I think I'm free, so let's do this!!
Does the Wenger Ranger series count? Go big or go home!
Apologies, guys, looks as if I am late to my own party.
Timestamp on the left coast still says October 1st!
So are you okay with the Outdoorsman substitute along with the Master Craftsman? It's essentially the same tool loading as an early Ranger, just different blades as I outline above.
...
Day 1 uses were only mail call duty with the small blade and scissors to open two bags/pouches in the kitchen.
Great start, folks!
Simon, just a very friendly suggestion--please do communicate with moderators to make sure the challenge meet the minimum number of people to request a badge to be designed, and whether different tools can be used in a tool-specific challenge(or can different challenges be running parallel in the same thread?). :think:
Just in case it didn't, I hope the badge can still be awarded back to you guys, if another group attempt the challenge in some later time. :cheers:
Kamakiri, I understand your motives and the Master Craftsman is fine by me, but in my opinion the Outdoorsman does not qualify for this challenge as it bends its frame just a tad too much. Hope that is ok with you.
Apologies to everyone for not properly organizing/registering this challenge, I admit I did not know about all this. :facepalm: I just wanted to try out the Ranger for a month as an EDC together with other interested parties and share our experiences. However, I don't want to deprave the participants from a badge, of course. Can I do anything to still properly register the challenge and if so, how and with whom?No worries. It's not really explained very well what to do to for either starting a challenge or getting a new badge approved.
Works ok for me Simon, but leads me to one more question...Is the 84mm Master Craftsman (Hoffritz 'EXPLORER' 11037) okay to work into the mix? It is the same tool load as the 91mm versions, just smaller.
No worries. It's not really explained very well what to do to for either starting a challenge or getting a new badge approved.
Day 1: My horse in this race! 🏇
Day 2Nice black Ranger! :tu:
After my hasty start into the challenge I would now like to present my lone Ranger for this month. Not particularly exciting, I am afraid. Just swapped the standard scales for plus scales to expand the impressive tool set even further. That said, a Ranger doesn't need fancy scales to shine; it's quite brilliant as is.
Today was a slow day for the Ranger, just some short blade work - meaning I have used two different tools so far - to bust a friend out of prison, A-Team style.
kamakiri Day 2:Nice clip point! :tu:
Only use so far today was mail call duty. '72 Master Craftsman:
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48834267676_c7a36740af.jpg)
kamakiri Day 2:
Only use so far today was mail call duty. '72 Master Craftsman:
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48834267676_c7a36740af.jpg)
kamakiri Day 2:
Only use so far today was mail call duty. '72 Master Craftsman:
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48834267676_c7a36740af.jpg)
It is indeed Simon... let's have some fun with this Challenge!!
Nice black Ranger! :tu:
I've encountered this with all kinds of battery powered things Simon. I always got my Mighty Minichamp out and used the combo tool Philips head. Sort of negates the Challenge though :facepalm:
Day 2 saw us opening snacks with the scissors.
Day 3
I encountered a tricky situation (well, tricky for a city dweller with kids) today for which the Ranger was not well suited I am sad to say. After the batteries of my son's toy train died, I got the Ranger out to screw open the battery compartment. Unfortunately, none of the three screwdrivers in the Ranger were right for the job. The bottle opener was a tad too wide for the large screw slot and the fine screwdriver on the back a tad too wide for the small screw slot. So I ended up using the can opener in the large slot, slightly damaging the screw head (in particular the small slot) in the process.
Conclusion: the Ranger got the job done, but at a price. I tried my Explorer's inline Philips on the screw afterwards; not perfect either but a lot more suitable.
On a happier note, ever since initiating this challenge have I been thinking about how to use every tool at least once in its course. One of the tools I came up short (of ideas) with was the small chisel. Sure, I would have found some obscure use case during the hiking trip we are planning for the end of this month, but most likely it would have been a very artificial situation. Well, today - in no small part due to my perfectly trimmed nails thanks to the Ranger's scissors and file - I did not manage to get the last (recessed) battery out of the battery compartment. Out came the chisel! Wedged out the battery no problem :tu:
That makes four different tools used so far.
Looks like a 'dual' slotted head. Did you try the 'big' SD on the cap lifter?
Day 3Nice usages! :tu:
I encountered a tricky situation (well, tricky for a city dweller with kids) today for which the Ranger was not well suited I am sad to say. After the batteries of my son's toy train died, I got the Ranger out to screw open the battery compartment. Unfortunately, none of the three screwdrivers in the Ranger were right for the job. The bottle opener was a tad too wide for the large screw slot and the fine screwdriver on the back a tad too wide for the small screw slot. So I ended up using the can opener in the large slot, slightly damaging the screw head (in particular the small slot) in the process.
Conclusion: the Ranger got the job done, but at a price. I tried my Explorer's inline Philips on the screw afterwards; not perfect either but a lot more suitable.
On a happier note, ever since initiating this challenge have I been thinking about how to use every tool at least once in its course. One of the tools I came up short (of ideas) with was the small chisel. Sure, I would have found some obscure use case during the hiking trip we are planning for the end of this month, but most likely it would have been a very artificial situation. Well, today - in no small part due to my perfectly trimmed nails thanks to the Ranger's scissors and file - I did not manage to get the last (recessed) battery out of the battery compartment. Out came the chisel! Wedged out the battery no problem :tu:
That makes four different tools used so far.
I've encountered this with all kinds of battery powered things Simon. I always got my Mighty Minichamp out and used the combo tool Philips head. Sort of negates the Challenge though :facepalm:Yummy :tu:
Day 2 saw us opening snacks with the scissors.
CDs as snacks? You got a stomach of steel it seems.Very nice bike maintenance!
Meanwhile, I went on a bike ride with the family and found the front brakes of my, uh, vintage bike were screeching. Fixed it with the bottle opener.
(Five tools used so far)
I did, it was too wide. It worked well on the same type of screw in the bicycle brake affair though
Day 3: Used the file to clean up some bolt holes in a shower bench.Good usage :tu:
kamakiri Day 3:
One of the '76 Ranger copies in tow today:
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48838693483_651e517863.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48839239222_7d7f4e0247.jpg)
Used the caplifter to scrape scale from a shutoff valve. Used the file and metal saw to change the compression ring and dress the edge of the copper pipe. That was on a hot water side that wasn't completely shut-off at the main...so I didn't take pics again until the new valve was back on:
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48838692933_7feaf39a1d_m.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48839064071_9821f89334_m.jpg)
And needed to grab another knife for the phillips to tighten one of the old knobs.
Small blade for mail call duty as usual. Missing the hawksbill a bit for that.
Day 3: Used the file to clean up some bolt holes in a shower bench.
Day 4:tu:
Busy office day, so not much action for the Ranger. But now the weekend calls. Cheers!
(Six tools used so far)
kamakiri Day 4:Nice clip point! :like: :cheers:
'71/'72 Ranger today:
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48843995188_2d36681926_z.jpg)
Just mail call duty and household packaging so far today.
Might find out how an old 5-twist CS would work tonight...pics later if it gets used. Good idea for your day 4 use, Simon!
Nice clip point! :like: :cheers:
One more pic...gratuitous clip point shot:like:
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48844365396_e019da0313_n.jpg)
Day 4: Tightening a loose screw.Nice usage :tu:
Day 5And a pizza day! Very nice! :like: :cheers:
Lazy rainy Saturday at home, so Ranger was strictly on mess duty. :cheers:
Day 5: No usage today. Pictured with the Case Barlow my son picked up for me at the Case Museum store yesterday.Excellent! :woohoo:
And a pizza day! Very nice! :like: :cheers:8
That looks so good Simon!
kamakiri Day 5:
Fergot to post before I went to bed! No uses for Saturday. Spent most of the day eating out and at the library. Stayed in the pocket all day:
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48853578667_4a2c9869ed.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48853578957_29c64f4d21.jpg)
c. 2000-04 Ranger, last version of the stainless inlay (pre stainless metal saw):
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48853025288_866828674b.jpg)
Brought this one because it has all available modern tools.
kamakiri Day 5:Nice :tu:
Fergot to post before I went to bed! No uses for Saturday. Spent most of the day eating out and at the library. Stayed in the pocket all day:
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48853578667_4a2c9869ed.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48853578957_29c64f4d21.jpg)
c. 2000-04 Ranger, last version of the stainless inlay (pre stainless metal saw):
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48853025288_866828674b.jpg)
Brought this one because it has all available modern tools.
Day 7Nice usage! :like:
I will gladly admit that this was a totally lazy weekend. Frightful weather, so I spent most of my time at home playing with the kids. My boy's toy train ran out of battery again. For the sake of the screws I resorted to a fine screwdriver this time. I am still impressed what a broad range of screws you can drive with ordinary SAKs. This can really get you out of a pinch in situations where you do not have access to other tools. However, if you do, I feel you are better served with dedicated screwdrivers unless you have the inline Philips or a Cybertool available.
Anyway, back to today's Ranger operations. They were limited to the use of the brilliant Vic scissors. This is one SAK tool which in my opinion beats most of the dedicated alternatives - small scissors just do not come any better than that. I have used Vic scissors (in particular the 58mm ones) countless times for emergency nailcare purposes. But I will spare you any pictures of that and rather treat you to today's festive opening of a pack of cheese. ;)
(Seven tools used)
kamakiri Day 6:
Trimmed some loose threads:
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48856974592_4983a27b63.jpg)
Also opened some Nerf stuff in clamshells with the small blade. Opened one of the packages that came yesterday with the same.
This is one of the '05+ Rangers with the smooth (pad?) printed scales and the stainless metal saw.
kamakiri Day 6:Nice usages :like: :cheers:
Trimmed some loose threads:
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48856974592_4983a27b63.jpg)
Also opened some Nerf stuff in clamshells with the small blade. Opened one of the packages that came yesterday with the same.
This is one of the '05+ Rangers with the smooth (pad?) printed scales and the stainless metal saw.
Day 6: Swapped out for my early 80's Master Craftsman today. It has the split Philips head for opening tins.I like those style Phillips :cheers:
Day 6: Swapped out for my early 80's Master Craftsman today. It has the split Philips head for opening tins.
I like those style Phillips :cheers:
Day 7Nice :like:
Busy day at work, but there is always time for some nail care. The file on recent SAKs is confusing: the Vic manual suggests that the side without the nail nick is the nailfile. However, the picture in the manual shows the old style file and my impression from examinig the new style file is that it is actually the side with the nail nick that is finer. A cruel trick by Victorinox ???.
Anyway, once I got used to the file, I found my nails could cope with both sides. I just wish I'd know which one is which...
(eight tools used)
By the way, how many Rangers have you got, Kamakiri? At least a platoon it seems :salute:
kamakiri Day 7:Nothing wrong with mail call duty....its one of my favorite...well second, I love it when its packages! :cheers:
Just mail call duty today.
Day 7: Cut open a snack bar for breakfast.Nice use :tu:
Nothing wrong with mail call duty....its one of my favorite...well second, I love it when its packages! :cheers:And one is the camping book you reviewed! :tu: Had to get it after you posted about it. :cheers:
And one is the camping book you reviewed! :tu: Had to get it after you posted about it. :cheers:It is a good book for sure! :cheers:
Day 9Then time to chill...nice :cheers:
Another long day at the office. Cheers :cheers:
Day 8: Knot removal with the corkscrew!Nice use :cheers:
^I could use another! :cheers:
kamakiri Day 8:
'75 Ranger
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48868502518_7eacb554cb.jpg)
Mail call again today. Used both blades for a change. There was a thicker bubble wrapped package that I wanted to slice through both sides in one level cut.
Used the can opener SD on a phillips toy screw since I didn't have one of the Master Craftsmans nearby.
Could have used the hook today...if I had one of the newer Rangers!
Day 8: Knot removal with the corkscrew!
Day 9Nice usages! :tu:
First of all, apologies to everyone for getting the day wrong all the time. I tend to write my diary at the end of the day and consult the date on my watch for my "day x" headline. Not a clever idea after midnight :facepalm:
But enough of my stupidity. Today was a splendid day for the Ranger. First I had to check the SIM card of an old cellphone at the office. A perfect job for the needle. Then I found that a tiny rubber disc was stuck at the bottom of the SD card slot of my office notebook. Tried to get it out with the needle and the long blade, but to no avail. At that point it occurred to me to use the scissors like tweezers - and this did the trick!
This was one of the rare days when having a SAK with me was not just convenient, but really made a difference. Obviously I could have solved the SIM card problem differently, e.g. with a paper clip. But I cannot think of anything else available at my office with which I could have fixed the rubber disc problem. Great! :woohoo:
(Nine tools used)
kamakiri Day 9:Nice Hoffritz and great usages! :cheers: :tu:
Forgot to use one of the Hoffritz Rangers (Deluxe Camper - for Hoffritz) ...since it's Wednesday. :oops:
Some light work underhood putting some things back for smog check time:
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48872063178_946eac5a38.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48872792272_41f45b521c.jpg)
Tried the back small SD a couple of times, but it's harder to use in tighter areas, so it wasn't really used. Glad this was one of the newer ('85+) versions with the 90º stop on the cap lifter. Could have used that on the can opener SD.
And as usual, mail call duty and misc. food package opening using just the small blade.
It sure is Ray! Thanks Simon! I've found all kinds of uses for it over the years. My wife has actually sewn with it, and used the hook for a crochet hook.
I wish Simon :dd:. Just some canvas for a hammock, and crocheted a pot holder.The saw is at the top for sure. Then the scissors and magnifying glass. Just can’t go wrong with them! :tu: :cheers:
Day 10 saw us cutting some kindling for a fire. Hard to top a Vic saw!
kamakiri Day 10:Very nice! :cheers:
c. '60 Master Craftsman:
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48880764921_e6480d68f2.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48880935657_ae6bf823e4.jpg)
Just mail call duty for yesterday.
I wish Simon :dd:. Just some canvas for a hammock, and crocheted a pot holder.
Day 10 saw us cutting some kindling for a fire. Hard to top a Vic saw!
kamakiri Day 11:
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48882545388_a3d8a2c036.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48882547443_6b8e9d2d58.jpg)
Needed my USRDA of preservatives today. ::)
Decided to deploy this early '80s Beater Ranger for slightly gross duty:
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48883263132_6470314bf9.jpg)[/url]
WARNING: Do not click if easily grossed out.Show content(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48882546158_b7d287a64d.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48882546088_aff305e315.jpg)
Cut caterpillars on the trumpet tree with some help.
.
And found this on the beater knife...
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48883262707_e250e6d99c.jpg)
Day 11: Getting some household projects done with the Master Craftsman. I needed a Philips Head to pull some edge trim from our she'd to clean out the drains. I also used the main blade to cut the end off a cigar when I was over at a friend's house. Hard to beat a 35 year old blade!
Day 11: Getting some household projects done with the Master Craftsman. I needed a Philips Head to pull some edge trim from our she'd to clean out the drains. I also used the main blade to cut the end off a cigar when I was over at a friend's house. Hard to beat a 35 year old blade!Nice usages! :cheers:
Great, now the can opener got some use too. Not sure I approve on your Caterpillar work though. Isn't there a more humane way to deal with the buggers :think:
Day 12Nice usage!
Today was a splendid day for the Ranger. In the morning the fine SD was just the right tool to open the battery box of a remote control. The placement and size of the screw made it impossible to use the tin opener, but they were just about perfect for the fine SD. It's a pain to turn a screw with it though, you have to change your grip all the time. But I shouldn't complain, it got the job done after all.
In the afternoon we went to the park. The weather was just lovely, so we hit a store and bought some foodstuff for an impromptu picnic. A field day for the Ranger, obviously. I even ended up fixing my wife's sunglasses with the small CS screwdriver. Nice. That makes 11 tools used so far.
Day 12: Same here.
kamakiri Day 12:Nice
No uses today. Not even mail call duty.
Newer model Ranger with stainless MS and 2.0mm main blade tang:
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48888776616_ed297ebb1e.jpg)
Day 12: Same here.Very nice! - I do love the William Tell Overture :rofl:
Day 13It will come to you! Not even 2 weeks into the challenge! :tu:
Nothing to do for the Ranger today. I keep thinking about how to use during this challenge the one tool I like so much in theory and so never use in practice...
:iagree: I use mine for the same thing Kamakiri. Nice job!
kamakiri Day 13:Nice :like:
Helped wifey with snacks for kids...the tear strips don't always work above the zip lock type closure:
Day 13: I carve model canoes from blocks of cedar. The chisel works very well in hollowing out the block of wood.
Day 14: Used the Ranger's can opener end to help repair the clogged auger on our pellet stove. The thin Philips like head loosened the screws holding the cover plate on.
Day 14: Used the Ranger's can opener end to help repair the clogged auger on our pellet stove. The thin Philips like head loosened the screws holding the cover plate on.Nice usages :tu:
Day 14: Used the Ranger's can opener end to help repair the clogged auger on our pellet stove. The thin Philips like head loosened the screws holding the cover plate on.:tu: Nice use Barry...I haven't had to make that substitute for the phillips when carrying a Ranger yet.
It makes you acutely aware of which tools are, for your individual day-to-day needs, "must haves", "nice to haves" and "try hard to haves at all".:iagree: That's why I believe this challenge was suggested for you in your 'quintessential' thread. I opted in to revisit The Ranger and MC because I often think I'm missing the saw in my EDC/Mods that often exclude a wood saw. And look...I haven't used it yet this month. Makes more sense for me just to have one available during gardening or hiking days.
I will further elaborate my thoughts on the matter at the end of this challenge, but it seems safe to say already that the Ranger will not qualify as my "most suitable EDC" in the above sense. But that's not a bad thing.Not a bad thing at all IMO. Rangers are only numerous in my collection because of production chronology study...for the Camping logo, and that it's the cheapest model with all of the backside tools, plus it's not discontinued like the Master Craftsman. So between the two models I can study many changes all the way back to the '50s.
Day 15Always a great use! :cheers:
More pin uses as I kept trying to repair my phone's broken sim card holder, but to no avail. >:( Ranger at least helped me to flush down my frustration.
Cannot believe we are already halfway through the challenge and I still have so many unused tools left :facepalm: I now fully realize the value of a challenge such as this one, where you focus all your attention on just one SAK for a while and try to explore the full extent of its toolset. It makes you acutely aware of which tools are, for your individual day-to-day needs, "must haves", "nice to haves" and "try hard to haves at all".
This does not diminish the fascination of a well-stacked SAK, of course. But it gives you a clearer idea which SAK might be the most suitable EDC for you (from a size to weight to usefulness ratio perspective).
I will further elaborate my thoughts on the matter at the end of this challenge, but it seems safe to say already that the Ranger will not qualify as my "most suitable EDC" in the above sense. But that's not a bad thing.
kamakiri Day 15:A most excellent choice! Will see you tomorrow! :like: :cheers:
Mail call duty (finally!) and assiting with 'easy open' packaging. ::)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48906579512_d1de924f96_n.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48906579297_eef1a44782_n.jpg)
Carrying one of the '00+ Rangers today.
Gotta pic either the '86 or '87 'Ranger' Hoffritz 'Deluxe Camper' for Hoff Wednesday tomorrow:
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48906372561_860a19ceb8_n.jpg)
kamakiri Day 15:
Mail call duty (finally!) and assiting with 'easy open' packaging. ::)
Rangers are only numerous in my collection because of production chronology study...for the Camping logo, and that it's the cheapest model with all of the backside tools, plus it's not discontinued like the Master Craftsman. So between the two models I can study many changes all the way back to the '50s.
Day 16Scissors would be my only choice!
Why is it that every time I filed one of my fingernails during this challenge, I wondered "why the hell don't I just cut it with the scissors"?
Day 14: How do you carry your Rangers? Mine fit perfectly in my watch pocket!
Day 15
More pin uses as I kept trying to repair my phone's broken sim card holder, but to no avail. >:( Ranger at least helped me to flush down my frustration.
Cannot believe we are already halfway through the challenge and I still have so many unused tools left :facepalm: I now fully realize the value of a challenge such as this one, where you focus all your attention on just one SAK for a while and try to explore the full extent of its toolset. It makes you acutely aware of which tools are, for your individual day-to-day needs, "must haves", "nice to haves" and "try hard to haves at all".
This does not diminish the fascination of a well-stacked SAK, of course. But it gives you a clearer idea which SAK might be the most suitable EDC for you (from a size to weight to usefulness ratio perspective).
I will further elaborate my thoughts on the matter at the end of this challenge, but it seems safe to say already that the Ranger will not qualify as my "most suitable EDC" in the above sense. But that's not a bad thing.
:iagree: That's why I believe this challenge was suggested for you in your 'quintessential' thread. I opted in to revisit The Ranger and MC because I often think I'm missing the saw in my EDC/Mods that often exclude a wood saw. And look...I haven't used it yet this month. Makes more sense for me just to have one available during gardening or hiking days.
Not a bad thing at all IMO. Rangers are only numerous in my collection because of production chronology study...for the Camping logo, and that it's the cheapest model with all of the backside tools, plus it's not discontinued like the Master Craftsman. So between the two models I can study many changes all the way back to the '50s.
Never think of Ranger this way, very cool indeed!
I never looked at it from that perspectice. That's indeed a good reason to collect them. Yours is a beautiful collection by the way. :cheers: I would already be happy if I could just get hold of one single nice Master Craftsman. But after visiting the bay frequently in the last three months I came to realize just how late to the party I am. At least here in Europe prices for vintage SAK seem to have taken off quite a bit. I am afraid I missed my space shuttle :(:cheers: Thank you, comis and Simon!
Day 14: How do you carry your Rangers? Mine fit perfectly in my watch pocket!I generally do the same.
If a SAK is needed for an "easy open" packaging, I wonder what tool will be required for difficult to open ones... :rofl::ahhh :rofl:
Day 14: How do you carry your Rangers? Mine fit perfectly in my watch pocket!
One of my all time favorite EDC is the Mountaineer, and it's calling you! :pok: :D
:cheers: Thank you, comis and Simon!
Simon- It is a little sad that the Mater Craftsman is discontinued and so expensive for older versions in good condition...Why not consider modding a modern Ranger? It's really only one part to swap from an appropriate donor.
I generally do the same.
Back from Day 5:
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48853578957_29c64f4d21.jpg)
:ahhh :rofl:
One of my all time favorite EDC is the Mountaineer, and it's calling you! :pok: :D
Still day 16Nice usages :tu:
... and here it is! I got it and the Handyman today.
Slapped on the usual black plus scales (I start to feel like an undertaker, but what can you do, it's the only stock I got) and used fullbreakfast's method of opening the split rings with the fine SD to install the usual red lanyards. I have to admit a certain feeling of monotony - and death - creeps in whenever I open my SAK drawer these days. Luckily I keep a few alox and translucent red SAK in that drawer as well to colour things up a little.
On other news, I used the small blade to open a plastic-wrapped book this afternoon. Exciting stuff, I know.
I am not into modding (yet), feels a bit like cheating to me. In any event, I would never mod me a Master Craftsman. That would just feel like a sacrilege. If I ever get one, it has to be the real deal, and with Shuttle scales to boot. I guess it will never happen, but you know what Sammy Davis Jr. said (sung) in the original Ocean's Eleven movie: show me a man without a dream and I will show you a man who's dead, real dead ;)
Modding IS cheating! :D For stuff I want, there is no other way...
But for yours...why not get one of the newer Japanese market ones? Real enough and have the shuttle scales to boot. Still a bit spendy...and not sure I could use one myself if it's NIB condition.
I'm a user as opposed to a collector myself, and a huge space flight fan too! I have had one of the last Craftsman, and I know there's at least one of them on the ISS. That being said, I couldn't help but lust for my Grail knife, the Master Craftsman. It took me a long time to finally find one, courtesy of Boonies (a Forum member), who picked up a Shuttle version and had this one to spare. I've taken it camping, hiking, and general use around the house. Do yourself a favor and get a Shuttle version and use it Simon. It might cost a little bit at first, but it really is the ultimate SAK (and I've a few to compare it to :facepalm: ).
I'll keep looking for you too :D
Tldr: Master Craftsman is my white whale ;)
kamakiri Day 16:
Passed on the older Hoffs yesterday so I could have the hook on me. Got pistachio shells under my thumb *and* index finger the other day enough that it actually hurt a bit to use pull top rings.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48911712601_1026c6676b_n.jpg)
This hinge pin always works its way out and I awlways use the awl like a punch to put it back in.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48911930232_0afae8314f_n.jpg)
Tried the wood saw on a box that came in...utter fail so I wouldn't count that as a use. Small blade fixed the mess up.
Nice use of the awl, but the can thing looks like a desperate attempt to score a point for hook use... Will have to think of some dubious application myself if I want to finish this challenge as Sir Aragorn >:D
kamakiri Day 17:
Just the hook can opening and mail call again today.
The c. '99 copy in use today...next to the '00+ copy:
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48916782827_094d430225_n.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48916782917_de8bcfb268_n.jpg)
Who can spot the two externally visible differences between these two knives?
Only one, the camping logo (inlay vs hot stamp). We need higher res pics from you, Kamakiri :pok:
Nope! Logos are the same inlayed stainless for these two. So more like this?
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48919325432_ce5eccc02d_s.jpg)
:pok:
:DShow content(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48919325432_ce5eccc02d.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48918589693_423fc10a0e.jpg)
Day 17 saw me doing more work on our pellet stove. I used the dolphin screwdriver to remove and replace a circuit breaker called a snap disk. So far, things are working like they should!
Day 17 saw me doing more work on our pellet stove. I used the dolphin screwdriver to remove and replace a circuit breaker called a snap disk. So far, things are working like they should!Very nice! I’ve replace many of those in my days. :cheers:
I sized the documentary picture down quite a bit to give Kamakiri a taste a of his own medicine :whistle:
LOL. I prefer pictures to be shared 'web-sized' :cheers: :D
kamakiri Day 18:
Just mail and food package duty with scissors and small blade again for yesterday.
Used the '00+ Ranger, but was playing with these Master Craftsman knives yesterday for chronology:
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48924565341_6761616a30.jpg)
c. '60/'61 and two c. '66 (both satin finish WS, but one w/ angled teeth) both are very close to the change-over in WS type.
Beautiful knives! :like: You are a lucky man!Thanks, Simon. :cheers: I only feel lucky when I find them cheap! :tu:
Nice job Simon and :iagree: with you on Kamakiri's collection!
Nice work! I agree about the hardness of the blades...not really the metal for whittling.
FWIW, I think the wood saw is a bit tough to use on smaller diameter materials and/or harder woods. Sometimes the metal saw works better with its finer teeth, IMO.
Day 19: Just along for the ride today!It will be there when you need it! :cheers:
Day 20 continued
Just cleaned the Ranger and found that the file did not like today's action. Some abrasion occured. Didn't think it would wear out that fast... >:(
:o Surprised to see this, that fast?
kamakiri Day 20:
Tightening one of the phillips screws for one of the kid's bike reflectors:
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48933344237_f518310fd5.jpg)
Opened more snack pouches with scissors and small blade.
Hanging out earlier:
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48932613453_4eb031dff2.jpg)
:iagree:. For Day 20, no excitement yet.The calm before the storm! :whistle:
And you even talked me into a Mountaineer :twak:
The calm before the storm! :whistle:
:cheers:
:rofl: Right my friend!!
:D I still stand by it though--I think you might have read my story about how the metal file/saw saved my travel plan, by sawing open a small luggage lock at the beginning of a long trip, and ever since that, I always sworn by the metal file/saw. Don't get me wrong, I love my wood saw plenty, but since I live in the city and the use of that is far less frequent than the metal file.
Nice
Nope! Logos are the same inlayed stainless for these two. So more like this?Case hardened file vs stainless steel file?
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48919325432_ce5eccc02d_s.jpg)
:pok:
:DShow content(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48919325432_ce5eccc02d.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48918589693_423fc10a0e.jpg)
Probably not healthy though... :whistle:
Day 22: I used the tweezers to remove a deer tick from the coat of one of my sheepdogs.
Case hardened file vs stainless steel file?
Day 22: I used the tweezers to remove a deer tick from the coat of one of my sheepdogs.Nice usage! :cheers:
Oh no, once they're in custody they're gone! I'm with you Ray...at least a snake won't leave you crippled from Lyme disease.Exactly - sneaky little buggers!
Day 23
Another busy day at work and slow day for the Ranger. Only thing it did was opening the bathroom door so that my grumpy son could get to his mom, who was just brushing her teeth. Mrs. Templar was not amused... :whistle:
kamakiri Day 23:
Lotsa work for mail call duty yesterday using the '86 Hoffritz 'Deluxe Camper' (same as Ranger):
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48952562678_cff619d5dc.jpg)
Scissor and both blades used for recycling duty.
kamakiri Day 24 morning:
Used the chisel for some light cleanup on a '75 Hoffritz Traveler:
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48953108361_8bf3a627c7.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48953108046_26c536798d.jpg)
Sometimes mechanical scraping is better than solvents when attacking 44 year old adhesives and crap. I've used chisels in the past to get stuff off liners, but not often on the tools.
Great use of the chisel, Kamakiri. :hatsoff: I will try that out some day. Do you see any risk of scratching the blade when doing this?
Day 23: Just along for the ride today!Very nice :like: :cheers:
kamakiri Day 23:Starting to look good! :tu:
Lotsa work for mail call duty yesterday using the '86 Hoffritz 'Deluxe Camper' (same as Ranger):
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48952562678_cff619d5dc.jpg)
Scissor and both blades used for recycling duty.
kamakiri Day 24 morning:
Used the chisel for some light cleanup on a '75 Hoffritz Traveler:
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48953108361_8bf3a627c7.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48953108046_26c536798d.jpg)
Sometimes mechanical scraping is better than solvents when attacking 44 year old adhesives and crap. I've used chisels in the past to get stuff off liners, but not often on the tools.
Day 24: Installed a new belt on my wife's 108 year old Singer treadle machine with the help of the Ranger's scissors.Wow, that is cool! They do last don’t they! :tu:
Day 24: Installed a new belt on my wife's 108 year old Singer treadle machine with the help of the Ranger's scissors.
Day 24: Installed a new belt on my wife's 108 year old Singer treadle machine with the help of the Ranger's scissors.Nice!
kamakiri Day 25:Nice usages! Especially the pruning! :cheers:
Cooled down a bit today so I got to some of the pruning I've been meaning to do by the entry:
Would normally use pliers to pull these, but the small hump 'dolphin' SD worked to pry the ends up. I wanted to leave the tape intact.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48959309528_86a714f237_b.jpg)
Thanks, Barry! :cheers:That is nice looking...you have to love old wood craftsmanship. :tu:
Nice!
My mom has one she got from grandma. I only saw/remember my mom using it once growing up. That was with the original leather belt strap.
Looked like this one:
(https://i.etsystatic.com/12635649/r/il/8a6a8b/2022214242/il_1588xN.2022214242_okce.jpg)
I've always loved the look of that oak.
Nice usages! Especially the pruning! :cheers:
[/quote
:iagree: :cheers:]
Thanks, Barry! :cheers:
Nice!
My mom has one she got from Grandma's. I only saw/remember my mom using it once growing up. That was with the original leather belt strap.
Looked like this one:
(https://i.etsystatic.com/12635649/r/il/8a6a8b/2022214242/il_1588xN.2022214242_okce.jpg)
I've always loved the look of that oak.
Day 25: No uses yet, so a vanity pic.Nice :cheers:
Day 25: No uses yet, so a vanity pic.
Wow, your scales seem to be in perfect shape, Barry! How do you keep them so pristine? Mine seem to get scratched by just looking at them :facepalm:
As most of you probably know already, the awl is a very competent blister pack cutter :tu:
Day 26: Mail call with the Master Craftsman.Nice use!
kamakiri Day 26:Great usages and understand the food part....been there and done that! :facepalm:
Wood glue was surprisingly stuck tight and needed some help from the caplifter as a pry bar:
Finally got to yesterday's mail call this morning:
Forgot that I used the hook to pull the oven rack when I made corn muffins the other day:
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48969422526_5f288031dd.jpg)
Just remembered it as I'm eating the last one now.
kamakiri Day 26:
Wood glue was surprisingly stuck tight and needed some help from the caplifter as a pry bar:
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48968878508_2c32a204b4.jpg)
kamakiri Day 22:
Just the files on my nails for yesterday evening. Spent most of the day out n about.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48948096457_c6d72ff9c8.jpg)
kamakiri Day 27 continued:Nice SAK and use! :cheers:
Unexpected cork duty:
And for the record, that includes the use of the nail cleaning tip! :D
Day 27: Tightened a loose hat rack!Nice use :like: :tu:
Day 27: Tightened a loose hat rack!
Day 28: Some extraterrestrial humor with the Master Craftsman :facepalm:
Day 27
The time has come to mount winter tires again :-[
I bought my current set last year, so they still have a lot of tread depth. There were a lot of pebbles stuck in it, so I tried to get at least some of them out prior to mounting the tires. Turns out the hook worked well in larger crevices whereas to chisel was perfect to scrape the pesky buggers out of small spots.
(16 tools used)
kamakiri Day 27 continued:
Unexpected cork duty:
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48972337866_360cb0a87c.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48972337691_6583c1fc9b_w.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48972337461_ba7ae6fe2b_n.jpg)
And for the record, that includes the use of the nail cleaning tip! :D
Day 28: Some extraterrestrial humor with the Master Craftsman :facepalm:Nice little guy :like: :cheers:
Aren't those unexpected use the best?Certainly are!
Nice little guy :like: :cheers::iagree: Nice shot Barry!
Day 28: Some extraterrestrial humor with the Master Craftsman :facepalm:
Certainly are!
But I generally feel less prepared without a phillips on me. My main mod carry right now has two and I like it that way! During this challenge I only needed the phillips once and had a Ranger on me at the time. Can opener SD did just fine but that was just for a loose screw in plastic parts (bike reflector).
kamakiri Day 28:
Spent the day at home yesterday. Just mail call and nailcare.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48947362318_001ceca942.jpg)
.....
:iagree: Nice shot Barry!
.....
Simon-
On Saturday, I knew I'd need a pen with me and carried a Signature Lite. Is that a 'use' or not? I don't currently have a modded Ranger with a pen or plus scales. :think: :dunno:
kamakiri Day 29:
Sigh. Stuff to fix that my kid(s) break.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48981686067_df02158d0c.jpg) (https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48981686067_eb805707b0_o.jpg)
Small SD (hump/dolphin) from the Ranger to back it out a bit...the MC's (old) small SD too big and the corkscrew SD too small:
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48981686497_1e824bfddc_n.jpg)
So the MC's phillips can get to it:
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48981500786_dc080ae5b8_n.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48981686287_f97ba26864_n.jpg)
One of the worst 'tools' available on the SAK:
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48980941093_ba40c81490_n.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48981500256_1434a86c18_n.jpg)
Normally, I'm a bit lazy and would just burn my fingers instead:
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48981685612_60079e6df1_n.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48981500001_1e52af865c.jpg)
ugly:
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48981499861_bec1a0e464_n.jpg)
:facepalm: still ugly:
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48981499761_d6b4dfbe60_n.jpg)
but works! click this one for Simon size. ;)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48981685227_08b96887bf.jpg) (https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48981685227_0ac272bba4_o.jpg)
also click for large pic...c. '78 Master Craftsman and '00+ Ranger used today:
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48981499291_5035fa72df.jpg) (https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48981499291_f9fd297f14_o.jpg)
Also sliced some onion with the large blade to cook with a meatloaf reheating for lunch.
Day 26: Mail call with the Master Craftsman.
This challenge really make me think of the file.. I think I gave the same relationship to the file as many of you have to the woodsaw..
But I have used the one on my spirit a couple of times
[It's not failure if you learn something from it]
Sorry, KamakiriNo worries! I didn't think it would or should be. Just thought I'd ask.
Kudos, Kamakiri! Looks as if you did some serious tinkering there. Well done and good uses. Last time I tried something similar, I screwed up the soldering and the rechargable battery started burning inside my electric toothbrush :facepalm: Good thing it happened in winter and I could get the thing out of the house in time to cool down.:cheers:
Thanks for your thoughts, kottskrapa. It's really nice to see someone contributing from the sidelines. I wish it had happened more during this challenge.
Guess you need something really heavy to make this kind of application feel anything more than gimmicky.
Day 29: No action today :DNice :tu:
Nice :tu:
Interesting belt buckle.
Thanks sir! I picked it up in Wallace, Idaho 25 years ago. On the back is a legend talking about the Spirit of the Horse. I'm a horseman so I really took a liking to it. It's a bit heavy though!
Thanks for your thoughts, kottskrapa. It's really nice to see someone contributing from the sidelines. I wish it had happened more during this challenge.
In my - admittedly limited - experience, the file can come in handy unexpectedly at times (if nothing else, to clean some dirt from under your nails), whereas you can foresee situations in which you might need a saw and prepare accordingly. That would make a SAK with a file a more obvious EDC for me than one with a saw.
kamakiri Day 30:
Mail call duty:
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48989290752_70328794a8_c.jpg)
Something special came out of one of the boxes...Show contentReally? You're looking in here?Show content:twak:Show content;) :rofl: :D
.....
Can't believe tomorrow is the last day!
:D :iagree: :cheers:
kamakiri Day 30:
Mail call duty:
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48989290752_70328794a8_c.jpg)
Something special came out of one of the boxes...Show contentReally? You're looking in here?Show content:twak:Show content;) :rofl: :D
.....
Can't believe tomorrow is the last day!
Day 30 and some toothpick usage! I used the toothpick of the Master Craftsman to punch open the seal on a travel size tube of toothpaste.
Good use, Barry, but wouldn't the awl have been more suitable for the job?
This was a fast month! Many thanks to Simon for hosting it, and to everyone who participated in the Challenge. As I had long thought, the Ranger is a pocket friendly Swisschamp. All the tools you need and none that you don't. It's actually bested my beloved Huntsman in that you get all the backspring tools and the file in a very close to Huntsman sized package.
What are your thoughts on this, Barry and Kamakiri?
Day 30 and some toothpick usage! I used the toothpick of the Master Craftsman to punch open the seal on a travel size tube of toothpaste.Nice usage! :cheers:
kamakiri Day 31:
It was a busy day!
Gotta apply for my Jack badge:
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48994121286_5044fe5b43_c.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48994119706_8a9f732449_c.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48994119446_e1f394fd26_c.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48993574768_095da342b1_c.jpg)
The '00+ Ranger has its period correct toothpick (with the DIP switch 'hook'):
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48994121866_2c6e72a93c_c.jpg)
good for grabbing lint from the dryer:
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48993577193_674e23febc_c.jpg)
Master Craftsman helping with the Breakfast of Champions:
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48994120326_3f56abc879_c.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48994318367_9abe090886_c.jpg)
Should've removed some of the paper label first. :facepalm:
kamakiri Day 31:Great photos and usages...especially with the Jack-o-lantern! Well done! :cheers:
It was a busy day!
Should've removed some of the paper label first. :facepalm:
:cheers: Kamakiri! The Master Craftsman is probably my favorite SAK for a bunch of practical reasons, and also the NASA connection. I really wish Vic would bring it back to the US market. I also think Vic missed a huge opportunity for the Apollo 11 anniversary by going with the Tinker instead of the Master Craftsman :facepalm: for the anniversary knife. I've been itching to put it, and the Ranger, to use.:iagree: :cheers:
Simon, sometimes it's just a matter of timing that determines the size of the challenge and nothing else. I've been involved in numerous challenges that took on a life of their own that were almost impossible to keep up with. This was a great time for me and I'm glad I could be here for it.
Great photos and usages...especially with the Jack-o-lantern! Well done! :cheers:Thanks much Ray! :cheers:
:cheers: Kamakiri! The Master Craftsman is probably my favorite SAK for a bunch of practical reasons, and also the NASA connection. I really wish Vic would bring it back to the US market. I also think Vic missed a huge opportunity for the Apollo 11 anniversary by going with the Tinker instead of the Master Craftsman :facepalm: for the anniversary knife. I've been itching to put it, and the Ranger, to use.
Simon, sometimes it's just a matter of timing that determines the size of the challenge and nothing else. I've been involved in numerous challenges that took on a life of their own that were almost impossible to keep up with. This was a great time for me and I'm glad I could be here for it.
Day 31
As we are nearing the end of our challenge, I would like to share a few thoughts which occurred to me in these last weeks.
First, I would like to thank you, Barry and Kamakiri, very much for accepting the challenge. It was a privilege sharing this experience with you guys.
I have to admit I was a bit disappointed at first that there were no more takers. That's totally on me, of course: announcing this challenge on rather short notice and without looking into the badge system first was a rookie mistake. That said, I don't mind anymore. With only two fellow participants the challenge felt very personal and engaging to me. I felt obliged to keep our small party entertained and thought actively about use cases for the Ranger. And I found quite a few of which I had never thought before. I hope I will stay on this creative path even now that the challenge is (almost) over. In any event, I am not certain I would have felt equally committed if we had been a considerably larger group.
One thing that keeps bugging me is the very limited participation from the audience. With approximately 3000 views, it looks as if a lot of people followed this thread. It would have been nice if more of them had offered their thoughts on the experiences and ideas we shared. A hearty thank you to the few who did though. :salute: It's nice that Barry, Kamakiri and I did not perform for an entirely silent audience.
As for the setup of the challenge, although I screwed up the organization in general, I do think that setting a goal - i.e. to try and use as many different tools as possible - was a good idea. At least for me this was a strong motivation to go beyond the "classic" use cases (in my case: opening mail and packages, cutting foodstuff, clipping nails, opening bottles) and look for less obvious applications. What are your thoughts on this, Barry and Kamakiri?
Now, what have I learned from the challenge?
Certainly that celidor sucks: after one month of EDC in my trouser pocket, the scales of my Ranger look just terrible. I never dropped it or anything. This is really just from doing to this "Sackmesser" what it was built to do: getting carried around in a "Hosensack". That's not good enough, Vic! And while we are at it: a file that gets permanently scratched during it's first real use (on wood!) is disappointing. I don't care if this file may still have left a higher mileage than I. It just doesn't excude the quality that a SAK must.
Other than that, after one month of EDCing it I just love my Ranger. It served me very well, never complained and was capable of dealing with (almost) everything I threw at it. And I tried it out on a lot more things than I normally would thanks to this challenge's goals.
That said, some applications were more obvious than others: even if you normally don't use a file, it's not a far stretch to integrate it in your everyday life if you have one. Just as biting your nails can become a habit, so can using a file on them become one. You don't have to go out of your way for that. On the other hand, if you are living in a city, you just cannot make use of a saw. Let's face it: I would not have made that walking stick for my girl if I hadn't been in this challenge. However, I was and I did, and I am very happy about that (as is my daughter).
Which brings me to the next lesson learned: it's invigorating to give a SAK with more exotic (for you) tools a spin occasionally and try to find a creative use for them. But it's not necessary in my opinion to carry those tools around in an EDC, where size and weight matter.
In a post that preceded this challenge, I asked if the Ranger might be the quintessential SAK. After EDCing it for a month, I believe there are two answers to that question.
Objectively, I would say yes. At a reasonable price, size and weight, the Ranger offers a tool for almost any basic survival situation. Subjectively, my answer is no. My everyday life is devoid of survival situations, so I would rather either save weight and size or renounce on several tools I don't realistically need for one or two I might
For me, the necessary basics in a SAK are a blade, scissors and a caplifter. I like to have some screwdriver options and have little use for scale tools (except the pen and pin) and back tools (except the awl). I therefore used to think that only three SAK are viable EDC: Compact, Climber plus and Pioneer X.
After the Ranger piqued my interest, I put all the above in question and wondered if I should not instead carry this little powerhouse around all the time.
Although I know now that the answer is no, I did find that the Ranger's size and weight are manageable for me in my everyday life. I therefore realize I could let my hair down just a little and carry four layers henceforth. This offers interesting options over the aforementioned three SAK: I could treat myself to additional pliers, an inline Phillips plus magnifier, or a file to spice my stale EDC basics up a little.
Well, I guess that's all, folks. Will report back later today with my last picture and the official farewell note ;)
Cheers and thanks again, Barry and Kamakiri,
Simon
kamakiri Day 31:
It was a busy day!
Gotta apply for my Jack badge:
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48994121286_5044fe5b43_c.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48994119706_8a9f732449_c.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48994119446_e1f394fd26_c.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48993574768_095da342b1_c.jpg)
The '00+ Ranger has its period correct toothpick (with the DIP switch 'hook'):
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48994121866_2c6e72a93c_c.jpg)
good for grabbing lint from the dryer:
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48993577193_674e23febc_c.jpg)
Master Craftsman helping with the Breakfast of Champions:
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48994120326_3f56abc879_c.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48994318367_9abe090886_c.jpg)
Should've removed some of the paper label first. :facepalm:
Good luck with the badge! It's only awarded once a year, and I think it gives us all another good reason to carve it. The small blade is just amazing for doing the carve.
Great write-up Simon! :tu: I agree with most of that.
Just one aspect where my view on this challenge is a bit opposite - was to see how few features I can live with. I normally carry larger SAKs. My first was an '84.5 Champion and have a preference for having most of the tools available. As a modder, I am looking for the features that I use the most...and those that I have a hard time living without.
kamakiri Day 31:
It was a busy day!
Gotta apply for my Jack badge:
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48994121286_5044fe5b43_c.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48994119706_8a9f732449_c.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48994119446_e1f394fd26_c.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48993574768_095da342b1_c.jpg)
The '00+ Ranger has its period correct toothpick (with the DIP switch 'hook'):
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48994121866_2c6e72a93c_c.jpg)
good for grabbing lint from the dryer:
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48993577193_674e23febc_c.jpg)
Master Craftsman helping with the Breakfast of Champions:
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48994120326_3f56abc879_c.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48994318367_9abe090886_c.jpg)
Should've removed some of the paper label first. :facepalm:
:cheers: Kamakiri! The Master Craftsman is probably my favorite SAK for a bunch of practical reasons, and also the NASA connection. I really wish Vic would bring it back to the US market. I also think Vic missed a huge opportunity for the Apollo 11 anniversary by going with the Tinker instead of the Master Craftsman :facepalm: for the anniversary knife. I've been itching to put it, and the Ranger, to use.
Simon, sometimes it's just a matter of timing that determines the size of the challenge and nothing else. I've been involved in numerous challenges that took on a life of their own that were almost impossible to keep up with. This was a great time for me and I'm glad I could be here for it.
Congratulations to Simon, Barry and Kamakiri, you all did a fantastic job doing this challenge! I have enjoyed many good uses and pictures of it, and trying to find new use everyday is a great approach to be creative and find new uses to an old tool we are used to.
That's really well written and I did think about this challenge in association with your Quintessential thread. And I think maybe the word 'quintessential' could have two layers of meaning--what we think is an 'iconic' model which everyone will remember Victorinox by(such as Griptillian to BM, Paramilitary to Spyderco, 110 to Buck, etc) or what model suits our lifestyle/use the most, so it will solve 80% of all our needs(which I think is the quintessence of owning a SAK).
I think there probably will never be a model answer to either of those questions, since Victorinox do provide us many good models, and our needs are often different. But what I starting to realize is that quintessence of SAK may mean: there are great variety of options to choose from, and there is always one that will fulfill 80% of our daily needs.
It was a pleasure, Barry. I agree that if you like the Huntsman, chances are you will like the Ranger even more once you try it.
Justed wanted to add a thought to the above: while I think it would be obvious to choose a Ranger over a Huntsman, for the reasons set out yesterday I think the same cannot be said with respect to the Mountaineer. Even though you save very little in terms of size and weight, I would still go for it unless I clearly foresaw the need for a saw (or for any of the additional back tools). Barry, Comis, what is your opinion on that?
I like having the file, but I live in a rural area so the woodsaw (which actually saw some use yesterday) is more important to me. The great thing about the Ranger is you don't have to choose!True! :tu: