The Best Swiss Army Knives Under $50
This really depends on what you will use it for. In recent years, the formerly competing brands Victorniox and Wenger have come under the same ownership. Both companies have produced high-quality knives, and while there are differences in design, the quality remains consistent.
Choosing the Right Swiss Army Knife
When choosing a Swiss Army Knife, the key is to determine your specific needs and whether additional tools are worth the added weight and bulk. The average user may benefit more from a lighter, less feature-packed model like the Victorniox Recruit Tinker for everyday carry in an urban setting, while someone who enjoys more outdoor activities might prefer the Huntsman Fieldmaster Hiker Farmer.
Urban EDC
The Victorniox Recruit Tinker, or a knife of similar size, is an excellent choice for urban carry. It is lightweight and thin, making it ideal for everyday carry in an urban environment.
Rural EDC
If you are more involved in outdoor activities, the Huntsman Fieldmaster Hiker Farmer offers a balanced set of tools. It is durable and robust, suitable for a range of rural tasks.
Camping
For camping and other outdoor activities, consider a larger model like the Trekker. These knives are more substantial and can handle tough tasks, albeit at the cost of additional weight.
Price Considerations
The knives mentioned that cost over $50, such as the Trekker and similar models, are large locking folders. These are not what most people, who are not into knives, typically think of when they imagine a Swiss Army knife. If you are serious about using a Swiss Army Knife frequently, it might be worth considering a higher-end model within your budget.
Other Considerations
While Victorniox and Wenger are well-known, there are other brands to consider. For example, Swiza Knives is a relatively new entry in the market. This company has only been producing knives since 2015 but is run by ex-Wenger employees, some of whom have been in the industry for over a hundred years. In terms of quality, while some higher-end models can be acceptable, the Cadet and Combat Utility series are the only ones that might be worth having if you plan to use them frequently.
It's worth noting that while many users have praise forVictorniox and Wenger, personal experience has not been impressive with the quality of these Swiss brands. If you are looking for a lighter, less feature-packed model, Swiza Knives might be a good alternative to consider.