Swiss Army Knife Question

WillbertR

Basic Member
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Oct 5, 2025
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Why is the Iconic Swiss Army Knife Burgundy, when the Swiss Flag is Red? Yes I know Victorinox do others colours - But No Red???

Swiss Flag
 
The Swiss Army Knife (SAK) has undergone changes in color from the traditional bright red to a more burgundy hue over time, primarily due to aesthetic choices and modern branding.

Historical Color Choices​

  1. Original Color: The first Swiss Army knives were patented in 1897 with a bright red color, which was functional for visibility against snow, aligning with its military origins.
  2. Introduction of Burgundy: Over the years, Victorinox, the primary manufacturer, began offering burgundy as a color option for their knives. This shift occurred as they expanded their product lines to appeal to a broader consumer base and differentiate various models.
  3. Modern Models: Today, many modern versions of the SAK feature a deeper, richer burgundy, often due to the materials and finishes that are used in production. This gives them a distinct look that still pays homage to the original design.

AI generated
 
"Burgandy" is only just a darker/"richer" red.
IMHO "Burgandy" looks better than "fire engine" red.
(and on a vehicle the Brite "fire engine red" is statistically more likely to receive a speeding ticket ... even if going a bit  under the limit when the law person spots you. Back in the 1980's I had a bright red '77 Olds Cutkass with the V-6 engine that had a flat camshaft on at least one cylinder. I received a speeding ticket for going 49 mph in a 35 zone. From the stop light, that car could barely hit 30 when I got pulled over. He confused me for the primer gray '63 or '64 Impalla that WAS speeding. My one and only speeding ticket. 🤬)
 
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Bearing in mind it’s a “Swiss Army Knife”, shouldn’t it be nearer in colour to the Swiss Flag?

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The wife says my one RangerGrip is Burgundy , more than red .

My other one is OD type dark green, forest green .

Just marketing unless you actually need a bright hi-vis or camo . 🤷‍♂️
 
The wife says my one RangerGrip is Burgundy , more than red .

My other one is OD type dark green, forest green .

Just marketing unless you actually need a bright hi-vis or camo . 🤷‍♂️

Not to mention the RangerGrip comes in both hi-vis Yellow, as well as a limited run in orange that was done. They're nice, the model with the largest/most useful saw!
 
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