Pros: Locking, Handle Material, Overall Quality, Blade Material, Included Tools
Cons: None
SWISS ARMY SOLDIER IDEAL SEARCH AND RESCUE KNIFE
I am a Search And Rescue Technician/Wilderness EMT Instructor. As an active SAR member and instructor I have the opportunity to test related equipment. I recently began using the Victorinox Swiss Army Soldier Knife for my pocket carry. It is replacing my Swiss Army Huntsman. The new Soldier Knife (which is the actual current issue to the Swiss Army) is larger and has more "heft" than the standard models of Swiss Army Knives. It feels heavier and stronger. The knife and saw blades are longer and heavier. The knife blade is locking which is a huge safety improvement. The blade has both straight and serrated sections. The serrated portion is at the tip, which makes more sense for cutting cordage or rope. The straight edge is toward the hilt so it is more controllable for close work. The saw is longer and heavier. A saw is essential for outdoor/rescue/survival uses. The blade is easily opened one handed with the thumb assist, and the rubber inserts in the handle make the knife comfortable to grip. The knife has a good variety of essential tools. After carrying the Swiss Army Soldier Knife for approximately a year I have found it to be an ideal Search And Rescue/Survival type folding pocket knife. I realize opinions concerning knives are greatly varied and there is no universal consensus as to the ideal knife. With that said, the Swiss Army Soldier has no deficiencies and is worthy of serious consideration as a "working knife".Note: No single knife, or tool, will meet all of the potential uses. The Swiss Army Soldier has met all of my needs for a "pocket folding knife". Multi-tools and fixed blade knives are also essential outdoor tools and should also be carried. It is not a question of carrying a folding knife, OR a multi-tool, OR a fixed blade knife. Each of these tools has a different purpose and should be evaluated separately. Personally I carry a Leatherman Wave on my belt and an Ontario USAF Aircrew Survival Knife in my pack. The reasons for these choices is a separate discussion. Concerning choosing a good working folding pocket knife; the Swiss Army Soldier Knife is my first choice.Note 2: Along the Search And Rescue/Survival tool theme; Victorinox has also released the Swiss Army Rescue Knife which is more specific to fire, rescue, and emergency medical responders. The RESCUE knife is the same frame and tools as the SOLDIER, with an additional webbing/seatbelt cutter and glass breaker added. I carry the RESCUE knife in my medic pack.I realize everyone has their individual opinions, but after a year of use, it is my opinion that you will not be disappointed when you choose to carry the Swiss Army Soldier.Dallas, from Arizona
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