Victorinox Soldier Knife 08

This is the knife that the Swiss Army issues to its soldiers. Not a special military-themed series: the current standard-issue model.

What has changed compared to previous models

As the requirements of the Swiss Army have increased, the knife has followed suit. The two key improvements are the locking mechanism and one-handed opening - two features no previous soldier's knife offered.

The main blade

Serrated edge, one-handed opening, and locks when open. The locking mechanism is a safety issue: a blade that closes on the fingers under pressure is the classic flaw of non-locking folding knives.

The screwdriver also locks - it is the tool that is subjected to the most force.

The tools

• Blades
• Wood saw
• Can opener with 3 mm screwdriver
• Bottle opener with 7 mm screwdriver
• Reamer and punch

All made from the finest stainless steels.

The handle

Two-component plastic. This is what provides the grip, and it is a real practical advancement: the tool adapts to the hand instead of forcing the hand to adapt to the tool.

For over a hundred years, Swiss soldiers have been equipped with Victorinox knives: the 08 is the latest link in this series.