Are Victorinox Swiss Army knives good value
A traveler is shopping in Interlaken and considering buying a Victorinox knife as a Christmas gift. They want advice on whether the price of CHF33 for the Huntsman model is good value, given they have no previous experience with these knives. Several users share insights about different designs and purchasing tips.
- Check for the knife's design; prefer models with the 'lever design' scissors for better durability.
- The Huntsman model has a 'hairpin' spring that is less preferred; look for Victorinox models that feature a sturdier spring design.
- If you're traveling, remember to pack your knives in checked luggage when flying home.
AI-generated summary-
I have been looking around the shops in Interlaken and am thinking about buying a Victorinox knife as part of a Christmas present for a relative – having never bought one before I have no idea if the prices are value for money. A Huntsman model retails at about CHF39 and there are quite a few other models around the same price with slightly different features. Any input gratefully received – thanks.
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That is the best brand they are well made.
I used to prefer Wenger, for slightly different designs, particularly in the way the spring for the scissors was designed. However, they were bought by Victorinox.
Check the built in scissors. If the spring resembles a hairpin, it will break in time at the mounting point. If it has lever bracing one arm of the scissors ( Wenger design, possibly available from Victorinox now in some models) it is much more durable.
Slowpoke
Thanks for the advice Slowpoke – the Huntsman design is 33CHF not 39 – will have a good look at what ever models I am interested in and will look out for Wenger if still available.
Off up Jungfrau today – and from our room in Interlaken the view is crystal clear and hope it stays that way – stunningly beautiful.
Hi Hudspith-
Glad you have clear weather. Take advantage of it; the weather can change quickly in the Alps.
Just be clear, you may well be able to find the “Wenger-type” design in a Victorinox knife. When I bought a few of my preferred Wenger model several years a go while they were still available, Victorinox was apparently starting to make such knives, but with the Victorinox name on them. If the store that you are looking at has an experienced clerk, they will likely remember the design feature.
I’d look at a knife that you like, and if it has the Victorinox “hairpin” design for the spring, I’d ask if the other design, that Wenger used to make, is available today.
Slowpoke
Hi Hudspith –
I loked up the Huntsman.
It has the “hairpin” spring that is less preferred.
You may find this thread informative.
By the way, my Wenger knives have not had the problems noted in that thread. And, apparently it is possible to replace the “hairpin” spring in the Victorinox design.
And, I found this in the announcement from Victorinox when they shut down the Wenger brand in 2013:
<<“Victorinox said it will continue to operate the Wenger site in Delémont, with all knives being produced there rebranded under the Victorinox name.”>>
Finally. I looked at the entire Victorinox product line:
Some of the knives feature a “lever design serrated ege” scissors, as in page 18 of the catalog. Tha is the old Wenger design.
Slowpoke
Thank you Slowpoke – I found the “lever design serrated edge” scissors in a small shop near Luzern. Thank you for your advice and help 🙂
Glad you found that feature in a model that you liked.
It is clearly a lot sturdier than the “hairpin spring
“
Slowpoke
Thanks again for your help Slowpoke – as an added bonus I got a free small Swiss Army Knife as part of my trip on the William Tell Express so I have an unexpected present for myself. 🙂
Don’t forget to put them in your checked luggage when you fly home.
Slowpoke
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