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Best Pocket Knife — Which One to Choose?
A good pocket knife can replace several full-size tools. When folded, it fits easily in a pocket, backpack or waist pack. It comes in handy for small everyday repairs, when traveling, camping, fishing and all kinds of outdoor tasks. You can use it to cut a cord, open a package, tighten a loose screw, prepare a meal or fix minor issues without reaching for a full tool kit.
In this guide we explain what makes the best pocket knife for different uses. We cover which features to pay attention to, walk through the most important types, and describe the practical ways of carrying them. We've also put together a short ranking of selected Victorinox Swiss Army knives to help you find a model tailored to your needs.
What to look for when choosing a pocket knife — criteria that matter
Set of necessary tools
The blade is the foundation of almost every pocket knife, but its intended use is shaped mainly by the additional tools. For everyday use, the most practical ones are scissors, screwdrivers, a bottle opener, tweezers and a file. In the field, more important choices include a wood saw, awl, reamer, can opener and tools for simple repairs. Before buying, think about which functions you'll actually reach for.
Size and weight
Small keychain pocket knives are lightweight and easy to clip to your keys. They usually include a short blade and a few tools for simple everyday tasks. Classic pocket models offer a broader range of functions while remaining comfortable for regular carry.
Larger pocket knives handle outdoor tasks better. They can be fitted with a longer blade, a larger handle, a saw and a lock that keeps the blade from folding under pressure. The Victorinox range includes larger models with a locking blade, and some can also be opened one-handed.
Handle material and shape
The handle scales affect not only the look of the knife but also its weight, thickness and grip security. Smooth polymer scales are light, easy to clean and can hold extra items such as tweezers or a toothpick. ALOX aluminum scales are thin and wear-resistant, making them a solid choice for EDC (everyday carry) models. Textured polymer or G10 laminate, on the other hand, improve control over a larger knife when working in gloves or with wet hands.
Before deciding, check whether the handle feels comfortable with the most frequently used tool open. A very thick knife may pack in many functions, but for prolonged cutting it's usually less practical than a simpler, slimmer model.
Quality of workmanship
In a well-made Swiss Army knife, all tools should open smoothly, without excessive play or rubbing against neighboring elements. Precise fit of the scales, proper spring tension and the ability to pull out each tool cleanly are equally important. It's also worth checking the availability of spare parts and accessories for Swiss Army knives.
Types of Swiss Army knives — which type fits your use case?
Keychain Swiss Army knives and EDC models
The smallest Swiss Army knives are built for everyday carry. You can clip them to your keys, slip them into a small pocket or tuck them into an organizer. They typically include a short blade, scissors, a file or a small screwdriver. Their main advantage is low weight, though they aren't designed for tasks requiring significant force. Models in this category are typically around 2.3 in long and can be carried in a pocket, bag or on a key ring.
Classic multifunction Swiss Army knives
This is the most versatile group. In addition to one or two blades, they may include scissors, openers, screwdrivers, a corkscrew, an awl, a multipurpose hook and a saw. They work well at home, while traveling, in the yard and at camp.
Tourist and outdoor Swiss Army knives
Field models are generally larger and provide a more secure grip. They often feature a locking blade, a wood saw, a can opener and stronger screwdrivers. They can be used to prepare meals, cut cord, whittle wood, carry out minor repairs and handle tasks involved in setting up camp.
Technical and workshop Swiss Army knives
In this group, the key tools are screwdrivers, pliers, wire cutters, files and implements for minor repairs. A Swiss Army knife like this is useful for a DIY enthusiast, service technician, cyclist or anyone building a compact emergency kit.
Specialist Swiss Army knives
Some models are designed with specific activities in mind. Fishing Swiss Army knives may include tools for removing hooks, a measuring scale or implements for working with fishing line. Models designed for rescuers are often equipped with a seatbelt cutter and glass breaker, while knives aimed at DIY work feature a more extensive set of screwdrivers and files.
Victorinox Swiss Army knife ranking — check selected models
Below you'll find our pick of the best Swiss Army knife models for different uses — from compact EDC options to larger knives built for fieldwork.
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TOP 5 Victorinox pocket knives - technical specifications
| Parameter | Huntsman Red | Fieldmaster Red | Rangergrip 55 Black | Camper | Spartan Black |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Length closed | 91 mm (3.58") | 91 mm (3.58") | 130 mm (5.12") | 91 mm (3.58") | 91 mm (3.58") |
| Main blade length | 70 mm (2.76") | — | 80 mm (3.15") | 70 mm (2.76") | 70 mm (2.76") |
| Weight | 97 g (3.4 oz) | 100 g (3.5 oz) | 166 g (5.9 oz) | 74 g (2.6 oz) | 59 g (2.1 oz) |
| Number of tools | 15 | 15 | 12 | 13 | 12 |
| Main blade lock | No | No | Yes | No | No |
| Corkscrew | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Scissors | Yes | Yes | No | No | No |
| Wood saw | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| Blade steel | Stainless | Stainless | Stainless | Stainless | Stainless |
| Scale material | Cellidor | Cellidor | Polyamide | Cellidor | ABS / Cellidor |
| Color | Red | Red | Black | Red | Black |
| Manufacturer | Victorinox | Victorinox | Victorinox | Victorinox | Victorinox |
How to carry a pocket knife – holsters, pouches and clips
A small pocket knife can be carried loose in your pocket, but keep it away from items that could scratch the scales or make it awkward to retrieve. Keychain models clip to your keys, and the steel ring also lets you attach a lanyard or short safety cord.
Larger and heavier pocket knives are more comfortable in a belt pouch. The pouch protects the knife from dirt and accidental loss while keeping it within easy reach.
Models with a clip can be attached to a pocket edge, belt or piece of gear. The clip should hold the knife securely without interfering with a comfortable grip during use. In a backpack, the best place is a dedicated pocket or organizer so it doesn't shift around among the rest of your kit.
However you carry it, keep all tools fully folded. After contact with water or dirt, clean and dry the knife thoroughly before putting it away.
Pocket knife — frequently asked questions
Can you bring a Swiss Army knife in carry-on luggage?
No — knives of any kind, including Swiss Army knives, are not permitted in carry-on baggage on commercial flights regardless of blade length or number of tools. The knife must be packed in checked luggage, secured so it cannot cause injury during baggage handling. Rules may vary slightly by country and airline, so check with your carrier or the security authority at your departure airport before you travel.
What is the difference between a Swiss Army knife and a multitool?
A Swiss Army knife stores all its tools within the handle scales, keeping the profile slim and the weight low — typically under 4 oz for a 91 mm model. A multitool centers on folding pliers, with additional tools packed into the handles on either side. Swiss Army knives work better for everyday carry and travel; multitools are the stronger choice when tasks regularly demand pliers, wire cutters or crimping. The tool sets overlap, but the ergonomics and primary purpose differ significantly.
When do I actually need a locking blade?
A locking blade matters most when you apply sustained lateral or downward pressure — whittling, food prep in the field, cutting rope or working with one hand while the other holds the material. Without a lock, the blade can close unexpectedly if the spine catches on something or your grip shifts. For lighter tasks like opening packages or cutting cord, a non-locking blade is usually sufficient. Within the Victorinox range, the Rangergrip series is the main option with a locking blade.
How do I choose between a 91 mm and a larger Swiss Army knife?
The 91 mm format fits most jacket pockets and suits both travel and everyday use — it delivers a full tool set without adding noticeable bulk. A larger body, such as the 130 mm Rangergrip, gives a more secure grip and a longer blade, but weighs more and is better suited to outdoor and field use than to daily carry. If you plan to use the knife mainly in town and on trips, the 91 mm size is the more practical starting point; step up to a larger model only if grip security or blade length is a consistent priority.
Where to buy a good pocket knife – Victorinox and other brands available at MILITARY
The MILITARY store offers both classic Swiss Victorinox pocket knives and models from other manufacturers, including Mil-Tec, Mikov and Böker. The range includes small keychain pocket knives, classic multifunction designs and larger models intended for use in the field.
The best pocket knife does not have to have the greatest number of tools. It should include functions you will actually use, have a size suited to how you carry it and offer comfortable handling. Only after defining these needs is it worth comparing specific models and their features.
