Hello Felix, thank you for the kind message. I am a big fan of your channel and all you do - nobody knows their way around a Victorinox better than you. Keep up the great work.
Felix thank you for all your content about Swiss Army knives and it got me into it aswell and I haven’t had a day go by without having my huntsmen lite in my pocket for 3 years now!
The Victorinox Compact is my everyday carry, too. I love how, well, compact it is, for most everyday tasks. The blade is used multiple times a day, to either cut fruit or to open packaging. I use the nail file quite a bit, and I love that it has a pen, too. Great video.
Great video! I didn't even know or think to look for a replacement for the toothpick. I have a decent collection of knives and Victorinox but I always seem to come back to the Compact. One "feature" that I've overlooked at first was the red scales themselves. Sure, they're not as cool as titanium this or anodized aluminum that, but the red scales are so classic and unassuming that you can use this knife almost anywhere without fear of judgement.
Thats actually a great point. It never fails to surprise me some of the reactions you receive when you pull out even the smallest of knives but a Swiss Army knife either doesn’t draw a reaction at all or sometimes it will even draw a positive comment. Their is a lot of affection for these little knives. A sense of nostalgia I suppose my Dad and family members had them while growing up as well.
This is a valid point. I once pulled out my tiny Classic SD to show my dentist it's effective toothpick. She was very startled, and uneasy about it. No more show and tell.
After a long time preferring Alox (and lusting after aftermarket titanium and exotic scales) I've come back around to the basic plastic scales in black and red. They're the lightest possible option, they allow for the scale tools, they look objectively beautiful and iconic, and they immediately signal to bystanders that this is a classic, functional, and non-threatening tool. Something with machined titanium scales and a million ultem beads and tritium fobs hanging off of it, even if still a SAK, will inherently draw more attention than a traditional-looking SAK, and often that's not a good thing.
I've been carrying a Victorinox Executive for many years. To me it is the perfect EDC pocket knife. For me it is also the scissors that are most used. I like having two blades as I save the small one for when I need a sharp blade. After watching many of your videos I just added the pocket hanger; wish I'd known about it years ago! I'm considering changing to the compact as the blade is a little more substantial and I can add the Firefly ferro rod. The cost of the Compact is a little off putting though. Great videos, thank you kind sir!
I thought of getting a Compact but decided on a Huntsman. I work construction and needed a few more features. I’ve modified my Huntsman a bit after watching some of Felix Immler’s videos. Some of his mods are great. Like switching out for the plus scales, adding a pen, fixing the wire stripping notch and a few others. I usually carry a bigger knife for large tasks. But I’m constantly grabbing for my SAK.
I personally have compact for my travels and in backpack when I'm just going about day to day. My other multitool is Trailmaster for backup knife and some handy tools when out in woods. Trailmaster especially is pretty perfect backup blade and multitool for wild (maybe even main blade if your camping/hiking isn't going to involve actually using blade). It has regular toothpick and tweezers, which are super good for getting splinter and maybe ticks. But it's also large model with nice blade, saw, bottle and can opener, reamer and various screw drivers. But nothing extra.
I use compact as a keychain knife. Bought it as a replacement for the waiter after watching this video. Thank you very much for the review! Perfect combination of weight and functionality. Absolutely awesome for edc.
Damn Jonathan, another video where I learn of products I need that I didn’t know existed, let alone knew I needed. Thanks for you research and great presentation. I find myself rewatching your videos and learning more every time.
Compact’s always been my go-to EDC knife aside from my primary knife. I always liked how the Compact has all of the no-nonsense tools. The game changer that I never thought of using was that pocket clip attachment! I’ll have to go online and look around for one to try with mine since I have been using my coin pocket on my jeans as my SAK Compact pocket.
I finally got my Compact as a Christmas present yesterday. My wife got me the ceramic pen case style sharpener and a Nano Clip. Loving it.💓 It doesn't quite fit into my work pants comfortably with the Zippo I've been carrying for 2 months. I don't smoke. Amazing combo in a pair of jeans though. I would have never gotten one without your video Jonathan. Thank you. Next up -> Case Trapper with the bright green bone scales as an addition to my tiny collection. I've decided to sideline the purchase of the Huntsman. The Trapper is better suited for me as the compliment to The Compact for the time being.
If I understand correctly, you use it for everyday urban carry. Why would you need a ferrocerium rod and kindling in the European urban environment? Arson?
He is clearly not a pyromaniac. More likely it’s for the London scenario where he gets kidnapped and taken to the woods. First he cuts his way through the rope w the knife, then deletes the perpetrators with the knife and cork crew. Then he builds a fire to stay warm and relax after hard work, then the scissors and wire stripper to to Hotwire the car to return home. Im certain that is a plausible scenario that is fair and within the parameters of the review
I do not think that I can pick one or even two perfect knives. You are better at that than I. When I went to Austria, I had such a difficult time even deciding on the first one to buy. One thing that I do know, like you, is that the scissors are most important, after a blade.
If they swapped out the corkscrew with the Tinker philips head, I would buy it in an instant. Trying to undo a philips head screw with that new tool is near impossible. A quarter turn at a time? terrible. I have only used the corkscrew once in fifty years. Love your videos. We need to swap out all our 'cellar door' scales for 'plus scales' and pens. I have suspension clips on all my SAKs.
I rarely comment on videos but just wanted to say thanks for this one. I've always had an Explorer, but it was just that little bit too bulky to be a comfortable EDC. The Compact is perfect, but the real star of the show is that Keysmart pocket hanger! It holds the knife vertical in the pocket, keeps it all neat and comfortable. Highly recommend finding one to make the Compact perfect EDC.
Hi Adam, thanks for the great feedback. I agree, the Keysmart hanger is a game changer for Vic carry - they are getting harder to find although there are a couple of other options.
Im totally sold on this knife after watching MANY videos comparing different models as well as leatherman style tools. It tick all my boxes for most often uses. thanks for the additional tool info for fire starting as well, that will be helpful to add to mine at somepoint im sure!
Thanks for another great video Jon. I love the Compact. It's my everyday carry as well. I carry it even if I'm carrying a larger locking or "tactical" knife. I have modified mine though. I removed the corkscrew and added a Phillips screwdriver. I get way more use out of the screwdriver.
Thank you John for this video. Because if this I am purchased the Compact about 3/4 year before now and honestly: for me it is the only knife I need for urban EDC. There is no tool more practical out there.
thanks for that - yes, I have seen that and should have really included it in the video - you can also screw it into the corkscrew (believe it or not) and let the spring tension hold it in place for writing too!
I know what you mean about the four-track SAK knives being an every-day carry issue. I’d carry the Compact as an every-day, but that Explorer magnifier has become indispensable for me. Along with the scissors, I won’t leave home without the Explorer now. I even bought the plus scales just for the pen. Victorinox is such a great brand.
One use of the corkscrew I found by accident was unplugging the cap nozzles of silicone bottles. The thing was clogged with old silicone, corkscrew saved the day.
@@JonGadget I wish the compact wasn’t so expensive. Also wish they had an option for replacing the corkscrew with a Phillips screwdriver. In America there aren’t many wine drinkers
For an urban / office EDC, this is a really good choice. The mini corkscrew screw driver is surprisingly handy for eye glasses and removing battery covers. But the moment you add the ferro rod & kindling, I want the wood saw option. The wood saw is surprisingly good for processing small(er) wood into kindling. For anything "outdoors" I prefer either the Fieldmaster or the Huntsman (the difference is a dedicated philllips vs a dedicated corkscrew).
Completely agree - ferro and tinder more outdoor and Fieldmaster/Huntsman is perfect for that. However, I can have the tinder (cut in half) and the corkscrew screwdriver held in place in the corkscrew at the same time! So in my Compact even for urban use, I would rather have fire starting option than the toothpick option. Great feedback though.
This is also my favorite SAK and have carried mine every day for 20 years. It has done everything from opening an MRE with the knife blade to using the Philips screw driver feature can opener to replacing hard drives in a server room..
A bit late to the thread guys, @johngadget, but you could actually use the fixed blade part of the scissors as a "light-duty" awl with a pinch grip - for leather, plastics and other softer materials. For drilling holes in the wood, you could use it to start a hole and then the corkscrew to finish it off gently. Of course, all this would be pure improvisation for emergencies only, but, I guess that's what's cool about SAKs as they do leave a lot of wiggle-room if you do not rush and respect and know their limits. And, from my own stance, Compact with its Combo Tool is all about improvising and getting the most out of the least, which is why it was the first SAK i got and the only one I still have. Cheers!
One thing I don't like on my Compact is the combo-tool, specifically the bottle opener (which I use a lot). I feel that the standard bottle opener on my Huntsman works much better than the Compact. I like my Compact, but I've decided to buy a Climber for my new EDC. 3 layers is still small enough for me and I think it has better capability for everyday tasks. I might even put the Compact plus scales on it.
totally agree, my gf and I we do humanitarian work in dangerous sketchy places around the world, I give her the compact as gift when she notice I use my letherman wave a lot. I wanted something for her that is compact, with useful things ( still don't understand why they always add the hook to a lot of models) scissors are amazing. Great video!
I carry a Hiker. It has tools that can easily be used around the house as well as outdoors, hiking and camping. I do bring a fixed blade in those latter cases as well.
hi Johnathan my favourite Swiss army knife is Compact and i have a Huntsman too and you are right about them, they are exactly as you said, Compact is urban EDC and the Huntsman is more towards bushcrafting.
Thanks for the great video. As informative and to the point as ever, and you have proved yet again that less is more. I have carried a Victorinox Compact for over 30 years now. I initially set out to buy a much bigger knife, Possibly the Swiss Champ (what was I thinking?) but changed my mind at the last minute. A decision that I have never regretted. It's interesting to note that back then this model was called the Golfer and the only difference between this and the current model is the omission of the pin. My other regular carries are the Huntsman Plus, the Farmer (soon to be upgraded to the Farmer X) and the Cadet. It all depends on what I am doing that day. I find the Cadet to be really useful for social/family occasions as it is a 'gentleman's' pocket knife and is completely non-threatening to all but the seriously paranoid. I once pulled this knife out at a family Christmas to carry out some kind of repair only to have my in-laws young son exclaim "Wow are you a secret agent?"
I'm a guy who has never met a knife he didn't like and a big fan of Victorinox knives. It's a great little utilitarian knife. Not one I would take camping as I have two others for that but isn't it amazing how often we wish we had a knife like the one you demonstrated but didn't?
THNX for describing multi bottle opener, i thinx that there is no any “philips” screwdriver, but now know that it is there. I have got Workchamp, Modnight manager, Cybertool L, Deluxe Tinker, Explorer, Swiss card Lite, Jetsetter, Handyman. But now order Compact, to be real EDC.
My dream SAK would be a 93mm 2 layers alox with knife, scissors and combo tool. It can be made by modding but I’m not paying ridiculous amount of money for that. Nice video
I have had a SAK in my work bag and car for years. I find a use for it nearly every day. I have never once used the scissors. Too many models have scissors in my opinion. My favourite SAK is the Mountaineer (It has a file) and the Field-master.
Great vid, thank you. I recently settled on the Compact as my EDC also. Looked at the tools I most often use - or must have available - from my SwissChamp and Hiker. Essentially came down to a blade, scissors, pen (+ a bottle opener for obvious reasons!). Compact fits the bill - has everything I need for EDC and very little I don’t (even the hook I’ve grown to appreciate thanks to Felix’s pen holder idea). Everyone’s EDC needs are different but this works for me.
my favorite swiss army is the rambler....always on my keychain... other than that i sometimes carry a prooper knife and that is the climber....love it to bits...
Both really good choices. I particularly like the Climber, 3rd layer just makes it a bit big for every day. Rambler is a good pocket/keychain option though
In my youth, I carried the Climber model. Unfortunately, I had to give it up at a security checkpoint shortly after 9/11 and pretty much stopped carrying a pocket knife. I'm interested in carrying one again and have the benefit of the internet to explore all the different models available. I've settled on the Compact because it does seem to strike a good balance between functionality and size (particularly thickness) - which means I'm more likely to carry it. Thanks for the video and also for pointing out the aftermarket components too (e.g. fire starter). Great content - Thanks!
That does look like a nice one... most Swiss Army knives are usually too big to carry around in my pockets. My favorite EDC has been the Victorinox Executive model that is about 3 inches long... been carrying one for over 43 years since I found one at an army barracks in Fort Bragg, NC while visiting a friend... I lost that one a number of years ago, but immediately bought a replacement. It has a large blade, small blade, scissors, and a nail file with a nail cleaner on the end, that works great as a Philips screwdriver, and orange peeler that has a flat head screw driver, and the tooth pick and tweezers... a good nail file and scissors are a must for me...I'm always breaking or chipping a finger nail. The Executive is light weight and about 3/8" thick... very easy to carry, and you forget you are carrying it until you need it... I don't think Victorinox makes them any longer, which is hard to believe and a damn shame... I'm going to pick up a spare or two on eBay... I couldn't live without mine !
@@JonGadget They make an Executive 81 model which is smaller and not the same as the original Executive... Hey I do like that pocket clip idea... I'm in the process of getting a used Mountaineer that I plan on trying to fit a nice pair of Sambar Stag scales to... should be an interesting project... I may try fitting stag scales to an original Executive model, but not the one I'm currently carrying... love stag grips !
8:55 all these decades of having a bunch of Swiss Army knives and I've never heard of tortoise gear and being able to retrofit the toothpick for a fire starter 🙂. Thanks, you gave me something else to spend money on 👍🤘.
Everyone has different preferences, of course, depending on what they run into often. I prefer to have the wood saw, metal file/metal saw and scissors, so that is why I'd have to go Ranger, at the least. 😁
Hello, your videos are very useful. I have carried the Huntsman since my teens, but for the last few years, I have carried the Compact and/or the Classic SD as my daily SAK, while the Huntsman gets carried on the weekends for hiking and camping. I wish the Compact had an easier way to strike a fero-rod .. just so I can say I can.. even if there are no practical uses for a fire-striker in the office.
I just got one of these, and for the reasons you covered here. I do wish they would replace the hook with the sharpened awl- other than that I love it.
I went for huntsman for the saw and also made a pin from a safety pin cutting off to leave the eye curl on it fits in pin hole and I keep a small magnet behind it.
Great choice with Huntsman and some great tips - thanks for sharing. I am looking at this for my outdoor kit as alternative to Alox Farmer but for EDC I prefer two layers.
The original guy, who started showcasing various uses of the Victorinox tools is Nikos Doulas NikGyver. You may want to check his video on the various uses for the hook too.
Another great video and a great little knife. Of note, however, is that the Compact is not compatible with the SwissQlip pocket clip. The parcel hook on the Compact impinges on the attaching point for the clip. In fact, the card that the clip comes on does not list the Compact as compatible amongst the 91mm knives. Just an FYI to save your viewers some $$, time and agro. Cheers!
Thanks for the feedback. I was aware of that and therefore don’t think I would have suggested it would be compatible, but I’ll check back when I get chance.
The tool I really liked were the pliers which were worthless as pliers but were amazing as tweezers for splinter removal. The tweezers in the scales were not strong enough. The pliers were very precise and had a very fine pincher on the end. Even at hole I would reach for the pliers on my knife to remove splinters.
Thumbs up for mentioning Felix Immler the RUclips God of Swiss Army Knives. I see you're a fan of the Immler firestarter technique too ! Good review, you did forget to mention the 90deg lock on the can opener combo screwdriver tho'. I use my corkscrew a lot for undoing knots. You've obviously used all of those tool options, excellent details !
@@JonGadget That depends on the knife model, my wire stripper on my old Champ is factory smooth, same with my old Picnicker. The saw blade back is sharp on every model.
Funny, I posted a comment few days ago on your video about the actual state of Victorinox cie. I mentionned that I carry my Compact every days. And now I see it's your favorite too...
I must say, this is the best guide I managed to find. I was about to hold from bying this one, cz needed a philips in emergency case, but you explanation was awesome indeed.
The Philip screw driver as seen in the Champ with locking in place at 90 and 180 degrees is very good and a frequent use tool. The one found on the Tinker has more limited use as the bulk of the knife gets in the way. The combination tool found on the 58mm Manager and Rambler is a good compromise.
I agree on the scissors value as a tool, also the slim profile, weight and number of tools. My other regular knife would be a Climber, though my Compact has overtaken it as the EDC knife.
Thanks for the review Jon, I had no idea the compact had this much stuff. I am indeed looking for a slimmer alternative to my huntsman (and I always feel a bit nervous taking that out in the uk anyway as the small blade and large when opened at the same time can potentially make it look a bit ominous). Thanks also for explaining the kindling and ferro rod attachments, I had seen them before but not understood them. For a new channel you have a really professional set up and presenting ability.
The corkscrew is very useful for untying knots. Try it next time your shoelaces get knotted up. screw it in between the laces and tug a little, It works amazingly well.
I bought a compact after seeing several of your vids, I just don’t feel it, the combo tool isn’t a very good cap lifter and can opener (I do understand it’s a compromise) I will carry it sometimes but it’s not my go to, my favourite is the wenger classic 16 (supertinker with nail file instead of small blade) can opener is brilliant and sharp like a small hook blade and great box opener. Keep up the good work, enjoy your vids.
Love your videos. I have been carrying an Opinel 6 or a Case two blade. I decided to go with a Victorinox for my new pocket knife. After much research (there are so many models lol) I am between the Climber and the Compact. I think I’m going with the Climber. I really want that small blade. The plus scales on the Compact are very tempting though. Your videos have helped a ton. Thanks.
@@JonGadget I went ahead and ordered a white Climber last night. I will look into swapping scales but I really like those white scales on it. To be fair I will probably end up with a Compact too at some point 😂. If I’m going to be honest I believe I just stepped into a rabbit hole, I will likely end up with many Victorinox knives.
Where I live I can carry a locking knife , so I have one as my edc . I still edc a camper sak for the extra tools and so I can have a friendlier cutting tool for public use
The Compact is also my personal EDC knife. Quite expensive though, but unique in size and versatility. For even more options, I replaced your pocket hanger clip in favor of the (I think it's called) quattro screwdriver of the Victorinox Swiss Card Lite, attached to the key ring with an easy-to-open ball chain.
Many thanks for your helpful video, Jonathan. Indeed I lost lost the Spartan which accompanied me for years lately and I'm hardly pondering whether to replace it with another Spartan or a Compact. Your video might have tipped the balance. Cheers Stefan
Thanks for great video. I do carry the same for my edc needs. I have just changed scales for black coloured. A note: a combotool tip fits for philips screws, but is not designed for it.
If you take a look at Tortoise's website now, they have the Fire Ant, which replaces the Screwdriver with the Ferro rod. But given that you wear glasses I reckon that screwdriver will be useful. But to compliment the fire ant they made smaller Helix Tinders that'll fit with the screwdriver so you don't need to replace it on the corkscrew.
Great comment 👍 on my Compact I actually cut my helix tinder in half so I can include the screwdriver and helix and replace toothpick with the Firefly ferro rod. On my Huntsman I keep the full helix tinder and ditch the glasses screwdriver.
I've collected Victorinox knives for many years. I always travel with one. I just put it in my check luggage. Back in 2001, I went to Europe and traveled all over the place. My swiss tool was a big hit in may places. I really enjoyed talking with the law enforcement in Italy, France, and Brittan. I sold a number of them while there. There's a British Bobby out there carrying a Swiss tool that I convinced he really needed.
The compact is one of my favorite SAK. Lately, I'm carry an 84mm Golfer. I added the pen to the Golfer scales. I prefer it over the compact because it is even smaller, and is missing only the hook.
I have the Firefly from Tortoise Gear, but I was unaware they had the tinder product. I'll be looking into the Victorinox Compact. Thanks for this review. Since you mentioned Felix Immler's channel you might also be interested in the Nikos Doulas Nickgyver channel which has several videos each demonstrating the multitude of uses for one of the tools.
Thanks for great review. I don’t like SAK combo openers, much more prefer two separate openers, because of additional screwer of Ph2 that fits perfectly. So, camper (with changed handles +pen) or Vic ranger model (for outdoor) looks perfect for me
When I was looking for a victorinox knife I wanted a blade and scissors. But the only way to get that was by adding a 3rd layer with a saw and can opener and screw driver and whatnot and I didn’t need all that. I wanted a blade and scissors and one that was as thick as the pioneer. Finally found one on eBay and jumped on it. It’s used but I like the patina
Thank you, It was nice hanging out with you checking out that knife. I remember I had a small victorinox spartan as a kid, growing up with MacGyver on TV :) Unfortunately I seem to have lost it :( I was just wondering if I should buy a spartan or this. The compact seems to be even better, and I like that it is only 2 blades thick. You've got yourself a new subscriber :)
It’s very funny that you said a two-layer Victorinox is the biggest you’d feel comfortable carrying daily, because I just got a four-layer model a little over a week ago and it hasn’t come out of my pocket since then. I’ve heard people say that anything above four layers would be too big to EDC, but now I’m curious how convenient it would actually be. I’ve measured my hand before- I’m seven inches from fingertip to heel of my palm. And I can just barely touch my fingertips to my hand when wrapping my grip around the four-layer knife. I just can’t imagine needing too many other tools that Victorinox offers.
Brilliant, what you said about "likely to carry" really is true. I never have my beloved Swiss Champ with me when I need it, it's too darn big to put in my jeans pocket. The Compact is perfect. The Climber offers more for similar price but is 3 layers to the Compact's 2 so the Compact it is :D
very nifty. I carry one of these. I have no idea what model it is but I like it ad use it every day. Mine has a full size phillips bit that I've used on everthing from boats to airplanes. I'd give up the awl for a small file and I'd give up the can opener for anything else.
I like the Picknicker/Nomad (the 111 mm version of the Spartan). I think it is perfect for someone who wants a knife for both urban and outdoor tasks. Also, it is still light with only two layers so easy to carry. I also added the mini screwdriver inside the corkscrew.
It looks like a great dual purpose knife. The problem in the UK is that it has a lockable blade which makes it illegal to carry in the UK! So I’ve never owned one of these.
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Hello Jonathan. Thank you very much for this great video and for mentioning my channel! Greetings from Switzerland
Hello Felix, thank you for the kind message. I am a big fan of your channel and all you do - nobody knows their way around a Victorinox better than you. Keep up the great work.
@@JonGadget Haa ha haa, what an honor. My face start to getting red a little bit. Thank you so much! 😅😅
@@FelixImmler Swiss Army red?
@@ericsteel173 a little older ,darker, wenger-style red🤣🤣
Felix thank you for all your content about Swiss Army knives and it got me into it aswell and I haven’t had a day go by without having my huntsmen lite in my pocket for 3 years now!
Fantastic presentation! I'm now 70 and have been carrying Swiss Army knives since I was 13.
God bless you
The Victorinox Compact is my everyday carry, too. I love how, well, compact it is, for most everyday tasks. The blade is used multiple times a day, to either cut fruit or to open packaging. I use the nail file quite a bit, and I love that it has a pen, too. Great video.
I was looking for a new Victorinox. Now I know which one.
Thank you for your EDC presentations they are always terrific!
Great video! I didn't even know or think to look for a replacement for the toothpick. I have a decent collection of knives and Victorinox but I always seem to come back to the Compact. One "feature" that I've overlooked at first was the red scales themselves. Sure, they're not as cool as titanium this or anodized aluminum that, but the red scales are so classic and unassuming that you can use this knife almost anywhere without fear of judgement.
Totally agree - the Compact seems to do everything need day-to-day. The red scales are a classic feature I like too.
Thats actually a great point. It never fails to surprise me some of the reactions you receive when you pull out even the smallest of knives but a Swiss Army knife either doesn’t draw a reaction at all or sometimes it will even draw a positive comment. Their is a lot of affection for these little knives. A sense of nostalgia I suppose my Dad and family members had them while growing up as well.
This is a valid point. I once pulled out my tiny Classic SD to show my dentist it's effective toothpick. She was very startled, and uneasy about it. No more show and tell.
Knife-shaming is not okay! ...just cuz I carry large.
After a long time preferring Alox (and lusting after aftermarket titanium and exotic scales) I've come back around to the basic plastic scales in black and red. They're the lightest possible option, they allow for the scale tools, they look objectively beautiful and iconic, and they immediately signal to bystanders that this is a classic, functional, and non-threatening tool. Something with machined titanium scales and a million ultem beads and tritium fobs hanging off of it, even if still a SAK, will inherently draw more attention than a traditional-looking SAK, and often that's not a good thing.
I’ve been carrying one for a couple of months now and love it. I even use that same pocket clip that you have. What a great combo.
I've been carrying a Victorinox Executive for many years. To me it is the perfect EDC pocket knife. For me it is also the scissors that are most used. I like having two blades as I save the small one for when I need a sharp blade. After watching many of your videos I just added the pocket hanger; wish I'd known about it years ago!
I'm considering changing to the compact as the blade is a little more substantial and I can add the Firefly ferro rod. The cost of the Compact is a little off putting though.
Great videos, thank you kind sir!
Ive always wanted an Alox victorinox to EDC but had no option for a pocket clip... your solution is GENIUS. PURE GENIUS.
I thought of getting a Compact but decided on a Huntsman. I work construction and needed a few more features. I’ve modified my Huntsman a bit after watching some of Felix Immler’s videos. Some of his mods are great. Like switching out for the plus scales, adding a pen, fixing the wire stripping notch and a few others. I usually carry a bigger knife for large tasks. But I’m constantly grabbing for my SAK.
Great tool combination for work 👍
I grab for my sak to😏
@@bluffkirschman599 As you should.
I personally have compact for my travels and in backpack when I'm just going about day to day. My other multitool is Trailmaster for backup knife and some handy tools when out in woods.
Trailmaster especially is pretty perfect backup blade and multitool for wild (maybe even main blade if your camping/hiking isn't going to involve actually using blade). It has regular toothpick and tweezers, which are super good for getting splinter and maybe ticks. But it's also large model with nice blade, saw, bottle and can opener, reamer and various screw drivers. But nothing extra.
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I use compact as a keychain knife. Bought it as a replacement for the waiter after watching this video. Thank you very much for the review! Perfect combination of weight and functionality. Absolutely awesome for edc.
I've been carrying a compact everyday since 2019. It's excellent. I don't understand why the Plus Scales are not on every model.
Damn Jonathan, another video where I learn of products I need that I didn’t know existed, let alone knew I needed. Thanks for you research and great presentation. I find myself rewatching your videos and learning more every time.
Thanks Doug
Compact’s always been my go-to EDC knife aside from my primary knife. I always liked how the Compact has all of the no-nonsense tools. The game changer that I never thought of using was that pocket clip attachment! I’ll have to go online and look around for one to try with mine since I have been using my coin pocket on my jeans as my SAK Compact pocket.
With the key smart clip attached to my pocket I hardly know the knife is there. I really like it!
I finally got my Compact as a Christmas present yesterday. My wife got me the ceramic pen case style sharpener and a Nano Clip. Loving it.💓 It doesn't quite fit into my work pants comfortably with the Zippo I've been carrying for 2 months. I don't smoke. Amazing combo in a pair of jeans though. I would have never gotten one without your video Jonathan. Thank you. Next up -> Case Trapper with the bright green bone scales as an addition to my tiny collection. I've decided to sideline the purchase of the Huntsman. The Trapper is better suited for me as the compliment to The Compact for the time being.
Great feedback - thanks for sharing and enjoy your Compact 👍
@@JonGadget Thanks for making this video. Without it I would still be looking for the right pocket knife.
If I understand correctly, you use it for everyday urban carry. Why would you need a ferrocerium rod and kindling in the European urban environment? Arson?
He is clearly not a pyromaniac. More likely it’s for the London scenario where he gets kidnapped and taken to the woods. First he cuts his way through the rope w the knife, then deletes the perpetrators with the knife and cork crew. Then he builds a fire to stay warm and relax after hard work, then the scissors and wire stripper to to Hotwire the car to return home. Im certain that is a plausible scenario that is fair and within the parameters of the review
I would imagine the nail file on back of the parcel hook would be good for lighting strike anywhere matches.
Good point - definitely 👍
I do not think that I can pick one or even two perfect knives. You are better at that than I. When I went to Austria, I had such a difficult time even deciding on the first one to buy. One thing that I do know, like you, is that the scissors are most important, after a blade.
The Compact has been my go-to - on a pocket hanger - also, for years. I've tried others, but always come back to the Compact.
👍 great minds 😃
That's how I've been for many years with the Climber. The better drivers, pry bar and the awl matter enough to me to take the little bit extra bulk.
If they swapped out the corkscrew with the Tinker philips head, I would buy it in an instant. Trying to undo a philips head screw with that new tool is near impossible. A quarter turn at a time? terrible. I have only used the corkscrew once in fifty years. Love your videos. We need to swap out all our 'cellar door' scales for 'plus scales' and pens. I have suspension clips on all my SAKs.
I rarely comment on videos but just wanted to say thanks for this one. I've always had an Explorer, but it was just that little bit too bulky to be a comfortable EDC. The Compact is perfect, but the real star of the show is that Keysmart pocket hanger! It holds the knife vertical in the pocket, keeps it all neat and comfortable. Highly recommend finding one to make the Compact perfect EDC.
Hi Adam, thanks for the great feedback. I agree, the Keysmart hanger is a game changer for Vic carry - they are getting harder to find although there are a couple of other options.
Im totally sold on this knife after watching MANY videos comparing different models as well as leatherman style tools. It tick all my boxes for most often uses. thanks for the additional tool info for fire starting as well, that will be helpful to add to mine at somepoint im sure!
I'm glad it was useful 👍
Thanks for another great video Jon. I love the Compact. It's my everyday carry as well. I carry it even if I'm carrying a larger locking or "tactical" knife. I have modified mine though. I removed the corkscrew and added a Phillips screwdriver. I get way more use out of the screwdriver.
The file on the back of the parcel hook should be on most, if not all Victorinox models w/ hook ! Very neat knife.. Cool review!!
Yes, I'm not sure why it isn't on the others. Thanks for the feedback 👍
Thank you John for this video. Because if this I am purchased the Compact about 3/4 year before now and honestly: for me it is the only knife I need for urban EDC. There is no tool more practical out there.
great to hear
The fero and tinder bits are so cool. Will definitely get that for my Hunstman I take with me hiking/camping. Thank you!
great plan - perfect for hiking/camping
UT Arlington heights to try to try to try run run hi to get to try to
No hi hi
Mesmo com 4 camadas ? Não incomada ?
In case you were unaware, you can pinch the pen under the multi-purpose hook giving you more to hold onto when writing.
thanks for that - yes, I have seen that and should have really included it in the video - you can also screw it into the corkscrew (believe it or not) and let the spring tension hold it in place for writing too!
@@JonGadget I'll try that out too, thanks for the tip.
I know what you mean about the four-track SAK knives being an every-day carry issue. I’d carry the Compact as an every-day, but that Explorer magnifier has become indispensable for me. Along with the scissors, I won’t leave home without the Explorer now. I even bought the plus scales just for the pen. Victorinox is such a great brand.
One use of the corkscrew I found by accident was unplugging the cap nozzles of silicone bottles. The thing was clogged with old silicone, corkscrew saved the day.
good idea - thanks for sharing
Huntsman for me for most days, and Handyman for other times. Thanks for the video.
Wont leave the house without my compact it is the perfect EDC tool
totally agree 😃
@@JonGadget I wish the compact wasn’t so expensive. Also wish they had an option for replacing the corkscrew with a Phillips screwdriver. In America there aren’t many wine drinkers
Good review, I never considered the Compact before but I am now.
Glad to see I'm not the only one who uses a pocket hanger clip on the keychain!
For an urban / office EDC, this is a really good choice. The mini corkscrew screw driver is surprisingly handy for eye glasses and removing battery covers.
But the moment you add the ferro rod & kindling, I want the wood saw option. The wood saw is surprisingly good for processing small(er) wood into kindling. For anything "outdoors" I prefer either the Fieldmaster or the Huntsman (the difference is a dedicated philllips vs a dedicated corkscrew).
Completely agree - ferro and tinder more outdoor and Fieldmaster/Huntsman is perfect for that. However, I can have the tinder (cut in half) and the corkscrew screwdriver held in place in the corkscrew at the same time! So in my Compact even for urban use, I would rather have fire starting option than the toothpick option. Great feedback though.
This is also my favorite SAK and have carried mine every day for 20 years. It has done everything from opening an MRE with the knife blade to using the Philips screw driver feature can opener to replacing hard drives in a server room..
great feedback - agree on the awl!
@@JonGadget We need to start a 'movement' to cancel the parcel hook!
A bit late to the thread guys, @johngadget, but you could actually use the fixed blade part of the scissors as a "light-duty" awl with a pinch grip - for leather, plastics and other softer materials. For drilling holes in the wood, you could use it to start a hole and then the corkscrew to finish it off gently. Of course, all this would be pure improvisation for emergencies only, but, I guess that's what's cool about SAKs as they do leave a lot of wiggle-room if you do not rush and respect and know their limits. And, from my own stance, Compact with its Combo Tool is all about improvising and getting the most out of the least, which is why it was the first SAK i got and the only one I still have.
Cheers!
Compact with plus scales are very handy indeed. My favorite two later SAK,
I use the hook to carry regular plastic shopping bags. It works quite well
One thing I don't like on my Compact is the combo-tool, specifically the bottle opener (which I use a lot). I feel that the standard bottle opener on my Huntsman works much better than the Compact. I like my Compact, but I've decided to buy a Climber for my new EDC. 3 layers is still small enough for me and I think it has better capability for everyday tasks. I might even put the Compact plus scales on it.
Climber is a great choice and makes sense - for me I am prepared to compromise on combo tool for 2-layer size
Thanks for these reviews, they're informative and fun. Sometimes after a long day I like to watch them to chill out a little.
Good to hear - thanks Mike 👍
totally agree, my gf and I we do humanitarian work in dangerous sketchy places around the world, I give her the compact as gift when she notice I use my letherman wave a lot. I wanted something for her that is compact, with useful things ( still don't understand why they always add the hook to a lot of models) scissors are amazing. Great video!
I carry a Hiker. It has tools that can easily be used around the house as well as outdoors, hiking and camping.
I do bring a fixed blade in those latter cases as well.
Hiker is a great option for dual use and philips is a great addition - I would miss those scissors though.
@@JonGadget that hook actually interests me. I think it’s utility may be quite underrated.
hi Johnathan
my favourite Swiss army knife is Compact and i have a Huntsman too and you are right about them, they are exactly as you said, Compact is urban EDC and the Huntsman is more towards bushcrafting.
Thanks for the great video. As informative and to the point as ever, and you have proved yet again that less is more.
I have carried a Victorinox Compact for over 30 years now. I initially set out to buy a much bigger knife, Possibly the Swiss Champ (what was I thinking?) but changed my mind at the last minute. A decision that I have never regretted. It's interesting to note that back then this model was called the Golfer and the only difference between this and the current model is the omission of the pin.
My other regular carries are the Huntsman Plus, the Farmer (soon to be upgraded to the Farmer X) and the Cadet. It all depends on what I am doing that day.
I find the Cadet to be really useful for social/family occasions as it is a 'gentleman's' pocket knife and is completely non-threatening to all but the seriously paranoid. I once pulled this knife out at a family Christmas to carry out some kind of repair only to have my in-laws young son exclaim "Wow are you a secret agent?"
I'm a guy who has never met a knife he didn't like and a big fan of Victorinox knives. It's a great little utilitarian knife. Not one I would take camping as I have two others for that but isn't it amazing how often we wish we had a knife like the one you demonstrated but didn't?
Agree this is more urban, but as an EDC knife it’s ideal 👍
This is definitely one of my favorites. Though I find my ideal SAK comes with the electrician and pruner blade.
Hi Ben, I get the electrician blade, but the pruner? For pruning presumably?
@@JonGadget The pruner is great for opening boxes and other utility work.
Qual o modelo com pruner blade ?
THNX for describing multi bottle opener, i thinx that there is no any “philips”
screwdriver, but now know that it is there. I have got Workchamp, Modnight manager, Cybertool L, Deluxe Tinker, Explorer, Swiss card Lite, Jetsetter, Handyman. But now order Compact, to be real EDC.
Thanks for this, hadn't thought of using the wire stripper with the fire steel. It works so much better than the back of the knife
Yes, works much better 👍
My dream SAK would be a 93mm 2 layers alox with knife, scissors and combo tool. It can be made by modding but I’m not paying ridiculous amount of money for that. Nice video
Mods are so expensive - may be Victorinox are watching?
I have had a SAK in my work bag and car for years. I find a use for it nearly every day. I have never once used the scissors. Too many models have scissors in my opinion.
My favourite SAK is the Mountaineer (It has a file) and the Field-master.
Great vid, thank you. I recently settled on the Compact as my EDC also. Looked at the tools I most often use - or must have available - from my SwissChamp and Hiker. Essentially came down to a blade, scissors, pen (+ a bottle opener for obvious reasons!). Compact fits the bill - has everything I need for EDC and very little I don’t (even the hook I’ve grown to appreciate thanks to Felix’s pen holder idea). Everyone’s EDC needs are different but this works for me.
Exactly my thinking too 👍
@@JonGadget Quase convencido pelo compact !
@@sidneycavalcant 😀👍
I was looking at either this or a super tinker. You’ve swayed me over to get this one. Thank you!!
You’re very welcome. The size and weight of the Compact makes all the difference to me and functionality is almost the same. Hope you love it.
my favorite swiss army is the rambler....always on my keychain...
other than that i sometimes carry a prooper knife and that is the climber....love it to bits...
Both really good choices. I
particularly like the Climber, 3rd layer just makes it a bit big for every day. Rambler is a good pocket/keychain option though
I am also a big fan of the Climber. Carry it everyday with a pocket clip.
You are in luck. You agree with me that the Compact is the best EDC 😉
😐
In my youth, I carried the Climber model. Unfortunately, I had to give it up at a security checkpoint shortly after 9/11 and pretty much stopped carrying a pocket knife. I'm interested in carrying one again and have the benefit of the internet to explore all the different models available. I've settled on the Compact because it does seem to strike a good balance between functionality and size (particularly thickness) - which means I'm more likely to carry it. Thanks for the video and also for pointing out the aftermarket components too (e.g. fire starter). Great content - Thanks!
It's still my EDC and I am sure it will be great for you too - thanks for the feedback 🙏
That does look like a nice one... most Swiss Army knives are usually too big to carry around in my pockets.
My favorite EDC has been the Victorinox Executive model that is about 3 inches long... been carrying one for over 43 years since I found one at an army barracks in Fort Bragg, NC while visiting a friend... I lost that one a number of years ago, but immediately bought a replacement.
It has a large blade, small blade, scissors, and a nail file with a nail cleaner on the end, that works great as a Philips screwdriver, and orange peeler that has a flat head screw driver, and the tooth pick and tweezers... a good nail file and scissors are a must for me...I'm always breaking or chipping a finger nail.
The Executive is light weight and about 3/8" thick... very easy to carry, and you forget you are carrying it until you need it... I don't think Victorinox makes them any longer, which is hard to believe and a damn shame... I'm going to pick up a spare or two on eBay... I couldn't live without mine !
Thanks for sharing - Executive I believe is still available.
@@JonGadget They make an Executive 81 model which is smaller and not the same as the original Executive... Hey I do like that pocket clip idea... I'm in the process of getting a used Mountaineer that I plan on trying to fit a nice pair of Sambar Stag scales to... should be an interesting project... I may try fitting stag scales to an original Executive model, but not the one I'm currently carrying... love stag grips !
@@airmojo Great to hear - thanks for the feedback.
wow loving the firestick and the firestarting...not seen that before EVER...and i have seen them all.
Glad you enjoyed the video 👍
My every day carry is the Super Tinker ;)
8:55 all these decades of having a bunch of Swiss Army knives and I've never heard of tortoise gear and being able to retrofit the toothpick for a fire starter 🙂. Thanks, you gave me something else to spend money on 👍🤘.
👍😊
Everyone has different preferences, of course, depending on what they run into often. I prefer to have the wood saw, metal file/metal saw and scissors, so that is why I'd have to go Ranger, at the least. 😁
Spot on for me too. I own 3 Rangers, one for the car, one in my outdoor daypack, one on the edc tray.
I'v pocket carried my Swiss Champ nearly every day since 1985. It's a part of me and it's many features have saved my bacon many times !
Hello, your videos are very useful. I have carried the Huntsman since my teens, but for the last few years, I have carried the Compact and/or the Classic SD as my daily SAK, while the Huntsman gets carried on the weekends for hiking and camping. I wish the Compact had an easier way to strike a fero-rod .. just so I can say I can.. even if there are no practical uses for a fire-striker in the office.
I just got one of these, and for the reasons you covered here.
I do wish they would replace the hook with the sharpened awl- other than that I love it.
I agree, and that is my edc as well, scales are the nylon textured grip, which i prefer. Keep up the good reviews.
sounds great 👍 - I will try 🙂
I went for huntsman for the saw and also made a pin from a safety pin cutting off to leave the eye curl on it fits in pin hole and I keep a small magnet behind it.
Great choice with Huntsman and some great tips - thanks for sharing. I am looking at this for my outdoor kit as alternative to Alox Farmer but for EDC I prefer two layers.
The original guy, who started showcasing various uses of the Victorinox tools is Nikos Doulas NikGyver. You may want to check his video on the various uses for the hook too.
thanks - I'll check it out
Another great review with a tremendous amount of useful information. Well done Jonathan...again.
Thanks John 🙏😃
I love victorinox, quality knife, have the since 1980th, anbd buy occasionally
Sold. Just ordered one. Thanks brother! 👌🏻😎👍🏻
Another great video and a great little knife. Of note, however, is that the Compact is not compatible with the SwissQlip pocket clip. The parcel hook on the Compact impinges on the attaching point for the clip. In fact, the card that the clip comes on does not list the Compact as compatible amongst the 91mm knives. Just an FYI to save your viewers some $$, time and agro. Cheers!
Thanks for the feedback. I was aware of that and therefore don’t think I would have suggested it would be compatible, but I’ll check back when I get chance.
The tool I really liked were the pliers which were worthless as pliers but were amazing as tweezers for splinter removal. The tweezers in the scales were not strong enough. The pliers were very precise and had a very fine pincher on the end. Even at hole I would reach for the pliers on my knife to remove splinters.
Thumbs up for mentioning Felix Immler the RUclips God of Swiss Army Knives.
I see you're a fan of the Immler firestarter technique too !
Good review, you did forget to mention the 90deg lock on the can opener combo screwdriver tho'. I use my corkscrew a lot for undoing knots.
You've obviously used all of those tool options, excellent details !
Yes a big fan. Although Felix uses back of saw blade as a striker. Wire stripper works better!
@@JonGadget That depends on the knife model, my wire stripper on my old Champ is factory smooth, same with my old Picnicker. The saw blade back is sharp on every model.
Funny, I posted a comment few days ago on your video about the actual state of Victorinox cie. I mentionned that I carry my Compact every days. And now I see it's your favorite too...
I must say, this is the best guide I managed to find. I was about to hold from bying this one, cz needed a philips in emergency case, but you explanation was awesome indeed.
Thank you 🙏
The Philip screw driver as seen in the Champ with locking in place at 90 and 180 degrees is very good and a frequent use tool. The one found on the Tinker has more limited use as the bulk of the knife gets in the way. The combination tool found on the 58mm Manager and Rambler is a good compromise.
Fantastic knife! I prefer the Yeoman - same tool set with the added in line Phillips/magnifying glass layer. That magnifying glass makes me so happy!
I agree on the scissors value as a tool, also the slim profile, weight and number of tools. My other regular knife would be a Climber, though my Compact has overtaken it as the EDC knife.
Thanks for the review Jon, I had no idea the compact had this much stuff. I am indeed looking for a slimmer alternative to my huntsman (and I always feel a bit nervous taking that out in the uk anyway as the small blade and large when opened at the same time can potentially make it look a bit ominous). Thanks also for explaining the kindling and ferro rod attachments, I had seen them before but not understood them. For a new channel you have a really professional set up and presenting ability.
Thanks for the kind comments - really appreciated 🙏
always love compact I already used it for a year now...
great 👍
The corkscrew is very useful for untying knots. Try it next time your shoelaces get knotted up. screw it in between the laces and tug a little, It works amazingly well.
Ah yes, that is a good one - thanks for sharing 👍
I bought a compact after seeing several of your vids, I just don’t feel it, the combo tool isn’t a very good cap lifter and can opener (I do understand it’s a compromise)
I will carry it sometimes but it’s not my go to, my favourite is the wenger classic 16 (supertinker with nail file instead of small blade) can opener is brilliant and sharp like a small hook blade and great box opener.
Keep up the good work, enjoy your vids.
I just purchased one as it gave me all the functions I needed in the smallest size possible... then I came across your vid.. spooky.
Love your videos. I have been carrying an Opinel 6 or a Case two blade. I decided to go with a Victorinox for my new pocket knife. After much research (there are so many models lol) I am between the Climber and the Compact. I think I’m going with the Climber. I really want that small blade. The plus scales on the Compact are very tempting though. Your videos have helped a ton. Thanks.
Thanks for the feedback and kind comments. You can always add plus scales to the Climber if that helps?
@@JonGadget I went ahead and ordered a white Climber last night. I will look into swapping scales but I really like those white scales on it. To be fair I will probably end up with a Compact too at some point 😂. If I’m going to be honest I believe I just stepped into a rabbit hole, I will likely end up with many Victorinox knives.
Where I live I can carry a locking knife , so I have one as my edc . I still edc a camper sak for the extra tools and so I can have a friendlier cutting tool for public use
The Compact is also my personal EDC knife. Quite expensive though, but unique in size and versatility. For even more options, I replaced your pocket hanger clip in favor of the (I think it's called) quattro screwdriver of the Victorinox Swiss Card Lite, attached to the key ring with an easy-to-open ball chain.
thanks for sharing - yes, familiar with that quattro tool - nice idea
Many thanks for your helpful video, Jonathan. Indeed I lost lost the Spartan which accompanied me for years lately and I'm hardly pondering whether to replace it with another Spartan or a Compact. Your video might have tipped the balance.
Cheers
Stefan
GREAT USE FOR CORKSCREW - Use it to untie tough knots.
yes - this seems to be a favourite 👍
Thanks for great video. I do carry the same for my edc needs. I have just changed scales for black coloured.
A note: a combotool tip fits for philips screws, but is not designed for it.
If you take a look at Tortoise's website now, they have the Fire Ant, which replaces the Screwdriver with the Ferro rod. But given that you wear glasses I reckon that screwdriver will be useful. But to compliment the fire ant they made smaller Helix Tinders that'll fit with the screwdriver so you don't need to replace it on the corkscrew.
Great comment 👍 on my Compact I actually cut my helix tinder in half so I can include the screwdriver and helix and replace toothpick with the Firefly ferro rod. On my Huntsman I keep the full helix tinder and ditch the glasses screwdriver.
I prefer the larger SAKs for every day, specifically the Handyman/Craftsman. But the Compact is the very best of the smaller models.
I've collected Victorinox knives for many years. I always travel with one. I just put it in my check luggage. Back in 2001, I went to Europe and traveled all over the place. My swiss tool was a big hit in may places. I really enjoyed talking with the law enforcement in Italy, France, and Brittan. I sold a number of them while there. There's a British Bobby out there carrying a Swiss tool that I convinced he really needed.
The compact is one of my favorite SAK.
Lately, I'm carry an 84mm Golfer. I added the pen to the Golfer scales. I prefer it over the compact because it is even smaller, and is missing only the hook.
Great video such a pleasant speaking voice, I love the scissors I have never found a better pair on any other combo tool.
Thank you 🙏 - I agree scissors are very good 👍
Great video jonathan. This is the EDC i will get. Many Thanks Rich.
thanks for the feedback - still carrying mine
I have the Firefly from Tortoise Gear, but I was unaware they had the tinder product. I'll be looking into the Victorinox Compact. Thanks for this review.
Since you mentioned Felix Immler's channel you might also be interested in the Nikos Doulas Nickgyver channel which has several videos each demonstrating the multitude of uses for one of the tools.
Many thanks Craig - will check it out.
That fire strike is ingenious!
Thanks for great review. I don’t like SAK combo openers, much more prefer two separate openers, because of additional screwer of Ph2 that fits perfectly. So, camper (with changed handles +pen) or Vic ranger model (for outdoor) looks perfect for me
Lack of scissors would rule Camper out for me. Ranger is good - but big!
I thought I was the only one who don't like the combo tool. 😅 I got myself an Bantam Alox nonetheless just for the kick of minimalism it gives.
The mini firestarter is really impressive! Great video, thanks.
When I was looking for a victorinox knife I wanted a blade and scissors. But the only way to get that was by adding a 3rd layer with a saw and can opener and screw driver and whatnot and I didn’t need all that. I wanted a blade and scissors and one that was as thick as the pioneer. Finally found one on eBay and jumped on it. It’s used but I like the patina
Thank you, It was nice hanging out with you checking out that knife. I remember I had a small victorinox spartan as a kid, growing up with MacGyver on TV :) Unfortunately I seem to have lost it :( I was just wondering if I should buy a spartan or this. The compact seems to be even better, and I like that it is only 2 blades thick. You've got yourself a new subscriber :)
Thanks for the feedback and the sub 👍 All depends on what you need, I prefer the Compact because I really use the scissors.
@@JonGadget I went for the spartan out of sheer nostalgia. Then I figured - it should be possible to get both of them :)
It’s very funny that you said a two-layer Victorinox is the biggest you’d feel comfortable carrying daily, because I just got a four-layer model a little over a week ago and it hasn’t come out of my pocket since then.
I’ve heard people say that anything above four layers would be too big to EDC, but now I’m curious how convenient it would actually be. I’ve measured my hand before- I’m seven inches from fingertip to heel of my palm. And I can just barely touch my fingertips to my hand when wrapping my grip around the four-layer knife. I just can’t imagine needing too many other tools that Victorinox offers.
Brilliant, what you said about "likely to carry" really is true. I never have my beloved Swiss Champ with me when I need it, it's too darn big to put in my jeans pocket. The Compact is perfect. The Climber offers more for similar price but is 3 layers to the Compact's 2 so the Compact it is :D
very nifty. I carry one of these. I have no idea what model it is but I like it ad use it every day. Mine has a full size phillips bit that I've used on everthing from boats to airplanes. I'd give up the awl for a small file and I'd give up the can opener for anything else.
Very Good the Compact! I have with me always my yellow victorinox compact!
😃👍
I like the Picknicker/Nomad (the 111 mm version of the Spartan). I think it is perfect for someone who wants a knife for both urban and outdoor tasks. Also, it is still light with only two layers so easy to carry. I also added the mini screwdriver inside the corkscrew.
It looks like a great dual purpose knife. The problem in the UK is that it has a lockable blade which makes it illegal to carry in the UK! So I’ve never owned one of these.