Swiss Army Knife (German: Schweizer Armeemesser or Schweizer Offiziersmesser), also often called Swiss Knife (Schweizer Messer) or universal knife, is a folding knife that contains many tools on one blade. Due to the Swiss military It was named after equipping soldiers with this type of utility knife. The basic tools in a Swiss Army knife are often ballpoint pens, toothpicks, scissors, flat knives, can openers, screwdrivers, tweezers, etc. To use these tools, simply pull it out from the fold of the blade and it's ready to go.

In 1891, Swiss Karl Elsener was the first person to make the Swiss Army Knife. At that time, the Swiss Army Knife had a wooden handle (mostly made of plastic or metal today) and only two tools, a screwdriver and a can opener. In 1897, Karl Elsener invented a new spring, and the Swiss Army Knife began to be able to hold more tools. The 1890s was the era when the Swiss military began to use Swiss-made knives. In the past, they all used German-made knives.

In 1909, Karl Elsener began to engrave a white cross shield on the red handle of the Swiss Army Knife as a trademark, and named the product after his mother, Victoria, and founded Victorinox. In the 1940s, the U.S. military stationed in Europe loved this multi-purpose knife. However, because they could not pronounce the German word Offiziermesser (the original meaning of German was "officer's knife"), they called this knife the Swiss Army Knife. Victorinox is still supplying this kind of knife to the Swiss military.

Another company that supplies Swiss Army knives to the Swiss military is Wenger. In addition to these two companies, there are many manufacturers that produce similar multi-purpose knives. But generally only Victorinox and Wenger products are considered authentic Swiss Army knives.

Today, there are quite a lot of types of Swiss Army knives, and the tools used in them are also innovative, such as new LCD clock displays, LED flashlights, USB memory disks for computers, lighters, and even MP3 players, etc. .

History of Development

Founder of the Swiss Army Knife

Charles Elsener, the fourth son of the shoemaker Balthazar Elsener Ott I decided I wanted to be a cutlery worker. After spending several years as a worker in the TUTTLINGEN district of southern Germany, he returned to his hometown at the age of 24 and opened a restaurant in IBACH near SCHWYZ in Switzerland in 1884. A factory of your own.

At that time there was almost no industry in the SCHWYZ (place name) area, so many young farmers were forced to immigrate to North America, Australia or New Zealand. In order to create new job opportunities, Carl Elsener initiated and founded the Swiss Knife Industry Mutual Aid Association in 1891. Its main purpose was to manufacture soldiers' knives that the Swiss army at that time had to purchase from SOLINGEN (place name) in Germany. In October 1891, the association produced the first batch of military knives destined for the Swiss Army. Carl Elsener then began making other exquisitely designed pocket knives, which he distinguished by names such as student's knife, officer's knife, and peasant's knife, instead of numbers. The soldier's knife was very thick and therefore heavy, so Carl Elsener made a lighter and more beautiful knife especially for officers. This knife had all the blades, awls, can openers and screwdrivers of the soldier's knife. In addition, there is a small blade and a corkscrew. This new model with six blades mounted on two springs was called the "officer's knife" by Carl. This design was officially registered on the 2nd of 1897.

The birth of the "Swiss Champion" and its unique design

This convenient, multi-functional pocket knife quickly became extremely popular and began to receive more and more orders from abroad. of orders. The functions of the knife were constantly improved, and soon tools such as wood saws and scissors were added to the knife. Soon, a bottle cap screwdriver was added to the big screwdriver, and a small screwdriver was added to the can opener. Later, a nail file, toothpick, tweezers, metal saw with metal file, descaler with hook spit and ruler, Phillips screwdriver, key ring and magnifying glass were added to the knife.

Today's Swiss Army knives can have more than a hundred combinations of functions. Among the various military knives, the "flagship" is the "Swiss Champion" with 31 functions. The total weight of this knife with all the tools and the tool box does not exceed the planned 95 grams (6.5 ounces), making it easy to carry. The Museum of Modern Art in New York and the German Museum of Applied Arts in Munich both collect VICTORINOX "Champions" as "industrial design masterpieces". The "Swiss Champion" is composed of 64 independent parts and requires more than 450 processes during the production process.

VICTORY (Victoria), dedicated to the memory of his mother

In 1909, after Carl Elsener’s mother died, he changed his mother’s Christian name to VICTORY (Victoria) as his trademark. Stainless steel was invented in 1921, so after IBACH (place name) made stainless steel knives, the word INOX was combined with VICTORY to form the VICTORINOX trademark that is still in use today. VICTORINOX now has more than 950 employees. It is the largest industrial enterprise in the SCHWYZ region and the largest tool manufacturer in Europe. From 1945 to 1949, VICTORINOX pocket knives were sold in large quantities to special stores of the U.S. Army, Navy and Air Force. This business also made the Swiss Army Knife famous around the world. For American officers and soldiers, the name "Offiziermesser" was too difficult and convoluted, so they simply called it the "Swiss Army Knife." This name is now well known in English-speaking countries and regions. It is called "Couteau Suise" in France and "Schweizer Messer" in Germany and Austria, both of which refer to "Swiss knife". President LYNDON B.JOHNSON of the United States once presented 4,000 pocket knives engraved with his initials to his guests at the White House. This tradition was later followed by Presidents Ronald Reagan and George W. Bush.

Recognized as a "quality trump card" around the world

Swiss diplomats and senior military officials often present Swiss Army knives to the host countries they visit. The Swiss Army Knife has a special appeal for pilots. In 1960, after the American U2 reconnaissance pilot FRANCIS GRAY POWERS (name) was shot down over Russia, the Russians made all the items on him public, including the famous little red Swiss Army Knife. The Nigerian Air Force has ordered a large number of Swiss Army knives with curved blades, which can be used to cut the ropes tied to parachutes to escape when the situation is over. Since the German army also purchased military knives from IBACH (place name) since 1976, the German eagle was printed on the Swiss "+" on the olive green scabbard. The National Aeronautics and Space Administration of the United States has also ordered the "Swiss Army Knife" as standard equipment on the "Columbia" space shuttle. "Swiss Army Knife" is often imitated in foreign countries such as Germany, France, Spain, the United States, Japan and China, but the quality is not as good as the real thing. Unfortunately, however, many copies abroad were stamped with the Swiss Cross, which had to be prevented through the mediation of Swiss ambassadors and a court order. Criminals add crosses on military knives to make them look fake, but there are only two Swiss manufacturers, VICTORINOX and WENGER, that are officially authorized to use crosses on knives.

Brand

At present, there are two main brands of authentic Swiss Army knives in the world. They are the Vinos Enterprise, which was built under the Alps in central Switzerland in 1884, and the Swiss Army Knife in Switzerland. Delmont was founded in 1893 as Wego Enterprises. The Swiss Army knives they produce are similar. The difference in trademarks is that Vivtorinoss has the Swiss cross national emblem embedded in the shield, while Vigo has a cross embedded in a rounded square. In addition, the respective names of Vivtorinosswitzerland and Vivtorinosswitzerland are engraved on the lower ends of their main knives. WengerDelemontSwitzerland, without these engravings is definitely not an authentic Swiss Army knife. When it comes to Swiss Army Knife prices, they are certainly not cheap. An authentic Swiss Army Knife costs more than 200 yuan, and a "Swiss Champion" with more than 30 functions costs at least 500 yuan. But if we think that this is a product that can last us a lifetime, we naturally I don't feel like the price deviates from the value.

Application Design

The Swiss Army Knife of application design has undergone tremendous changes. First of all, there are generally three specifications in terms of length (handle). Taking Venos knives as an example, they are small, medium and large, which are about 5.8 cm, 9.1 cm and 11.1 cm. Small knives are suitable for women and teenagers in terms of combined functions. They can be carried with a key chain and are mostly used in home life, such as "Boy Scouts", "Mini Champions", etc. Due to its moderate length, the medium-sized knife can be used as a common tool when traveling in the wild, and it is also a good helper at home and at work. "Classic, Chairman" etc. Large knives generally have a handshake handle, which feels comfortable in the hand and is a good helper for field trips, mountaineering adventures and some work, such as the "Hunter, Work Champion" and other models. In addition to differences in size and design, Swiss Army knives are mainly composed of hundreds of models for different purposes and uses. There are "campers", "climbers", "mountainers", etc. suitable for outdoor travel, adventure mountaineering, etc. There are "Kings of Fishing" and "Fishermen" who fish, etc.; there are "Car Lovers" and "Craftsmen" who are suitable for motorists; there are "Manager" and "Boss" knives specially designed for managers, and there are even knives specially designed for managers. Suitable knife types designed for left-handers, etc.

This convenient, multifunctional pocket knife quickly became extremely popular and began to receive more and more orders from abroad. The functions of the knife were constantly improved, and soon tools such as wood saws and scissors were added to the knife. Soon, a bottle cap screwdriver was added to the big screwdriver, and a small screwdriver was added to the can opener. Later, a nail file, toothpick, tweezers, metal saw with metal file, descaler with hook spit and ruler, Phillips screwdriver, key ring and magnifying glass were added to the knife. Today's Swiss Army knives can have more than a hundred combinations of functions. Among the various military knives, the "flagship" is the "Swiss Champion" with 31 functions. The total weight of this knife with all the tools and the tool box does not exceed the planned 95 grams (6.5 ounces), making it easy to carry. The Museum of Modern Art in New York and the German Museum of Applied Arts in Munich both collect VICTORINOX "Champions" as "industrial design masterpieces". The "Swiss Champion" is composed of 64 independent parts and requires more than 450 processes during the production process.

Identification of authenticity

First of all, look at the English on the base of the blade

The authentic Victorinox Swiss Army Knife will have these rows of English written on the front of the base of the blade :

VICTORINOX

SWITZERLAND

STAINLESS

ROSTFREI

Generally speaking, it is the top four rows. Recently, Occasionally, I have seen models with the lower three rows. (Most sabers of 58, 74, 84, 91, and 111 mm are like the above)

VICTORINOX

SWISS MADE

STAINLESS

< p>111 mm sabers with numbers starting with 0.84 are basically the following three rows of English:

VICTORINOX

SWITZERLAND

STAINLESS

There is no top row of ROSTFREI

Most Victorinox Swiss Army knives also have English on the back of the base of the main blade (58mm, 74mm, 0.6910, 0.8710 do not):

< p>84mm and 91mm sabers have something in the shape of a small umbrella written on the back of the main blade. There is a "+" sign on the lower left side of the umbrella. Below this pattern are two rows of English:

OFFICIER < /p>

SUISSE

Note: Currently, there are three lines of English on the front of the main knife, and only the top two lines of English on the back of the main knife. There is no "+" sign, and there is no small umbrella, which is also genuine.

There are two kinds of English on the back of the base of the main blade of the 111mm saber. The English is also different depending on the locking method of the main blade. They are:

The saber with the unlocked back is written on the back of the main blade. :

PATENTED

The back of the base of the sword with an unlocked blade (commonly known as a thread lock) says:

DE-GM

9305297

There is another special case here, that is, the knife on the Swiss Army Knife card does not have any English, so it cannot be said that this knife is a fake.

In the past five years, authentic Victorinox Swiss Army knives have had the English words mentioned above on the root of the knife. If they cannot meet the above requirements, it can basically be concluded that they are imitations or fakes. Don't think that these English words are easy to type. It is very difficult for small domestic factories to type these words in a proper manner. Counterfeiters will not care about such details when pursuing profits. If The cost of imitating a Swiss Army knife entirely using high-quality steel will be quite high, and there will be no domestic market because the cost may exceed that of an imported authentic Swiss Army knife.

Secondly, look at the Swiss Army Knife logo.

1. Metal inlaid type, this is the production method preferred by most military knife enthusiasts. It uses optical technology to embed chromium metal into plastic. into the handle and tighten with pressure. This kind of logo is particularly beautiful and sparkles in the sun. Most sabers numbered in the 0.6 series, 0.3 series, 1.3, 1.4, and 1.6 series have this mark. 0.6 series with lights and some 1.4 series exceptions.

2. Hot pressing type uses copper molding, occlusion of metal foil, temperature and pressure for engraving. The engraving is relatively deep and will not rub off easily. Some batches of 1.4 series sabers such as 1.4733.72, 1.3653.72, and some batches of 0.6910 are marked like this.

3. The engraving type is basically what we often call the economical version. That is to say, a machine is used to first make a shield-shaped dent on the front of the knife handle, and then a special silver paint is sprayed inside. This paint will be worn away over time, leaving only a shield-shaped dent. of pits. Most sabers with engraving marks are frosted, such as 3.3703, 2.3803, etc. The exception is the 2.6223, which has a smooth handle and an etched logo. Careful buyers will find that the logo of the economy version is not exactly the same as the logo of the standard version. The cross and shield-shaped frame in the standard version of the logo are connected, while the cross and shield-shaped frame of the economy version are not connected. Yes, the reason is because the logo of the metal version is a whole piece of metal embedded in the handle. If the "cross" is separated from the "shield-shaped frame", it will not be easy to align when inlaying. Therefore, the standard version The cross mark is connected to the shield-shaped outer frame.

4. The rolling type is what we often call printing. Most 111mm sabers are like this. This kind of saber mark is more wear-resistant, but it will fall off if it is used for too long or if it is scratched with a sharp object. The knife logo on the knife card is also rolled. The "German Army Knife" model is an exception. Its logo is an eagle integrated with the handle.

There is also a camouflage handle

Some buyers and friends asked why it is not a metal sign? The camouflage handle is different from the above models. It is made by making the mold first during the mold making process and directly injection molding the handle when it is injection molded. Therefore, it is not made of metal. I think there is another reason. The Victorinox manufacturer wants to The logo matches the handle, so the color of the logo is also integrated into the main color of the handle.

Luxury knife handles and logos are not within the scope of this post, such as high-end wooden handles, shell handles, sterling silver and pure gold handles, etc.

Look at the workmanship. The cost of most fake Swiss Army knives is only a few yuan, or even less. The material is generally made of iron, which is easy to rust. The joints are not aligned, and there are many metal corners or burrs. The material of the shell is low-quality at first glance. The quality of plastic can be seen at a glance from the appearance and workmanship accuracy, and it is easy to distinguish.

Cleaning and Maintenance

After an outdoor activity, the inner groove in the handle of a Swiss Army knife that stores the blade will always collect dirt and grime. Although it is very troublesome to clean, if you want If you want your Swiss Army Knife to operate "normally" next time you use it, please take the time to clean it carefully according to the following steps!

1. Wash with warm water. You can add some detergent or soap powder, carefully wash the salt, grease, dirt, etc. on the knife thoroughly, and then wash it with clean water.

2. Wipe clean with a cloth. Wipe the tool with a soft cloth. Wrap the cloth around a thin bamboo skewer or cotton swab to wipe it in depth, or you can wipe it directly with a cotton swab. Finally, you can use a hair dryer to blow with cold air, making sure it is completely dry.

3. Inject lubricating oil into the rotating shaft. The last step to ensure that the tool can be unfolded the next time is to apply lubricating oil; in principle, lubricating oil used for precision machinery is suitable, and is generally available on the market. The most common rust removal lubricant, WD-40, will also work. Be careful not to overdo it when applying oil. If it is contaminated on the non-rotating shaft, be sure to wipe it clean to avoid using it to cut food when you are active...

Swiss Army knives generally last 20 years without sharpening. If the knife is damaged or loses its sharpness, it will last for 20 years. Be sure to use special equipment, or go directly to the distributor or agent for help. Use a special whetstone to sharpen the knife in one direction and not in the opposite direction. In addition to the above suggestions, you can use sewing machine oil (the oil must be very thin) and gun oil (because I like knives, so I can get some from time to time. The biggest advantage of this oil is: it doesn’t matter if you eat it, don’t worry) Too much oil will cut into the food)

Finally, remember to check your knives again before engaging in outdoor activities!

Special note: Knives returned from the beach must be wiped with clean water, treated, and oiled. Seawater is extremely corrosive, and the rotating parts left in the knife will affect normal use!

Price

The price of simulated Swiss Army knives is very low. Some better-quality ones are more expensive, but they rarely exceed 100. You can buy them for about 20 including postage. Although The functions are still complete, but availability is difficult to guarantee.

If it is an original and authentic one, it will be much more expensive. The models of Swiss Army knives vary widely. Some are expensive and some are cheap. The market price ranges from 100 to 2000. For example, the original imported market price of famous craftsman 1.4773 is Around 580.

Practicality

Practicality: Practicality is the basic use value of the Swiss Army Knife. In the past, in the army, it was mainly used for field camping and the maintenance and repair of weapons. In daily life, it is used in various aspects due to its multiple uses, such as travel, mountain climbing, fishing, car and bicycle repair, diving and model aircraft sports, etc.

Description of each model

The "Climber" is the most popular style among Chinese friends. It is equipped with the most commonly used tools. It is equipped with one for daily home life. This tool is just right and can be used for general low-intensity travel activities. Specifications: 14 functions, length 9.1 cm, width 2.6 cm, thickness 1.8 cm, weight 85 grams.

The "Swiss Champion" is the model with the most functions and the widest range of applications. It is most suitable for field trips, travel adventures, vacations, camping and other situations. Due to its comprehensive functions and exquisite design, having a knife in your hand makes you feel like you have a real universal tool box, which can be used like magic to combine various applications when needed. It is an ideal equipment. It is also a classic representative of the Swiss Army Knife and is collected by the Museum of Modern Art in New York and the Museum of Applied Arts in Munich as "World Design Classics". When not in use, place it on your bookshelf or wine cabinet. The rich knife culture and exquisite production craftsmanship will surely attract every visiting guest.

Specifications: 32 functions, 9.1 cm long, 2.6 cm wide, 3.3 cm thick, and weighs 185 grams.

"Hunter" adds "Wood Saw" to "Climber". The "wood saw" is the most basic configuration of travel and outing tools. It can handle branches with a diameter of 5 cm. It is indispensable whether it is sawing wood to make a bonfire or making a walking stick. The camouflage uniform is different from the red style of the traditional saber style, and shows a unique field charm.

Specifications: 15 functions, 9.1 cm long, 2.6 cm wide, 2 cm thick, and weighs 100 grams.

The small curved-tooth sickle on the "Hunter" is specially designed to deal with various flexible ropes and plant stems and branches. It can automatically bite the object to be cut and avoid the blade slipping, which makes " Hunter" becomes the only professional-grade hunting adventure knife among authentic Swiss Army knives. Therefore, its unique hunter's logo of a stag's head is printed on the hilt. Because it is simple, it is more professional - you are welcome to join the ranks of "Deer Hunters"!

Specifications: 12 functions, 11.1 cm long, 3 cm wide, 1.8 cm thick, 100 grams in weight.

The "New Work Champion" is the ultimate in Victorinox's Authentic Swiss Professional Series. The 9cm long lockable broadsword, the elegant black matte wavy handle, and various powerful tools show off your kingly style. Capable of various super-intensive uses.

Specifications: 22 functions, 11.1 cm long, 3 cm wide, 2.8 cm thick, and weighs 208 grams.

The "Artisan/Famous Craftsman" is second only to the "Swiss Champion" in terms of functionality. It is equipped with 5 special tools in addition to regular tools: pliers can not only cut iron wire, bend iron sheets, and tighten nuts, but also It can be used to pull strings, bend fish hooks, etc., and when used with handy tools such as wood saws and hacksaws, it can not only solve your emergencies in daily life, but can also be used to complete professional work of a certain intensity. Therefore, American astronauts also choose this style as a portable tool during their work in space. You can try it too. The "famous craftsman" uses a "cross screwdriver" instead of the "craftsman's" "cork drill", and the other tools are the same.

Specifications: 24 functions, 9.1 cm long, 2.6 cm wide, 2.7 cm thick, and weighs 120 grams.

The "Standard" is a hardcover version of a conventional tool that is lightweight, slim and easy to carry. If you're looking for a regular multi-tool knife that's more economical but beautiful and durable, this is a good option to consider. *"Red Standard" is the same as "Sports Standard" except for the blade surface. Specifications: 12 functions, length 9.1 cm, width 2.6 cm, thickness 1.3 cm, weight 65 grams.

The biggest feature of the "Mountainer" is the special tool "hacksaw (file)" it is equipped with. Not only can it be used to file the edges and corners of metal, and saw off the extra long parts of screws and rivets, it can also be used in conjunction with the "nail remover" attached to the top to clean and trim your nails at any time, making you look good and presentable. Be confident at all times.

Specifications: 18 functions, 9.1 cm long, 2.6 cm wide, 1.9 cm thick, and weighs 100 grams.

The "Super Pocket Champion" is the most comprehensive model in the "Exquisite Series". There are not only regular daily life tools, but also some unusual special tools that are unique. The newly improved retractable ballpoint pen with a small light-emitting tube saves you the trouble of carrying a separate pen and flashlight.

Specifications: 16 functions, 5.8 cm long, 1.7 cm wide, 1.3 cm thick, and weighs 45 grams.

The "Exemplary SD" itself belongs to the "Exquisite Series" of Victorinox's authentic Swiss Army knives. The difference from the ordinary "Exemplary" is that a "small screwdriver" is used instead of a "nail remover". The sabers of the "Exquisite Series" are particularly small in size, about the same size as a large key, and are most convenient to carry around in daily life. Trim your nails, tighten a screw, etc. with ease. Convenient life is so chic.

Specifications: 7 functions, 5.8 cm long, 1.7 cm wide, 0.9 cm thick, 25 grams in weight.

The "Field Army" belongs to the "Standard Series" of Victorinox's authentic Swiss Army knives. It has a special tool "double-row sharp-tooth wood saw" that is very suitable for field use. It can easily cut branches with a diameter of 5 cm, making it a veritable "field army".

Specifications: 13 functions, 9.1 cm long, 2.6 cm wide, 1.3 cm thick, and weighs 65 grams.

The "Waiter" itself belongs to the "Lightweight Series" of Victorinox's authentic Swiss Army knives. The function configuration is simple and lightweight. It is said that "there are not too many tools, but just enough is enough". Carry one with you for flexibility and convenience everywhere.

Specifications: 9 functions, 8.4 cm long, 2.5 cm wide, 1.1 cm thick, 35 grams in weight.

The "Recruit" itself belongs to the "Lightweight Series" of Victorinox's authentic Swiss Army knives. Suitable for daily study and life use of students and friends. It can be used for sharpening pencils, cutting paper, doing handicrafts, opening soda bottles, picnics, etc.

Specifications: 10 functions, 8.4 cm long, 2.5 cm wide, 1.3 cm thick, 50 grams in weight