger on the leatherman..if you don't deal with odd fasteners..in my opinion a sak in combination with a pair of knipex cobra pliers like the xs or 125mm with get more work done that any plier based mutitool I use the sak pliers all the time to hold nuts while using the cobras for the bolts for example
I have to agree with you, a swiss army knife has to have a corkscrew. The small flathead on the can opener works fine on most philips head anyway. I have a Huntsman and a Swiss Champ, and that Ranger looks like the perfect balance between function and size. I always miss the metal file with my Huntsman.
I really enjoy carrying my new pioneer x these days, but still have and sometimes carry a Ranger I picked up in switzerland during a visit to my uncle when he was stationed in Germany in 1987. At that time it had the option for black celidor scales. a great tool selection.
The Ranger and Master Craftsman 5 layer knives are basically the perfect toolset.
My top 5 favorites are:
#1) Swiss Champ
#2) Trekker
#3) Huntsman
#4) Cybertool
#5) Compact tied with Walker.
I like the Huntsman because it has the scissors and the saw making it a good urban and wilderness edc at a good carry size.
I have no need for the Ranger, Explorer, Master Tradesmen, or even the Huntsman because I carry the Swiss Champ everyday. I buy different models to put into kits that I put in glove boxes and emergency bags. But if I had to pick only one, I would pick the Swiss Champ, its got it all except a bit driver like the Cybertool.
Huntsman my #3, Ranger my #2….HANDYMAN my #1 (has pliers) Handyman with Knipex Cobra XS water pump pliers is the Perfect EDC! 😊
I love the idea of the pliers, but the handyman looks HUGE 😅
My ranger is already kinda big & heavy...
I really like the Ranger but the Handyman adds the pliers, which I've used over and over again. I don't have a problem carrying bulkier SAKs, including the Swisschamp.
I couldn't agree more with your thoughts on blade steel. Thanks for the great video.
Pity the newer models don't have the camping stamping they were very unique
My Ranger is my favorite overall. Mine has been my 'pack knife' for about 10 years.
My favorite EDC is the Super Tinker. I've been carrying one since I was 12 (more than 35 years). My first was a gift from my grandfather and has been retired to the keepsake box. Recently, I lost the replacement and now own my 3rd Super Tinker. Which, despite not having the corkscrew is totally a Swiss Army Knife!
Both excellent choices.
Yep. Forced to agree. Probably one of the best models Victorinox have ever made. Got one yesterday, and it cost me nothing. Used a gift card to pay for it.
Love this model, i have 2, one older "camping" one, not as old as this since it has a smooth corkscrew, and a newer one, differences are basically that the newer has the new more aggressive metal file (love it!), And also the old one has a full shape liber between file and saw, while on the new one the same liner is shaped down like the others... Best tool set ever, though I mostly carry a climber or a sportsman in everyday life since... Well... Bulk and weight. But the ranger is the go to for outdoorsy days, can do everything.
Yeah it is a nice choice, the problem is that FIVE layers, too heavy weight to EDC, maybe backpacking camping.
Greetings. Must say that for the woods, my Huntsman is nearly perfect. Wish it had a file, but I can live without it.
i love your reaction to the pen blade! Hahaha great video!
Yeah I mean does it have a clip? Would be a lot cooler if it did.
I like the Ranger, but I still like my Champion C better. I like having my magnifying glass. I did a review and actually started a fire with the 8x magnifying glass. Going to try with the 6x next.
Gotta say by far my favorite SAK is the Ranger. I have 3 of them all with plus scales I put on to make them a step or two handier. lol One is always in the car, a second is in my 10 essentials kit I take on all hikes or other outdoor trips/outings and the third I keep at home or take anywhere else I may need. Yeah, my favorite is the Ranger. I believe it is also the smallest SAK to have the underrated metal saw. Nice collection of oldies but goodies you have.
There are models like the Automobile and Mountaineer which have the file in 3 and 4 layers respectively, but the Ranger is without a doubt the best SAK ever.
@@swizzarmygrizz Yeah, I thought both were NA however I saw that the Mountaineer (I do have one) is still available
@@Waterlander unfortunately, no.
The closest was the Automobile special which is basically a Tinker with a file, but I could easily make one with just a file and saw.
I’d like to have one like the Ranger, with all the back tools, only leave out the scissors/hook layer, and replace the corkscrew with a Philips driver. That would be a sweet 4 layer, loaded with options but still small enough to fit in the watch pocket of my jeans, and it would be very handy at work.
Agree, my oldest and most versatile SAK
Nice video. One of my two favorites the 70-85 Ranger and the Pioneer X.
Great knives.
Love your videos, I have my beloved astronaut which has the back Phillips instead or the cork screw. I have ordered the ranger and can’t wait to put into rotation 👍
I love the old Master Craftsman.
And I always add a glasses screwdriver in the corkscrew
Handyman chisel is beside the corkscrew.
Use the same 3 SAKs even though I have better ones, a Camper, Farmer and old style Victorinox German Army Knife. Have a Huntsman and one of those Delemont things, rarely use them. Don't know why. Think the Ranger looks fantastic, very useful but it would probably be a waste of money for me.
I have a Ranger in my EDC.
Repeat watching this...instant classic 👌
Thanks buddy.
Eh, define "better steel"...
For most people a knife that can rust is perceived as worse than one that blunts more easily, so I get their choice of steel here.
wonderfull review my dear, tnx & regards from Argentina.
I don't like the grooved corkscrew. The edges of the groove are sharp.
Just got it and love it,despite your change of heart on the best knife.🤣🤣🤣🤣
The Ranger is the best but the Fieldmaster is also the best.
@@swizzarmygrizz 😜🤣🤣🤣🤯
Merci pour votre vidéo pour ma part toujours le ranger sur moi,
I think it's a pretty rare model , It dates from1977-1985
Without a doubt, the camper is the best SAK of all time!
Mine has a stainless steel needle which I use all the time. Did the old one not?
"my medicine comes in foil envelopes" he says sat before a volcano :)))))
that said I have the same SAK same year and use it daily in my work as a carpenter. It seems to be the thinnest model without one "unnecessary" tool. Evenings I carry a compact. Liking your videos, keep up the good work for the community, thanks !
Thanks. Love the Compact and the Volcano.
Ranger should not have been discontinued
It isnt
Awesome
Handyman is a lot better, but too wide
This is a good knife. But it's not worth more than $35.
I don’t think even the most superduper Victorinox is worth more than $50. Once you get more features it's just parlor tricks, not actual functionality.
But we know most SAKs are for show, given the popularity of websites and videos.
The Ranger would have been ideal for NASA if Astronauts were allowed to take a tipple but alas they had to make do with the Master craftsman?
I love the Master Craftsman. I have an 84mm MCS in Ibach being repaired now. Can’t wait to have that one back.
@@swizzarmygrizz
That's a really unusual one ! I've only had the regular ones and never seen the small versions of it ?
I do hope they can fix it for you ! I've had problems in the past with older models repaired in Ibach !
You need to clean your table.
Tell me about it.
@@swizzarmygrizz and that light flickering is annoying. Ceiling fan?
Are you people for real?
@@formermpc10 you need to go to hell
Oh go to H e l l
What's with the weird vocal sound-effects? Totally unecessary and stupid.
Get a life.