Multitool.org Forum
Tool Talk => Swiss Army Knights Forum => Topic started by: TurkTeen on July 09, 2013, 09:49:30 AM
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As a person that can not decide between Climber(SilverTech)+pen and a regular Compact, I have to ask this question:
What is your favorite stand-alone SAK?
Wait....what does "stand-alone" mean?
It means a knife that will fit your daily needs but without the help of any other tool or gadget(for example, without a flashlight or a tactical folder or a LM, etc. including keychain/pocket sized stuff).
For me, it is either my Cybertool Lite or my Compact;
CT Lite has nearly all I want(except a saw) but is beefy;
Compact lacks some of the things I want, but has most(if not all) I need.
But one simply can not decide.... :whistle:
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Any of these knives below will work for me
(http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/07/09/gy2eruha.jpg)
Sent from my Cruize W280 using Tapatalk 4 Beta
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Depends what I'm doing ...
Occasionally a Yeoman would be a good choice, but I have gone for a CT41 when I thought I might need more capability. Most of the time however, a SAK is just part of a combo. It's very rare for me to just carry a SAK and not a supporting tool, and it's extremely rare for me to be caught without a torch/flashlight
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It's a good question TT...
I've become so used to having a plier based tool,that I could answer this the other way round,I could name stand alone MTs...
But,my key needs are,blade,scissors and a Phillips.
So Vic DofE,Super or Delux Tinkers,Wenger 557,or Evo 16/18.Or Yeoman?
If I'm going hiking,a M1961 Soldier,or Farmer is hard to beat too.
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For me it's a toss between Hunter and Farmer models
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My beloved Vic SwissChamp. What else :think:
Regards
Markus
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Swisschamp too cover most jobs and my tinker as a lightweight option :tu:
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The Swisschamp covers 99% of what I need on a day to day basis.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I747 using Tapatalk 2
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Any SAK can stand alone. But of course then the more tools the better. So I choose the Swisschamp XLT (or Cybertool 50) as it adds the Cybertool to the Swisschamp. If this is too much, then the Cybertool 41 (mainly urban) or the Swisscamp (mainly outdoors). As I want to wet my SAK without worry and use my iPhone as a torch, I didn't choose a lite model.
About Multitools now. Since I got my Surge I didn't consider it a standalone item. It wasn't as good as my Victorinox for light duties (personal hair and nails care, office tool, threading utilities etc). But now I have the Juice I caught myself rarely using the XLT. It isn't as good as the Surge or the XLT at anything (except the pliers over the Victorinox ones) but it is smaller than both. A SAK alike Leatherman miniature with all the most useful tools. Still a Swisschamp has more, like the magnifier and the hook!
When searching for my minimum useful SAK (except the Minichamp) I settled for a Mountaineer Plus. With that I have the scale tools, scissors, a file/ saw with a useful tip for cleaning things and removing staples, all the classic back tools and all the Spartan tools, with just 4 layers. This is standalone too.
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:whistle:
(http://i1255.photobucket.com/albums/hh627/enki_ck/SAK/PB080067.jpg)
But yes, it depends on the day, things I might be doing and places I might be going to choose a SAK. And still I'd miss something pliers based.
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My favorite SAKs are the Climber and Rambler. One reason I don't like the Compact is it is missing the AWL. I use the AWL a lot and as per a recent post in another thread, I prefer the dedicated can opener.
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This would be a toughy for me if I had more SAKs, but now I only have my two custom SAKs, the Mechaneer and Yeochamp (I do still have the Executive, which could make a decent case for a stand-alone SAK). Between my two customs, I would have to go with the Yeochamp as it just has more to offer and is more versatile than my Mechaneer. While the Mechaneer is awesome, it lacks scissors and other things that the Alox models lack (scale tools, back spring tools). However, it does have pliers, which is one of the main reasons I carry a MT as well, not that SAK pliers are anywhere near as strong as a full size MT's. But to have it come between SAK pliers and scissors, well scissors will win easily as I can use those almost daily in comparison to the occasional plier usage.
As 50ft-Trad stated, a SAK is part of a combo for me, and are usually set up to compliment each other well. It would probably be harder for me to pick a stand-alone MT though.
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:whistle:
(http://i1255.photobucket.com/albums/hh627/enki_ck/SAK/PB080067.jpg)
But yes, it depends on the day, things I might be doing and places I might be going to choose a SAK. And still I'd miss something pliers based.
Yummy!What model is that?
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:whistle:
(http://i1255.photobucket.com/albums/hh627/enki_ck/SAK/PB080067.jpg)
But yes, it depends on the day, things I might be doing and places I might be going to choose a SAK. And still I'd miss something pliers based.
Yummy!What model is that?
It's a mod I did some time ago. http://forum.multitool.org/index.php/topic,33447
I may redo it and add a Wenger combo tool instead of the nail file. Some day ... ;)
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Depends what I'm doing...
Same. Sometimes a Rambler is what I need, sometimes a Spirit X is what I need.
Typically though, the toolset of the Compact is what I go for.
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Good ol Swisschamp
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I love the deluxe tinker - this is the sweet spot for me.
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A Sportsman would cover 95% of my needs to be honest, all my other SAKs are just gravy!!!
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CT34 most days, SwissChamp if spending time in the outdoors.
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My beloved Vic SwissChamp. What else :think:
Regards
Markus
Same here ;).
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The Swisschamp or if I want something smaller, then I go with the Explorer Plus. :D
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If I had one it would be a CT41, but if I'm choosing from what I have, I guess my Huntsman. Scissors and saw.......
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I carry the vic Compact as my only carry about 4 days a week.
Wish they'd make a phillips/reamer version of that tool.
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Today, I would have to say it would be a Climber, although for a number of years I carried only a Spartan (with no other knives or MTs).
As a side note, while I realize that some SAKs have LEDs, I feel it is a non sequitur to throw flashlights in with SAKs, MTs, and other knives. That is like asking what SAK you would carry if you couldn't carry a cell phone.
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....tough decisions....my ol 90's era SwissChamp is still a 'go to' and been to many countries and places (in this era..its in cargo luggage..
If tinkering on electrical stuffs..CT41 takes over due to bit pcs.
Outdoors, plier based which normally comes with large blades..typical LM large MT..
(oL SwissGrip is a machete with own purpose).. :D
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My trusty swisschamp, love that thing!
I'm never without it, don't even feel its weight
In my pocket anymore.
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I think I'd get around with just my Tinker Small, really. Maybe a Super Tinker or something like that... At least, I find I need my Phillips screwdriver. I´m still lightly annoyed by the fact that there isn´t a good standard vic implement that combines the inline Phillips with something actually useful to me...
I really like that mod of yours, Enki.. Just, no flathead? :whistle:
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Hmm, that's a good one, well the perfect one in my book would have to be my coustom, but besides that if I had to pick one off the shelf, it would be a Wenger handyman, in which the custom one has the same tools, yet if I had to pick victorinox I'd say a fieldmaster, I had one, great knife, but for some reason it grew legs and took off! JR
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If it had to be just one, I think it would have to be either a Huntsman or a Wenger Evo17. They do all that I routinely require from a SAK.
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For years it was a Camper. Then a Compact replaced shortly after by a Yeoman. Lately it's either been a old style red scale and brass liner Pioneer or Farmer. I am in the corkscrew clan though so a custom 91 may be needed.
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Wait....what does "stand-alone" mean?
It means a knife that will fit your daily needs but without the help of any other tool or gadget(for example, without a flashlight or a tactical folder or a LM, etc. including keychain/pocket sized stuff).
This makes no sense to me - how can a SAK be "stand alone"?
They have yet to make a SAK that incorporates a cell phone yet so for me I'll never carry just a SAK and nothing else.
I also don't believe that even the lite models can match any halfway decent flashlight. In fact, if I don't have my flashlight then I don't have my keys - that could be a problem.
Of course there are plenty of SAKs that are capable for handling everything else and I don't actually carry a tactical folder or other pocket tools.
My Cybertool 34 has pliers, 2 sharp knives, scissors, screwdrivers, can opener, bottle opener, etc.
There isn't much it can't handle - I still have my cell phone & flashlight as well but all other tasks can be done with this great urban 'do it all' SAK.
For a camping tool that does it all - I love my Victorinox Ranger!
The Ranger has a saw, file, 2 sharp blades, scissors, can opener, bottle opener, awl, chisel, corkscrew, etc.
What more do you need really?
I have my doubts about the need to carry a knife, for most people the blade on the SAK will do a good enough job of opening packages, cutting string, cutting an apple, etc.
In my country it is illegal to carry a weapon, it could be hard to justify a tactical folder but it is easy to explain why I'm carrying a SAK. No one (no one sane) thinks that a SAK is a weapon and I've never gotten any grief for EDCing one.
As for other pocket tools - I do admit I've been carrying a SwissTool quite often, but it really doesn't get the amount of use that my Cybertool does. For day to day use I don't need the file or saw and the pliers are not needed all that often. I'm thinking of moving the SwissTool to a bag/pack and just keeping the SAK in my pocket because the SAK is enough to handle 98% of the common tasks I'm faced with.
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I think everything depends on what one expects to be doing with the SAK on question. Let's not forget a SAK is a knife after all, a (good) blade that is. It's why I pocket-carry either a Vic Pioneer or a Climber. These I find to be great pocket knifes, capable all-rounders and the scissors are great to have. I'd like to echo others about preferring the dedicated openers layer to the combo tool for these are highly versatile unilke the merely effective opener that is the combo tool. Also, I'm thinking the Compact is missing an awl too.
The addition of these three last implements makes these models equipped well enough to do what one would expect a knife that size to do (mainly cut, pry, puncture, scrape) while preserving the main blade for its intended use(s) with the rest of the implements actually perfoming better at some of these tasks.
I think having more implements on a SAK makes the knife gravitate towards the MT side of things. That's not bad in itself it just takes its toll on bulk, weight and ease of use/maintenance and this should be taken into consideration when choosing a pocket knife, since it should be easy to handle and carry on your person. In my bag I keep a Vic Handyman/Spirit S combo for the extra tools and dual pliers option and I use them occasionaly. However they certainly are not my choice for a pocket knife, the one tool I keep on me almost 24/7.
I think the Swisschamp and the CT41 are work beasts but for me they are just too bulky to carry around comfortably in my pocket and that doesn't do it. As for electric/electronic components on SAKs, for me that's plain wrong. They are fragile and vulnerable to water making the tool too delicate to use. A Vic Ranger or a Handyman (adds really strong tweezers that one for where full sized ones fail) offer a nice array of tools not so easily found someplace around one when needed (such as a metal file/saw, chisel) unlike dedicated drivers and thus are a viable choice for me.
Having said all that I should repeat that it all depends on what one will be doing with that SAK and that a SAK is a knife after all, at least for me. Hope that helps. :think:
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1. Explorer
2. Super Tinker
3. Huntsman
I could be swayed either way on 2 or 3 but the Explorer is my all time fave...
Regards, Jon.
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1. Explorer
2. Super Tinker
3. Huntsman
I could be swayed either way on 2 or 3 but the Explorer is my all time fave...
Regards, Jon.
The Explorer was one of my faves as well :tu:
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I'd have to say my Evo16 would be my favorite. It's the SAK I carry more than any other. :tu:
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i will talk about saks i have:
swisschamp:of course a perfect stand alone tool, has almost every tool victorinox designed.but the size and the weight of it is an important issue for most of us.
solo:not a stand-alone you know, but i like it.
compact:solves %90 of my problems on city life, but if there is an awl or a philips instead of hook, it would be nearly perfect.i use hook but i need awl and philips more.
spartan:i bought a mint second hand from a bargain, i powered it up with a mini screwdriver and stainless pin.it gives more screwdriver options than the compact, small knife is a good option for discreet use in public, and i think i can do almost everything i do with scissors, with a sharp knife easily.pen, not an issue for me, i always carry a quality fountain pen.
i have a rescue tool on the way but she is a specified tool as yo know, so she is out of this poll.
as a result; spartan is enough for me, maybe if i have a cybertool i would prefer it.
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That's a tough decision. Probably why there are four or five choices laying on my dresser, but it would come down to two. Explorer or Yeoman? Since I've nearly always left the house with a Yeoman in my pocket for the last 17 years, I'll go with Yeoman.
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Cybertool Lite, hands down has everything I need.
As soon as I have the money (read wife's permission) I will replace it with an Explorer Plus with a keyring mini led light attached. That would give me all i need plus a better flashlight while shaving a layer and weight ( from the CT, what I use rarely are the smaller screwdriver bits).
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It would have to be the Huntsman for me.
I was perfectly happy with the Climber for years... decades really. Then I discovered how great the saw is, about the same time my lifestyle changed such that I need the saw rather often.
I thought that four layers was too many for comfortable EDC, so I stayed away from the Huntsman even though it's the perfect tool set for me, instead switching off between the Climber, the Camper, or a Farmer/Rambler combo.
Then I found a way to carry the Huntsman very comfortably.
Now I occasionally put something else in my pocket, just because I like knives and want to use them, but more often than not, when I do I wish I had the Huntsman at some point during the day. It really is the "do it all, no compromises" model for me.
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Then I found a way to carry the Huntsman very comfortably.
OK, I'm curious. How do you carry your Huntsman?
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Then I found a way to carry the Huntsman very comfortably.
OK, I'm curious. How do you carry your Huntsman?
Years ago, I decided four layers was just one too many for me, so even though the Huntsman has pretty much the perfect tool set for me, I stayed away.
A few months ago, I decided to try a red Huntsman Plus with a Tec P-7 clip... With the knife vertical, I found it wasn't too big at all. Just right in fact. But, I like to keep a lanyard on my knife, and the lanyard plus the P-7 was too cluttered and fussy.
Then... SAK harmony and balance was finally achieved by adding a ferro rod firesteel to the lanyard, along with the Photon Freedom Microlight I already had on it (a terrific little flashlight, btw). The firesteel gives the lanyard just enough weight that it keeps the knife upright on its own, without needing a clip.
Sorry, I'm having trouble figuring out how to insert pics here. But here are a couple via links...
(http://www.rdwarf.com/users/mink/img/saklan1.jpg)
(http://www.rdwarf.com/users/mink/img/saklan2.jpg)
Once I made this change, everything fell into place:
- No need for a clip; the knife is perfectly comfortable in any pair of pants I've worn in the past two months.
- The flashlight is always right there, literally at my fingertips. This has proven to be almost as handy as having a good SAK!
- The knife always easy to pull out, even when sitting down or driving (considerably more so than with the clip).
- All my "must have" tools (knife, saw, awl, bottle opener/screwdriver, corkscrew, toothpick) plus my "nice to have" tools (scissors, pen) are in one package.
- A four-foot length of mil-spec paracord, firesteel, and flashlight on top of the Huntsman's blade, saw, and awl make, I think, an excellent bushcraft & survival tool set.
- Scissors, openers, screwdrivers, and pen make it perfectly suited for urban EDC as well.
I carried a Climber every day for about 30 years, and was perfectly happy with it. Then, I discovered how good the saw is, about the same time my lifestyle changed such that I actually need the saw often. So, my go-to became the Camper + Rambler combo (if I weren't hooked on the corkscrew -- for knots, wine, and the mini SD -- it would be the Farmer + Rambler). Occasionally if I knew I'd be strictly around town or in the office, I substituted a Climber Plus or Compact.
Now, my lanyard-equipped Huntsman Plus does it all.
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sorted your pic links you just need to have [ img ]link to pictures goes here[ /img ] but without the spaces.
That lanyard looks like a great idea. :tu:
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sorted your pic links you just need to have [ img ]link to pictures goes here[ /img ] but without the spaces.
That lanyard looks like a great idea. :tu:
Thanks man! (I thought I did that, but I guess I muffed something.)
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I carried a Recruit without any other "EDC" stuff for a lot of years before I knew I needed all that other gear. So either that or a Super Tinker...may need scissors:)
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If I have a Huntsman on me, I don't need any other pocket tools. Also acceptable: Outrider, Fieldmaster, or Evo (s)18.
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Probably a Rambler maybe.
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I have an original climber (no hook) with a mini carabiner that attaches a photon light to it. But my go to TOOL is my Workchamp with a Pocket Wrench II.
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Hiker or Trekker
Dtrain
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I have an original climber (no hook) with a mini carabiner that attaches a photon light to it. But my go to TOOL is my Workchamp with a Pocket Wrench II.
I had to make a change. I gave my Workchamp to my son and began carrying my Vic Outrider. Also I got a LM Wave with bit kit which I mostly keep in my EDC bag.
Sent from my SCH-I605 using Tapatalk 2
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For me it has always been the Camper, (with the teepee logo). I carried it for years, until I lost it in a movie theater. I've since replaced it, yet I still miss that original sentimental one.
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Even if it lacks a saw and file, the CT 34 has been a good all around Sak.
sent from my mobile
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I would consider my Ranger Plus to be one of the best stand alone SAKs, along with my Yeochamp as another option (which I think I already mentioned).
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My fave at the moment is my improved Explorer. I added a bit adapter and now it's range is massively increased! Take that Cybertool! Now all it needs is a saw.................................
(http://i923.photobucket.com/albums/ad80/magentus2112/P9050070_zpsc56794c9.jpg) (http://s923.photobucket.com/user/magentus2112/media/P9050070_zpsc56794c9.jpg.html)
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Challenge excepted! :D
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Definitely the Pioneer/Alox Soldier. The Cadet is a close second. The Farmer a close 3rd :think: :whistle:
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I have 2, each has something the other does not
Cybertool 41
or
My old (mid 80s) Champion
the if the cybertool 41 had a magnifier, I could drop the Champion from this list.
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The Explorer Plus Has been a stand alone SAK alot since it arrived.
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Challenge excepted! :D
Fair enough - well fought.
I doff my cap to you and admit that the CT41 would be my ideal stand alone SAK. :salute:
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They are a tad thick, but it is a great sak. The CT34 is a nice one too.
sent from my mobile
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My favourite standalone SAK (notwithstanding the Swisstool) is the often overlooked Handyman,
like a Swisschamp but w/o the fish scaler (which I would never need) and the magnifier(got one
on my Swisscard)
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Mine would be a Midnite Manager, why? It was my first SAK and what I've carried everyday since purchase. The flashlight saves my buns as much as any of the blades, probably more. I've learned the tools you have are better than the tools you don't, and I always have my M.M.
Just recently I've transitioned into the 91mm tool sets and let me say these are some serious tools.
I might retire the Ol' Midnite Manager for a Compact with Traveller Scales. Love the digi + scales :drool: but I'd have to add in a Steamlight Nano in Red or another tiny light. My EDC wouldn't be complete with out a little bit of light.
I might turn a newly acquired Traveller Lite into a Taveling Yeoman Lite. Who knows???
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OK, Its a toss up between my Onyx Explorer and my Woodsman. Leaning towards the Explorer :tool:
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This is an old thread that someone's revived, but I missed it first time, so I'll answer not.
Usually, I will select my SAK for the day in the morning, depending on what I have planned for that day. If it is just another day in the office, then I usually pick the Victorinox Rambler or Wenger Pocket Toolchest. I'm an electrical engineer, and this usually suits my needs.
For weekend days, I usually choose my Explorer or Spartan Lite.
But I don't think that was your questions. I think you meant if I had to choose one knife for EVERY day, and I presume you're talking about a stock model, not a mod.
Right now, I would choose a Climber Plus, for the following reasons:
- Only three layers thick, but has a good everyday tool set. Three layers is about as thick as I feel comfortable with for daily office carry.
- I've GOT to have T&T, so the alox models are out.
- I've GOT to have a proper flat screwdriver on the bottle opener. The combo tool on the Yeoman etc. is totally inadequate, as it always folds up on me in use.
- Compact is close, but no Phillips
- Explorer is close, but too thick
- Super Tinker is close, (and I EDC'd one for YEARS) but I don't think the T-Phillips adds enough capability, compared to what the small screwdriver tip on the can opener does. May as well have a corkscrew and eyeglass screwdriver instead.
- Tinker/Small Tinker and Sportsman are close, but at times, I really like to have the small scissors, even though a two-layer knife is much more comfortable in the pocket of dress pants.
- Yeoman is close, but the lack of a decent flat head screwdriver and the lack of a small blade kills it.
- Rambler is close, but sometimes, it feels a bit .... "light-duty" Anything I could do with the Rambler blade, I can also do with a small blade on a full size SAK
- I DID EDC a Tinker for YEARS, before I decided I had to have scissors. It was great, and I didn't even miss the scissors that much, most of the time. Many things that can be done with a scissors can also be done with a very sharp knife blade, such as trimming loose threads, cutting out newspaper articles. Only trimming nose hair is out of the question, hehehe.
Like you, I don't like to carry multiple tools. But, I also don't like being caught without something. So what I do is carry a SAK based on what I think I'll do for the day, and put SAKs in other places. For instance:
- in my car's glove box, I have a SwissTool. I'm usually not far from my car.
- In my small toolbox at home, I have a Leatherman Wingman
- In my large toolbox at home, I have an old discontinued Wenger. (yeah, I should replace it with something of no collector value...
- In my desk drawer at work, I don't need a SAK really, as I have all my tools here for work
- In my backpack, I usually have my CyberTool34
- Nothing on my keys except one of those button cell LED flashlights. I might replace that with a Midnight Manager or Signature Lite or Classic. I go back and forth here.
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I also sometimes EDC my Explorer in a dressy belt pouch that doesn't look terrible with dress clothes... Certainly a lot better than the giant cell phone holster lots of people carry.
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My Climber would probably be my stand alone, unless I have a feeling I might need something a little stouter, then I'd say my OHT.
Sent from my iPhone 5 using Tapatalk (http://tapatalk.com/m?id=1)
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Soldier 1961 - That was my stand-alone SAK for many years, now days I would probably be a Cadet.
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No flashlight? Blasphemy! My custom alox does it for me, but as standalone as it is, no SAK can replace my light.
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The "most complete" factory SAK should be the Alox Ramblers if you only consider tool selection.
You've got anything you need in that package plus tough Alox scales.
However, it lacks sturdiness. :angel:
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Let me reread that again....
Ok... wow.... and I'm assuming only stock models, not customs. Evil.
Toss up between the OHT and the Fieldmaster, although I can make a case for the Huntsman Lite even if the light is very lacking.
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My fave at the moment is my improved Explorer. I added a bit adapter and now it's range is massively increased! Take that Cybertool! Now all it needs is a saw.................................
(http://i923.photobucket.com/albums/ad80/magentus2112/P9050070_zpsc56794c9.jpg) (http://s923.photobucket.com/user/magentus2112/media/P9050070_zpsc56794c9.jpg.html)
What are you using for the bit adaptor?
Sent from my SCH-I605 using Tapatalk
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My favorite stand-alone SAK is the Explorer. I feel kind of unsure about my answer, but I guess that is to be expected with so many choices to choose from. Seeing as the Explorer has always been my go-to SAK since the 80's, that's the one I'm going to choose. It's laid out with all the practical tools I would ever really need, and it has nostalgic value as well.
If I was the type of person who carried a mutlitool paired with a SAK or some other knife all the time, I would probably pick the SwissChamp, the CT-41, or even the CT-34 as my stand-alone SAK. Since I'm not one of those guys, I have a real hard time choosing between the Climber and the Explorer.
The older red no-shield Alox Pioneer/Soldier, the Farmer, and the Deluxe Climber/DeluxeTinker are all contenders as well.
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My favorite stand-alone SAK is the Explorer. I feel kind of unsure about my answer, but I guess that is to be expected with so many choices to choose from. Seeing as the Explorer has always been my go-to SAK since the 80's, that's the one I'm going to choose. It's laid out with all the practical tools I would ever really need, and it has nostalgic value as well.
This question took a lot of soul-searching for me too. As you could probably tell by my rambling post.
If it gives you some confidence, remember that the Explorer was Carl Elsener Sr.'s favorite. ;)
It's just so nice sometimes to have that inline Phillips, eh? That tip can handle double the torque of a can opener tip without being damaged. ;)
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Am I wrong in noticing the Explorer is coming out on top ?
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Am I wrong in noticing the Explorer is coming out on top ?
I think you're right. The Explorer is one of the best SAKs (imo, and apparently many others') and reading all this makes me miss mine (sacrificed for to create my Yeochamp). I'm really considering getting one again, with Plus scales this time.
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Am I wrong in noticing the Explorer is coming out on top ?
I think you're right. The Explorer is one of the best SAKs (imo, and apparently many others') and reading all this makes me miss mine (sacrificed for to create my Yeochamp). I'm really considering getting one again, with Plus scales this time.
The Explorer is one of my favorites too. I carry one daily and it has everything I need. You should get another one and don't get this one modded. :twak:
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Am I wrong in noticing the Explorer is coming out on top ?
I think you're right. The Explorer is one of the best SAKs (imo, and apparently many others') and reading all this makes me miss mine (sacrificed for to create my Yeochamp). I'm really considering getting one again, with Plus scales this time.
The Explorer is one of my favorites too. I carry one daily and it has everything I need. You should get another one and don't get this one modded. :twak:
I probably will eventually get another one. I wouldn't mind onyx Plus scales, and have seen them on eBay. They can also be engrave the main blade with my initials for a small fee, which is cool. I also was curious about Stayglow scales, but I don't thing they're available in Plus form :think:
Oh, and I would possibly get this one modded, but only to add either the metal file/saw or the fish scaler, and replace the hook with the hook/nailfile :D
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Am I wrong in noticing the Explorer is coming out on top ?
I think you're right. The Explorer is one of the best SAKs (imo, and apparently many others') and reading all this makes me miss mine (sacrificed for to create my Yeochamp). I'm really considering getting one again, with Plus scales this time.
The Explorer is one of my favorites too. I carry one daily and it has everything I need. You should get another one and don't get this one modded. :twak:
I probably will eventually get another one. I wouldn't mind onyx Plus scales, and have seen them on eBay. They can also be engrave the main blade with my initials for a small fee, which is cool. I also was curious about Stayglow scales, but I don't thing they're available in Plus form :think:
Oh, and I would possibly get this one modded, but only to add either the metal file/saw or the fish scaler, and replace the hook with the hook/nailfile :D
What is the deal with the fish scaler anyways? I've never thought of using it for anything. I'm sure a simple search will find me the answers, but I ask anyways.
I'm going to eventually pick up one of the newer Explorers. I'd like one with the new-new mag glass with real glass, and I'd like it to have silver tech scales.
The following post made by Smaug from the "At this moment, what are your Top 5 SAKs?" was very helpful in my decision to pick up one of the newer Explorers...
2.Explorer... Older model without the hook. The old standby, been using the explorer since the 80's.
...
This list is, of course, likely to change. The ones that aren't likely to leave the top five would be the Explorer and the Farmer.
My Explorer is an 80s one too. I just received an Explorer I ordered for my brother for his Christmas present. (side note: Back in the 80s when I got the Explorer, he got a Swisschamp. He only carried it a handful of times, due to it being "pocket-hostile.")
As such, I can compare old to new directly. Here's what I noticed:
- The Phillips on the new ones are better. On my old one, that Phillips was a bit too small for a #2, and a bit too big for a #1. It would work on either, but not that well. On his new one, it is bigger and shorter, so it fits a #2 better. In this regard, I like the new one better.
- His has the one-piece magnifier. It has about half the magnification of my old one, but of course a bigger field of view. Which one is preferable depends on how much magnification one wants. The new one is probably more durable...
- His new one, I ordered with Plus scales in emerald green. We didn't have such cool options in the 80s...
- On his new one, the ring that holds the key ring is at least 3X as thick. On our old ones, that little tab was more or less an afterthought. On the new ones, it is part of some other full-thickness piece
So, while I love my Explorer for the nostalgia factor, the new one is the superior tool in most regards, in my opinion.
It would be interesting to see how it compares to my older hookless Explorer. I'm very interested in seeing if there are any differences between the 'snap' and tightness of the tools when opening and closing. I'm also interested in seeing if there is any thickness or weight differences. Smaug's reasons for liking the newer Explorer over the older model are very compelling.
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The fish scaler is a good misc. poker/prodder type thing. The end can be good for some things as well, like as a fork, or it can sort of "grab" certain things to move them or whatnot. It's a good "use your imagination" type of tool. Plus it has a ruler, which comes in handy once in a while. I never use it as an actual fish scaler, and likely never will. I just like to have a decent misc type tool on my SAKs, and the metal file/saw is good for this as well.
I too want the newest version with the actual glass mag glass :tu:
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The fish scaler is a good misc. poker/prodder type thing. The end can be good for some things as well, like as a fork, or it can sort of "grab" certain things to move them or whatnot. It's a good "use your imagination" type of tool. Plus it has a ruler, which comes in handy once in a while. I never use it as an actual fish scaler, and likely never will. I just like to have a decent misc type tool on my SAKs, and the metal file/saw is good for this as well.
I too want the newest version with the actual glass mag glass :tu:
I admit that while I dislike the fish scaler in a substantial way, during tool challenges I use them for all kinds of stuff, specifically because I don't care what happens to them at all.
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I have a feeling my favorite stand-alone SAK could be this one very soon. :D
(http://i289.photobucket.com/albums/ll211/gigahzfemtohz/1stplace004_zpsb0d2c5e3.jpg)
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My fave at the moment is my improved Explorer. I added a bit adapter and now it's range is massively increased! Take that Cybertool! Now all it needs is a saw.................................
(http://i923.photobucket.com/albums/ad80/magentus2112/P9050070_zpsc56794c9.jpg) (http://s923.photobucket.com/user/magentus2112/media/P9050070_zpsc56794c9.jpg.html)
+1
;)
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I have a feeling my favorite stand-alone SAK could be this one very soon. :D
(http://i289.photobucket.com/albums/ll211/gigahzfemtohz/1stplace004_zpsb0d2c5e3.jpg)
Love this! It's a great "urban" toolset.
I've been a huge combo-tool fan in the past, but I've recently realized again that the extra opener/awl layer is pretty valuable at times.
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I have a feeling my favorite stand-alone SAK could be this one very soon. :D
(http://i289.photobucket.com/albums/ll211/gigahzfemtohz/1stplace004_zpsb0d2c5e3.jpg)
Love this! It's a great "urban" toolset.
I've been a huge combo-tool fan in the past, but I've recently realized again that the extra opener/awl layer is pretty valuable at times.
It was a custom order I got from GigaHz for his 1k giveaway (http://forum.multitool.org/swiss-forum/1000-posts!-free-91mm-cellidor-mod!/msg798918/#msg798918).
Except the corkscrew, all flat backsprings. New SS metal file, old thick blade. :cheers:
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Trail Guide!
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I know I said the Explorer was my choice before, but lately I have been mostly carrying an alox Pionner or a Spartan. I think I could get by with either of those as a Stand alone SAK. I would miss the inline philips, but these days there seems to be less and less things that call for a philips head screwdriver.
I love the two layered SAKs for their simplicity, and for their feel in the hand and pocket. Like I said in my original post, this is a hard choice to make, and it is likely to change again in the future.
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Using Tinker with Signature Lite now mostly (with Classic Alox and USB on keychain), but thinking of replacing them all with a Delemont EvoGrip 16 as now I seem to have too many overlapping tools.
I’d be getting the extra scrissors, nailfile with nailcleaner (which I actually use a lot) in a shorter, more ergonomic package.
Not sure if I can shove a pin and a pen in the Evo 16 though. I’m also concerned 85 is a bit too small for my hand (91 fit perfectly) but also too thick (3 layers + Evogrip vs 2 layers vs Cellido)r.
... and losing the flashlight too... I love the white Sig Lite flashlight, using it daily.. is there anyway of putting toothpick, tweezers, pin, pen and flashlite on the same knife?
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Using Tinker with Signature Lite now mostly (with Classic Alox and USB on keychain), but thinking of replacing them all with a Delemont EvoGrip 16 as now I seem to have too many overlapping tools.
I’d be getting the extra scrissors, nailfile with nailcleaner (which I actually use a lot) in a shorter, more ergonomic package.
Not sure if I can shove a pin and a pen in the Evo 16 though. I’m also concerned 85 is a bit too small for my hand (91 fit perfectly) but also too thick (3 layers + Evogrip vs 2 layers vs Cellido)r.
... and losing the flashlight too... I love the white Sig Lite flashlight, using it daily.. is there anyway of putting toothpick, tweezers, pin, pen and flashlite on the same knife?
So, why not a Super Tinker? Just adds a scissors layer to your Tinker, and you get to keep your pen and pin without any mods. A single AAA flashlight to accompany it and you're done.
Oh, wait, nailfile.... Hmmm..,
Anyway... Wenger's aren't compatible with the pen, though adding a pin might not be a too difficult mod... Also, I don't think there's ways to add a light to a Wenger...
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I think I may now have my favorite standalone SAK - My Explorer ME, The Rogue :D Sorry, can't post a pic at the moment.
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I think I may now have my favorite standalone SAK - My Explorer ME, The Rogue :D Sorry, can't post a pic at the moment.
(http://therogue.com/wp-content/uploads/Rogue_Logo_New4.png)
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I think I may now have my favorite standalone SAK - My Explorer ME, The Rogue :D Sorry, can't post a pic at the moment.
(http://therogue.com/wp-content/uploads/Rogue_Logo_New4.png)
Nice one :D
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:tool: My stand alone is my Tinker Deluxe. Prof
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What is your favorite stand-alone SAK?
Wait....what does "stand-alone" mean?
It means a knife that will fit your daily needs but without the help of any other tool or gadget(for example, without a flashlight or a tactical folder or a LM, etc. including keychain/pocket sized stuff).
Going back to this...
According to the OP's description of stand-alone, I am not aware of any one tool that fits all of my needs. My flashlight must be separate from any other tool I'm carrying.
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Well, if it should be "stand-alone" one, without keychainpion MiniChamp :rant: :D
then there is only ... :think:
The One :gimme: SwissChamp
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I would have to say the wenger evo 18 with flat scales.
Swiss Army knives .
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Wenger evo 18 with flat scales.
Swiss Army knives .
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is there anyway of putting toothpick, tweezers, pin, pen and flashlite on the same knife?
How about a Huntsman Lite or Traveller Lite?
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Wenger evo 18 with flat scales.
The Wenger Handyman? It's a pretty excellent tool. I have it, but I also have a yellow Evogrip 18. I like both.
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One hand trekker
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The OHT is great, I use the snot out of mine, but I always carry something with it.
The Spirit is effing awesome!, but I always carry something with it.
I am so familiar with 91mm's that my favorites are in this category. I think as a minimal size stand alone SAK, the Climber does it for me. I like 4 layer models, favorites being the Deluxe Climber and Mountaineer, but anything less than a Climber and I want to carry 2 (or more).
I made this one, I wanted the serrated (large crossbow tang) main blade, file hook, and plus scales. Other non-factory parts added are 58mm split ring, Rescue Tool lanyard, old style 'Pat' mini SD, and tweezers with metric rule. The only thing it needs that a walk to the toolbox won't provide is a factory warranty. :salute:
I would probably feel unprepared with anything less in a single tool.
Good post BTW, it got me thinking for sure. :cheers:
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Tough one, but I think my choice would be the Super Tinker; good tools and not too big to carry.
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As it stands right now I carry a Farmer and pocket tool chest. If I had to combine that to one SAK if would be my Huntsman. It would cover most of the tools I carry now. But I sure would miss the beefy tools on the Farmer.
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Since I began carrying my StayGlow Explorer for EDC, I think it fits the bill for 'stand alone" SAK. I would probably give that honor to my SwissChamp, but it is too much for pocket carry. My belt sheath location is already taken by my SwissTool and Zebralight.
EDCing the explorer has left me with several nice knives that used to ride in my right front pocket. They now spend their days in my dresser drawer. I guess trade offs are part of the deal.
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The Vic Huntsman. tom. :tool:
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My answer last year on this question was Climber and Rambler, however that has changed with my acquisition of the CT41. IMO it's just about perfect. :climber:
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My answer last year on this question was Climber and Rambler, however that has changed with my acquisition of the CT41. IMO it's just about perfect. :climber:
I was thinking a 5 or 6 layer would be more versatile too, but I want different tools at times for different tasks, so I decided to stay with the Climber (plus), and it's easy to carry anywhere. Keeps me from making those time consuming 4th(+) layer decisions... :think:
The Rambler is great, I like the Manager version for the pen which I find myself without and hunting gloveboxes and drawers for a lot, so plus scales are a priority for me with 91mm's. I leave pens and pencils laying around for folks to run off with or they get misplaced, but the SAK I'm carrying always stays with me. The 58mm's are just not HD enough for my daily needs, but they do come in handy for events that require low-profile tools. Lots of places, stadiums, government buildings, etc. do not allow a full size pocket knife anymore, but an altered (pen) Jetsetter will go anywhere I need to go without hassle. :tu:
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I'm drawn to large SAK's , I think of them as a pocket tool reserve . ATM , my prefered one is the Cybertool 41 . With a dangler clip , it's not a problem to pocket carry .
Chris
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I'm drawn to large SAK's , I think of them as a pocket tool reserve . ATM , my prefered one is the Cybertool 41 . With a dangler clip , it's not a problem to pocket carry .
Chris
The big 91mm's are cool, I agree. I pocket carried a SwissChamp for years, I remember how producing it from my pocket would usually get a comment, and occasionally a gasp, lol...
:cheers:
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Usually a 91mm Ranger. It has all of the tools I use for woods or at home.
If I had to break down a lot of cardboard, cut a lot of rope or use the blade excessively, I would choose the Vic OHTrekker with the serrated blade.
I have lately gravitated towards 58mm. I really like the minichampII
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a midnite manager for the city...
(http://i.imgur.com/biGludf.jpg)
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Great picture. :tu:
How are you getting along with the LED Lenser K2?
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I have thought about this and although I love Swiss Champs, Champions and Explorers (and they would be fine as a stand alone EDC) I almost constantly carry a 93mm ALOX of some kind so...
....the Poneer/Farmer/Soldier gets the official nod but if I travel these are almost always backed by one of the above or my EDC Cellidor, a Marlboro Sportsman (which is a metal file shy of bring a Champion).
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I currently EDC the Swisschamp (good for anything, but big and bulky) or the Tinker (light, fits great in hand but missing so much), when on vacation the Standard Issue (so strong and sturdy, but too thin and misses so many features) and when hiking the OHTrekker (great tool, but locking blade makes it unavailable for edc, it looks scary and the wood saw sees little use).
The best compromise will probably be a Delemont Evogrip 16, especially paired with a Signature Lite (or better a Midnite Manager)
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Alox soldier has done it for a few years in the past, so i guess it would do
(http://i303.photobucket.com/albums/nn140/jacktrades_nbk/nature%20knives/IMG_3160.jpg) (http://s303.photobucket.com/user/jacktrades_nbk/media/nature%20knives/IMG_3160.jpg.html)
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I would say the Evo S557.