Victorinox Swiss Army Knife Camping & Outdoor Survival Guide E-Book

Bryan Lynch

• Herausgeber: Fox Chapel Publishing
• Kategorie: Ratgeber
• Sprache: Englisch
• Veröffentlichungsjahr: 2021

Seitenzahl: 241

Beschreibung

Sharpen your survival skills and learn why you should keep a Swiss Army Knife with you at all times, whether you are exploring wild jungles, tall peaks, or city streets. As a handy "everyday carry" for life's challenges, the versatile Swiss Army Knife can't be beat. Victorinox Swiss Army® Knife Camping & Outdoor Survival Guide shows how to use your iconic red multi-tool to handle 101 different emergency situations. From starting a fire and making a shelter to catching a fish, building a stove, or applying a splint, discover why the SAK is a must-have for every survival kit. Author Bryan Lynch includes basic advice on knife care, and reviews the many models and features currently available from Victorinox AG, makers of the Original Swiss Army Knife.

Leseprobe

Dedication

To my parents, I can’t thank you enough for all that you did. I love and miss you both every day.

To my stunning wife, Nikki, who has never stopped believing in me, listening to me drone on daily about things I’m sure she has no interest in, and for making me smile and laugh every day. I love you with everything I have and always will for the rest of our days.

This book was created in collaboration with Victorinox AG, Switzerland, and Victorinox Swiss Army, Inc. US.

©2019 by Bryan Lynch and Fox Chapel Publishing Company, Inc., 903 Square Street, Mount Joy, PA 17552.

Victorinox Official Swiss Army Knife Camping & Outdoor Survival Guide is an original work, first published in 2019 by Fox Chapel Publishing Company, Inc.

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior written permission of the copyright holders.

Print ISBN 978-1-56523-995-1eISBN 978-1-60765-644-9

The Cataloging in Publication Data is on file with the Library of Congress

To learn more about the other great books from Fox Chapel Publishing, or to find a retailer near you, call toll-free 1-800-457-9112 or visit us at www.FoxChapelPublishing.com.

We are always looking for talented authors. To submit an idea, please send a brief inquiry to [email protected].

By their very nature, working with blades, saws, and other pocket knife tools entails a certain level of risk. The author of this book has tried, to the best of his knowledge and belief, to set out the safest techniques, and to point out all possible dangers to the reader. The author, the publisher, and the company (Victorinox AG) cannot guarantee that the techniques described will be safe for everyone to perform. As such, they assume no responsibility for losses or damages, nor any liability for claims that may be raised in direct or indirect connection with the contents of this book.

Note that for all outdoor activities, the respective regulations relating to the protection of nature, plants, and animals apply, as do the weapons legislations in force.

Acknowledgments

First I would like to thank my parents: Dad, for giving me my first knife, without which I would not have had the experiences I have had, and Mom, for letting me keep the knife and for always encouraging me in my writing journey! To my editor, Bud Sperry, thank you for bringing this opportunity to me and guiding me through the process of putting a book together. And thank you to everyone at Fox Chapel Publishing whose hand touched this book and helped to push it toward publication. To the Elsener family, thank you for creating a quality, everlasting product that I could write about. To Victorinox, thank you for providing information and resources that helped in the creation of this book. To my friends, Greg, David, and TJ, thank you for teaching me what you have and guiding me in this field. And to my wife, thank you for taking photos, for your artistic input, and for reading this book so much that you probably know it better than I do.

About the Author

Bryan Lynch grew up in the Midwest state of Iowa, where the state slogan is “Fields of Opportunity.” He spent most of his life walking those fields as an avid hunter and fisherman. It was there as a young boy that he learned the value of having a quality knife when his dad gave him a Swiss Army Knife. That first knife sparked a lifelong journey, although some might call it an obsession, into the world of knives, the outdoors, and the gear that is used. Now living in Illinois, he uses his experiences and interests to write about emergency preparedness techniques, survival situations, and gear reviews. Check out his survival blog at https://civilizedsurvival.blog/.

CONTENTS

Acknowledgments

About the Author

PART 1: INTRODUCTION

History of the Swiss Army Knife

Choosing Your Swiss Army Knife

Accessories

PART 2: PREPARATION

Cleaning, Sharpening, and Maintenance Tips

How to Use Your Swiss Army Knife

PART 3: USING YOUR KNIFE IN THE WILD

Intro to Bushcraft and Survival

Keeping Your Mind Busy and Your Morale Up

Tips for the Outdoors

Signaling and Navigation

Making Fire

Campsite

Food Preparation

Fishing

Collecting and Cleaning Water

Grooming

Gear Repair

Firearm Maintenance

First Aid

More Uses for Your Swiss Army Knife

PART 4: URBAN USES

Everyday Emergencies

Pedal Power

Epilogue

Photo Credits

PART 1:

INTRODUCTION

The SwissChamp XAVT model boasts an impressive number of functions—80 in all!

History of the Swiss Army Knife

The story of the Swiss Army Knife began over 130 years ago. In 1884, Karl Elsener established a cutlery shop in Ibach, Switzerland. He developed a remarkable plan to make a compact knife of high-quality steel that also offered a variety of functions. The first model—the Soldier’s Knife—was produced in 1891. Sold to the Swiss Army, it contained a blade, can opener, reamer, and screwdriver. It allowed soldiers to service their rifles and open cans of food. The model that most people recognize today is the Officer’s Knife, which was patented in 1897. Versions of this knife are still widely popular.

Karl Elsener (1860–1918).

This is the original Swiss Army Knife factory as it stood in 1884.

It wasn’t until 1909 that Karl Elsener chose the brand name “Victoria,” in memory of his mother, and the emblem of the cross and shield. In 1921, stainless steel (inox) was invented and was a major development for the knife industry. The words Victoria and inox were then combined to create the new brand name Victorinox. Ten years later, in 1931, Carl Elsener II introduced automation in the making of the knives. This helped to ensure that all knives made by Victorinox were produced with consistent high quality.

The popularity of the Swiss Army Knife grew in part because of American soldiers stationed in Europe during World War II. They bought the Swiss Army Knife in large quantities and then took them home with them, where the little red knife quickly became popular with the American public. The knife began its journey out of our world in 1978, when NASA placed an order for the Master Craftsman model to be used by astronauts.

Every Swiss Army Knife is produced in Switzerland at either the Ibach or Delémont factory. Even with today’s technology, there is still a surprising amount of human presence in the making of these wonderful knives. Every day, 60,000 Swiss Army Knives are produced and inspected in the Ibach factory. Victorinox has continued to grow in an ever-changing world by also offering cutlery, travel gear, watches, and fragrances. One thing has not changed though: Victorinox is still owned and operated by the Elsener family. And they still make fantastic knives!

Careful inspection ensures the high quality of Swiss Army Knives.

Automated Victorinox factory, 1943.

Choosing Your Swiss Army Knife

The first step in making sure your Swiss Army Knife experience is a great one is to choose the right model. To do this, evaluate your needs. Do you spend more time in urban settings or in the wilderness? Do you like to accomplish DIY projects or just normal everyday tasks? Are you more likely to be gutting a fish or cutting open a box? Determine your interests and needs, and take a look at the vast line of Victorinox models. Each of them offers something different, but all have Victorinox’s famous craftsmanship, durability, and versatility.

A WORD OF ADVICE

Local and state regulations may restrict what type of knife may legally be carried outdoors, especially in regard to blade length. Make sure you are not violating any rules.

Midnite Manager

The Midnite Manager is a great example of one of the small models that Victorinox offers. It’s what many people picture when they think of a Swiss Army Knife. At 1.1 ounces, the Midnite Manager comes with ten tools. Two of the coolest tools are a pressurized ballpoint pen and an LED light. Holding down the iconic Victorinox logo turns on the surprisingly bright light. A slide button extends the pen point. A different variation comes with a removable 16GB USB drive. This model makes for a great EDC (everyday carry) knife for any urban dweller.

BASIC TOOLS & FUNCTIONS

1. LED

2. pressurized ballpoint pen

3. key ring

4. small blade

5. bottle opener

6. wire stripper

7. Phillips screwdriver 0/1, magnetic

8. nail file

9. screwdriver, 2.5 mm

10. scissors

Midnite Manager

The Midnite Manager is an ideal EDC knife for the average urban professional who might need the occasional tool in a pinch.

SwissChamp XLT

The SwissChamp XLT is like the standard SwissChamp but with a little bit more emphasis on urban uses. Two of the main differences between the XLT and the standard model are the added pharmaceutical spatula and bit wrench with eight total bits. With the addition of an electrician’s blade, the XLT is great for the person with a long “to-do” list.

BASIC TOOLS & FUNCTIONS

1. reamer, punch and sewing awl

2. can opener

3. screwdriver, 3 mm

4. bottle opener

5. screwdriver, 6 mm

6. wire stripper

7. Phillips screwdriver 1/2

8. magnifying glass

9. pliers

10. wire cutter

11. wire-crimping tool

12. screwdriver, 2.5 mm

13. pruning blade

14. electrician’s blade

15. wire scraper

16. pharmaceutical spatula

17. multipurpose hook

18. scissors

19. fish scaler

20. ruler (inches)

21. ruler (cm)

22. hook disgorger

23. wood saw

24. chisel, 4 mm

25. nail file

26. metal saw

27. metal file

28. nail cleaner

29. large blade

30. small blade

31. key ring

32. toothpick

33. tweezers

34. pressurized ballpoint pen

35. pin, stainless steel

36. mini screwdriver

37. corkscrew

38. bit, slotted 4

39. bit, Phillips 2

40. bit, Phillips 0 (Pozidrive)

41. bit, Phillips 1 (Pozidrive)

42. bit, Torx 10

43. bit, Torx 15

44. bit case

45. bit wrench

46. female Hex drive, 5 mm for D-SUB connectors

47. female Hex drive, 4 mm for bits

48. bit, Hex 4

49. bit, Torx 8

SwissChamp XLT

The flip-out bit holder securely holds onto the bits so you never have to worry about losing them.

Work Champ

The Work Champ is the SwissChamp’s big brother. It’s the ultimate portable toolbox. Any hardworking individuals with this robust tool by their side will make their day much easier.

BASIC TOOLS & FUNCTIONS

1. large blade

2. bottle opener

3. screwdriver, 5 mm, lockable

4. wood saw

5. metal saw

6. metal file

7. can opener

8. screwdriver, 3 mm

9. wire stripper

10. reamer, punch

11. Phillips screwdriver 0/1, long

12. scissors

13. Phillips screwdriver 1/2

14. pliers

15. wire cutter

16. wire-crimping tool

17. tweezers

18. toothpick

19. key ring

20. mini screwdriver

21. corkscrew

Work Champ

This portable toolbox offers tools for a variety of situations.

Expedition Kit

Adventures are what make life exciting, but sometimes making sure that you have everything can be a hassle. With this kit, you will have everything. The Expedition Kit combines timeless tools, such as knife, scissors, can/bottle opener, and saw, with modern tech. Placed within the scales of the knife is a digital display, and by pressing the Victorinox logo you can access a thermometer that reads in Fahrenheit and Celsius, a digital watch that reads in 12h and 24h, a countdown, a timer, an altimeter in meters and feet, a barometer, and an alarm. Also included is a sharpening stone and an all-in-one ruler/magnifying glass/thermometer/compass. The only thing more amazing than the craftsmanship of this piece is the fact that all of this fits into a beautiful leather belt pouch.

BASIC TOOLS & FUNCTIONS

1. sharpening stone

2. ruler (inches)

3. ruler (cm)

4. compass

5. magnifying glass

6. thermometer (°C)

7. thermometer (°F)

8. spirit level

9. large blade

10. small blade

11. reamer, punch and sewing awl

12. can opener

13. screwdriver, 3 mm

14. bottle opener

15. screwdriver, 6 mm

16. wire stripper

17. scissors

18. nail file

19. key ring

20. toothpick

21. tweezers

22. Phillips screwdriver 1/2

23. digital watch (12h)

24. digital watch (24h)

25. countdown

26. timer

27. altimeter (m)

28. altimeter (feet)

29. barometer

30. alarm

31. pressurized ballpoint pen

32. pin, stainless steel

33. metal saw

34. metal file

35. nail cleaner

36. wood saw

37. screwdriver, 2.5 mm

38. chisel, 4 mm

39. LED

40. mini screwdriver

41. corkscrew

42. multipurpose hook

Expedition Kit

This kit is perfect for outdoor professionals such as wilderness guides. Or that friend who just loves to have a lot of gadgets.

Fisherman

Your new best friend that will fit nicely in a tackle box slot, the Fisherman is ready to help you cut line, take out hooks, carry fish, and so much more. Don’t forget to use the built-in ruler to measure the catch of the day!

BASIC TOOLS & FUNCTIONS

1. large blade

2. small blade

3. can opener

4. screwdriver, 3 mm

5. bottle opener

6. screwdriver, 6 mm

7. wire stripper

8. reamer, punch and sewing awl

9. Phillips screwdriver 1/2

10. scissors

11. fish scaler

12. ruler (inches)

13. ruler (cm)

14. hook disgorger

15. multipurpose hook

16. toothpick

17. tweezers

18. key ring

Fisherman

This useful model offers fishermen an assortment of useful tools.

Evolution S54

The Evolution S54 looks like it can do it all! Have some light-duty maintenance in mind? No problem, it comes with a nut wrench and adjustable pliers. Need to start a fire? No problem, it has a magnifying glass. The built-in ruler and compass are sure to help you get through the woods and to your next secret fishing hole. The safety-conscious trekker will appreciate the locking mechanism on the knife blade of this medium-sized model.

BASIC TOOLS & FUNCTIONS

1. key ring

2. toothpick

3. tweezers

4. large blade

5. nail file

6. nail cleaner

7. corkscrew

8. bottle opener

9. wire stripper

10. screwdriver, 5 mm

11. can opener

12. screwdriver, 3 mm

13. reamer, punch and sewing awl

14. wood saw

15. magnifying glass

16. screwdriver, 3.5 mm

17. compass

18. ruler (cm)

19. ruler (inches)

20. sight line

21. pliers

22. wire cutter

23. wire-crimping tool

24. nut wrench

25. adjustable opening

26. scissors

27. metal saw

28. metal file

29. fish scaler

30. hook disgorger

31. Phillips screwdriver 1/2

32. universal wrench M3, M4, M5

Evolution S54

I like how a metal frame was used for the magnifying glass on this model.

Spartan

As far as medium models go, you can’t get more classic than the Officer’s Knife, and the Spartan falls right in line.

BASIC TOOLS & FUNCTIONS

1. large blade

2. small blade

3. can opener

4. screwdriver, 3 mm

5. bottle opener

6. screwdriver, 6 mm

7. wire stripper

8. reamer, punch and sewing awl

9. corkscrew

10. toothpick

11. tweezers

12. key ring

Spartan

With twelve basic tools, the Spartan is an EDC knife for everyone.

Hercules

This model feels as slim as a medium knife but in a robust package. I have always liked the Swiss Army Knife’s large straight knife, and using the even larger knife of the Hercules is quite a treat.

BASIC TOOLS & FUNCTIONS

1. large blade

2. can opener

3. screwdriver, 3 mm

4. bottle opener

5. screwdriver, 5 mm, lockable

6. wire stripper

7. reamer, punch

8. Phillips screwdriver 0/1, long

9. scissors

10. toothpick

11. tweezers

12. key ring

13. wood saw

14. corkscrew

15. Phillips screwdriver, 1/2

16. pliers

17. wire cutter

18. wire-crimping tool

Expedition Kit

Just as the name indicates, the Hercules is a large, strong knife ready for some tough jobs!

The Locksmith

Simplicity meets elegance and functionality with the Locksmith. The one-handed-opening straight blade snaps soundly into the blade-locking mechanism, adding a great degree of safety. I hadn’t experienced any of the Swiss Army Knives that were designed to be opened one-handed until I tried out the Locksmith. I have to say that its operation is very smooth.

BASIC TOOLS & FUNCTIONS

1. large blade

2. reamer, punch

3. can opener

4. screwdriver, 3 mm

5. bottle opener

6. screwdriver, 5 mm, lockable

7. wire stripper

8. wood saw

9. metal saw

10. metal file

11. Phillips screwdriver 1/2

12. key ring

13. toothpick

14. tweezers

The Locksmith

In case you are wondering, the “hole” in the large blade is there to allow the blade to be opened with one hand.

The Hunter

The Hunter is the true companion of any outdoorsman. With a wood saw for firewood collecting, a small gutting blade, and a large straight knife for all your cutting needs, what more could you ask for in a tool on a hunting trip?

BASIC TOOLS & FUNCTIONS

1. large blade

2. can opener

3. bottle opener

4. screwdriver, 5 mm

5. wire stripper

6. small gutting blade

7. reamer, punch

8. corkscrew

9. wood saw

10. tweezers

11. toothpick

12. key ring

The Hunter

The design of the gutting blade allows for great control around areas that shouldn’t be cut into.

Ranger Grip Boatsman

When you’re out on the water, the Ranger Grip Boatsman is the tool you’re going to want by your side. With a shackle opener, needle-nosed pliers, and removable bits, this model is ready for anything a day on the boat can throw at you.

BASIC TOOLS & FUNCTIONS

1. key ring

2. toothpick

3. tweezers

4. bit, slotted 4.5

5. bit, Phillips 3

6. bottle opener

7. screwdriver, 5 mm

8. wire stripper

9. large blade with wavy edge

10. reamer, punch and sewing awl

11. corkscrew

12. can opener

13. screwdriver, 3 mm

14. shackle opener

15. marlin spike

16. needle-nosed pliers

Ranger Grip Boatsman

The hole in the handle located just under the corkscrew is where the removable bits are inserted when used. The handle of the needle-nosed pliers is extremely comfortable to use.

RescueTool

Whether you are a professional first responder or just making your daily commute, the RescueTool is the model you hope you never have to use, but also hope is always there if you need it. While simple in appearance, it boasts some amazing, lifesaving features: a seat belt cutter, a window breaker, a shatterproof glass disc cutter, and a thicker bottle opener that can be used as a mini crowbar. The disc saw and glass breaker are easily removed if new ones need to be installed.

BASIC TOOLS & FUNCTIONS

1. large blade with wavy edge

2. seat belt cutter

3. reamer, punch

4. disc saw for shatterproof glass

5. bottle opener

6. screwdriver, 5 mm, lockable

7. wire stripper

8. Phillips screwdriver 1/2

9. window breaker

10. key ring

11. toothpick

12. tweezers

RescueTool

The phosphorescent yellow color of the knife and holster will make sure you can find this tool when it counts.

Skipper

The Skipper models have sailing-specific tools, such as marlin spikes and a shackle tool, available to make your day on the water easier.

BASIC TOOLS & FUNCTIONS

1. large blade with wavy edge

2. bottle opener

3. screwdriver, 5 mm, lockable

4. wire stripper

5. shackle opener

6. marlin spike

7. can opener

8. screwdriver, 3 mm

9. reamer, punch

10. corkscrew

11. Phillips screwdriver 1/2

12. pliers

13. wire cutter

14. wire-crimping tool

15. tweezers

16. toothpick

17. key ring

18. lanyard

Skipper

The tip of the shackle tool can be used to deal with tough knots and other cordage needs a fisherman may have.

Hunter Pro

The Hunter Pro stands out because it is one of the few single-blade knives offered by Victorinox. Interestingly, this knife was designed for hunters in the United States, who expect a lot from their hunting knives. The polyamide handle is incredibly comfortable and allows for a firm grip when handling the robust, lockable blade that is designed to be opened one-handed.

BASIC TOOLS & FUNCTIONS

1. large blade

Hunter Pro

The Hunter Pro is perfect for the professional hunting or fishing guide.

Swiss Soldier’s Knife 08

This Soldier’s Knife is the modern version of the knife that started it all. Simple, tough, and highly functional in the field, the Soldier’s Knife is the reason that knives made by Victorinox have been carried by Swiss soldiers for over 100 years. Getting back to basics, the Soldier’s Knife demonstrates that just a few tools can get a lot of work done.

BASIC TOOLS & FUNCTIONS

1. large blade with wavy edge

2. reamer, punch

3. bottle opener

4. screwdriver, 5 mm, lockable

5. wire stripper

6. wood saw

7. Phillips screwdriver 1/2

8. can opener

9. screwdriver, 3 mm

10. key ring

Swiss Soldier’s Knife 08

You will not find the tweezers or toothpick on this model, but that doesn’t slow the Soldier’s Knife down one bit.

Knife Tools and Functions

Accessories

All tools need a little love and care from time to time, and the Swiss Army Knife is no different. Using the multi-tool oil (see here) will ensure that your Swiss Army Knife continues to function as flawlessly as it did on the day you unboxed it.

The metal chain combines style and function for any Swiss Army Knife owner. The main clip, which is stamped with Victorinox’s logo, attaches to your belt. There are two chains that branch off to attach a key and your Swiss Army Knife.

This little bottle doesn’t take up much space so it can always fit in your pack.

You won’t lose your Swiss Army Knife when it’s attached to the chain and clip. Pieces can be removed from the clip and chains for other purposes if needed.

Tired of digging around in your pockets for your Swiss Army Knife? There are different styles of belt pouches available: small, large, leather, or nylon. These pouches help keep your Swiss Army Knife protected while remaining accessible at all times.

Victorinox offers a dual knife sharpener that is very compact. It is roughly the size of a fountain pen.

A bonus of having a leather pouch is that it can be used as a strop for sharpening a knife in the field.

The pocket clip ensures that you know where your sharpener is at all times.

After removing the cap, there is a removable two-sided sharpener. A V-shaped ceramic sharpener is on one end for fine-tuning an edge.

Flipping the sharpener around allows you to use the stone sharpener, which will aid in restoring a very dull edge. I like that the stone sharpener has a groove down the middle for sharpening fishhooks.

The smaller, unfixed tools of the Swiss Army Knife, such as the pin, pen, tweezers, and toothpick, can be easy to lose—mainly due to their size, not because they would ever fall out of the frame. Other parts, such as the springs and the key ring, may simply wear out after years of use. If you find yourself in this situation, don’t worry, because all these parts can be ordered individually from Victorinox. Of course, the true Swiss Army Knife fan who has several different models will have the replacement parts kit, which is filled with toothpicks, tweezers, pens, key rings, and springs. Everything is well organized inside a plastic container and is kept safe by an exterior slide lock.

The kit comes with an inventory list that specifies the different sizes of the small replacement tools, as well as their location within the box, just like a box of chocolates.

Adding Your Own Accessories

Packed with several tools, the Swiss Army Knife takes the place of several items in your pocket or pack. You won’t have to carry around the extra weight of several tools. As handy as the Swiss Army Knife already is, there is still more that can be done with it.

Pictured below is what I would call the most basic survival kit that one can make with the Swiss Army Knife. This is my personal SwissChamp, which I believe to be one of Victorinox’s best models. I’ve added a few items of my own. Making fire is critical in many situations, so I included a ferrocerium rod. Extra key rings help in attaching tools and have a multitude of other purposes. A signaling whistle can alert anyone to my presence. I have also added some small lengths of cordage. Paracord may seem bulky, but when wrapped up it fits comfortably in one’s pocket. The tools I included can easily be removed from the key ring, but they make it a nice, inclusive kit.

The SwissChamp with a ferrocerium rod, a whistle, paracord lanyards, and extra key rings.

A WORD OF ADVICE

Other than your mind, the knife is the single most important tool to have. The Swiss Army Knife is so useful that you don’t want to lose it. You should carry it on your person rather than stuffed away in your bag. Keep it in your pocket or clipped to a chain on your belt. If your bag is ever lost or stolen, you can still get by fairly well with the Swiss Army Knife, especially with the modifications I suggested.

As full as the Swiss Army Knife is, there is still some space that you can use, so why not use it? The corkscrew on the SwissChamp is located so that the space around it can be used to store different materials. A ferrocerium rod, for example, can be cut to size and placed there.

There are many different ways in which you can modify and add to your setup. Take time to figure out what you need from your Swiss Army Knife, then make it your own!

NEW LOOK

Want a new look for your trusty tool? It’s as easy as popping off the old scales and pressing on the new ones.

Winning designs from a recent Victorinox Classic Limited Edition Design Contest. What would your personal Swiss Army Knife look like?

PART 2:

PREPARATION

No matter where you take it, there is a Swiss Army Knife for any situation.

Cleaning, Sharpening, and Maintenance Tips

Cleaning the Swiss Army Knife

Over the years, dirt, sand, and other debris will find their way into the crevices and fine parts of the Swiss Army Knife. This will eventually wear on the parts and make it difficult to open the various tools. Since the Swiss Army Knife is made from high-grade stainless steel and other quality components, it will last for generations if properly maintained. Cleaning and oiling regularly will give it a nice appearance and make sure that it functions the way it is supposed to.

When cleaning, first remove all the tools that are not fixed to the frame. These can be cleaned and wiped down separately.

Any small container, such as this plastic tote, will work.

Pictured left to right: miniature screwdriver, toothpick, tweezers, and ballpoint pen.

A WORD OF ADVICE

Do not submerse in water any model that has a flashlight or digital components.

Unless it has electronic components, dip the entire Swiss Army Knife into a container of warm water and swirl it around. While it is under the water, open and close each tool several times to get rid of any dirt and debris that may be in the crevices.

Use a sponge with a soft scouring pad on one side to help scrub away any marks and hard-to-remove dirt. Do not use a harder abrasive such as steel wool or sandpaper. After washing, dry each tool and the frame with a rag or towel. Even though it is made from stainless steel, it needs to be dried thoroughly.

Apply a small amount of the multi-tool oil to any moving parts a tool might have, such as where the two pieces of the scissors and pliers intersect. To lubricate the moving parts, apply a small amount—a single drop—to the hinge points of the tools. Open and close the tools several times to help spread the oil. Wipe down the smaller tools—toothpick, tweezers, etc.—with warm water and put them back in the frame. The cleaning process is complete. If you’re installing new scales, use a vice grip or pair of pliers to gently squeeze and snap the new scales into place. When compressing the scales, use a piece of cloth or any other type of padding between the vice grip and Swiss Army Knife to prevent damage to the scales.

After applying oil, open and close the tools several times to help spread the oil.

Cut about half an inch (2.5cm) off the end of a sponge for this step.