The Swiss Army Knife

[wlifter123]

What's the history behind the SAK? When did it come about? What was the first model. Was it only for the Swiss Army? If it was ever issued to the swiss army, is it still? Any other information would be appreciated too. I own five of these knives, yet I have never bothered to learn anything about them. Any help will be appreciated.

I'm sure I could do a quick search on the web and get my answers, but then what's the fun of belonging to a forum. I did a quick search in the forums and got "Error".

 

[UnknownVT]

Victorinox and Wenger are the only two official Swiss Army Knife manufacturers who are entitled to call their knives as such.

Both do produce a "soldier" model with aluminum handles as standard issue to every soldier.
The very first knives were issued in 1886, but this was a single blade model.
It was not until 1891 when Karl Elsener (founder of Victorinox) submitted and had accepted a multi-function pocket knife that resembles the ones issued today.
Victorinox were the original SAK makers - hence their advertizing moniker of the "Original SAK"

Victorinox brief timeline:
http://www.victorinox.ch/newsite/en/portrait/index.htm

Wenger History:
the Swiss soldier's Knife - 1886
http://www.wengerna.com/history_3.htm
Wenger is born 1893
http://www.wengerna.com/history_4.htm

Swiss Army Brands (aka Forschners) official US importers of Victorinox - video history:
http://www.swissarmy.com/corporate/history.cfm


The current official Swiss soldier issue knives:

Victorinox "Soldier"

Wenger "Standard Issue"

Check out this tool-by-tool review of the "everything" SAKs

SAKs - Victorinox or Wenger

 

[Jazzman]

Good question lifter. I think that it's just one of those topics that are just taken for granted. I'm glad that it was finally asked!
Matt