Multitool.org Forum

Tool Talk => Swiss Army Knights Forum => Topic started by: sergemaster on October 17, 2011, 04:00:05 AM

Title: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: sergemaster on October 17, 2011, 04:00:05 AM
Amici,
Just thought I would throw it out there to see if anyone still carries the now defunct Champion, mentor to the Swiss Champ. Although they've been discontinued for quite some time, they still seem to be superfluous enough to be be able to obtain at a very reasonable price plus in brand new condition.

so with all the talk of those who still prefer to carry Victorinox models that have gone the way of the do do bird some time ago, anyone still EDC a Champion?

Cheers,
Serge
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: edursr on October 17, 2011, 04:41:12 AM
 ???
I didn't know that Victorinox already stoped doing the Champions... I really like this model
I prefer it over the SwissChamp, the pliers makes this one too heavy and those are not really usefull(I prefer Wenger's pliers).

well, I better buy and extra one while we can still find it NIB  :D
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: felinevet on October 17, 2011, 06:15:12 AM
The original Champions have been discontinued for some time but Victorinox re-issued them awhile back as Champion PLUS and there are still quite a few of those around.
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: macabee on October 17, 2011, 07:58:32 AM
I bought a champion many years ago in Switzerland, it came with the SOS pouch. Whilst it is heavier than most SAKs and was probably considered too much for a belt carry EDC, the champion is however lighter than the average all steel multitool,ie LM, SOG and the swisstool.

I would say that here in the UK where the average multitool with a locking blade is a no no for an EDC, the champion has a lot going for it, it's tools make it a match for most, coupled with the fact that a SAK is considered far less of a threat to the average person than most knives.

Your average street gang member, would not probably not be seen carrying a SAK, which are seen as the preserve of old gits such as myself, and boy scouts for getting stones out of horses hoofs.


So yes I still love my Champion :drink:
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Mike, Lord of the Spammers! on October 17, 2011, 10:08:02 AM
http://www.edcsource.com/Victorinox-Chandion-PLUS-Swiss-Army-Knife--Free-US-Shipping,name,108807,auction_id,auction_details (http://www.edcsource.com/Victorinox-Chandion-PLUS-Swiss-Army-Knife--Free-US-Shipping,name,108807,auction_id,auction_details)

Nice new Champion plus :tu:
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: WhichDawg on October 17, 2011, 10:34:25 AM
I carry my C-plus everyday when I go to town! I luv it. I never was a pliers fan (in any size) for carry.

I use the pen all the time!  rotokid I need refills! :ahhh :P
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Reinier on October 17, 2011, 10:43:07 AM
Well, I am a fan of the Victorinox Pliers (am I the only one? :think:), so I prefer the SwissChamp. Or rather, I prefer the CyberTool 34 :)
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: WhichDawg on October 17, 2011, 10:56:18 AM
Well, I am a fan of the Victorinox Pliers (am I the only one? :think:), so I prefer the SwissChamp. Or rather, I prefer the CyberTool 34 :)

they work and are a nice tool but I just never needed them (like some do) and they are "cute" lol
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Jmora on October 17, 2011, 11:14:47 AM
I like the pliers too, they have their place - my dad borrowed my CT41 to dig a pin out of a tyre, he was going to use the blade to pry it out ( :twak:) but I showed him the pliers, and they were just right for that job.
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: bren10man on October 17, 2011, 11:22:32 AM
Well, I think I have 5 of them......and 2 that were lost/stolen....so I have owned a grand total of 7 since the first one I bought at age 14.

It has been by EDC knife since I was 14.   Never go anywhere without it.

In fact, over here in the soon to be defunct Mesopotamian sandbox, I use it every day, even though I have 2x Benchmade automatics, 1x SOG Power Plier EOD tool, and 1x Vic Soldier 2009.  And, it was my EDC last time I was here in 2003.

When the rubber meets the road, the Champion circa 1984 (my guess) is either in my pocket or on my belt.
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: ICanFixThat on October 17, 2011, 12:38:32 PM
Once a Champion, always a Champion.  Keep Rockin'  :cheers:
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: macabee on October 17, 2011, 06:20:29 PM
All this talk of Champions, made me decide to by a swisschamp to keep the champion company..

The wife listened and her eyes rolled skywards, is this a common reaction   :rofl:
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Gareth on October 17, 2011, 07:33:30 PM
All this talk of Champions, made me decide to by a swisschamp to keep the champion company..

The wife listened and her eyes rolled skywards, is this a common reaction   :rofl:

I'd like to say; it gets better. :tu:  Sadly I'd be lying. ;)

I really like the Champion myself, though I probably carry my SwissChamp more.
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: ICanFixThat on October 17, 2011, 08:10:41 PM
All this talk of Champions, made me decide to by a swisschamp to keep the champion company..

The wife listened and her eyes rolled skywards, is this a common reaction   :rofl:
Of course you need a SwissChamp, that goes without saying, we can respect the past champions while supporting the new ones. 

I recommend you get one with Horn scales (beautiful), you can't get those on the Champion and my recent ones have come with the Stainless-Steel file which you don't get on a Champion and it seems it's still hit-and-miss if you get it on a SwissChamp. 

New champions like spending time with their predecessors.


Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: AimlessWanderer on October 17, 2011, 08:23:19 PM
I have a used (pre 1986?) Champion which I got from Tim a while back. It's not seen any pocket duty with me yet, but it's getting teamed up with a SOG Japanese Toolclip in a Maxped mini EDC pouch. Just trying to configure the rest of the loadout before it sees active duty. Irwin 4" mini vicegrips are also in there at the minute but not sure if they'll be there for good  :think:

I like it - but I personally feel I need to pair it up with something else  :salute:
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: ICanFixThat on October 17, 2011, 10:58:54 PM
I have a used (pre 1986?) Champion which I got from Tim a while back. It's not seen any pocket duty with me yet, but it's getting teamed up with a SOG Japanese Toolclip in a Maxped mini EDC pouch. Just trying to configure the rest of the loadout before it sees active duty. Irwin 4" mini vicegrips are also in there at the minute but not sure if they'll be there for good  :think:

I like it - but I personally feel I need to pair it up with something else  :salute:
For happy travels,  in the US the best thing to pair with a Champion is a Franklin.  I'm sure you could find a substitue over there.
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Gareth on October 17, 2011, 11:01:40 PM
I have a used (pre 1986?) Champion which I got from Tim a while back. It's not seen any pocket duty with me yet, but it's getting teamed up with a SOG Japanese Toolclip in a Maxped mini EDC pouch. Just trying to configure the rest of the loadout before it sees active duty. Irwin 4" mini vicegrips are also in there at the minute but not sure if they'll be there for good  :think:

I like it - but I personally feel I need to pair it up with something else  :salute:
For happy travels,  in the US the best thing to pair with a Champion is a Franklin.  I'm sure you could find a substitue over there.
OK, that sounds like a local term. :think:  Can you expand on it for the rest of the world? :D
Title: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: tattoosteve99 on October 17, 2011, 11:04:54 PM
I have a old champion, though not sure what year. It's kinda big for me but I like it none the less. Once it's repaired I plan on keeping it in the edc bag as a backup.
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: ICanFixThat on October 18, 2011, 12:25:57 AM
I have a used (pre 1986?) Champion which I got from Tim a while back. It's not seen any pocket duty with me yet, but it's getting teamed up with a SOG Japanese Toolclip in a Maxped mini EDC pouch. Just trying to configure the rest of the loadout before it sees active duty. Irwin 4" mini vicegrips are also in there at the minute but not sure if they'll be there for good  :think:

I like it - but I personally feel I need to pair it up with something else  :salute:
For happy travels,  in the US the best thing to pair with a Champion is a Franklin.  I'm sure you could find a substitue over there.
OK, that sounds like a local term. :think:  Can you expand on it for the rest of the world? :D

Dead Presidents (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5FYbFV_8KIk#)
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Gareth on October 18, 2011, 12:34:54 AM
One of these then?

(http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/9/94/New100front.jpg)

it's certainly a good place to start I'd say. :D
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: jerseydevil on October 18, 2011, 03:05:26 AM
One of these then?

(http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/9/94/New100front.jpg)

it's certainly a good place to start I'd say. :D
:drool: Oooh, I could always use some of those! :D Back to topic (an odd idea around here, i know...) I think the Champion Plus is great. I carry mine in a small pouch I found at a flea market, a cell phone pouch actually which fits the Champ perfectly. Great knife for stand alone carry, or I'll pair it with a Skeletool or the Octane on occasion.
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: AimlessWanderer on October 18, 2011, 03:31:54 AM
I have a used (pre 1986?) Champion which I got from Tim a while back. It's not seen any pocket duty with me yet, but it's getting teamed up with a SOG Japanese Toolclip in a Maxped mini EDC pouch. Just trying to configure the rest of the loadout before it sees active duty. Irwin 4" mini vicegrips are also in there at the minute but not sure if they'll be there for good  :think:

I like it - but I personally feel I need to pair it up with something else  :salute:
For happy travels,  in the US the best thing to pair with a Champion is a Franklin.  I'm sure you could find a substitue over there.

Unfortunately I tend to be parted with things like that very quickly  :P Besides I think the wire cutters are better on the SOG, and the SOG can be used more than once  :D

I do like pairing tools up, and the Champion has just been waiting for the right match. I think the Toolclip is a worthy companion
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Luna Knife on October 04, 2015, 06:22:27 PM
sorry to dig up an old thread but I prefer the champion plus over the swisschamp due to the slimmer pocket carry and I usually carry a small set of channellocks with a sak anyway.

I now own a new champion plus thanks to this forum.

I also own an older model grey magnifier champion and a new model swisschamp

I need a pic ofmy 2 champions
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: NetsNJ on October 04, 2015, 06:29:08 PM
I bought one on eBay accidentally thinking it was a SwissChamp.  I was young and stupid.   :facepalm:

It is a fine knife, no doubt, but once I've committed to that kind of weight/size, I can't see ever choosing a Champion over a Swiss Champ.
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: sawman on October 04, 2015, 06:32:53 PM
As the pliers are one of my favorite tools, I would definitely not want a Champion.
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: twiliter on October 04, 2015, 06:53:06 PM
As the pliers are one of my favorite tools, I would definitely not want a Champion.

+1 The 91mm pliers are so exceptional, why carry that big without them? I would even choose a Craftsman, Handyman or Troubleshooter over the Champion because of this. Exceptions for me are the older Champions made before the pliers were developed, those are way cool.  :tu:
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: BASguy on October 04, 2015, 08:49:46 PM
I use those pliers all the time.  They are no substitute for a pliers based multi, but they serve an entirely different purpose for me.  I am constantly using them as a grabbing device.


Sent from 9 miles from the face of the sun
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: AimlessWanderer on October 04, 2015, 09:01:53 PM
I have no particular interest for the 91mm SAK pliers. When I need pliers, I tend to need something more substantial. I also have no interest in the fish tickler, but it being there is of no significant detriment. Overall though, even though it has the pliers, I'd probably choose the CT41 over the Swisschamp or Champion
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Aloha on October 04, 2015, 09:39:30 PM
I have no particular interest for the 91mm SAK pliers. When I need pliers, I tend to need something more substantial. I also have no interest in the fish tickler, but it being there is of no significant detriment. Overall though, even though it has the pliers, I'd probably choose the CT41 over the Swisschamp or Champion

 :rofl:

Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Fattsgalore on October 04, 2015, 10:21:05 PM
I liked the C+ I got last week. (a steal of a deal) For all of 3 days till I deconstructed it turning it into a Ranger, with spare parts for other projects. In all honesty it's not to large, but not a light weight either.
I'd buy another...for parts.
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: shibafu on October 05, 2015, 12:44:43 PM
I just got a Champion Plus (prompted by the fish scaler rangefinder discussion ::)).  It's not a common model here.  I'm also not a big fan of the 91mm pliers, I much prefer the LM Squirt I have on my keyring.  So for me, losing the thickness and weight of the pliers layer is a good trade-off.

The champs and the cybertools compare very closely in size and weight.  The SwissChamp is the same weight and thickness as the CT41 and the Champion Plus closely matches the CT34.  While the CT41 is well beyond pocketable size for me, the CT34 and Champion Plus just about make it.
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: deputy tom on October 05, 2015, 07:44:33 PM
I have an old Champion that I still enjoy carrying on weekends. I've had it since around the mid to late 1970's. Still in great shape. tom.
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Aloha on October 27, 2015, 07:00:57 AM
I was and am a die hard Swisschamp fan.  I had this old girl laying around and got to thinking she had quite a few years left in her.  I polished up the scales and gave all sharp edges, well sharp edges again.  I've carry her now for work and she pairs well with both my OHT and MUT.  She's an old one, no hook, no chisel, and older style file, and best of all she has the nickel silver shield.  Count me in as a fan of the Champ. 
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Zed on October 27, 2015, 10:04:01 AM
I've got a old champion coming soon from 50fttrad ,I'm looking forward too comparing it too my swisschamp and craftsman  :tu:
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Mextreme on October 27, 2015, 10:16:45 AM
The Champion was the first SAK I purchased with my own money.
I think it is a great size. The pliers tips the thickness over the ege for me so I prefer the Champion over the SC.
You can always pair it with a key chain Squirt or Style to get a pair of small handy pliers.




Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: SAK Guy on October 28, 2015, 06:04:02 AM
The Champion was the first SAK I purchased with my own money.
 -snip-

Me too!  :cheers:
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: windson on March 28, 2016, 03:22:50 PM
1980s Victorinox Champion, still going strong!

(http://i.imgur.com/ouTgRd8.jpg)
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: K9medic on March 28, 2016, 11:10:03 PM
I have a mid 1980's champ (the first SAK I ever saw with black scales rather than red).  Unless I'm heading into town or going to work its still my edc knife.  For me it just has the right combination of tools.
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: yud on March 28, 2016, 11:15:44 PM
Use to have a Champion Plus and loved it even had blue scales.  Then I lost it somewhere.
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Barry Rowland on March 29, 2016, 02:29:19 AM
Tons of love!!  I'd love to have one in my stable!
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: sir_mike on March 29, 2016, 03:18:39 AM
The Champ Plus is a great sak.  I still have one or two here but I don't carry it.  :)
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: DaveBr on March 29, 2016, 07:59:22 PM
I have 3 1980s Champions and I carry one every once in a while. Nice SAK!
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: jalind on March 31, 2016, 03:12:10 PM
Champion Plus with the sapphire scales I put on it . . .

(http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l290/j_a_lind/Other/Knives/SAK/Miscellaneous/Champion%20Plus%20Sapphire.jpg)

I wouldn't moan too much if the fish scaler were dropped but the Champion is an alternative to the Craftsman (which I also have) as it drops trades pliers for the magnifier and in-line Phillips (plus adds the fish scaler with its ruler) which allows for the corkscrew with the micro driver on the back layer. I suppose a legitimate question would be why not add the pliers and have a Swiss Champ. The pliers are a thick layer and for me it would make the knife wider than I want to carry or handle as the Champion is right at the very edge of max width for me.

John
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: cody6268 on April 02, 2016, 12:30:19 AM
Rather have this than a SwissChamp.  $25 used isn't bad.  I can do without the pliers--SAK pliers aren't built for the same stuff the full-sized pliers of most multitools, plus they're a really fat tool that adds a lot of width.   They're not strong enough.  I've torqued some good-sized nuts with the Craftsman's pliers (used to hold my vise to the counter) and cut some thin hard wire (picture hanging wire I use as general use wire), but there's little it can do compared to a Leatherman or dedicated pliers.

I plan to get one old enough to have the gray-framed magnifier and longer Phillips, but new enough to have the full modern set of back tools (reamer with sewing eye, smaller fine driver (becoming one of my favorite back-side tools), wood chisel, and parcel hook.  I can afford to live without the backside Phillips, as I get the opportunity to put the eyeglass driver in the corkscrew.
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: SAK Guy on April 03, 2016, 05:38:03 PM
This pic was in the Swiss Champ thread but the back seven are Champions. Love the Champion, it was my first Vic back in '74-'75. Carried it all through Europe on a backpack odyssey and in that nearly 3 months I never wanted for anything in a tool.   :salute:

(http://i833.photobucket.com/albums/zz256/SAKGuy/Swiss%20Champs%20amp%20Champions_zpssk0nn2sg.jpg)

Now, older and RA. I need the pliers more than I ever thought possible so the SC, the SC XLT or the Craftsman will get the nod when I carry a bigger SAK.  :tu:
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: MadPlumbarian on April 03, 2016, 07:37:10 PM
The Swiss champion was my first sak, I got it when I was 12, and well when each of my kids turned 12 it was there first.. For the little guy I did a little extra by switching out one of the scales, and since each of the kids had the new ones I fig I deserved to update my collection, no? So I got one ans switched both the scales out, this way I wouldn't get any of ours mixed up! :D
JR
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: windson on April 03, 2016, 09:39:00 PM
(http://i.imgur.com/FWul1KN.jpg)
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: windson on April 30, 2016, 08:33:37 AM
Another one (#3 in my arsenal):

(http://i.imgur.com/pDLXg9C.jpg)
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: SAK Guy on May 22, 2016, 09:18:05 PM
60's Victoria Champion with all the desirable features of the classic Vics.    :dd:


(http://i833.photobucket.com/albums/zz256/SAKGuy/60s%20Campion_zpsvq14akba.jpg)

(http://i833.photobucket.com/albums/zz256/SAKGuy/60s%20Champion%20obv_zpso6dq3wny.jpg)

(http://i833.photobucket.com/albums/zz256/SAKGuy/Phillips%20file_zpsghynudcw.jpg)

(http://i833.photobucket.com/albums/zz256/SAKGuy/LNF_zps7annlli9.jpg)

(http://i833.photobucket.com/albums/zz256/SAKGuy/obv%20tang_zps0mj11kfk.jpg)

(http://i833.photobucket.com/albums/zz256/SAKGuy/rev%20tang_zpstz71we82.jpg)

(http://i833.photobucket.com/albums/zz256/SAKGuy/bail_zpsaqwhrf43.jpg)
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: strmliner on May 22, 2016, 09:54:24 PM
60's Victoria Champion with all the desirable features of the classic Vics.    :dd:






()

(http://i833.photobucket.com/albums/zz256/SAKGuy/obv%20tang_zps0mj11kfk.jpg)

(http://i833.photobucket.com/albums/zz256/SAKGuy/rev%20tang_zpstz71we82.jpg)

(http://i833.photobucket.com/albums/zz256/SAKGuy/bail_zpsaqwhrf43.jpg)

Oh yeah...like that one Robert!   :drool:   Especially the older finger nail file...love it!  :cheers:
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: SAK Guy on May 23, 2016, 12:16:43 AM
60's Victoria Champion with all the desirable features of the classic Vics.    :dd:



(http://i833.photobucket.com/albums/zz256/SAKGuy/obv%20tang_zps0mj11kfk.jpg)

(http://i833.photobucket.com/albums/zz256/SAKGuy/rev%20tang_zpstz71we82.jpg)

(http://i833.photobucket.com/albums/zz256/SAKGuy/bail_zpsaqwhrf43.jpg)

Oh yeah...like that one Robert!   :drool:   Especially the older finger nail file...love it!  :cheers:

Thanks!!!  :cheers:  I like that file too...and files in general...and this one has 3 on it!  :rofl:
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: windson on May 23, 2016, 11:51:06 AM
60's Victoria Champion with all the desirable features of the classic Vics.    :dd:


(http://i833.photobucket.com/albums/zz256/SAKGuy/60s%20Campion_zpsvq14akba.jpg)

(http://i833.photobucket.com/albums/zz256/SAKGuy/60s%20Champion%20obv_zpso6dq3wny.jpg)

(http://i833.photobucket.com/albums/zz256/SAKGuy/Phillips%20file_zpsghynudcw.jpg)

(http://i833.photobucket.com/albums/zz256/SAKGuy/LNF_zps7annlli9.jpg)

(http://i833.photobucket.com/albums/zz256/SAKGuy/obv%20tang_zps0mj11kfk.jpg)

(http://i833.photobucket.com/albums/zz256/SAKGuy/rev%20tang_zpstz71we82.jpg)

(http://i833.photobucket.com/albums/zz256/SAKGuy/bail_zpsaqwhrf43.jpg)
What a beauty!
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Barry Rowland on May 23, 2016, 02:58:39 PM
Robert, that's gorgeous!! :drool:

60's Victoria Champion with all the desirable features of the classic
(http://i833.photobucket.com/albums/zz256/SAKGuy/60s%20Campion_zpsvq14akba.jpg)

(http://i833.photobucket.com/albums/zz256/SAKGuy/60s%20Champion%20obv_zpso6dq3wny.jpg)

(http://i833.photobucket.com/albums/zz256/SAKGuy/Phillips%20file_zpsghynudcw.jpg)

(http://i833.photobucket.com/albums/zz256/SAKGuy/LNF_zps7annlli9.jpg)

(http://i833.photobucket.com/albums/zz256/SAKGuy/obv%20tang_zps0mj11kfk.jpg)

(http://i833.photobucket.com/albums/zz256/SAKGuy/rev%20tang_zpstz71we82.jpg)

(http://i833.photobucket.com/albums/zz256/SAKGuy/bail_zpsaqwhrf43.jpg)
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: SAK Guy on May 23, 2016, 03:14:02 PM
60's Victoria Champion with all the desirable features of the classic Vics.    :dd:

What a beauty!


Robert, that's gorgeous!! :drool:


60's Victoria Champion with all the desirable features of the classic
 

Thanks guys!!!!! :cheers:
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: SteveC on May 23, 2016, 03:15:08 PM
That is a beauty Robert   :cheers:
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: SAK Guy on May 23, 2016, 03:20:18 PM
That is a beauty Robert   :cheers:

Thank you Steve!!!  :salute:
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: windson on May 23, 2016, 06:16:17 PM
60's Victoria Champion with all the desirable features of the classic Vics.    :dd:

What a beauty!


Robert, that's gorgeous!! :drool:


60's Victoria Champion with all the desirable features of the classic
 

Thanks guys!!!!! :cheers:
A three-file SAK is now my official grail.
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: SAK Guy on May 23, 2016, 07:34:59 PM
60's Victoria Champion with all the desirable features of the classic Vics.    :dd:

What a beauty!


Robert, that's gorgeous!! :drool:


60's Victoria Champion with all the desirable features of the classic
 

Thanks guys!!!!! :cheers:
A three-file SAK is now my official grail.

 :rofl:  :cheers:
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Humppa on May 23, 2016, 07:55:39 PM
That´s an impressive Champion, Robert!

Congratz on that great great purchase.
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: SAK Guy on May 24, 2016, 12:50:38 AM
That´s an impressive Champion, Robert!

Congratz on that great great purchase.

 :salute: Thank you Andi!!!!
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Gath on June 04, 2016, 10:37:57 PM
One thing about the fist stickler is that it's one of the only slim and long SAK tools that aren't also pointy or sharp, and surprisingly often you just need to poke or prod at something without the change damaging it, and in hard to reach spaces. combined with the fact that it takes a minimal space beside the wood saw I actually quite like it.
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Barry Rowland on June 05, 2016, 02:55:48 AM
I keep missing out on them on Ebay....these knives are awesome!  One of these days.....
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Flint Hills on June 05, 2016, 03:28:50 AM
I love mine. Bought it from a local guy who has a little shop that buys/sells knives, coins and other assorted junk. He had it in a box, it was totally filthy. I gave him $8 for it and cleaned it up. I sent it in to Vic USA and paid them to replace a couple of the tools. It's great now, one of my favorites.
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Barry Rowland on June 05, 2016, 05:30:57 AM
You can't beat that!  I pack my son's Swiss Champ, and like the pliers, but I think he's getting tired of Pop taking off with his main EDC!  I'm gonna keep the hunt alive...I've got space in my new storage box for a few :D
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Poncho65 on July 21, 2016, 05:22:09 AM
This thread has had me looking for a Champion since I first read it and I finally have one :cheers: It is a newer one but I am pretty sure it is still a Champion :dd:

(http://i41.photobucket.com/albums/e276/poncho6556/Camera/1469066677584.jpg) (http://s41.photobucket.com/user/poncho6556/media/Camera/1469066677584.jpg.html)

(http://i41.photobucket.com/albums/e276/poncho6556/Camera/1469066668819.jpg) (http://s41.photobucket.com/user/poncho6556/media/Camera/1469066668819.jpg.html)

Gonna EDC this one and keep looking for the more vintage ones :cheers:

A Master Craftsman is also on the list :facepalm:
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: windson on July 21, 2016, 07:00:06 AM
This thread has had me looking for a Champion since I first read it and I finally have one :cheers: It is a newer one but I am pretty sure it is still a Champion :dd:

(http://i41.photobucket.com/albums/e276/poncho6556/Camera/1469066677584.jpg) (http://s41.photobucket.com/user/poncho6556/media/Camera/1469066677584.jpg.html)

(http://i41.photobucket.com/albums/e276/poncho6556/Camera/1469066668819.jpg) (http://s41.photobucket.com/user/poncho6556/media/Camera/1469066668819.jpg.html)

Gonna EDC this one and keep looking for the more vintage ones :cheers:

A Master Craftsman is also on the list :facepalm:
Congrats! You won't be disappointed.
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: SAK Guy on July 21, 2016, 08:06:48 AM
This thread has had me looking for a Champion since I first read it and I finally have one :cheers: It is a newer one but I am pretty sure it is still a Champion :dd:

(http://i41.photobucket.com/albums/e276/poncho6556/Camera/1469066677584.jpg) (http://s41.photobucket.com/user/poncho6556/media/Camera/1469066677584.jpg.html)

(http://i41.photobucket.com/albums/e276/poncho6556/Camera/1469066668819.jpg) (http://s41.photobucket.com/user/poncho6556/media/Camera/1469066668819.jpg.html)

Gonna EDC this one and keep looking for the more vintage ones :cheers:

A Master Craftsman is also on the list :facepalm:
Congrats! You won't be disappointed.

+1!!!!
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: ThePeacent on July 21, 2016, 09:41:16 AM
Good for you, Poncho!
This week I carried my old champion again,

(http://i1314.photobucket.com/albums/t562/ThePeacent/CAM02726_zpsc4i0tg6x.jpg)

today's carry is this

(http://i1314.photobucket.com/albums/t562/ThePeacent/CAM02705_zpsiak59uwy.jpg)

Hard to beat the combo of Squirt + Champion, specially when they both fit inside my LM sheath, in the big compartment, while the Swisschamp doesn't leave enough space for other mini tools

So when I carry the swisschamp the LMs go in the pocket with the one piece tools:

(http://i1314.photobucket.com/albums/t562/ThePeacent/CAM02326_zpshye3le4e.jpg)

(http://i1314.photobucket.com/albums/t562/ThePeacent/Mobile%20Uploads/CAM02321_zpskslbfhdy.jpg)

when I carry champ the LMs go in the sheath with it, which I much prefer, and the reason this tool is a real CHAMP to me!

(http://i1314.photobucket.com/albums/t562/ThePeacent/CAM02709_zpsioyhrsmo.jpg)

So yeah, there's lots of love left for the champion
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Barry Rowland on July 21, 2016, 01:06:34 PM
Way to go Poncho and nice lineup Peacent!!
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Poncho65 on July 21, 2016, 01:53:35 PM
Thanks guys  :cheers: I have the Champion with me today :tu: I love my Swisschamp but I never seemed to need it's small pliers when I carry a larger set with me always :think: That is why I think I will get along so good with the SAK :D

Peacent that is a good carry today as well :cheers:
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: SAK Guy on July 21, 2016, 03:28:34 PM
Way to go Poncho and nice lineup Peacent!!

+1!!!!
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Poncho65 on August 03, 2016, 05:32:45 PM
(http://i41.photobucket.com/albums/e276/poncho6556/Camera/1470236192717.jpg) (http://s41.photobucket.com/user/poncho6556/media/Camera/1470236192717.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: SAK Guy on August 03, 2016, 05:37:46 PM
Awesome!!! :cheers:
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Poncho65 on August 03, 2016, 06:04:44 PM
Awesome!!! :cheers:

It is such a nice SAK :dd: :D
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: JamesJ on August 04, 2016, 05:05:57 AM
Admittedly I don't actively search for these.

But the Champion is a usable size for my hands. Those pliers really push the width of the SwissChamp to that cusp of being a desk/display knife.

But the pliers to me are more useful in most cases than the scaler, and the WS and MS I usually don't need.
(unless of course, I'm not carrying those tools, which is exactly when I find myself trapped in a cage made out of thin branches covered in fish scales)

So I prefer maybe a Craftsman or Deluxe Tinker if a SwissChamp is feeling too big. If I wanna feel prepared, I just go for the SwissChamp (don't own Cybertool 41/L yet)

But of course, a pliers MT makes the SwissChamp pliers redundant. I could see myself wanting to get a Champion to pair it with pliers, that does look like a capable pair.

As for the old vintage one, whole different story there. They should have re-issued THAT one!


Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Poncho65 on August 09, 2016, 08:31:06 PM
(http://i41.photobucket.com/albums/e276/poncho6556/Camera/1470766596537.jpg) (http://s41.photobucket.com/user/poncho6556/media/Camera/1470766596537.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Barry Rowland on August 10, 2016, 12:53:22 AM
Great pic Poncho!!!
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: SAK Guy on August 10, 2016, 01:21:41 AM
Great pic Poncho!!!

+1!!!!  :cheers:
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: FiL Wisneski on September 15, 2016, 05:25:53 PM
I know this thread started out several years ago, but I just wanted to point out that currently on Amazon you can get a new Champion Plus for about $40, while a red-scaled SwissChamp is about $75 ($60 if you are willing to go with the ruby red translucent scales).  So depending on your tastes you are paying anywhere from $20-35 more to get those little pliers.  For some of us, price is a factor.

And don't even get me started on the CT41, which would be my preferred SAK, but not for three times the prices of a Champion Plus. 

(Really, a CT41 paired with a Vagabond would cover a lot of ground for me, but I'll have to settle for the less efficient MiniChamp/Champion Plus combo. I do love that little cut-and-picker tool, otherwise I would drop the MiniChamp for a Manager.)

  - FiL

SAKs: Classic | MiniChamp (II) | Executive | Champion Plus
MTs: (New) Wave
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Poncho65 on November 07, 2016, 09:37:10 PM
A little late but welcome to :MTO: FiL :facepalm: That is a great deal for a new Champion and had I seen this I might have gotten one back in September :cheers:
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Poncho65 on November 07, 2016, 09:38:01 PM
(https://c4.staticflickr.com/6/5750/30158785443_f60aeee57d_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/MX2Ecn)20161105_103959 (https://flic.kr/p/MX2Ecn) by Poncho 65 (https://www.flickr.com/photos/148903443@N02/), on Flickr
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: sergemaster on November 07, 2016, 10:58:37 PM
Amici,
Here's my Champion plus 5 since I initially started this thread and she's STILL going strong!! I gotta thank FelineVet for this find, since that's where I scored her all those years ago.. Grazie mi amici!!

Cheers,
Serge
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Barry Rowland on November 08, 2016, 12:18:10 AM
 :like: :tu: :tu:
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Poncho65 on November 08, 2016, 01:56:56 AM
:like: :tu: :tu:

+1 it still looks great Serge :like: :like: :like:
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: jalind on November 08, 2016, 07:00:08 AM
Maybe not quite as much as for my Woodsman, but it's one of my favorites along with the Explorer Plus. Changed out its traditional red Cellidor for the translucent Sapphire scales

(http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l290/j_a_lind/Other/Knives/SAK/Discontinued%20Challenge/Victorinox%20Champion%20Plus%20Sapphire.jpg)

John
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: LeaF on November 08, 2016, 10:25:39 AM
I have a several variations of Champion / SwissChamp, by this one is a my favourite.

Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Poncho65 on November 08, 2016, 07:46:54 PM
Very nice jailind and leaf :drool: Love the scales and love the vintage :like: :like: :like:
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: boatman422 on December 18, 2016, 06:51:02 AM
hi! New to the forum but I have been lurking awhile.

I came across an interesting variant of the champion I wanted to share..

I replaced the original red scales with black plus scales so it has the functionality of the newer champion plus, but retains the older tools of the champion. It'll be an EDC.

This one also has the hook and chisel, heard this is uncommon.

Anyway, pics!  :)
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Mechanickal on December 18, 2016, 10:27:53 AM
hi! New to the forum but I have been lurking awhile.

I came across an interesting variant of the champion I wanted to share..

I replaced the original red scales with black plus scales so it has the functionality of the newer champion plus, but retains the older tools of the champion. It'll be an EDC.

This one also has the hook and chisel, heard this is uncommon.

Anyway, pics!  :)
Allways love the sight of a Champion/Swisschamp and it's variants!

Can't wait to get mine next weekend! :ahhh
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: ThePeacent on December 18, 2016, 11:13:08 AM
hi! New to the forum but I have been lurking awhile.

I came across an interesting variant of the champion I wanted to share..

I replaced the original red scales with black plus scales so it has the functionality of the newer champion plus, but retains the older tools of the champion. It'll be an EDC.

This one also has the hook and chisel, heard this is uncommon.

Anyway, pics!  :)

Very nice! I  :like: that one! And welcome to the forums,

we're mostly lurkers that finally stepped up to the member status, glad you did the same!
I got a Handyman last week:

(http://i1314.photobucket.com/albums/t562/ThePeacent/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-12/IMG-20161213-WA0005_zps2kblvro4.jpg)
but I am sure that I'll still carry the Champion more often because those pliers do add thickness and bulk, and that minute difference is enough for me to prefer the Cham.
If only mine had black scales... ::)
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Oxford_Guy on December 18, 2016, 12:06:54 PM
hi! New to the forum but I have been lurking awhile.

I came across an interesting variant of the champion I wanted to share..

I replaced the original red scales with black plus scales so it has the functionality of the newer champion plus, but retains the older tools of the champion. It'll be an EDC.

This one also has the hook and chisel, heard this is uncommon.

Anyway, pics!  :)

Very nice! I  :like: that one! And welcome to the forums,

we're mostly lurkers that finally stepped up to the member status, glad you did the same!
I got a Handyman last week:

(http://i1314.photobucket.com/albums/t562/ThePeacent/Mobile%20Uploads/2016-12/IMG-20161213-WA0005_zps2kblvro4.jpg)
but I am sure that I'll still carry the Champion more often because those pliers do add thickness and bulk, and that minute difference is enough for me to prefer the Cham.
If only mine had black scales... ::)


Well you could get some black scales for yours? I actually prefer the classic red scales, though, they also show finger marks and scratches less
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: charlie fox on December 18, 2016, 12:35:36 PM
I owned and carried a Champion for a good ten years. Moved up to Champ, then onto a Craftsman and haven't looked back.
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: FolderBeholder on December 18, 2016, 01:08:02 PM
This looks like an older Champion in pretty great condition:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Swiss-Army-Knife-Lg-91mm-24-Features-Orig-Box-Papers-Maroon-Case-VICTORINOX-/182392568321?hash=item2a7771ba01:g:gf8AAOSwnFZXW9Yp
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Flint Hills on December 18, 2016, 01:58:34 PM
This looks like an older Champion in pretty great condition:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Swiss-Army-Knife-Lg-91mm-24-Features-Orig-Box-Papers-Maroon-Case-VICTORINOX-/182392568321?hash=item2a7771ba01:g:gf8AAOSwnFZXW9Yp

That one is just like mine. Great condition is right! I really like the Champion, great SAK!
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Gareth on December 18, 2016, 07:31:39 PM
hi! New to the forum but I have been lurking awhile.

I came across an interesting variant of the champion I wanted to share..

I replaced the original red scales with black plus scales so it has the functionality of the newer champion plus, but retains the older tools of the champion. It'll be an EDC.

This one also has the hook and chisel, heard this is uncommon.

Anyway, pics!  :)

Very nice Champion there.  A fresh set of scales always brings new life to an older SAK.  Welcome to the forum. :hatsoff:
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: ally on December 21, 2016, 06:33:13 PM
I have received a Champion (think it's a 'C') off ebay today in pretty grotty shape, scales marked MBB (from Germany) and it came with a 4.0521.3 pouch

screw scissors, 4 fluted corkscrew and no 90 deg lock on the caplifter and no sewing eye on the awl, magnifier is glass, I put it circa 1983?

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/1Hv6wHIkMH3IpmAZjXn1pohj0zMGYFMzqKk-dlHEVV4hyeiPHgz7nmm-onviaYmAexZuO-oUY4fRKGVu-cgfp9hYl6aMa8YjWZOU_p-09cxv5_xzC78ZI9H4PKZW0vMYJFle6hOZ2Sf_AAYXuyjoU6AmGBGNgWORhMwoT9dDA7p8juspLC6n6znuFzkWddnfQZYVWmY5F3JtDtGY8O4Pc12oiEfjjM24ctVgSqNgfh2oK4n2xy5gsdJHl31xQe-iZKl-dfiRpYh20gUVh6VJe9scqKBR8QsJlIiJNxB9Uz4t_imBgaHMmylJefYjsrzUFeyxPZaHXpYHDtV1mx0q8iQcQ4PS2gdOKx9iXyRnlelZPbVd-cqMcPYhYrNRkBylMCpZLM54DUNwAzYL9-CginC_CtyQ68R1ETMoWTcY6WwR9zJZglri-jiiiR62MHPaODNlfqBvk5rHbE4qG29Ck6cKI02h3J--Z-Krf1_K7n98AU2XVxkRyReIgIdS1G4xf1dOxKKe0Vo4l856sFUYwzxEV-h0uePJFlyIGThUiSwls05cNuq2DTNYuC7bvgtXXULxa0xEM9zs6s8c9CHep6t5gLOckMKOxQZ6Eq5C8LKSusvPoHhlwOr17fkXXJWLg1mvl2BG0-rYybK_9ClARlcSSnD0tSxi_gbzmGlrQg=w384-h682-no)

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/1QHDXMOvujkIvGkvkPHGI9KyK_pFTX9n996TyIsYWC2jW4PQOrDV062l0yacv8rf2P79Up6H2ybr8wArNLCLjmllihzZySsFcGfp0o1P0oR6LDggDghImr3-A0dExWhAkKwWSaKSCFmDK1zvQoDsgvqHDlXOxiHLRmMa6uX6D7tXcyZgSm6CzBJ7vIeBr10kRNcRB5yrM8k1N9B4nc6Gsfbxn92Xvqq02vcGPu1CwCOmFKlmRMedTUGpcpxgMJrDJymrLDKpKpOZWTZldM-BtOdQU6MmWuWe3sFAQeUCsyRTNPnVPNKsHJOcl-NA8kFD6YpYIiQnJCZeLTp3gj1F3_OLUV60h65MCquVg8sFFMOiIxI0qlbrYhsXoveC96ACj5zHpF3XtKB9CHEYI0WPJuSvMlXlVmE4tpvBhyJTMxGOkznZnW9MzMOtmLu9aLxrGE4UX1frKla01w3ZeMvPqCQLmI8cYxr--_ghKJVY9s2mkG_B-gKPwm8WLF5eTl29YMACye6LE-yZkhHuPTr3ODa6NPoBJRPBnq0RRWeLowCp9wMGG_FrkZAZHNCpfPDNJaSpeC_x2bKkXCghMmrLXLFk8VglOoJzPdPSXxDcPDokS-ZMCuhPfHV1KGk2Kr0I54y1nO3IF83K5Qhry_TE54kVFLdVh20N1u06MAVmDQ=w384-h682-no)

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/gh-dOVe1WClt_CuV0tRIPsHBr8zjlELGvuYjppgYpU6nt0QO1ulVnTgmzXRMM6ZQhpTG9n0km3YeyKkRhJWMCJBGiJK5u6YDOirvp_UVstHbv3ngMMcFPQZXkBN72gTls7CApJp37_aFK74VIv6HwMOiJyTGDzNtSFBqQAABamqrKF1Ddq472usWN59bnHYnaMJT0hy05f9ErNgTY7v3lJSOyWowtY0DGJ8yH0Yq3O8Rl5r8QuZe8tZaVgcPpw-xp4T9OqEyWe2VqQFdk2mJE5-tfHnPx3-A9SNwJ0_4hJ-RXENrnaEwQuCwB0q386cFFm7m7LDyYb2Pg60ldB8gPCJ2vueaCTif7af9FcT80qj67wUZ3Bp9lJRFz-hxXZKEj6yMksKr7agpqp-vbxSyrXzTvAPFeko3CSnlLQ_8fZsO7C0WNkHjQvZgKTCSWDqLPHSpG0Dqa9vR5nf7dVdhnMrKDNyO_6BrizJMz2quJnCNpcqKEdLga-HJIVZk1h_xo8jvbR35VQfkoQAfHc1t4QB12bs9ReO2ei2xC2c88LBJHLljAUME7TV50Yz1zS1WYb1XQdaPb8EDPVAdNEl6X5F-VfY-UEaXDd3nzJ7njngqqJ3T-Y-Ucqyx3KgAa0JjuCXDu2jg7vUCO-JZygeZj6Wcp3bHZhE5QfO0Uizmrw=w384-h682-no)

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/3qaAA-9p1M7hb2maorFU3f3pimS76U2YOaDUKvlKYVdkqxKBMp4J5saxpCh5EKqbNSA5tTZaCMlZfe0Wbhsf9FCRNeZCuuHF7bU1__aHIPIOnuyniTW_pC84W_zdEvOT6Cb_1RnwOVOcvHRr6BgIvnxE9WoYfReFsqUPoxOOAf3tTrsXOWf12XaBZHKhC0YhrPbs4d3gYbeRBCjtpJsrl4fC0A7b4snLnDILPEInflyj7kHZhhD9RaUXyB-SCdF1x0FFoqpRbtwkvPnykNyenKxhsAeCiNJ6v-Lp3jSO-5JIdP6w5PcQNce1zdv6Aey0T4V3jmI0LkBZd-vNpBP_NUeGr9abzX4wDs_e1xsOhsJNZMfNML9xIsdMqgeS6SOckFhuZ3FyuObykmPPASHVO3rKQpYQTmslYml9oYQdB_ZqnlGsPvouByDbGpG-v1TrX3QbqnGHP3rjLhgjyzglFJTikt4OvxxL_FjyAts5BbGDo05X2e9KFTvCBNmm_ocx5RVJnUtWaAAqTTCBSS2Dij7HbiOG-tsAejvisaHHksQbZpFH1WV7HlSM1OO7_Gro-06AfKkWxpBl_tlgDQbaclZ9DxKka3MIp3i3Fj5gWe3wDGBIhslVxN0Z9PAYfGK86XVsrHwwjwUL2tF235kwRQPL-RjBHhP802p8DrVecA=w384-h682-no)

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/UcKuQuif3VivQbt-mavc5wF2F__jiCDYy0gczFTij9jQoG5t9tBKannplz_abyD5ws0wvxab1tz_n6p0VSuMsFqu-HHCls1R3sQxS9UN9UJZ5tpeZMLs4SviJbAzhcLQRTZ_nPU0JXrabRp9YztnrjCtbz0Bv5jjyx66LLtiFjhOWQZiIEnoVHrYtG0jaRjKWMBlRyOj8yhLvlqHOTWcu4sxIEOBWR6XwClF4eXopY4tMSWgk7SpYQLcF71Fzv3z5fN_tzw8i0T6uvyO_VV0vffmCPSQmgY--AllA7gWzSRfin3jekJ6Bsp4GapmkLRNOxlqoyba9Fj1VdJ194yRUlp7OMq2fvWjMws2E7bugH2jaVFgpHsP87mWqcCL6_DTziVzkloAEPqpf5Iw10TKZeWT8ERhyjehvJTPVKEhkZpNIU7o6GSpswA3ttqthsebKcJyoGcMA4BPPLukWN390n2UMy_UWepR4SOEWZ9QuTXMyn3npTFrsYn7EyKct3hB1XhCN911kGTFD1zXXnpbOJg-IaL76kHf_JayU75puDYq4DO_dHpAxX1mepdgcc-vG7ZM6QxxJWB2H1P-iP2YJk3D-tIos9i-BnzcoQEXBW0akbLsxsHm6xt5QJsISQAHFidAWSqos-PCMF3I2Gu3x4JfzjqLbQ-t4WAqgqw_jA=w384-h682-no)

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/VwTt94yiNrc3C38gkLwJ9sKddi7rN__8ONqqNgQm_sfColCFjuI5321uCGUSW4XiawVez3peLTYWdbrhkpMEiFQF-Gy3SQMq-7HWtmAOZLFIkIHuDdozuMSjgGZbM-ZRrz_VJteG3WCTXh9cogqVmNR1c1U5Ocz841swWZ8VrM5qPRe55Xg2iETq4HoWVlg3HWzbCMLh4hDanQL2r7OK7Up1q405AoaijdGnETKLaIS5-JtsUMisZCXin0aBAtXfX4C3cwHg7dGLhR_ajDfV_vh6v5XA0uisUukg-Ci8yzvV464MvWAth7Jfow2xBY4c6VciyHJJDUEbt2kNGY-FggCBzGsF8aPj7nFcIJfOycQ88aPK424F_a1Bn3hlXPSVoLxTL7FSxm_2sQvTpBsSBZ9i7ZahQKoY53kQ3ciRCzRgjJI8YKsn8x1d51T9-OY-to9MgDEhNC-5fKNfPKB9VfsX4-RfsegWITl3nsSI6_CrIqvDZFvA3JiHkgVhiz5p4tDA_Vvwi8DdYZ_FCOT12CCSKuJ7kTTwZAZl4tTelWdi-LME283Wr9EQvkusBZdn_n2jHA2a0tiHA4FUma62p0JtpXhhAHdRBnBOGDa7lJs8gVm4pnhnqwL9PTiP7x1Uj1_iwjRYw1dGyr49Mt9VBgKgnhF_L8g8nV7AJAl2Bw=w384-h682-no)

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Cf5ThL6RratfGEVinhcmJrv95JOM_pWNsLVq7JATVHpXX-tFxWB6MdwJDlxCj3-RE284xxDRX8JH-Eu47Ikqm8Bp3aoodD6Ew7x1YpEG9zzOvQq6zBtO3TwT9gT5q1St_B58JbhbcRwBFmPTeIDfOza3JgpQe8x1pntu3mRn54ugvvbZnj74u3yYvVsLdNcuXIJzmlIRUQ3SpmRpRl5zoQ7zSCZFECIM6EnlhRosWPjyg9Nb3LvrIQp1nfr4u1WfqO3vLACo5N4wMhdJFPAGzqNB768QQ6z9DV-rEtMXkpOGjtD19mNqM0aqjshJYdKMYnjna0Nyp_vvn4YJsaAaJl5H2yIPkCymD_gb9aV6BxUHjLzMlPItYDpS3es7kA4gZDp1DfCtfLdyllnUxsBjCDboSu2lk9U8W06ohFF0342pFL8mR9cqPl1i9_OlKuurriJekltdtE-LmIdJiPXPvbsPmbuScYbkxQ8goGZf5Y5ixcuZnqJq6Q79HKe4Y9t_c_87sEhYnVpNR03fwVpQB_TiAcYc0LXYUcbauWs8cE1IpIBMGBvta4ZihmvUe9kHlZWg9g4qN2lG4C8pdGFVzLdGu8nUQa2pd6_BlVc0lEo_grEwY_1Ass7PNbnqgSupgs3FRCisnRLg-f2hmQqfJMuqkMmjqF-ZCljJIFfsiQ=w384-h682-no)

I thought it would be too big but sits in the hand nice, the weight would be an issue for pocket use, will try the belt pouch but reckon it will get in the way some

I also got a 58mm companion also with MBB maked scales, sadly I jammed it into my palm and bent the nail file blade, also a wenger (possible) alpine backpacker

:)



Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Gareth on December 21, 2016, 06:56:24 PM
I have received a Champion (think it's a 'C') off ebay today in pretty grotty shape, scales marked MBB (from Germany) and it came with a 4.0521.3 pouch

screw scissors, 4 fluted corkscrew and no 90 deg lock on the caplifter and no sewing eye on the awl, magnifier is glass, I put it circa 1983?

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/1Hv6wHIkMH3IpmAZjXn1pohj0zMGYFMzqKk-dlHEVV4hyeiPHgz7nmm-onviaYmAexZuO-oUY4fRKGVu-cgfp9hYl6aMa8YjWZOU_p-09cxv5_xzC78ZI9H4PKZW0vMYJFle6hOZ2Sf_AAYXuyjoU6AmGBGNgWORhMwoT9dDA7p8juspLC6n6znuFzkWddnfQZYVWmY5F3JtDtGY8O4Pc12oiEfjjM24ctVgSqNgfh2oK4n2xy5gsdJHl31xQe-iZKl-dfiRpYh20gUVh6VJe9scqKBR8QsJlIiJNxB9Uz4t_imBgaHMmylJefYjsrzUFeyxPZaHXpYHDtV1mx0q8iQcQ4PS2gdOKx9iXyRnlelZPbVd-cqMcPYhYrNRkBylMCpZLM54DUNwAzYL9-CginC_CtyQ68R1ETMoWTcY6WwR9zJZglri-jiiiR62MHPaODNlfqBvk5rHbE4qG29Ck6cKI02h3J--Z-Krf1_K7n98AU2XVxkRyReIgIdS1G4xf1dOxKKe0Vo4l856sFUYwzxEV-h0uePJFlyIGThUiSwls05cNuq2DTNYuC7bvgtXXULxa0xEM9zs6s8c9CHep6t5gLOckMKOxQZ6Eq5C8LKSusvPoHhlwOr17fkXXJWLg1mvl2BG0-rYybK_9ClARlcSSnD0tSxi_gbzmGlrQg=w384-h682-no)

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/1QHDXMOvujkIvGkvkPHGI9KyK_pFTX9n996TyIsYWC2jW4PQOrDV062l0yacv8rf2P79Up6H2ybr8wArNLCLjmllihzZySsFcGfp0o1P0oR6LDggDghImr3-A0dExWhAkKwWSaKSCFmDK1zvQoDsgvqHDlXOxiHLRmMa6uX6D7tXcyZgSm6CzBJ7vIeBr10kRNcRB5yrM8k1N9B4nc6Gsfbxn92Xvqq02vcGPu1CwCOmFKlmRMedTUGpcpxgMJrDJymrLDKpKpOZWTZldM-BtOdQU6MmWuWe3sFAQeUCsyRTNPnVPNKsHJOcl-NA8kFD6YpYIiQnJCZeLTp3gj1F3_OLUV60h65MCquVg8sFFMOiIxI0qlbrYhsXoveC96ACj5zHpF3XtKB9CHEYI0WPJuSvMlXlVmE4tpvBhyJTMxGOkznZnW9MzMOtmLu9aLxrGE4UX1frKla01w3ZeMvPqCQLmI8cYxr--_ghKJVY9s2mkG_B-gKPwm8WLF5eTl29YMACye6LE-yZkhHuPTr3ODa6NPoBJRPBnq0RRWeLowCp9wMGG_FrkZAZHNCpfPDNJaSpeC_x2bKkXCghMmrLXLFk8VglOoJzPdPSXxDcPDokS-ZMCuhPfHV1KGk2Kr0I54y1nO3IF83K5Qhry_TE54kVFLdVh20N1u06MAVmDQ=w384-h682-no)

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/gh-dOVe1WClt_CuV0tRIPsHBr8zjlELGvuYjppgYpU6nt0QO1ulVnTgmzXRMM6ZQhpTG9n0km3YeyKkRhJWMCJBGiJK5u6YDOirvp_UVstHbv3ngMMcFPQZXkBN72gTls7CApJp37_aFK74VIv6HwMOiJyTGDzNtSFBqQAABamqrKF1Ddq472usWN59bnHYnaMJT0hy05f9ErNgTY7v3lJSOyWowtY0DGJ8yH0Yq3O8Rl5r8QuZe8tZaVgcPpw-xp4T9OqEyWe2VqQFdk2mJE5-tfHnPx3-A9SNwJ0_4hJ-RXENrnaEwQuCwB0q386cFFm7m7LDyYb2Pg60ldB8gPCJ2vueaCTif7af9FcT80qj67wUZ3Bp9lJRFz-hxXZKEj6yMksKr7agpqp-vbxSyrXzTvAPFeko3CSnlLQ_8fZsO7C0WNkHjQvZgKTCSWDqLPHSpG0Dqa9vR5nf7dVdhnMrKDNyO_6BrizJMz2quJnCNpcqKEdLga-HJIVZk1h_xo8jvbR35VQfkoQAfHc1t4QB12bs9ReO2ei2xC2c88LBJHLljAUME7TV50Yz1zS1WYb1XQdaPb8EDPVAdNEl6X5F-VfY-UEaXDd3nzJ7njngqqJ3T-Y-Ucqyx3KgAa0JjuCXDu2jg7vUCO-JZygeZj6Wcp3bHZhE5QfO0Uizmrw=w384-h682-no)

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/3qaAA-9p1M7hb2maorFU3f3pimS76U2YOaDUKvlKYVdkqxKBMp4J5saxpCh5EKqbNSA5tTZaCMlZfe0Wbhsf9FCRNeZCuuHF7bU1__aHIPIOnuyniTW_pC84W_zdEvOT6Cb_1RnwOVOcvHRr6BgIvnxE9WoYfReFsqUPoxOOAf3tTrsXOWf12XaBZHKhC0YhrPbs4d3gYbeRBCjtpJsrl4fC0A7b4snLnDILPEInflyj7kHZhhD9RaUXyB-SCdF1x0FFoqpRbtwkvPnykNyenKxhsAeCiNJ6v-Lp3jSO-5JIdP6w5PcQNce1zdv6Aey0T4V3jmI0LkBZd-vNpBP_NUeGr9abzX4wDs_e1xsOhsJNZMfNML9xIsdMqgeS6SOckFhuZ3FyuObykmPPASHVO3rKQpYQTmslYml9oYQdB_ZqnlGsPvouByDbGpG-v1TrX3QbqnGHP3rjLhgjyzglFJTikt4OvxxL_FjyAts5BbGDo05X2e9KFTvCBNmm_ocx5RVJnUtWaAAqTTCBSS2Dij7HbiOG-tsAejvisaHHksQbZpFH1WV7HlSM1OO7_Gro-06AfKkWxpBl_tlgDQbaclZ9DxKka3MIp3i3Fj5gWe3wDGBIhslVxN0Z9PAYfGK86XVsrHwwjwUL2tF235kwRQPL-RjBHhP802p8DrVecA=w384-h682-no)

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/UcKuQuif3VivQbt-mavc5wF2F__jiCDYy0gczFTij9jQoG5t9tBKannplz_abyD5ws0wvxab1tz_n6p0VSuMsFqu-HHCls1R3sQxS9UN9UJZ5tpeZMLs4SviJbAzhcLQRTZ_nPU0JXrabRp9YztnrjCtbz0Bv5jjyx66LLtiFjhOWQZiIEnoVHrYtG0jaRjKWMBlRyOj8yhLvlqHOTWcu4sxIEOBWR6XwClF4eXopY4tMSWgk7SpYQLcF71Fzv3z5fN_tzw8i0T6uvyO_VV0vffmCPSQmgY--AllA7gWzSRfin3jekJ6Bsp4GapmkLRNOxlqoyba9Fj1VdJ194yRUlp7OMq2fvWjMws2E7bugH2jaVFgpHsP87mWqcCL6_DTziVzkloAEPqpf5Iw10TKZeWT8ERhyjehvJTPVKEhkZpNIU7o6GSpswA3ttqthsebKcJyoGcMA4BPPLukWN390n2UMy_UWepR4SOEWZ9QuTXMyn3npTFrsYn7EyKct3hB1XhCN911kGTFD1zXXnpbOJg-IaL76kHf_JayU75puDYq4DO_dHpAxX1mepdgcc-vG7ZM6QxxJWB2H1P-iP2YJk3D-tIos9i-BnzcoQEXBW0akbLsxsHm6xt5QJsISQAHFidAWSqos-PCMF3I2Gu3x4JfzjqLbQ-t4WAqgqw_jA=w384-h682-no)

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/VwTt94yiNrc3C38gkLwJ9sKddi7rN__8ONqqNgQm_sfColCFjuI5321uCGUSW4XiawVez3peLTYWdbrhkpMEiFQF-Gy3SQMq-7HWtmAOZLFIkIHuDdozuMSjgGZbM-ZRrz_VJteG3WCTXh9cogqVmNR1c1U5Ocz841swWZ8VrM5qPRe55Xg2iETq4HoWVlg3HWzbCMLh4hDanQL2r7OK7Up1q405AoaijdGnETKLaIS5-JtsUMisZCXin0aBAtXfX4C3cwHg7dGLhR_ajDfV_vh6v5XA0uisUukg-Ci8yzvV464MvWAth7Jfow2xBY4c6VciyHJJDUEbt2kNGY-FggCBzGsF8aPj7nFcIJfOycQ88aPK424F_a1Bn3hlXPSVoLxTL7FSxm_2sQvTpBsSBZ9i7ZahQKoY53kQ3ciRCzRgjJI8YKsn8x1d51T9-OY-to9MgDEhNC-5fKNfPKB9VfsX4-RfsegWITl3nsSI6_CrIqvDZFvA3JiHkgVhiz5p4tDA_Vvwi8DdYZ_FCOT12CCSKuJ7kTTwZAZl4tTelWdi-LME283Wr9EQvkusBZdn_n2jHA2a0tiHA4FUma62p0JtpXhhAHdRBnBOGDa7lJs8gVm4pnhnqwL9PTiP7x1Uj1_iwjRYw1dGyr49Mt9VBgKgnhF_L8g8nV7AJAl2Bw=w384-h682-no)

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Cf5ThL6RratfGEVinhcmJrv95JOM_pWNsLVq7JATVHpXX-tFxWB6MdwJDlxCj3-RE284xxDRX8JH-Eu47Ikqm8Bp3aoodD6Ew7x1YpEG9zzOvQq6zBtO3TwT9gT5q1St_B58JbhbcRwBFmPTeIDfOza3JgpQe8x1pntu3mRn54ugvvbZnj74u3yYvVsLdNcuXIJzmlIRUQ3SpmRpRl5zoQ7zSCZFECIM6EnlhRosWPjyg9Nb3LvrIQp1nfr4u1WfqO3vLACo5N4wMhdJFPAGzqNB768QQ6z9DV-rEtMXkpOGjtD19mNqM0aqjshJYdKMYnjna0Nyp_vvn4YJsaAaJl5H2yIPkCymD_gb9aV6BxUHjLzMlPItYDpS3es7kA4gZDp1DfCtfLdyllnUxsBjCDboSu2lk9U8W06ohFF0342pFL8mR9cqPl1i9_OlKuurriJekltdtE-LmIdJiPXPvbsPmbuScYbkxQ8goGZf5Y5ixcuZnqJq6Q79HKe4Y9t_c_87sEhYnVpNR03fwVpQB_TiAcYc0LXYUcbauWs8cE1IpIBMGBvta4ZihmvUe9kHlZWg9g4qN2lG4C8pdGFVzLdGu8nUQa2pd6_BlVc0lEo_grEwY_1Ass7PNbnqgSupgs3FRCisnRLg-f2hmQqfJMuqkMmjqF-ZCljJIFfsiQ=w384-h682-no)

I thought it would be too big but sits in the hand nice, the weight would be an issue for pocket use, will try the belt pouch but reckon it will get in the way some

I also got a 58mm companion also with MBB maked scales, sadly I jammed it into my palm and bent the nail file blade, also a wenger (possible) alpine backpacker

:)

Looks like a nice find there.  Nothing that a new set of scales wouldn't see just right.  I agree that the Champion is a nice fit in the hand, whereas I think the Swisschamp is just a little too fat.
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: FolderBeholder on February 22, 2017, 01:51:10 AM
I have love for the Champion, my newest arrived today:
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/4/3839/32660997760_83c6c32014_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/RL99K3)
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: SAK Guy on February 22, 2017, 02:19:29 AM
:2tu:
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: NorCalJim on February 22, 2017, 02:23:56 AM
I have love for the Champion, my newest arrived today:
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/4/3839/32660997760_83c6c32014_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/RL99K3)

 :like: :like: :like:

Very nice!  It's probably no accident that you have it with the box.  :)

 :cheers:
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: NorCalJim on February 22, 2017, 02:26:56 AM
Definitely love for the Champion, though not as much as the Swiss Champ!

I wanted a Champion but went for the re-issue version from Amazon instead of the pre-1985 SAK.

No pliers like the original but mine is the Plus version with the pen and the mini-screw driver.

 :climber:
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: FolderBeholder on February 22, 2017, 02:27:52 AM
I have love for the Champion, my newest arrived today:

 :like: :like: :like:

Very nice!  It's probably no accident that you have it with the box.  :)

 :cheers:
:2tu: No accident at all!  :D
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: FolderBeholder on February 22, 2017, 02:29:05 AM
Definitely love for the Champion, though not as much as the Swiss Champ!

I wanted a Champion but went for the re-issue version from Amazon instead of the pre-1985 SAK.

No pliers like the original but mine is the Plus version with the pen and the mini-screw driver.

 :climber:
That Plus version seems very nice!  Plus, buying new you get a box!  :tu: :D

**Edit, I have a Plus version, but I bought it used, no box.  :cry:
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Poncho65 on February 22, 2017, 02:32:19 AM
Very nice FoBo :o Love the old style with the nail file :dd: Of course with the box :ahhh :D Great find :like: :like:
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: FolderBeholder on February 22, 2017, 02:37:07 AM
Very nice FoBo :o Love the old style with the nail file :dd: Of course with the box :ahhh :D Great find :like: :like:
Thanks Poncho!  :cheers:  It is all about the box!  :ahhh  :D
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Barry Rowland on February 22, 2017, 05:21:28 AM
Beautiful box and nice Champ too Folder!! ;)
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: FolderBeholder on February 22, 2017, 05:29:36 AM
Beautiful box and nice Champ too Folder!! ;)
Thank you Barry!  :cheers:
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Aloha on February 22, 2017, 06:41:23 AM
@Folderbeholder

You certainly are scoring a nice bunch of SAK in boxes  :like:
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: FolderBeholder on February 22, 2017, 01:49:33 PM
@Folderbeholder

You certainly are scoring a nice bunch of SAK in boxes  :like:

Thank you Aloha!
My first choice is SAK in box with receipt - haven't found any of these except for ones I've purchased new.
Second, SAK in box - these I seek out the most.
Third, just the SAK - I always want the SAK and sometimes I buy the SAK and hope for a boxed version later.
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: SAK Guy on February 22, 2017, 10:30:56 PM
A couple of older pics.....

My first SAK was a Champion bought back around 1975 and it accompanied me backpacking/traveling over two continents....it never failed me in the 30+ years I carried it in pocket, pack or camera bag. Lost it in the wildfire of '06 so the first thing I bought was an older one like it.
(http://i833.photobucket.com/albums/zz256/SAKGuy/Reposts/1st%20Champion%20after%20the%20fireadj_zpsq5o49azd.jpg)

Here's a neat one from the collection. An almost minty Hoffritz that was carried but seldom used.
(http://i833.photobucket.com/albums/zz256/SAKGuy/Reposts/Hoffritz%20Champion%20case_zpss8vjazet.jpg)
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: VICMAN on February 22, 2017, 10:36:59 PM
My first SAK was a Champion.  I can still remember how amazed I was at the number of tools and the quality.  That would have been about 1982 if I remember correctly.  I still have it in my collection.
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Ron Who on February 22, 2017, 11:33:08 PM
That's odd. Exactly the same combination here, only my sheath doesn't fit the Champion, it's too small.
The Champion wasn't my first SAK (I don't remember what the first one was) but it's my oldest (ca 1985).
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Barry Rowland on February 23, 2017, 03:57:52 AM
 :2tu: :2tu: :2tu: :2tu:
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: SAK Guy on February 23, 2017, 04:06:06 AM
:2tu: :2tu: :2tu: :2tu:

+100!!!
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Poncho65 on February 23, 2017, 04:41:16 AM
Some great shots SG :like: :like:

Nice one as well Ronald :tu: :like:
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: SAK Guy on February 23, 2017, 05:18:09 AM
Some great shots SG :like: :like:

Nice one as well Ronald :tu: :like:

Thanks Ponch!!!! :cheers:
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: jaya_man on April 12, 2017, 08:19:53 AM
Thought I had posted here already... Anyway, Champion Plus sern here with the rest of the Champs...

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170412/b248765a3e3c208969fb3c3103327fd2.jpg)


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: glenfiddich1983 on April 12, 2017, 08:51:34 AM
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170412/f999713060c4ae20a75c9638102d268b.jpg)

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170412/32723f48a0ad1091c753f92d3cb3f9b4.jpg)

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170412/6a11e8ea2168aef9e386ab34d513fc32.jpg)

Not the best pics, but this is my old Champion :)
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Barry Rowland on April 12, 2017, 11:20:35 AM
 :2tu: :2tu:
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: VICMAN on April 12, 2017, 02:49:44 PM
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170412/f999713060c4ae20a75c9638102d268b.jpg)

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170412/32723f48a0ad1091c753f92d3cb3f9b4.jpg)

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170412/6a11e8ea2168aef9e386ab34d513fc32.jpg)

Not the best pics, but this is my old Champion :)
:like:
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: NorCalJim on April 14, 2017, 05:31:06 AM
I purchased a Champion Plus before I had a Swiss Champ.  I wasn't concerned about pliers since I had multiple LM Juice & Charge models with pliers.  Since then, I have become partial to Swiss Champs with 7 and counting and the Champion Plus is still new in box.  I'm glad to have it but I think that one is enough.

 :climber:
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: jaya_man on April 14, 2017, 06:33:47 AM
I purchased a Champion Plus before I had a Swiss Champ.  I wasn't concerned about pliers since I had multiple LM Juice & Charge models with pliers.  Since then, I have become partial to Swiss Champs with 7 and counting and the Champion Plus is still new in box.  I'm glad to have it but I think that one is enough.

 :climber:
Swisschamps are excellent fodders... just saying... :cheers:


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Fencingpaul on May 12, 2017, 04:01:25 PM
Hi All,
New to the Forum but finding it really useful.  I purchased a bundle of SAK from Western Australia. When they turned up it was 2 Huntsman, a Spartan and a Champion Plus. Looking at the SAK wiki, it appears to be the early version with no plus scales. All in good condition, once I have given it a clean and polish it will be a regular accessory for me.
I really like the logo on the back, it is not the usual company advertising as it is Victorinox branding. Can anyone shed light on when this was released and for which market.
Cheers
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: VICMAN on May 12, 2017, 06:43:24 PM
Hi All,
New to the Forum but finding it really useful.  I purchased a bundle of SAK from Western Australia. When they turned up it was 2 Huntsman, a Spartan and a Champion Plus. Looking at the SAK wiki, it appears to be the early version with no plus scales. All in good condition, once I have given it a clean and polish it will be a regular accessory for me.
I really like the logo on the back, it is not the usual company advertising as it is Victorinox branding. Can anyone shed light on when this was released and for which market.
Cheers

Welcome to the forum!

Cool logo on the Champion.  You will find the Champion to be a very handy knife to carry. :like: :tu: :tu:
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Poncho65 on May 12, 2017, 08:53:51 PM
Hi All,
New to the Forum but finding it really useful.  I purchased a bundle of SAK from Western Australia. When they turned up it was 2 Huntsman, a Spartan and a Champion Plus. Looking at the SAK wiki, it appears to be the early version with no plus scales. All in good condition, once I have given it a clean and polish it will be a regular accessory for me.
I really like the logo on the back, it is not the usual company advertising as it is Victorinox branding. Can anyone shed light on when this was released and for which market.
Cheers

Welcome to the forum!

Cool logo on the Champion.  You will find the Champion to be a very handy knife to carry. :like: :tu: :tu:

I removed the fish scaler and added an inline awl to a mod I have and now it is my EDC :tu: The Champion is one SAK that is close to the top of my list as a fav :like: :like:
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Poncho65 on May 12, 2017, 08:55:43 PM
Comparison with my Champion, Master Ranger and Ranger for size reference :tu:

(https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2819/33489201374_8bf054f317_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/T2jUPG)20170428_205253 (https://flic.kr/p/T2jUPG) by Poncho 65 (https://www.flickr.com/photos/148903443@N02/), on Flickr
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Mactire404 on October 26, 2017, 12:04:25 PM
It's been about half a year since someone posted here.
It seems the Champion has lost it's former glory. It has been surpassed by the SwissChamp.

(https://i.imgur.com/iuz7BdKm.jpg)
Victorinox Champion c

Recently I picked up a Champion 'just because'. It had a fluted corkscrew which was reason enough for me to get it.
Knowing that the Champion was the former flagship I kind of expected it to be like a SwissChamp. And to be something to have on display.
However, when I cut it out of it's packaging it felt somewhat familiar. Almost like my Handyman. So it's definitely something I can carry.

My dad has a SwissChamp and I compared the two. My Dad's Champ is from around 1990-2000. So there are bound to be some differences.
To name a few:

- Both have an old style grey magnifier, but the 1990 has a beveled edge on the inside of the lens mount. Also, the lens on the SwissChamp is larger in diameter.
(https://i.imgur.com/cpNfuaim.jpg)     (https://i.imgur.com/uIpP9mTm.jpg)
Magnifiers front and back; Champion on the left, SwissChamp on the right

- The Champion has the old style fine screwdriver. Which is to be expected because it's much older.
(https://i.imgur.com/ZKzcdABm.jpg)
Fine screwdriver; Chamion top, SwissChamp bottom

- The numerals on the ruler of the Champion are different from the SwissChamp's. They are larger and a notable difference can be seen in the 4. The Champion 4 is closed whereas the 4 on the SwissChamp is open. The Champion has a magnetized tip, I didn't test the SwissChamp on this.
(https://i.imgur.com/Drtpk91m.jpg)     (https://i.imgur.com/iU9DsoDm.jpg)
Fishscaler front and back; Champion bottom, SwissChamp top

(https://i.imgur.com/HaNjKOMm.jpg)
Fishscaler close up; Champion on the bottom, SwissChamp on the top

I'm inclined to say that I like the Champion more than the SwissChamp. It has quite possibly to do with the thickness and the weight. Sure, the SwissChamp has the pliers which I really like. And perhaps the SwissChamp has more back layer tools and the outstanding plus scales. But the Champion feels more comfortable in my hand. The fact that I am used to the Handyman may play a role in that.

So, former glory? Perhaps. But this SAK isn't called Champion for nothing. Because it is, a Champion.
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: FolderBeholder on December 24, 2017, 09:24:00 PM
Comparison with my Champion, Master Ranger and Ranger for size reference :tu:

(https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2819/33489201374_8bf054f317_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/T2jUPG)20170428_205253 (https://flic.kr/p/T2jUPG) by Poncho 65 (https://www.flickr.com/photos/148903443@N02/), on Flickr

I missed this post.  Poncho, what's a Master Ranger?

It's been about half a year since someone posted here.
That was good information you posted about the differences, thank you!
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: VICMAN on December 24, 2017, 11:30:12 PM
Comparison with my Champion, Master Ranger and Ranger for size reference :tu:


I missed this post.  Poncho, what's a Master Ranger?


That was good information you posted about the differences, thank you!
[/quote]

FB, I believe the Master Ranger is one of Poncho's mods.
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: sir_mike on December 25, 2017, 12:50:29 AM
Good thing I had mine with me today since it was Christmas at the in-laws with lots of kids with lots of toys and of course which needed lots of batteries so my small blade and philips got alot of use this afternoon.

I was gonna just throw a Compact in my pocket but glad I didn't cause I needed the inline philips to reach into the toys where the battery compartment was and the combo tool or any opening layer setup would NOT have worked!

Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: ThePeacent on December 25, 2017, 04:28:48 PM
Good thing I had mine with me today since it was Christmas at the in-laws with lots of kids with lots of toys and of course which needed lots of batteries so my small blade and philips got alot of use this afternoon.

I was gonna just throw a Compact in my pocket but glad I didn't cause I needed the inline philips to reach into the toys where the battery compartment was and the combo tool or any opening layer setup would NOT have worked!

me too...it is the perfect SAK for Christmas gettogethers

(https://i.imgur.com/wv1TdKA.jpg)

  :cheers:
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Don Pablo on December 25, 2017, 08:15:21 PM
Comparison with my Champion, Master Ranger and Ranger for size reference :tu:


I missed this post.  Poncho, what's a Master Ranger?


That was good information you posted about the differences, thank you!

FB, I believe the Master Ranger is one of Poncho's mods.
[/quote]
Yup it is.  :tu:
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Barry Rowland on December 25, 2017, 10:52:32 PM
I have to find a Champ now  :facepalm:. Mactires write-up really has me interested!
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Rich S on December 25, 2017, 11:13:24 PM
A Vic Champion was my first SAK (still have it) many, many years ago. I used it mainly when backpacking and hiking. Now I carry a Tinker in my pocket.

Rich
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: FolderBeholder on December 25, 2017, 11:41:31 PM
Comparison with my Champion, Master Ranger and Ranger for size reference :tu:


I missed this post.  Poncho, what's a Master Ranger?


That was good information you posted about the differences, thank you!

FB, I believe the Master Ranger is one of Poncho's mods.
Yup it is.  :tu:
[/quote]

Ahhh, okay, that explains why I can't find it in the SakWiki.
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Myron on March 16, 2018, 12:31:16 AM
I was thrilled to find this NOS Champion with Brookstone inlay recently.  I've had the Brookstone Hamilton field watch for a long time, so now it has a friend. 

Myron

(https://i.imgur.com/Cy61CZG.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/6IjZuMr.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/9K3RgNd.jpg)
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Barry Rowland on March 16, 2018, 01:36:04 AM
Nice!!!!
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: MrWilson on March 16, 2018, 11:11:53 AM
I love the Champion. Its the first SAK my dad used to have and its my first exposure to a SAK. Here is my Champion together with my other EDC.
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: ThePeacent on March 16, 2018, 01:22:52 PM
I love the Champion. Its the first SAK my dad used to have and its my first exposure to a SAK. Here is my Champion together with my other EDC.

everything in that pic is cool   8)  :like: :like:
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Barry Rowland on March 17, 2018, 12:03:12 AM
+1!!
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: MrWilson on March 17, 2018, 12:22:02 AM
I love the Champion. Its the first SAK my dad used to have and its my first exposure to a SAK. Here is my Champion together with my other EDC.

everything in that pic is cool   8)  :like: :like:

Thanks. Got the papier mache doll from Burma. Its called Pyit Taing Htaung or some form of "tumbling kelly". They fill my office table--no, I am not EDCing them.  :D

I have tried holding the SwissChamp and like others here, I pretty much like the Champion having the right thickness for comfortable grip. I really dont use SAK pliers, I have the Swisstool for that or a LM.
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: jalind on April 01, 2018, 04:17:30 PM
As a big fan of the Woodsman, the file with hacksaw would be the only thing I'd add to it. The Champion has that without becoming nearly as thick as the Swiss Champ with its pliers. It's my #2 favorite.

Champion circa 1990 (several additional back layer + original version magnifier) . . .


(https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/889/40251014995_e120ba8527_b.jpg)

Champion Plus - AFAIK the last version made . . .

(https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/820/39349068790_efa3611fc0_b.jpg)

John
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Archibald Tuttle on April 01, 2018, 05:20:41 PM
I was thrilled to find this NOS Champion with Brookstone inlay recently.  I've had the Brookstone Hamilton field watch for a long time, so now it has a friend. 

Myron

(https://i.imgur.com/Cy61CZG.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/6IjZuMr.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/9K3RgNd.jpg)

Thats a great find, and great pictures.  :like:
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: FolderBeholder on April 01, 2018, 08:07:32 PM
It's my #2 favorite.
Just curious, what is your #1 favorite?  :cheers:
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: VICMAN on April 01, 2018, 08:50:00 PM

Champion circa 1990 (several additional back layer + original version magnifier) . .

Champion Plus - AFAIK the last version made . . .
John

Nice pics John! :like: :tu: :tu:
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: jalind on April 01, 2018, 09:28:02 PM
It's my #2 favorite.
Just curious, what is your #1 favorite?  :cheers:


The long discontinued Woodsman. Remove the fish scaler and file, and you have a Woodsman.


John
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: FolderBeholder on April 01, 2018, 09:35:13 PM
It's my #2 favorite.
Just curious, what is your #1 favorite?  :cheers:


The long discontinued Woodsman. Remove the fish scaler and file, and you have a Woodsman.


John
Thank you.  I too love the Woodsman, the custom knife I had made for me has a lot of the Woodsman elements.  :tu:

This is the one I had made for me:
(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/593/32164715052_2e284a3d92.jpg)
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: jalind on April 02, 2018, 03:11:30 AM
I was thrilled to find this NOS Champion with Brookstone inlay recently.  I've had the Brookstone Hamilton field watch for a long time, so now it has a friend. 

Myron

(https://i.imgur.com/Cy61CZG.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/6IjZuMr.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/9K3RgNd.jpg)

Excellent find . . . looks beautiful. Nice Hammy too. I've got several, a couple pushing toward 35 years old before the Swatch Group acquired them. Never saw one under private label like that though.

John
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: jalind on April 02, 2018, 03:12:47 AM
It's my #2 favorite.
Just curious, what is your #1 favorite?  :cheers:

The long discontinued Woodsman. Remove the fish scaler and file, and you have a Woodsman.

John
Thank you.  I too love the Woodsman, the custom knife I had made for me has a lot of the Woodsman elements.  :tu:

This is the one I had made for me:
(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/593/32164715052_2e284a3d92.jpg)

 :tu:  - a minimalist version!

John
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: FolderBeholder on April 02, 2018, 03:16:22 AM
It's my #2 favorite.
Just curious, what is your #1 favorite?  :cheers:

The long discontinued Woodsman. Remove the fish scaler and file, and you have a Woodsman.

John
Thank you.  I too love the Woodsman, the custom knife I had made for me has a lot of the Woodsman elements.  :tu:

This is the one I had made for me:
(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/593/32164715052_2e284a3d92.jpg)

 :tu:  - a minimalist version!

John
I carry it most every day, when I don't carry it, I carry a Compact.
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Captain Hook on October 06, 2019, 05:02:25 AM
Love mine! It's an 03-04 model slapped some newer scales and a key clip on it and carry it daily!
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Aloha on October 08, 2019, 02:32:12 PM
Looking good.  I gave mine last Champs to a member for his kids.  Its a great SAK for sure.
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: HolyDeuce on October 08, 2019, 06:56:15 PM
I love my old Champion!!  :like:

(https://i.imgur.com/7Jfup2Nl.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/40k7ZDdl.jpg)
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Rapidray on October 08, 2019, 07:22:15 PM
I love my old Champion!!  :like:

(https://i.imgur.com/7Jfup2Nl.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/40k7ZDdl.jpg)
:rofl: :rofl: :rofl:
Great combo there!
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Captain Hook on October 09, 2019, 12:07:38 AM
I love my old Champion!!  :like:

(https://i.imgur.com/7Jfup2Nl.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/40k7ZDdl.jpg)
Brilliant!  :rofl:
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: ElevenBlade on November 25, 2019, 01:44:56 AM
My mid-1990's Champion (no plus scales) is my go-to for the outdoors.

I rarely anticipate needing the pliers on the SwissChamp so I bring it out less often.
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Aloha on June 08, 2020, 02:55:18 PM
Well I finally have another Champion.  I had a couple in the past but gave them away.  Its doesn't have the hook which I like and no plus scales which can be remedied.  After a little carry time yesterday I had a rush of excitement that I didn't when I first got one years back.  Its such a terrific SAK.  Pics to follow.  Got it from a local guy who was slimming down his carry to 3 or 2 layers. 
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Aloha on June 08, 2020, 03:31:59 PM
Pics.
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Turbo T Terry on June 08, 2020, 04:04:33 PM
I carry my Champion Plus when I travel, along with a pair of mini Knipex pliers. I’ve only ever used the fish scaler as a ruler, but I use the magnifying glass and inline Phillips quite often, so the Champion is worth the extra width and weight vs a Ranger.
Personally I think the Champion is an underrated tool, and I like the combination of it and the Knipex vs a pliers based multitool.
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Aloha on June 08, 2020, 04:24:57 PM
 :salute:.  Early in my SAK journey I leaned towards the Swisschamp because of the pliers ( super tweezers ).  Over time I realized while the pliers are nice they are limited.  I much prefer the Squirt plier for a small yet much more capable plier.  I am a huge fan of the Explorer for the two tools you mention, mag glass and inline phillips. 

I picked up a Ranger again.  I had one and likely due to my SC love at the time it was moved on.  As mentioned I had a couple Champions but moved them on as well.  Its my Explorer that in the back of my mind that is the bar of what a great SAK is.  The combination of mag glass and inline just keeps me going back to it.  The Ranger while great falls short due to lack of those tools.

I do love the older SAKs without hook.  I'm happy I can compare these tools I have.  The are non hook versions.   
SC/Champion/Ranger/Explorer

I feel I can now say with confidence the Mag Glass/Inline Phillips/Scissor is a trio I rather not do without.  The addition of the file/saw just amps up the wonderfulness of the Champion. 




 
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: theonew on June 08, 2020, 07:28:16 PM
While not an EDC or pocket carry for me, I love the Champion as a travel companion. I've been quarantining in Maine for the 2.5 months and have pretty much used every tool at least once :tu:

Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Turbo T Terry on June 08, 2020, 08:54:50 PM
Ironically if they still made the Modeler I wouldn’t have purchased my Champion for travel or the Mountaineer that is my edc, but sadly they do not.
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: ElevenBlade on June 08, 2020, 11:25:51 PM
:salute:.  Early in my SAK journey I leaned towards the Swisschamp because of the pliers ( super tweezers ).  Over time I realized while the pliers are nice they are limited.  I much prefer the Squirt plier for a small yet much more capable plier.  I am a huge fan of the Explorer for the two tools you mention, mag glass and inline phillips. 

I picked up a Ranger again.  I had one and likely due to my SC love at the time it was moved on.  As mentioned I had a couple Champions but moved them on as well.  Its my Explorer that in the back of my mind that is the bar of what a great SAK is.  The combination of mag glass and inline just keeps me going back to it.  The Ranger while great falls short due to lack of those tools.

I do love the older SAKs without hook.  I'm happy I can compare these tools I have.  The are non hook versions.   
SC/Champion/Ranger/Explorer

I feel I can now say with confidence the Mag Glass/Inline Phillips/Scissor is a trio I rather not do without.  The addition of the file/saw just amps up the wonderfulness of the Champion.

 :salute:

I realize that since both my SC and Champion were gifts, they're both hard to "give up". 
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: VICMAN on June 09, 2020, 12:00:47 AM
Pics.

Nice find Aloha! :like: :tu: :tu:
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Aloha on June 09, 2020, 12:39:51 AM
 :salute: Thank you.

 
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Aloha on July 08, 2020, 07:37:14 PM
Just popping back in to say I am still carrying my Champion frequently.  I enjoy it quite a lot.  I pair it with my Squirt which for me is wonderful.  Its noticeable weight/width wise as compared to my most carried SAK, my Explorer, but not unmanageable.  I like having the extra capability even if its only having it rather than "needing" it. 

Really glad I picked one up.   
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Barry Rowland on July 09, 2020, 05:18:12 PM
I don't blame you Aloha.  It's a toolset that's hard to top!
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: ulzhan on July 11, 2020, 10:05:58 AM
Have a look onto the past!

Champion with wood scales.
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Barry Rowland on July 11, 2020, 04:42:46 PM
Nice!
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Aloha on September 18, 2020, 06:19:05 PM
More love for the Champion.  Weird thing, I gave away black and red scaled Champions to a member for his kids.  I now have a black to add to my red Champion.  Funny how that worked. 

I picked up this black one recently with sheath for $20.  They guy used it pretty good and colored the sheath black.  He did a bad job at sharpening the main blade but that was remedied. 

I'll saddle soap the sheath then treat with mink oil and call it good.  I'm really liking the Champion a lot.  When I had them I was not the biggest fan of carrying them.  While I always like the Champion it just didn't connect with me.  Over the years however I got curious then I picked one up and really bonded with it.  This one will be my constant work tool. 

I especially like the no hook version which is neat cause thats what I believe I originally had. 





Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: DavZell on February 21, 2021, 12:11:56 AM
I am wondering why some people prefer the no-hook version of the Champion.  Does it affect the frontside in any way? 


Thanks, David
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Aloha on February 21, 2021, 12:32:28 AM
I don't think it effects the frontside  :dunno:.  I dont use the hook and while it sits quietly most times I seemed to have picked up several SAKs without the hook for no other reason like them this way. 
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Jim the Brave on February 21, 2021, 01:13:31 AM
I am wondering why some people prefer the no-hook version of the Champion.  Does it affect the frontside in any way? 


Thanks, David

I'm in favor of packing as much stuff as possible into any layer you've got, so I'm happy to have a hook, and anything else they include.

I just picked up a Champion in the batch of 7 that I had Ebay send directly to my dear old dad. He'll check it out along with the others, and we'll see what to do with them. They're all in bad shape, but I'm not sure just how bad.
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: ElevenBlade on February 21, 2021, 02:55:15 AM
I'm in favor of packing as much stuff as possible into any layer you've got, so I'm happy to have a hook, and anything else they include.

I just picked up a Champion in the batch of 7 that I had Ebay send directly to my dear old dad. He'll check it out along with the others, and we'll see what to do with them. They're all in bad shape, but I'm not sure just how bad.

I agree here... when it comes to the Champ(ion)... pack it in... let no space go to waste.
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: SgtTowser on February 21, 2021, 04:42:40 AM
Love mine! It's an 03-04 model slapped some newer scales and a key clip on it and carry it daily!

My Champion is my first true SAK love. It replaced a Huntsman. It is a great SAK and I carry it once a week. My Cybertool L replaced it only because I needed the variety of driver heads for new technology and for my better half’s electric bike maintenance.

Find a CHAMPION a partner like my EVO 557 with pliers and wrench suite and you are a threat to resolve an issue without a tool box any where any time.
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Barry Rowland on February 21, 2021, 03:57:13 PM
 :tu: :tu: :tu:
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: NutSAK on June 29, 2021, 06:11:41 PM
:salute:.  Early in my SAK journey I leaned towards the Swisschamp because of the pliers ( super tweezers ).  Over time I realized while the pliers are nice they are limited.  I much prefer the Squirt plier for a small yet much more capable plier.  I am a huge fan of the Explorer for the two tools you mention, mag glass and inline phillips. 

I picked up a Ranger again.  I had one and likely due to my SC love at the time it was moved on.  As mentioned I had a couple Champions but moved them on as well.  Its my Explorer that in the back of my mind that is the bar of what a great SAK is.  The combination of mag glass and inline just keeps me going back to it.  The Ranger while great falls short due to lack of those tools.

I picked up on this thread today and had to comment because I've had the same thoughts lately.  I've been considering doing "The BIG One" challenge and tried carrying a Swiss Champ for a few days, and it seems a bit wasteful for my uses.  I then started considering the Ranger and Champion and carried each of them for a few days, felt really comfortable with the Champion and will carry it with a Mini when the Supertool challenge is done.  Like you, I miss the phillips/mag layer in a 91mm if I don't have it, and nearly all of my users do.

I'm also considering doing a mod of a Swiss Champ that gives me a SAK in-between the Ranger and the Champion--one that has all of the backspring tools of the Swiss Champ and Ranger, but the pliers and scaler removed.  Or, I may just do a Champion with backspring tools since I do use the scaler on rare occasions as a ruler and it sure doesn't take up much room since there it shares liner space with the saw.

I'll try to post some pics of my Hoffritz Champions this evening.
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Jud65 on June 29, 2021, 06:32:53 PM
I'm also considering doing a mod of a Swiss Champ that gives me a SAK in-between the Ranger and the Champion--one that has all of the backspring tools of the Swiss Champ and Ranger, but the pliers and scaler removed.
Do you mean like this?

https://forum.multitool.org/index.php/topic,87387.msg2244360.html#msg2244360
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: NutSAK on June 29, 2021, 06:47:14 PM
Yes.  But, it will be somewhat easier starting with a Swiss Champ.  Or, at least I should be able to use the pin stock from the Champ.

Edit: after reading your thread though, maybe I should start with longer pin stock to avoid issues.

Thanks!
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Jud65 on June 29, 2021, 10:06:15 PM
You’re welcome. Reusing the pins from the champ is a good idea. Might be a bit fiddly but doable. Check out Helvética Bold’s handyman conversion. He did it all first and better than me.

I have to say that you’re on to a winner though. It is still a bit of a handful but an almost perfect toolset.  :like:
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: SteveP on June 30, 2021, 01:03:36 AM
Jud65 and NutSAK, thanks to your posts, this thread popped up on my unread list.

For me, a Champion was my first SAK back in 1983. And I still have it, sitting on my desk now. It doesn't get a lot of use these days, but I'll never part with it.

Though I've been thinking that once the Pocket Rocket Challenge ends, I might carry it, along with my Mini Champ with M2 Seber Tool pliers attached. I do like having pliers and part of me thinks pliers separate from the SAK are more useful.

I too insist on having a SAK with a mag glass/inline Phillips layer. I guess it will depend on how my custom build (sort of a Detective) will compare with my Champion, then I'll see which I carry more.
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: NutSAK on June 30, 2021, 06:44:29 PM

Though I've been thinking that once the Pocket Rocket Challenge ends, I might carry it, along with my Mini Champ with M2 Seber Tool pliers attached. I do like having pliers and part of me thinks pliers separate from the SAK are more useful.

 :iagree:  I think the Champion with a "minimalist" plier tool like the Mini is a very handy toolset, and actually quite easy to carry for the tool density.
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: NutSAK on June 30, 2021, 06:53:19 PM
Here are my circa 1980 Hoffritz Champions.  One is a user, the other an unused back-up.  They are identical with the exception of the grind on the tip of the awl and the Hoffritz scale logo. The back-up has the inlay logo and on the user it is hot-stamped.

(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51281362398_f505c473ef_h.jpg)


(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51280445277_f376a43e94_h.jpg)


(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51281914174_f57f869c17_h.jpg)


(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51280445127_124ac9c5a6_h.jpg)
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: ElevenBlade on June 30, 2021, 10:34:52 PM
I still use my Champion much more than my SwissChamp.  I just tend to use my users more than my new ones... and it just stays that way.  Besides that, it's almost always more handy when I need it (it sits at my computer desk, whereas the SwissChamp sits in a drawer in the bedroom)... which admittedly makes about as much sense as saying I prefer to eat the cookie at the top of the packet instead of the one beneath it. 
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: NutSAK on June 30, 2021, 10:41:36 PM
I have a "user" Swiss Champ that sits at my desk, and is always there for whatever task is at hand.  Honestly, I probably use that SAK more than most of my other SAKs just because it's in convenient spot, though I never carry it.  I do carry the Champion on occasion, mainly because I still consider it pocket-able and the Swiss Champ is not comfortably pocket-able for me.

So, I certainly understand using what is handy...
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Humayd A R Mahomedy on July 03, 2021, 06:55:51 PM
my first "big" SAK was a Champion i traded a classmate a headphone radio for in 87.
i re-scaled it [either African Blackwood or Buffalo horn] in 96/97,then lost it after.
it was my edc,along with a Ranger i got in 88 [i re-scaled that as well,and i can't remember which i used for which knife].
i lost the Ranger too.
i'm still looking for another Champion
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: SteveP on July 04, 2021, 06:36:05 AM
i'm still looking for another Champion
They pop up on eBay pretty regularly.
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Humayd A R Mahomedy on July 04, 2021, 09:23:02 AM
They pop up on eBay pretty regularly.

Thanks, Steve,I'll go look
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Barry Rowland on July 04, 2021, 11:35:40 PM
I've been following this thread for a long time.  What do you all think you prefer, the Champion or the Ranger?  I've had a couple of Rangers but never had a Champion.
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Max Stone on July 05, 2021, 12:11:18 AM
Museum of Modern Art likes it...  :tu:
https://www.moma.org/collection/works/4332 (https://www.moma.org/collection/works/4332)
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Barry Rowland on July 05, 2021, 04:18:39 AM
I see that Max.  They've hit upon some neat things over the years. 
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: SteveP on July 05, 2021, 06:44:42 AM
I've been following this thread for a long time.  What do you all think you prefer, the Champion or the Ranger?  I've had a couple of Rangers but never had a Champion.
I'm the opposite - have a Champion, but have never had a Ranger.

The mag glass and inline Phillips of the Champion are enough for it to beat the Ranger, at least for me.

The ruler on the fish scaler has been handy at times also, but it's not a make or break tool, like the mag glass and Phillips.
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: SteveP on July 05, 2021, 06:47:04 AM
Museum of Modern Art likes it...  :tu:
https://www.moma.org/collection/works/4332 (https://www.moma.org/collection/works/4332)
Very cool that it's in MoMA!

Too bad that it's not on display.
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: NutSAK on July 05, 2021, 06:38:19 PM
I've been following this thread for a long time.  What do you all think you prefer, the Champion or the Ranger?  I've had a couple of Rangers but never had a Champion.

I love them both, but like SteveP I  like to have the phillips/mag layer on the SAKs I carry, as I use them frequently.  The Ranger is notable for having a very dense tool set since it has a tool on all 5 backsprings.
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Rich S on July 05, 2021, 08:25:02 PM
I have an older Champion from the 80's. My first SAK I got for backpacking. Later got a new Champ, but really prefer the 80's Champion - not so many silly tools.
It was the first of a SAK addiction (60+). Can't be without my 30 year old Tinker in my pocket.
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Deere Man on July 06, 2021, 08:47:31 PM
I don't have one, but I've considered it.  It looks like a great tool selection without the pliers which I don't find all that useful for an EDC.  I think I'm going to try a Ranger as my first SAK over 4 layers, but the Champion would be cool to check out the inline phillips and mag glass. Paired with some dedicated pliers, you have everything you could possibly need.  I thought the Champion was still available on Amazon not that long ago, but it's not there anymore. Bummer.
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Barry Rowland on July 07, 2021, 01:58:25 AM
I like having a Philips layer, as it seems that most screws nowadays are Philips anyway.  The Mag Glass is fun!  Thanks for the feedback everyone!  :cheers:
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: SteveP on July 07, 2021, 03:13:01 AM
I like having a Philips layer, as it seems that most screws nowadays are Philips anyway.  The Mag Glass is fun!  Thanks for the feedback everyone!  :cheers:
Barry, if that means you're now planning to get a Champion, I think we'll all be expecting to see pictures!   :pok:
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Barry Rowland on July 07, 2021, 04:32:53 AM
 :hatsoff: I need to take a dive into the Bay and see what I can find :D
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: pfrsantos on July 09, 2021, 11:27:50 AM
:hatsoff: I need to take a dive into the Bay and see what I can find :D

What?!

(https://img.buzzfeed.com/buzzfeed-static/static/enhanced/terminal01/2011/4/28/16/enhanced-buzz-28256-1304022880-33.jpg)

 :ahhh :ahhh :ahhh :ahhh
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: NutSAK on July 09, 2021, 06:56:41 PM
 :rofl:
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: SteveP on July 09, 2021, 07:27:08 PM
:hatsoff: I need to take a dive into the Bay and see what I can find :D
Has Barry surfaced yet? It's been 3 days.
 :facepalm:
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: SteveP on August 19, 2021, 06:22:40 AM
For you Champion lovers out there, I'm putting together a Champion Challenge for early next year. Details on this thread:
https://forum.multitool.org/index.php/topic,87888.0.html

Be great to have you join!
 :D
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: GrouchoM on August 19, 2021, 07:00:52 AM
If I owned one, I would love it...

Sent from my SM-G991U using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: jnoxyd on August 19, 2021, 09:32:23 AM
At the beginning...
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20210819/b55e2f496786fe25b9656c3ed3ea4288.jpg)
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Ron Who on August 19, 2021, 06:22:01 PM
Both my first and second SAKs were Champions.
I don´t remember exactly; the first may have been a Chinese clone.
I lost it in a knife throwing contest with my friends.
I was a kid and didn´t think I would miss the target.  :facepalm:

Over a decade later, about 1985, I bought my second Champion and I still have it on my desk.
It has scratches and burns but otherwise ok. The tool I use most (at my desk): scissors.

I like the Champion but I think it´s too large for pocket carry.
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: SteveP on August 20, 2021, 12:12:56 AM
I like the Champion but I think it´s too large for pocket carry.
The Challenge of Champions would be a good test to find out.
 :whistle:
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Swisster on June 09, 2022, 11:26:01 PM
Got this early 80’s Champion for $30 yesterday that is almost unused. I may get some black plus scales for it.      :like:
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: hsherzfeld on June 10, 2022, 02:30:07 AM
 :like:

Very nice! What a bargain!
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Barry Rowland on June 10, 2022, 04:33:11 AM
 :iagree: :like:
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Sos24 on June 10, 2022, 07:15:25 AM
Got this early 80’s Champion for $30 yesterday that is almost unused. I may get some black plus scales for it.      :like:
Great deal.
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Rizio Il Ghiro on June 10, 2022, 08:12:56 AM
 :iagree: great score! Plus scales are always a good upgrade!  :tu:
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: jayryia on January 06, 2024, 02:49:28 PM
Still have love.

Bought this 76 Champion Last year:
Title: Re: Any love left for the Victorinox Champion?
Post by: Barry Rowland on January 06, 2024, 02:58:36 PM
 :like: :like: