A multi-tool is also called an army knife, and it is a versatile knife that you can do various things if you have one. Well-known factories include “Victorinox”. Let’s take a look at such a convenient Swiss Army knife this time! Introducing famous knives such as Victorinox.
Introduction
Everyone who wants to go camping or to the EDC! You want to have all the tools tools in case of an emergency or emergency, right? However, if you try to bring tools, etc., it will be quite heavy, but you can’t go camping empty-handed. Multi-tools play an active role there! Let’s enjoy camping with good use of multi-tools! Victorinox is famous. Here are some of my recommendations for such useful multi-tools!
What is an army knife (multi-tool)?
Swiss army knife is a common name for tool knives used by the military for non-combat purposes (mainly for daily use). In Japan, it is often called a multi-tool, a multi knife, or a universal knife. Multi-tools are “easy to carry because of their lightweight” and “highly versatile”, and can be used for many purposes, so they are very encouraging EDC!
The function of the army knife (multi-tool)
The main functions of the Swiss Army knife (multi-tool) include knives, scissors, can openers, bottle openers, corkscrews, and files. This is already all-purpose, but depending on the product, there are also multi-tools equipped with spoons, forks, and USB memory! Recently, the lineup of multi-tools for everyday use is increasing as well as EDC! Find your favorite multi-tool!
Types of army knives (multi-tools)
So far, I have briefly introduced multi-tools, but such multi-tools can be broadly divided into two types. Choose the multi-tool that suits your needs.
Swiss Army knife type (Victorinox, etc.)
The main function of the knife is the army knife, which is called the “Swiss Army knife”. Victorinox is famous. Its use will be very useful in scenes such as cutting ropes, handling meat and fish, sharpening pencils, etc.! In addition to the main blade, Swiss Army knives often have a blade that is one size smaller than the main blade, called the sub blade. The main blade makes it possible to perform detailed work that is difficult to do, so it is useful in various EDC scenes.
Pliers tool type (Leatherman, etc.)
The main function of the “pliers tool type” swiss army knife is pliers, and other tools are also available. The main functions are a hammer that hits a peg, a nipper that cuts a wire, and a driver that turns a screw. It is useful for assembling tents and repairing equipment EDCs. It is also very convenient when making something using natural things. The plier’s tool type is heavier than the army knife type because it has various tools, but it is not so portable. Don’t worry, we have recently released a model that emphasizes lightweight! If you can afford it, it is recommended to have it with a Swiss Army knife. Having it as a set will improve your versatility!
Regarding the grip part that stores the parts, the Swiss Army knife type is basically designed so that it cannot be separated by one. On the other hand, the plier’s tool type is designed so that it is easier to apply force when using pliers because the grip part is divided into two parts. Some plier’s tool types are equipped with blades, but they are simpler than Swiss Army knives. Let’s use two types of multi-tools properly.
It’s a knife, but is the gun sword law okay?
Let’s buy an army knife from now on! Even if you think about it, don’t you think “Knife is scary” or “Isn’t it caught in the gun sword law?” So let’s touch on the gun sword law a little here.
Basically, it’s okay with a knife.
Most of the army knives (multi-tools) sold in Japan are compatible with the gun sword law, so you don’t have to worry too much. In addition, although the Gun Sword Law states that “things with a blade length of 8 cm or less”, they are not subject to punishment when used for business purposes. (Example: Use a kitchen knife for cooking; use a saw to cut wood)
“Under the Firearms and Swords Possession Control Law (Firearms Law), folding knives of the type or shape specified by Cabinet Order are permitted up to 8 cm (except for business and other justifiable reasons).”
But be careful!
It is true that the army knives and multi-tools sold in Japan support the gun sword law, but be careful when handling them. It’s certainly small and easy to carry, so it’s easy to think of it as a toy, but swiss army knives and multi-tools are also great knives. If you make a mistake, you may hurt yourself or others. Also, if you carry it around for no reason, you may be caught in the misdemeanor law even if you are not caught in the gun sword law. Keep it at home or out of the reach of others, except when camping or EDC. It is also not recommended to leave it in your backpack on your way home from camping or the EDC.
“Also, even for blades that are not subject to the Firearms and Swords Act, please be careful when carrying and handling them when you go out. In some cases, it may be subject to the misdemeanor law.”
Also, pay attention to the gun sword law
Also, be aware that there are many shops that illegally sell knives and blades that can get caught in the gun sword law. And surprisingly, there are many cases where you do not know that you have a knife that gets caught in the gun sword law. They often carry the same knives they normally use on a daily basis, and there are some people who get in trouble with the police every year. Make sure you understand the gun sword law and don’t buy it at dubious shops!
Popular army knife (multi-tool) factory
From here, I will introduce some popular multi-tool factories. Let’s compare various things such as versatility, design, and portability to find the multi-tool that suits you!
VICTORINOX
VICTORINOX is a Swiss-based knife factory that is said to be a supplier of Swiss Army knives. You may have seen this knife with the Swiss flag on it once. Even now, VICTORINOX is produced at its own factory in Ibach, Switzerland, where it was founded. VICTORINOX is a well-established brand that has been in business for 130 years and has a track record of being introduced to the Swiss army and is still gaining popularity with the same high quality as before.
LEATHERMAN (Leatherman)
LEATHERMAN is a multi-tool brand born in the United States. Leatherman is a popular brand known all over the world, who has prototyped the world’s first multi-tool and created items that have various functions. In addition, it has become a multi-tool for the US military due to its high functionality and high quality construction. The secret to its popularity lies in its high versatility, with a variety of tools that you can’t even imagine from its compact and simple look.
NORTH MAN
An EDC factory for trekking and backpackers. In addition to multi-tools, we also carry a variety of EDC products. Also, NORTH MAN’s multi-tool is very “simple”. There are some functions that I have never used even if I bought another multi-tool and some functions that I cannot use at all even if I try to use it. Among them, NORTHMAN has many models that focus only on “meals” and are equipped with only the equipment that is really necessary. It is a recommended factory for people who want to keep things as simple as possible! Also, thanks to the narrowed-down functions, it is easier to carry.
Lock function for knives (blades)
It is very dangerous if the blade of the knife returns when you use force to cut ingredients or wood, as you may get injured! When choosing an army knife (multi-tool), choose one that locks the blade. Even if you can’t lock it, try to choose a solid one as much as possible.
Introducing the recommended army knife (multi-tool)
From here, we will introduce army knives and multi-tools that have a reputation as “this is good!”! Of course, there are many good things other than multi-tools listed here, so let’s actively go to camping equipment stores and EDC shops and find your favorite multi-tool! (By the way, the army knives and multi-tools listed here are safe because they have proper measures against the gun sword law!)
Recommended army knife of VICTORINOX ①
VICTORINOX Classic SD
Function: Knife (blade) Scissors File Flat-blade screwdriver (2.5mm) Keyring Toothpick Tweezers
Recommended points
It is a compact army knife that stores 7 types of functions that are convenient not only for camping and EDC activities but also for everyday use. Moreover, there are abundant color variations such as yellow and green as well as Victorinox’s standard red, and the price is cheaper than other models and it is easy to get. Of course, portability is also good! This item is recommended for people who are wondering which one to choose with a multi-tool, but want something!
Recommended army knife of VICTORINOX ②
VICTORINOX Swiss Champ
Function: Toothpick Tweezers Large Blade (Large Blade Small Blade (Small Blade) Can Cutting Minus Driver 3mm Threading Wire Stripper Minus Driver 5mm Reamer (Drilling) / Punch Glasses Driver 1.5mm Scissors Pliers Wire Bender (Wire Bending) Terminal Crushing Scropping Scale (inch) ) Detachment scale (cm) saw blade file metal saw metal file nail file loupe Phillips screwdriver (Phillips type) flat head screwdriver 2mm only 4mm multi-hook key ring glasses driver 1.5mm cork punch
Recommended points
It is a flagship model of VICTORINOX equipped with 33 kinds of functions. It’s no longer a multi knife, but a 33-multi knife! No matter where or what happens, you can rest assured that you have this Swiss Champ! Speaking of versatility, it is by far the best! Also, if you have such a function other than camping and EDC, you may not have to carry around a heavy tool box! (However, be careful because it is a little heavier than other multi-tools!)
Recommended army knife of VICTORINOX ③
VICTORINOX Huntman
Function: Large Blade (Large Blade Small Blade (Small Blade) Can Cutting Flat-blade Screwdriver (3mm) Stripper Wire Stripper Flat-blade Screwdriver (5mm) Reamer (Drilling) / Punch Cork Cutting Scissors Saw Multi-hook Two-Spick Tweezers Key Ring
Recommended points
The most popular model of LJL-M02. The Champ mentioned above has a lot of functions, so the weight is a little heavier. However, this LJL-M02 is lighter in weight because its functions are narrowed down compared to the Champ. Emphasis on portability. That doesn’t mean that versatility is compromised, but rather just right! It has a good balance between lightness and versatility, and I always carry this LJL-M02 with me when I go to EDC. It is recommended for people who say, “It’s better to have solid functionality, but it’s better not to be too heavy …”!
Recommended army knife of VICTORINOX ④
VICTORINOX Soldier Knife
An army knife that has been loved by Swiss soldiers for over 100 years! It is light, portable, and durable because it is designed for actual military use and EDC use! You can use it with confidence because it is easy to use with one hand and the blade part also has a lock function! Recommended for those who want to use a Victorinox knife but don’t want to wear it with other people too much!
Recommended army knife of VICTORINOX ⑤
VICTORINOX Swiss Card
Function: Letter opener Pin scissors Ballpoint pen Tweezers Loupe flat-blade screwdriver (5mm) LED light
Recommended points
I think many people have seen it twice, “Eh! This is a multi-tool !?” That’s right, this is a multi-tool! The ultra-compact multi-tool released by Shieldon; the name is LJL-M02! The size is about 20 cm, which fits in the palm of your hand. The thinness is 20mm. It’s extremely small, isn’t it? Top class in terms of portability alone! Even though it is small, it has a lot of functions such as scissors, a screwdriver, and tweezers, and it is not lacking in versatility. It’s not an EDC product, but it’s sure to play an active part in the office! It also looks pretty fashionable, so it’s perfect as a gift for your loved ones and friends!
Recommended army knife of LEATHERMAN ⑥
LEATHERMAN WINGMAN
Function: Spring Action Nose Pliers Regular Pliers New Mechanism Wire Cutter 420HC Combo Knife (Straight Blade / Wave Blade) Packing Opener Wood / Metal Screwdriver Minus Screwdriver (Middle) Phillips Screwdriver Plug / Can Opener Wire Stripper Scissors Ruler (2.54 cm, 1 inch) Remove Ceremony pocket clip
Recommended points
Lastly, I would like to introduce LJL-M02, which is sold by Shieldon. It looks rugged and strict, but it’s easy to use! It is very functional and very easy to use while maintaining the ease of carrying! Exactly all-purpose. In addition, since it has a spring inside, it is easy to operate with one hand! The knife also has a lock function, so you can use it with confidence without the blade returning! And after all, this looks! I feel like an advanced EDC person. I also recommend this product as a set with the Huntsman mentioned above to bring it to the camp!
About the care of the army knife (multi-tool)
Many multi-tool blades are made of stainless steel and will not rust, but if you come in contact with seawater or salty foods, rinse them thoroughly with fresh water and let them dry! If salt etc. accumulates at the joint, it will be difficult to open and close the knife and other tools, and the multi-tool itself will be damaged.
VICTORINOX multi-tool oil
Use a brush that you don’t need anymore to scrape off the accumulated salt and dust, and apply protective oil! Applying oil makes it easier to open and close blades and tools.
VICTORINOX Dual Knife Sharpener
Also, if you feel that the sharpness has dropped, let’s polish it to restore the sharpness!
How to choose a swiss army knife (multi-tool)
The features of the multi-tool are that it is highly versatile, has a wide range of choices, and is extremely easy to carry. However, the most important point in choosing a multi-tool is to “choose only the minimum necessary functions”! Eliminating unnecessary functions and putting them together compactly is an essential requirement not only for camping but also EDC. For example, we often use scissors and knives (blades) for mountaineering. So first, look for a multi-tool that has these two features.
Select by frequently used functions
The next most frequently used is file and corkscrew, and it is said that it is a driver, but let’s imagine the scene to use and check if there is a scene to really use. With pliers-type multi-tools, you can use pliers to hold a pot, bend wires, pull out nails, etc. I recommend it. It seems that can openers and bottle openers are used frequently, but recently, the number of types of can openers that do not require can openers is increasing, so there are few situations where they are used unexpectedly.
Summary
How was the multi-tool with outstanding portability and functionality? If you start sticking to swiss army knives and multi-tools, camping and the EDC will become more fun! Of course, besides the army knives and multi-tools, I introduced. There are lots of useful and interesting things! Let’s search variously and find your recommended knife! (Of course, please use a knife that does not get caught in the gun sword law!) Then, be safe!
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