Victorinox Huntsman or Ranger?Please help...

sheida · **on:** August 14, 2011, 01:23:04 PM

Hi,

I'm from Turkey, an English teacher and a new scouts leader. I will go camping with my students at least twice a year so I need a SAK and for days I'm looking for it. In Turkey there are not much forums discussing these topics. People do not care and think that they are expensive. Anyway, I cant decide if I buy a Ranger or Huntsman. I know nail file is important for me cos I'm a 25 year old woman

Ranger is 5 layers and Huntsman is 4 layers. I wonder Ranger can be carried in a pocket easily or not. Also in Turkey all Rangers has a camping logo and a tent pic on it. Is it the original?

Please share your experiences about Ranger and Huntsman. Thanks 4 your help

Grateful · **Reply #1 on:** August 14, 2011, 01:44:26 PM

Welcome to the forums. Four layers is my limit for pocket carry and three is alot more comfortable. However some people are comfortable carrying thicker saks, five layers and up, so it just depends what your comfortable with.
Is a belt sheath a option for you? That is how I prefer to carry my huntsman.
They are both great sak's and either one would serve you well.
Jim

Jmora · **Reply #2 on:** August 14, 2011, 01:53:35 PM

the ranger's file is actually a fairly coarse metal file, I don't know if it works so well for nails (but I wouldn't know, I only use scissors on my nails). Have you considered the equivalent SAK from Wenger?: http://www.sakwiki.com/tiki-index.php?page=EVO+18
http://www.sakwiki.com/tiki-index.php?page=EVO+S17
It is 4 layers, and a bit shorter, but with thick scales.
it has a nail file and other equipment, some models have a locking blade and screwdriver/caplifter as a bonus. The scissors are serrated though, which for me is a negative, (but some others prefer these).
Hope this helps

AHB · **Reply #3 on:** August 14, 2011, 01:59:57 PM

What about a combo of the Huntsman and a Vic Classic for the nails?

Welcome to MT.O btw..

sheida · **Reply #4 on:** August 14, 2011, 02:06:39 PM

Thank you all for the ideas

I searched 4 both (Vic and Wenger) actually I like the look of Victorinox more than Wenger. I'd like to carry it with a chain in my pocket. I'm confused about the nail file now.

if it cannot be used for the nails than I do not need it. Than I may buy Huntsman.

What about the camping logo on Ranger? I cant rely on is it the original, or the older version or smt else?

Jmora · **Reply #5 on:** August 14, 2011, 02:17:10 PM

if it looks like this it should be original:
http://www.sakwiki.com/tiki-index.php?page=Camper

there was a thread on that, apparently there are inlaid and painted on versions.
http://forum.multitool.org/index.php/topic,21266.msg396530.html#msg396530

AHB's classic suggestion is good, I have one on my keyring and it is very light and convenient.

AHB · **Reply #6 on:** August 14, 2011, 02:17:31 PM

Quote from: sheida on August 14, 2011, 02:06:39 PM

Thank you all for the ideas I searched 4 both (Vic and Wenger) actually I like the look of Victorinox more than Wenger. I'd like to carry it with a chain in my pocket. I'm confused about the nail file now. if it cannot be used for the nails than I do not need it. Than I may buy Huntsman.

What about the camping logo on Ranger? I cant rely on is it the original, or the older version or smt else?

Variations
1.This model is also available with the Camping logo on the front scale; It can be inlaid or hot-stamped.
2.Early models did not have the Chisel or Multipurpose hook on the back.
3.This model has been produced long enough that some samples will have the older, wider, fine screwdriver.
http://www.sakwiki.com/tiki-index.php?page=Ranger

sheida · **Reply #7 on:** August 14, 2011, 02:21:46 PM

I agree, the logo seems the SAK messy. but in Turkey they all have camping logo $:-\$ Now I watched the video of Wenger S18 Scouts, I am confused

OMG! It is so hard to choose a SAK

I had two options, now I have 3!

Chako · **Reply #8 on:** August 14, 2011, 02:38:40 PM

You could always go with a Swisschamp on a belt sheath and be done with it. That magnifier can be used to start fires in a pinch.

I did EDC one in a sheath for a few weeks and found it a great size. If you can sheath any plier based multi-tool, you can carry a Swisschamp with no problems.

Your best bet would be to figure out what tools you need and/or want, and go from there. Unfortunately, there is way too many options when you get into the world of Swiss Army Knives. SAKWiki will help you if a bit time consuming.

Edit: If I was looking for a smaller knife with the tools I would want in the woods, I would always go for a Woodsman (If you can find one). That magnifier can help start fires etc. A wood saw is a must as well.

http://sakwiki.com/tiki-index.php?page=Woodsman+91mm

tattoosteve99 · **Reply #9 on:** August 14, 2011, 03:49:10 PM

Just buy 5 or 6 different models. Give each one a trial. Then you will have some backups

GraysonK · **Reply #10 on:** August 14, 2011, 04:01:52 PM

Welcome to the forum! I can tell you that the file on the Ranger does, in fact, work well for fingernails. You should be careful and use light pressure, but it works great. The Vic Ranger is my every day carry 90% of the time. I don't find it bulky in my pocket at all and it's endlessly useful. You might want to use some kind of sheath or fashion some type of lanyard if you are going to access it a lot while out with your students. I keep mine on a lanyard so i can pull it out of my pocket pretty easily or use the lanyard to attach it to my belt. It's a great tool and I highly recommend it.

sheida · **Reply #11 on:** August 14, 2011, 04:23:21 PM

GraysonK, I am so glad to hear that Ranger works well for fingernails

If you didnt tell this useful knowledge, I would choose the Huntsman. But Ranger always would be in my heart

Now I can buy Ranger and I'm sure I will use it in the camps and everyday life.
Thanks everybody, I'm looking forward to use my SAK

GraysonK · **Reply #12 on:** August 14, 2011, 04:32:29 PM

Quote from: sheida on August 14, 2011, 04:23:21 PM

GraysonK, I am so glad to hear that Ranger works well for fingernails If you didnt tell this useful knowledge, I would choose the Huntsman. But Ranger always would be in my heart Now I can buy Ranger and I'm sure I will use it in the camps and everyday life.
Thanks everybody, I'm looking forward to use my SAK

Sheida,
Happy to help! My Ranger is one of my most treasured SAK's for a variety of reasons. I'm sure it will serve you very well. And if you need a lanyard or belt loop holder, let me know. I have paracord coming out my ears and would be happy to help if I can. Good luck with your adventures. We LOVE to hear about that kind of stuff around here so please keep us updated and send pictures!

sheida · **Reply #13 on:** August 14, 2011, 05:01:29 PM

Thank you, I will add photos as soon as I get it

Do you have pics of your lanyard, or some kind of stuff I can use my Ranger with?

I have one more question GraysonK. Does your Ranger has Camping logo on it?

GraysonK · **Reply #14 on:** August 14, 2011, 05:09:33 PM

Quote from: sheida on August 14, 2011, 05:01:29 PM

Thank you, I will add photos as soon as I get it Do you have pics of your lanyard, or some kind of stuff I can use my Ranger with?

I have one more question GraysonK. Does your Ranger has Camping logo on it?

No, my Ranger doesn't have a Camping logo on it. I'll take a pic of the lanyard I have on my Ranger and put it up for you a little later.

I really think you are going to like the Ranger.

Reinier · **Reply #15 on:** August 14, 2011, 05:20:26 PM

Cool thing about the Ranger is that it has a backside tool on each layer

No plain backsprings

(Mine has the camping logo.)

sheida · **Reply #16 on:** August 14, 2011, 05:40:34 PM

Reiner, does the logo remove by the time? I dont want it to be rubbed off.

Reinier · **Reply #17 on:** August 14, 2011, 05:53:08 PM

Quote from: sheida on August 14, 2011, 05:40:34 PM

Reiner, does the logo remove by the time? I dont want it to be rubbed off.

The metal inlay version won't. The "hot stamped" version... no idea actually

sheida · **Reply #18 on:** August 14, 2011, 05:54:58 PM

How can we understand if it is inlaid version or hot stamped version?

sheida · **Reply #19 on:** August 14, 2011, 06:11:55 PM

In the first picture the line starts under the tent figure and goes on the Camping

In the second picture there is no line under the Camping. Which one is inlaid, which one is hot stamped?

kirk13 · **Reply #20 on:** August 14, 2011, 06:47:06 PM

Hi and welcome!I wouldnt say a bad thing about the Vic SAKS but for what you want,the Wenger EvoGrip 18 is a great choice.Its the only Wenger that makes it into my EDC.I suspect that out in the field(whay am I hearing Gary Moore and Phil Lynett in my head now?) you may appreciate the extra grip and visibility of the yellow Evo handles.

GraysonK · **Reply #21 on:** August 14, 2011, 06:48:37 PM

Here's the pic of my Ranger with lanyard.

Chako · **Reply #22 on:** August 14, 2011, 06:56:23 PM

The bottom one is hot stamped. I have a few older knives with the top logo and it is a metal inlay. Personally, I like the metal inlay version. It is quite sharp.

However, if you do not like it, you could always buy a set of scales that will fit the knife, gently pop the old ones off, and snap in the new ones. You could change the colour of your knife, and eliminate that logo.

sawman · **Reply #23 on:** August 14, 2011, 07:00:20 PM

I disagree about the file, as I do not find it suitable for nails. I always carry a Classic SD and either a Huntsman or a SwissChamp. Besides, a file that will be used on metal and who knows what, is not something I want to file my fingernails with.

Gareth · **Reply #24 on:** August 14, 2011, 07:16:56 PM

I think the smoother side file is OK for nails, a little aggressive perhaps but OK. Personally I find a five layer SAK, like the Ranger, just a little too big for pocket carry, but it really is a matter of personal taste.

Reinier · **Reply #25 on:** August 14, 2011, 07:17:39 PM

Quote from: sheida on August 14, 2011, 06:11:55 PM

In the first picture the line starts under the tent figure and goes on the Camping

In the second picture there is no line under the Camping. Which one is inlaid, which one is hot stamped?

Like Chako says, the bottom one is hot stamped.

However... you can never be sure which version you will get if you order online. They could be using a photo of the inlay version while they actually offer the hot stamped variant... in other words, best to check with the seller which version it actually is!

Neil · **Reply #26 on:** August 14, 2011, 07:24:18 PM

Quote from: Reinier on August 14, 2011, 07:17:39 PM

Like Chako says, the bottom one is hot stamped.

However... you can never be sure which version you will get if you order online. They could be using a photo of the inlay version while they actually offer the hot stamped variant... in other words, best to check with the seller which version it actually is!

That's very true and worth reinforcing.

I also find the file in the Ranger just too much for nails. I'd go for a Huntsman and a smaller keyring SAK combination.

Horses for courses though as they say

sheida · **Reply #27 on:** August 14, 2011, 07:27:17 PM

Wenger 18 is 84 mm and and I dont want a little thing. That's why I like Victorinox more. In Turkey I dont have much chance to buy a Ranger from a store. Because it is not common in Turkey. I can buy online. Huntsman can be found in stores more. Ranger is in my mind just for extra nail file. Wenger 18 Scouts is also suitable but it is smaller than a Ranger of Huntsman.

I'm confused $:-\$

AHB · **Reply #28 on:** August 14, 2011, 07:34:14 PM

When in doubt listen to Neil..

Quote from: Neil on August 14, 2011, 07:24:18 PM

I'd go for a Huntsman and a smaller keyring SAK combination.

Neil · **Reply #29 on:** August 14, 2011, 07:36:15 PM

Quote from: AHB on August 14, 2011, 07:34:14 PM

When in doubt listen to Neil..

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