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Top 3 SAKs

Kraken · 38 · 2456

us Offline Kraken

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Top 3 SAKs
on: October 03, 2024, 05:25:57 AM
     One of the things I love about this forum is the different perspectives we can gain from each other. Reasons for carrying or not carrying a particular size or model, innovative uses for common or uncommon tools, are just a few subjects that will never get old, for me at least. I’m also a big fan of lists, e.g. Top 5 Movies of all time, Top 10 Books, Top
5 Heavy Metal Harmonica albums, etc. When we have friends and family at the house to hang out for a cookout or holiday, we typically invite everyone to submit their top # songs from a particular decade or decades, genre or all time favorites and build a playlist that everyone listens to. It makes for some interesting conversation and we all get to know each other a little better based on the stories behind our choices. I know it’s been done here before, but I thought we might do it again.
   I’d like to know everyone’s top 3 SAKs, they could all be the same size or all different sizes. They could be ones that you own, or want to own; ones that are still in production or long retired. And if you’d like to add a little background to why you chose the ones you did, I don’t think you’ll get any complaints from the folks here. I’ll start it off…

My Top 3 SAKs are
1. Explorer
2. SwissChamp
3. Climber

     I love the Explorer because it has the inline Philips driver and the mag glass and is the upper limit of layers for pocket carry for my taste. I never thought I’d like the SwissChamp because I always deemed it too big and unwieldy, but once I got my hands on one…well, I ended up with about 5 more for work, the cars, the house and a couple of tool kits. They’re just so damn versatile. I like the Climber because it’s got the bare minimum of tools that I need in an EDC knife; those Vic scissors are absolutely indispensable!
Semper Fortis


us Offline hsherzfeld

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Re: Top 3 SAKs
Reply #1 on: October 03, 2024, 05:45:58 AM
I think you nailed it. Those are my top 3 SAKs as well, with the the retired 74mm Executive and 91mm Champion coming in at 4 and 5.
Current SAKs: Explorer, SwissChamp, Handyman (modded), Climber, Super Tinker, Tinker, Woodsman (modded), Electrician, Pioneer, SwissTool, Executive, Ambassador, Champion Plus
Current Leatherman tools: PST, Original Wave, Wave, Wave+, Blast, Bond, Curl, Style PS, Micra

Boomer Sooner!


us Online LoopCutter

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Re: Top 3 SAKs
Reply #2 on: October 03, 2024, 05:52:12 AM
1. Vagabond Celidor w/inline Phillips,  the box was labeled Manager when I bought it

2.  Mid size, Spartan, or EVO10, or EVO14, or Pioneer, or Farmer.

3. Climber

Vagabond is always with me. Has been for over 26 or 27 years.   

The CLIMBER, gets the call on travels, makes the checked bag and also for outdoor wilderness treks and bicycle road trips.   This happens less as I am getting older.

The MID SIZE, is a committee section. One will get selected for any suburban daily adventure. And often will ride in my  shoulder bag.  I like a cork screw to be convient  and a nail file and toothpick is always handy. The Alox models are just handy and pretty. So I mix it up.

If I start and end the day above ground, it is a good day!

Hope yours is as good!

A SMART man always knows what to say!
   A WISE man knows whether or not to say it!!!


se Offline JowiiYoyo

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Re: Top 3 SAKs
Reply #3 on: October 03, 2024, 06:31:07 AM
1. SwissChamp. Its my absolute favourite SAK. Ive had one since i was 7 and its been a trusty companion ever since. Especially the SOS kit that includes some other really usefull stuff that you might need when out and about.

2. Alox Pioneer X. It has become my true EDC. Rides in my pocket every day and has the best combination of tools that i might need on a day to day basis. As i work as a chef i especially use the scissors to trim my nails when needed and the awl to open all the boxes when we get deliveries.

3. Classic SD. Had one on my keychain since the skateboarding edition released back in 2020. Ive grown to love and appreciate the amount of usefull tools in such a small package. It is mainly used when i cant or forget to carry my other two options and since its always on my keys i never have to worry about leaving the house without a SAK.

 :SAKnight:
« Last Edit: October 03, 2024, 09:08:46 AM by JowiiYoyo »


au Offline Echotech

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Re: Top 3 SAKs
Reply #4 on: October 03, 2024, 08:39:41 AM
Only 3  :ahhh :ahhh :ahhh   :rofl:

Here goes, in no particular order

1. Rambler (or Manager) definitely the most carried as always have one or the other on my keyring.

2. FarmerX. Even though I'm more likely to carry the PioneerX, if I'm only going to have 3 might as well have the saw, particularly being such a thin layer

3. This is where it gets really hard but I'm going to go with the Outrider as i'm only allowed 3, that way i get different sizes to cover different scenarios, close run with Huntsman Lite though....hmmm now I'm thinking I don't have a file on any them so Ranger might be a better bet  :think:

There's so many other models I really like, pretty well all the 84mm range, Climber  :climber: Swiss Champ, Pioneer/Mod61.....too many to list

 :cheers:


us Offline powernoodle

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Re: Top 3 SAKs
Reply #5 on: October 03, 2024, 02:12:48 PM
1 - Explorer Plus:  for me, its pretty close to the sweet spot of EDC-size and utility.  The inline phillips makes my leg tingle, and I use most of the tools including the magnifier.  I really prefer the Yeoman, but it is ancient history.

2 - Manager:  the Manager has enough utility to get me through most days, and the pen is a nice addition.  Being one of the best MTs, naturally it was discontinued.

3 - Swiss Champ:  she's a little chunky in the pocket, but is maxed out on utility.


Swiss Champ.


us Offline gustophersmob

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Re: Top 3 SAKs
Reply #6 on: October 03, 2024, 05:06:05 PM
My top 3 are:

1) Pioneer
2) Alox Classic
3) Cadet

I'm generally a minimalist when it comes to gear, and I don't like a lot of stuff in my pockets. Most of the time, a few simple tools an knife are enough to get me by.  I'm also usually not too far from dedicated tools, and often when I need a tool, I need something random or specialized enough it wouldn't be on a SAK.  Therefore, I don't see much benefit in trying to expand tool selection and the accompanying weight.  Maybe something like a Spirit with a plus kit would be able to solve ~75% of those kinds of needs, but I am unwilling to carry that all the time.

Anyway, here's a pic of my 2018 berry red collection pioneer, cadet, and classic.  The Pioneer and Classic are my edc, pioneer in my pocket and classic on the keys.





in Offline zenostoic

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Re: Top 3 SAKs
Reply #7 on: October 03, 2024, 06:56:22 PM
My Swiss Army Knife Trio

Compact: Perfect for everyday carry.
Farmer X: Ideal for outdoor adventures.
SwissTool Spirit: A powerhouse for any task.

I'm still on the edge between the SwissTool Spirit vs SwissChamp. Have been leaning towards the SwissChamp post participating in the SwissChamp challenge in this forum.
Zeno,
Whatever It Takes..  Fix It.


Offline dmattaponi

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Re: Top 3 SAKs
Reply #8 on: October 04, 2024, 02:01:53 AM
Swisschamp
Explorer Plus
Craftsman


ca Offline Chako

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Re: Top 3 SAKs
Reply #9 on: October 04, 2024, 02:06:44 AM
This is hard, but if I had to select only 3...

1. Wenger Minathor
2. Victorinox WorkChamp XL
3. Victorinox Scientist
A little Leatherman information.

Leatherman series articles


us Offline SteveP

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Re: Top 3 SAKs
Reply #10 on: October 04, 2024, 06:33:45 AM
Hmmm…

I’ll go with:
  • SwissChamp - I carry one every day and have a few others scattered around the house, garage, cars.
  • MiniChamp - I carry one every day. Between it and the SwissChamp, I’m ready for most things large or small.
  • Explorer Plus - I have several Explorers and Pluses and carried them until I discovered the SwissChamp. The Champ is just more versatile for me, but I’ll always have a soft spot for the Explorer.
Honorable Mention goes to the Champion as it’s the first SAK I ever got, way back in the early ‘80s. I still have it, but it does desk duty. I use the Champ’s pliers too often to switch to the Champion for EDC.

Ok, I’ve got to ask about the list of Top 5 Heavy Metal Harmonica albums…
 :whistle:
SAKs:
58mm: Bijou (3), Classic SD (7), Mini Champ Plus (mod), Alox Classic SD, Rambler (3), Companion
65mm: Wenger Esquire
74mm: Executive (2)
85mm: Traveler, Delemont S10, Bass
91mm: Champion "c", Swiss Champ (4), Explorer (3), Deluxe Tinker, Huntsman, Serrated Spartan/Weekender, Explorer Plus, Deluxe Explorer Plus (mod), Outdoorsman Plus, Champion "a", Champion Plus, Timekeeper Alarm, Golfer
93mm: Pioneer Alox


us Offline SteveP

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Re: Top 3 SAKs
Reply #11 on: October 04, 2024, 06:35:08 AM
This is hard, but if I had to select only 3...

1. Wenger Minathor
2. Victorinox WorkChamp XL
3. Victorinox Scientist
1 and 3 are interesting and unusual choices.   :hatsoff:
SAKs:
58mm: Bijou (3), Classic SD (7), Mini Champ Plus (mod), Alox Classic SD, Rambler (3), Companion
65mm: Wenger Esquire
74mm: Executive (2)
85mm: Traveler, Delemont S10, Bass
91mm: Champion "c", Swiss Champ (4), Explorer (3), Deluxe Tinker, Huntsman, Serrated Spartan/Weekender, Explorer Plus, Deluxe Explorer Plus (mod), Outdoorsman Plus, Champion "a", Champion Plus, Timekeeper Alarm, Golfer
93mm: Pioneer Alox


cz Offline z1913

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Re: Top 3 SAKs
Reply #12 on: October 04, 2024, 07:35:54 AM
1. Waiter
2. Rambler
3. Forester


se Offline JowiiYoyo

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Re: Top 3 SAKs
Reply #13 on: October 04, 2024, 07:38:58 AM
Ok, I’ve got to ask about the list of Top 5 Heavy Metal Harmonica albums…
 :whistle:

Heavy Metal Harmonica albums?? I like Metal but never heard any harmonica metal. Please indulge me in your wisdom and spread my music knowledge
 :SAKnight:


ca Offline Chako

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Re: Top 3 SAKs
Reply #14 on: October 04, 2024, 11:54:25 AM
The Scientist carries all of my most used tools in a sleek easy to carry package, It is most unfortunate that it was discontinued ages ago, Also, I am a science teacher in real life. The Minathor beause I have a few watches. I have also found other uses for those watch tools that make it a handy knife to have hanging around the house. The Workchamp XL because frankly, it is the size of larger multi-tools and with a belt sheath is an easy carry and has larger tools inside it to boot.
A little Leatherman information.

Leatherman series articles


us Online LoopCutter

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Re: Top 3 SAKs
Reply #15 on: October 04, 2024, 02:01:05 PM
In reality,
 :worthless:
If I start and end the day above ground, it is a good day!

Hope yours is as good!

A SMART man always knows what to say!
   A WISE man knows whether or not to say it!!!


se Offline JowiiYoyo

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Re: Top 3 SAKs
Reply #16 on: October 04, 2024, 02:17:51 PM
In reality,
 :worthless:

So thats how you wanna play it!!  :rofl:

1. SwissChamp with SOS kit.
2. Alox PioneerX.
3. Classic SD skateboarding edition.


us Online IMR4198

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Re: Top 3 SAKs
Reply #17 on: October 04, 2024, 02:44:03 PM
  Our friend Loop Cutter likes pictures.  Now I guess I will have to answer my top three SAKs?  I generally carry a 108mm, but am comfortable with any two layer SAK (periodically carry a Tinker).  Third place is a Climber that I particularly like.  Not a two layers, but pretty close.  Need a photo to go with this.... let's see what turns up.  Best wishes.  G
 [ You are not allowed to view this attachment ]  


us Online LoopCutter

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Re: Top 3 SAKs
Reply #18 on: October 04, 2024, 03:37:43 PM
1. Vagabond Celidor w/inline Phillips,  the box was labeled Manager when I bought it

2.  Mid size, Spartan, or EVO10, or EVO14, or Pioneer, or Farmer.

3. Climber
Yes, that how it always should be played.

  [ You are not allowed to view this attachment ]  
My prime first three, Vagabond, Climber and Spartan with principle implemented tools out.

  [ You are not allowed to view this attachment ]  
EVO10, Climber, and two Spartans, (white and translucent blue.
And you must have backups😉

If I start and end the day above ground, it is a good day!

Hope yours is as good!

A SMART man always knows what to say!
   A WISE man knows whether or not to say it!!!


us Online LoopCutter

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Re: Top 3 SAKs
Reply #19 on: October 04, 2024, 03:43:43 PM
  Our friend Loop Cutter likes pictures.  ~

Yes I do, and I suspect many more MTo members do as well.

I am not as wise with knowledge of awl the SAK models.
Pictures help to familiarize this old fart with features to the model names.
If I start and end the day above ground, it is a good day!

Hope yours is as good!

A SMART man always knows what to say!
   A WISE man knows whether or not to say it!!!


us Offline marlowe221

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Re: Top 3 SAKs
Reply #20 on: October 04, 2024, 04:56:52 PM
Only 3???

Well...

1. Rambler
2. Deluxe Tinker
3. Spartan/Tourist


se Offline JowiiYoyo

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Re: Top 3 SAKs
Reply #21 on: October 04, 2024, 05:00:55 PM


us Offline gustophersmob

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Re: Top 3 SAKs
Reply #22 on: October 04, 2024, 07:00:10 PM
Yes I do, and I suspect many more MTo members do as well.

I am not as wise with knowledge of awl the SAK models.
Pictures help to familiarize this old fart with features to the model names.

Here’s a pic of my top 3 with tools deployed.



us Offline Kraken

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Re: Top 3 SAKs
Reply #23 on: October 04, 2024, 10:48:09 PM
Only 3  :ahhh :ahhh :ahhh   :rofl:


There's so many other models I really like, pretty well all the 84mm range, Climber  :climber: Swiss Champ, Pioneer/Mod61.....too many to list

 :cheers:
That's why I settled on 3 for the list, it really makes you think critically for a while before making decisions. And there are sooooo many to choose from. I actually thought about my 3 for a few days before I made the post.

Heavy Metal Harmonica albums?? I like Metal but never heard any harmonica metal. Please indulge me in your wisdom and spread my music knowledge
 :SAKnight:

I recommend a quick YouTube search...I doubt you will be disappointed.  :cheers:
Semper Fortis


us Offline SteveP

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Re: Top 3 SAKs
Reply #24 on: October 05, 2024, 07:01:05 AM
Hmmm…

I’ll go with:
  • SwissChamp - I carry one every day and have a few others scattered around the house, garage, cars.
  • MiniChamp - I carry one every day. Between it and the SwissChamp, I’m ready for most things large or small.
  • Explorer Plus - I have several Explorers and Pluses and carried them until I discovered the SwissChamp. The Champ is just more versatile for me, but I’ll always have a soft spot for the Explorer.
Honorable Mention goes to the Champion as it’s the first SAK I ever got, way back in the early ‘80s. I still have it, but it does desk duty. I use the Champ’s pliers too often to switch to the Champion for EDC.
Pic attached.

A couple of the Champs, some of the Explorers (the yellow one is a Plus), the MiniChamp, and the original Champion.
SAKs:
58mm: Bijou (3), Classic SD (7), Mini Champ Plus (mod), Alox Classic SD, Rambler (3), Companion
65mm: Wenger Esquire
74mm: Executive (2)
85mm: Traveler, Delemont S10, Bass
91mm: Champion "c", Swiss Champ (4), Explorer (3), Deluxe Tinker, Huntsman, Serrated Spartan/Weekender, Explorer Plus, Deluxe Explorer Plus (mod), Outdoorsman Plus, Champion "a", Champion Plus, Timekeeper Alarm, Golfer
93mm: Pioneer Alox


us Offline Farmer X

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Re: Top 3 SAKs
Reply #25 on: October 05, 2024, 10:57:28 PM
I'd need to think about that one, but it should surprise nobody that an Alox Bantam would make my list.
USN 2000-2006

Culling of the knife and multi herds in progress...

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gb Offline SurgeUk

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Re: Top 3 SAKs
Reply #26 on: October 05, 2024, 11:00:23 PM
I'd need to think about that one, but it should surprise nobody that an Alox Bantam would make my list.

Can't beat a Bantam and if it's Alox... :ahhh :ahhh :ahhh

Awlways a good choice my friend, awlways  :salute:
They don't like it up 'em!


us Offline psyjohn

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Re: Top 3 SAKs
Reply #27 on: October 06, 2024, 01:10:26 AM
I love lists too. One of my favorite books when I was young was The Book of Lists. For those not seasoned enough to remember, it was a best selling, rather thick, book filled with .. lists. Many different categories of the longest, shortest, oldest, most valuable, etc. I still have it, and the sequel, on my book shelf. I also have 2 books of David Letterman's top 10 lists.

Picking only 3 top SAKs is not easy; I have over 90 different models in my collection, but I think I have to go with these:
1. 74mm Executive
2. Pioneer
3. Alumnus

The first 2 are what I carry most of the time. The Alumnus is perfect when you only want one SAK in your pocket instead of carrying 2 like I usually do.



us Offline Swisster

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Re: Top 3 SAKs
Reply #28 on: October 06, 2024, 01:17:42 AM
Compact, 60’s Electrician and 69 Soldier.     :woohoo:


cz Offline z1913

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Re: Top 3 SAKs
Reply #29 on: October 06, 2024, 09:02:18 AM
1. Waiter
2. Rambler
3. Forester

Picture added.

The Waiter is enhanced with a pen.



 

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