We NOW know what's happening at Victorinox (SAK)

[@DonCovin]

An example to all companies on how to respond to criticism from their community!

[@caffiend.]

Constructive criticism

[@chrishernandez8525]

More of an example on how to voice an opinion which can be considered negative. He held an incredible understanding of pros and cons and despite the nature of things nowadays, he stopped himself from narrowing everything down to an ultimate of worst or best ever. Well done all around

[@peterkunz3092]

Only possible if you have superior products 😂

[@DiHandley]

Absolutely. Really nice to see. And yes I’m a big fan of their products too!

[@DiHandley]

@@peterkunz3092indeed!

[@Swiftwind82]

Hi Jon! This is Jason, Director of the Victorinox Swiss Army Knife Collectors Society (VSAKCS). Wonderful Video! My father (Former VP of Sales for Victorinox USA) and I also just returned from Switzerland spending a wonderful day with Mr. Elsener talking about many of the same things. We suggested several new steel options, talked about revitalizing discontinued models, and suggested some new tool ideas, all of which Mr. Elsener and the team seemed very open to considering! We even got to see a few new designs in person that you did not mention in your video, so I think the coming years will be very exciting for Victorinox enthusiasts. I will be posting much of the same information in our next club newsletter, this year being our club's 25th anniversary Charles and I put together a brand-new model design just for the club members. I can’t wait to reveal it later this summer. ❤

[@nankhanna]

Hi Jason. I bought my knife in Switzerland over 10 years ago. I also have the card. How do we join the society?

[@danielcharrie7125]

Ty for the new video about your visit in Switzerland! I don't mind innovations, but please Victorinox : never stop producing your good old wonderful simple basic knives ! Ty!

[@Swiftwind82]

@@nankhanna Hello! I tried posting the address here, but it looks like the comment was rejected. If you google search for VSAKCS club, you will find my business website, and there is a tab on the page to sign up for the club! I hope this helps!

[@federicodecuadro5672]

Hi there! industrial designer and long time user here... I think they did a good job re-categorizing them, but they should probably go a step further and group them based on the users different profession or hobbies. This could lead to new tool combinations or even the development of new tools, as the ones needed by a diver, a rock climber, a watchmaker, and a PC repair technician are probably very different. This would also make the decision process a lot easier when purchasing your knife or when buying one as a gift.

[@deplorabledave1048]

NO shout out to RDA's Angus MacGyver?????? WTF??? That show did more for Swiss Army knives than anything before or since. I know he sometimes carried a Weger made SAK, but Victorinox no doubt got tons of FREE publicity. Mac could have easily carried a Leatherman tool instead which WAS available at the time. But it was an SAK every day, all the time, every episode. I cant believe you ingrates.

[@paulatreides6779]

I'm very pleased on how Victorinox responded to your video. They are an icon and I want them to remain like that! Kudos to Mr. Elsener for riding a bike to work!

[@JonGadget]

Totally 😊

[@jonlouis2582]

Exactly. A company you can feel good about supporting!

[@KD__.]

This is a 1st class lesson in customer relations. Well done to the sak company for their response. It truly makes me happy that they haven't sold out to the far east like most greedy corporations and that they listen to the people in the street 👌🏻 Excellent.

[@greasemonkey90065]

Biggest reason I buy SAKs are because they are swiss made. The quality is amazing. I carry many Leathermans, however, i have an affinity for SAKs; they're wonderfully finished, durable, and they have many choices. Victorinox, PLEASE don't change your manufacturing location, Swiss make great tools.

[@JonGadget]

I don't think they have plans to go anywhere 😊

[@greekveteran2715]

If you get a Victorinox Spirit X, you'll never carry your Leatherman again! That's how it worked for me and many others.. You can't beat Victorinox,they are by far the best on what they do.

[@CristiNeagu]

@@greekveteran2715 It's a nice multitool, but it doesn't beat a Wave.

[@greekveteran2715]

@@CristiNeagu There is none who had both, and chose the Wave. Have you tried the Spirit X long enough? Quality is WAY higher makes any Leatherman feel like junk, Spirit X also offers more tools thus more utlity/versatily. Even the knife holds it's edge longer than the soft steel on the wave. I own 2 Spirt X's and way more Leathermans, my Leathermans all eat dust in my drawers, I'll never curry one again. PS MY Leathermans have failed, Spirt X had never a single tiny fail, none. So again, have you ever tried a Spirt X or a Swisstool long enough?

[@strickostricko]

@@greekveteran2715just googled them…ridiculous money. 😮

[@ChintanPandya01]

I have been carrying a Swiss Army knife for 20 years and I still have the one I bought 15 years ago, going strong! My daily carry is a Spartan and I use the Huntsman around the house for chores. Let me say that Victorinox as a brand has remained unwavering since I discovered them, and their commitment to quality, just being nice to their customers and delivering the promised product consistently is what make them who they are. Can't think of any other brand who has survived this long by remaining essentially unchanged yet modernizing just enough to stay with the times. Mr. Elsner seems like a gem of a person.

[@andrewvanveen1804]

Great commentary. The Spartan is also my daily carry but I understand that it is being discontinued. As I have carries one for more years than I care to remember, I immediately bought 4 more- two as gifts and the other two as my spares. I heartily recommend the Hunter Pro Alox as a belt knife where a fixed blade is not a viable option. Sadly, although I purchased the Venture, I am not pleased with its heft or the original sheath arrangement. I do not find the knife sturdy enough for camping or bush use. The sheath was remedied but the knife is not my go-to fixed blade belt knife because of the heft. On the other hand I still have my original Picknicker and now that I know it can be refurbished I am delighted.

[@ulrichsuter3548]

As a Swiss, I got my first army knife when I was around 12 years old. Got one again during the mandatory army service and had to clean it almost every day during the service since it is one of the most checked items of the sergeants - and if it ain't clean, you won't get your time off to go to a restaurant or get spare time... Victorinox is one of the iconic Swiss brands that make us Swiss immensely proud since it reflects on the attitudes and values we identify with (reliable, precise, durable, clean, etc.)! The Swiss Army knife makes a great present to a son once they reach a mature enough age. Happy to see they do well - weiter so Victorinox und viel Glueck!

[@paulamcclure3402]

Daughters, too. 🙂👍

[@lf2334]

That's really interesting to read. I didn't realize that Switzerland had mandatory military service. I guess I just assumed that because Switzerland is a neutral country in regards to the military that they wouldn't have mandatory military service. That also reminds me how much I miss Switzerland. I was fortunate enough to visit Switzerland and many other European countries 15 years ago or so. Switzerland is truly the most beautiful European country that I had the privilege to visit. I'll never forget the valley in the mountains that I visited that had huge waterfalls everywhere. If only I could remember the name of the town... ha.

[@annc2549]

@@paulamcclure3402 Was just going to add that but you beat me to it! My dad gave me my first Victorinox around the age of 12 and I’ve been a big fan ever since, amassing a bit of a collection. My dad’s 95 years old next week and recently passed on to me his own Swiss Army knife - probably at least 60 years old and in perfect condition.

[@Ybalrid]

One of my favorite posessions and one that I use almost every day is a Victorinox Tinker Deluxe SAK. The very tiny yet very handy scissors and pliers in this thing are surprisingly useful, and the fact that it's inox and plastic, it is a knife that you can keep clean without being affaird it's going to rust

[@JohnW118]

​@@lf2334 The Swiss have a very capable military. In Switzerland, all able-bodied men complete compulsory military service, and many are approved to retain their military firearm at home after service ends, meaning essentially the entire Swiss population of "able-bodied" men, even after their mandatory service ends, could be called up (and willing) to meet a military threat. Those deemed unfit for military service but fit enough to perform other non-military tasks can be assigned to Civil defense. Neutrality does not equate to weakness in Switzerland’s Aggressive Neutrality Policy. The country hosts a huge amount of heavily fortified bunkers, ready-to-blow roadways, and the world’s 38th largest military (in a very small land area). Switzerland could almost literally be shut off from an outside invader. The Swiss have a gun culture that’s on par with Texas’ in the USA. Nearly everyone in Switzerland has served in the military in some capacity, something in the USA is sadly lacking (also organized gun training, which is essentially nonexistent here). Attack Switzerland? a well-armed and well-trained population is ready and trained to rise up to meet a threat. In addition, they manufacture very capable military equipment and effective weapons. No country should mess with the Swiss. AND they all carry a Swiss Army Knife.

[@motrock93b]

One of the things I best about SAK's is their lack of innovation. Classic, high quality devices which carry many memories of those who introduced us the these beautiful tools. It's personal.

[@ensidfkgnur]

Agreed. After moving through lots of different models in my life I've settled on the Deluxe Tinker with a dangle clip. I'm probably gonna buy a backup in case they bend to all the voices calling for innovation and my favorite changes or just disappears. As a maintenance man I even use the hook. I wouldn't mind an inline Phillips but there are different models with them.

[@NocnaDusza]

@@ensidfkgnur To me lack of cork screw is a big L on Deluxe Tinker. I really wish they would continue Deluxe Climber which was the same set of tools as Deluxe Tinker but with cork screw instead of a philips in the back. That was a perfect knife imo.

[@ensidfkgnur]

@@NocnaDusza Agreed. I prefer models without a corkscrew but there are many who need one. The decisions to drop knives from the lineup is brutal for fans. There is a long list of discontinued knives that are now irreplaceable and it put owners in a difficult position. I prefer to carry something that can be replaced. A quick eBay search showed zero Deluxe Climbers, plenty of the standard, but lacking the pliers. Those little pliers put these knives into a different category. They're quite capable! Maybe they'll someday give us the option to order our preferred tool set.

[@NocnaDusza]

@@ensidfkgnur Yeah, to which their own. For example I now settled for Mountaineer because of the metal file included instead of a saw (basically it's a Huntsman with saw replaced with a file). To each their own and whatever they need. As to the fully custom SAK i really doubt that it will be a thing. It would skyrocket the production costs since each would have to be hand made. But, on the other hand, I heard that Victorinox service did offer an option to exchange a tool in your knife if you send it to them. I am not sure if it is a still a thing but if it is, then maybe? We will see in the future I guess (-;

[@brittburton3264]

Some few years ago I saw a documentary about Victorinox, and Karl Eisner had that very same Traveler Light. I wanted one, so I went to the website and couldn’t find it anywhere! Well, I emailed the ‘contact us’ people and… I got an email back, from Karl!!! He told me that it had been not selling good for years, so even though it was his personal favorite, it finally reached the point where sales were down so much that it had to be discontinued. Then he recommended a couple of different knives for me. True story! Hard to believe!

[@JonGadget]

Thanks for sharing - says a lot about the Company 👍

[@garyjacobs2789]

Blade steel is fine ,edc a farmer x àlox . I believe the alox has a better treatment on blade ? Great video

[@grantdavis5992]

My solution for discontinued models is eBay. I have carried a Victorinox SAK for 54+ years, first a Tinker, then in 1985 a Craftsman, then last year I happened upon the Champion Plus. I prefer this over the Champ because I always have a small Knipex and usually a Leatherman Wave, so the pliers just add bulk and are, for me, "the straw that breaks the camel's back." The proportions are wrong for me. I put all the tools on my Champion Plus to work, and I have probably bought about 15 of them on eBay to give as gifts. My children and grandchildren get them with their name laser engraved on the main blade.

[@Solaar_Punk]

Shame, it was cool as heck knife.

[@donrichter3523]

@garyjacobs2789, you can believe it, but it’s not true. A SAK blade is a SAK blade.

[@KitLaughlin]

That final scene in the airport, where you could buy the Swiss Army knife of your choice, was an absolute crack up. Great work Jon.

[@MrTambopaxi]

Terrific video, Jon, and congratulations to Mr. Elsner and Victorinox for their hospitality and thoughtfulness!

[@JonGadget]

Thank you and yes, what a great way for Victorinox and the CEO to respond

[@flybryfly]

First class accommodations to supporting users. Way to go Jon and Victorinox.

[@BabyGonzo5]

When I went to Switzerland for work I was given a Victorinox knife as a gift. I only had hand luggage so I said I couldn’t take it. They told me not to worry it would be allowed it was. Plus seeing the shop in the airport was a surprise. Supporting local companies and promoting the brand.

[@max_ljv]

It is *not* a coincidence that the current EU rules allow boarding with blades that are less than 6cm long. The standard Victorinox has a 58mm blade ;)

[@russellashburn6268]

Thank you again Victorinox for listening and allowing this video to be made. I have been carrying a Tinker for over 30 years daily and I am a huge fan who has spread my love of Victorinox to the next generation. Saying that and knowing you are reading the comments I want to make something very clear to you. The ONLY reason I buy Victorinox knives is because they are Swiss made. If manufacturing is ever moved to China I will never buy another Victorinox. Now that that is out of the way I am very interested in custom knives and would be willing to pay a premium for one. I am interested in a couple of bladeless options but not a huge line and not at the expense of other bladed knives. I personally don't care about innovation as I think there are more than enough knives to choose from. I also have zero desire for a pocket clip and would not buy a SAK with a permanent clip. I too am interested in a higher quality steel but it is not my main concern as my current knives hold an edge just fine.

[@JonGadget]

Thanks for sharing 👍

[@frankkrunk]

I agree with all of that. There's no chance they will ever move production out of Switzerland. After 9/11 they took a massive hit due to the airport sales crashing (due to understandable harsher rules on knives on planes). They just sucked it up and accepted operating in the red for a while. No massive layoffs, no outsourcing. The Swiss have a certain pride in their products and work ethics. And they know how important they are to the local economy. This is how it's supposed to work. Imagine being the CEO and firing 90% of your neighbors, devastating the village you live in, just to make a buck. If they were owned by some faceless investment bank, they'd have outsourced decades ago.

[@Propelled]

The problem with “better blade steel” is that it’s harder to sharpen.

[@TrustinChrist-truthseeker]

​​@@Propellednot necessarily, especially if it is a nice fine grained one like 14c28n or BD1N. Might even be able to do like Nitro-V. Not only will they get crazy sharp, but they also are much easier to sharpen because of the nice fine grain structure. If they are heat treated well which I am sure Victorinox can do, they will far outperform the current steel victorinox uses. That is not saying their current steel is bad by any measure because it is not, but there is a reason why 14c28n and other fine grained steels have become favorites in the EDC community. You get the benefits of being able to get super sharp, being fairly easy to sharpen, and increased edge retention, and in the case of 14c28n, great strength and corrosion resistance to go along with it. Dr. Larrin Thomas who runs Knife Steel Nerds has that one listed as the best budget steel which was selected out of a very wide range of steels including some nice powdersteels. Hope this helps! Sincerely, JS

[@joannehart9624]

What a refreshing video to watch! Rather than getting defensive about the original video, Victorinox viewed this as an opportunity to listen to their customer base, then respond back to the community via Jon's visit with them. Well done!! I've owned a Victorinox since I was a young teenager and now at 66 still own one, although my original was passed down to my son and the one I now have was my father's. Each a family heirloom.

[@BGPhilbin]

I love Victorinox and I am so very pleased to hear their response, their determination to remain in Switzerland, their desire to serve the community and plans for going forward. This is a company that society wishes to exist, which is the internal motto of the company I worked for for 20+ years before retiring. It must be so very gratifying to work within and around Victorinox. I regrettably lost my father-in-law's black Compact while traveling about a decade ago, but still have my 40-year old Climber, which I've updated to today's standards. I'm looking forward to seeing the coming innovations and possibly purchasing one of the bladeless models for my flights.

[@JonGadget]

Thanks for sharing 👍

[@johnfritz8571]

As an Air Force aviator for over 13 years I carried a SAK on every mission I flew. Many of us in my squandron did as back-up to our survival kit. The compactness, quality and utility of the SAK made that choice an easy one for us. I carry the same knife every day today.

[@TheGrenadier97]

I'm very impressed at Victorinox' reaction, Elsener' clarifications and your approach overall. Everything is understandable. My admiration and interest for Victorinox is even higher now.

[@JonGadget]

Mine too!

[@khakicampbell6640]

Kudos to Victorinox for hearing the feedback, inviting you to come visit, and meeting with you in person. An excellent response from a top notch company!

[@Frazzy87]

Probably one of the fewest follow up videos that I’ve ever been so excited to watch

[@lcbowen3]

Glad to see knifeless tools are being brought forward - I live in Japan, where knifes with blades longer than 2.5cm are illegal, so finding a carry tool is almost impossible.

[@JonGadget]

I never knew that!

[@donrichter3523]

So no blades longer than their penises……got it

[@lo5492]

Here in italy we don’t have a specific cm limit, but we do have the need to justify having a knife, and if we can’t provide a good reason it could be a problem. It’s all in the hands of the officer that stops you…aside of being an absolutely ridicule law there is no way of being 100% sure you wont get any problems…so I really wish for a knifeless sak. Plus ı never use a knife during city activities. Scissors are enough imo.

[@stephenleonard6336]

Well done to you, Jon. And well done to Victorinox for inviting you out and listening!

[@JonGadget]

Thank you. Yes, great response from Victorinox 👍

[@dylanatkinson1426]

Gotta love old school legacy companies which 1/ are secure enough to accept positive criticism. 2/ engage with the public in a serious manner. 3/ be willing to make U-turns if necessary. 4/ value the legacy, not only of the founding family, but also of the Joe Bloggs families who have also worked for the company for generations. How refreshing to hear about a company which sincerely puts its customers ahead of profits.

[@Dracomies]

This actually explains a lot that I didn't really think about. The reason why you can't really customize a Victorinox to get exactly what you want for every single person is that it can't be automated, that has to be done by a person which costs more money. Thank you for opening our eyes to the situation! :D

[@F3udF1st]

They would indeed have to be made by hand, but since Vic will provide the different options and combinations, a lot of people will build the same knife. So it's still feasible, but the question is how many people would actually use this feature. Paying double for a knife that might have one or two tools different from a standard type. Still, I'd love to try their configurator out and would buy a custom one if I could.

[@Dracomies]

@@F3udF1st Imagine paying double for just scissors and blade. Well I guess it's better than paying 7 times right? ie to have someone else (mod it) make it they'll charge you like hundreds of dollars easily. :D

[@JohnFrumFromAmerica]

They could make a modular version so you could make your own perfect version.

[@RiderOftheNorth1968]

@@JohnFrumFromAmerica That is not possible with how they are constructed. Victorinox would have to construct a whole new knife series. I doubt the will take that cost for a fairly small demand.

[@RiderOftheNorth1968]

@@Dracomies Or you could mod it yourself. It is not very difficult.

[@razgrizbird4562]

I have a lot of respect for Victorinox and their leadership for making this effort. You just made me feel very justified in my continued support and recommendation of your products.

[@marcelosolano9185]

Congratulations on your video Jon... On that visit, you represented all of us as big fans of the Victorinox brand... Congratulations also to the entire Victorinox team, for their interest in keeping their customers informed... 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻

[@JonGadget]

Thank you and I'm sure the Vic team will be reading these comments.

[@TimAmyx]

So glad they took the time to listen and analyze the comments. My respect for Victorinox went up a few notches.

[@wot_hog]

A fully customizable option would be fantastic, and I would gladly pay extra to configure my 91 mm exactly how I would want it. And a shout out to Carl Elsener III, who did just that for me back in 2000. I still carry with much love the Victorinox SAK he custom-made for me then.

[@JonGadget]

Fantastic!

[@clockworkvanhellsing372]

​@@JonGadget If victorinox themselves don't have the resources, partnering up with the many custom builders might be a viable option (i.e. linking to builders from the victorinox page, after verification of the build quality of the custom builders, with individual parts supplied, as opposed to building from donor knives).

[@lawrencemartin1113]

What an interesting video! Thank you. As a lifetime knife user ( I am now 61!) I have been pretty late to the SAK party, having only bought an original Huntsman model for my son several years back, as a birthday present. He uses it daily and was very happy with it. I have always carried a dedicated non locking pocket knife of superior blade steel and used it in conjunction with an original Leatherman tool with non locking blades and tools. However, for my 60th year, I purchased the more recent Huntsman as I found a developing requirement for such a knife and felt I should own a SAK before I shuffle off this mortal coil. I have to say, I now use it every day, multiple times and really love it. I have added a pin and also swapped out the tooth pick for a small aftermarket ferro striker, as I also do a lot of outdoorsy bushcraft bits and bobs and enjoy the idea of sparking up tinder for a brew. It works very well! I love the way this company and their overall boss gave so much of their time and commitment to listening to the comments and criticism that sprang from your original video. It would appear to be a fantastic way to react as a huge, global heritage brand company and I am seriously impressed with the way they went out if their way to not only host you, but also to have invested serious time and effort into analysing the data from 'your' comments. Fantastic. I will now watch carefully in the coming months and years to see what they come up with! Well done you. 😊👍🏻

[@gregsanderson2470]

A fero-rod something to light my beesmoker.🎉 I carry a small knife and rod tucked into my Tilley hat for canoeing. Thankx for the idea.

[@lawrencemartin1113]

@@gregsanderson2470 I also canoe and always have a ferro rod in my pack. Great for a spirit stove!! 😉

[@aussiehardwood6196]

What a wonderful company. They CARE, have moral fibre & strive to do better. Well done Victorianox!! I have a good few of your products!

[@KLINGBART]

Victorinox holds a special place in our family's traditions. When I was a child, I received my first Victorinox Swiss Army Knife from my parents that has remained a cherished keepsake throughout my life until this day. I hope that Victorinox continues to honor its legacy, so that I can pass down this meaningful tradition to my children with confidence.

[@HardyBunster]

The parcel hook is great for tent peg pulling when your hands are frozen. 👍

[@MrPlownds26]

also good for carrying tins of paint and fitting springs.

[@ColdHarborOP]

I like mine for pulling apart a slipped sheet bend when done temporarily joining two lines.

[@Ninja-Alinja]

also always a total life saver when assembling and disassembling trampolines

[@InlikeMikeQuinn]

No disrespect, i feel that is thee most useless tool on there

[@ColdHarborOP]

@@InlikeMikeQuinn I absolutely agree. And it's a testament to the awesome utility of a Victorinox that even an admittedly useless tool can sometimes be useful.

[@NZview]

Good on you Jon & Victorinox for this visit. I am 80 years old and have had a pocketknife ever since I was in the Guides at the age of 11! I used to have an orchard & found my knife invaluable for tasks at work, at home, & in the car (where I have a rescue knife). All my family are fans & all carry a SAK. Enjoy your videos & also those of Felix Immler.

[@ek-nz]

I went on a pilgrimage to that factory in 2006. I don’t know whether they offered tours or anything back then, but I bought a watch at the shop. It was quite difficult to get there on a shoestring budget since the bus wasn’t very frequent, but well worth the effort. It was surprising how small the town is and how little else is there, but thinking about it now it makes perfect sense. I’ve been a loyal customer since I was a child, and this video makes me pleased I can continue to be for years to come 😊

[@kerzendorf]

I am happy with the offer they have today. I received my first Swiss amry knife from my father when I was in second grade and carry one with me ever since and every day. I repaired cars, airplanes, engines, boats and uncountable another things with it. I could not imagine a life without a Swiss army knife. It is my only true EDC and always will be. Occasionally I carry a Swiss Tool Spirit and it comes in handy whenever I have it with me. Karl Elsener is a source of inspiration for me! Thank you Victorinox: You are responsible for so many adventures in my life where I could escape demanding situations thanks to your ingenuity!

[@gamedev_partisan]

It’s sooo amazing that they’ve invited you to speak to the team in person! Huge respect for Victorinox! :) I own Forester Wood, Huntsman and Classic SAK and I adore all of them ❤️ Looking forward to a knifeless multitool to carry on a plane!

[@JonGadget]

I agree - fantastic response

[@photoplanet]

Runs Victorinox, lives down the road in glorious Swiss scenery, cycles to work every day - Is Carl the happiest CEO in the world ?

[@1969Rake]

This just affirms my appreciation for SAK's. A company that actually listens and responds is worthy of support.

[@colinwylie808]

An incredible opportunity. Well played! Have carried SAK for 35 years and will continue suppport them.

[@michaeladams297]

I loved Victorinox before and I certainly have reason to keep doing so. Thanks to them for planning new offerings. I'm certain I will be purchasing at least a few. Legendary quality is legendary and Made in Switzerland is my #1 reason I got into SAKs in the first place. As long as both of these never change, bring it on!

[@george344]

Since I was a kid, I’ve had a Swiss Army knife. I have mostly Victorinox, and now a few Wenger ones. I had gone to carrying a Leatherman for awhile, but have returned to my SAK. I can depend on it, it has the features I use the most, it fits comfortably in my hand, what more can I ask for. Their basic models are an example of something being designed well from the start. Some of the “pregnant” ones are a bit much, but there’s always some folks who ‘want it all’. A lot of knife companies keep ‘innovating’ and if they’re smart they’ll keep the models that are true classics, but it’s a shame when something well designed becomes extinct. Victorinox did it right and continues to. I buy their knives as gifts and everyone loves them. While maybe venturing into other metals might make sense, what they have now works and does it well. Leatherman has ventured into ‘bigger and better?’ and it is ridiculously expensive and heavy now. I still have some of their old, handy models, but no desire for the new ones. Don’t fall into that trap.

[@BigTwitchy]

I love your transparency regarding who paid for what. My respect for you has only grown. And as a fan of Victorinox, I am very pleased by their reaction to your video which resonated with me. Thank you!

[@JonGadget]

Thanks for that - yes, I didn't want any suggestion we we 'being bought' or feel any obligation to Victorinox so feedback could be open and honest.

[@DustinRNewton]

I've carried a bladeless SAK on planes for a decade or so now (Jetsetter), and it comes in very handy. I keep a bladed SAK in a checked bag for use at destinations, and have never needed a knife in the air, so it's a combo that works very well. TSA always wants to see that there's no blade, but zero issues carrying it.

[@jimjasper9851]

Victorinox, are one of those wonderful companies that will always succeed simply because they listen. I have many of their knives, one of which has been in my pocket for over 60 years, my grandfather gave me my first sometime before my 10th birthday. Many years in the Australian Army(RASIGS) and the knives were used every day, now in retirement with my own little patch of Oz and some livestock, I cannot go out without it. Well done Jon and well done Victorinox.

[@JonGadget]

Great feedback - thanks

[@dingo5208]

36 years RCCS! VVV

[@TomaMagda]

Hi Jon, I am Toma (64) from Croatia, consider myself a part of wide Voctorinox users community. Did not have a chance to see this video until now but i am happy that you were invited and had a chance to spend a day with decision making people in the company. Thank you for sharing this with us. It is a really nice example of how things can become better in many ways. Good job, two thumbs up

[@JohnDoeRando]

It's refreshing to see that good companies like Victorinox still exist.

[@bileBG]

Now go criticize bic for lack of innovation in their lighters and ball points

[@WarlonWinterheart]

Are they designed to be multi purpose tools?

[@Wetworks_Arclight]

Sarcasm- though not often recognized by all- is greatly appreciated by those of us who are fluent in its use. Lol

[@bgrdr]

Exactly.

[@colinashby3775]

Incredible technology goes into making bicycles lighters

[@sweetiepi]

😂

[@cynic5581]

Been using the same Victorinox Swiss Tool at work for nearly 20 years. It has a tiny flat head that none of the competitors have (or at least had at the time). I’m an HVAC tech and that little flat works well on thermostats terminals. I use the saw on branches around condenser units. The knife and pliers/wire cutters for endless task. I even keep a small flashlight clipped on its holster (which I’ve replaced 3 times due to it falling apart with age - the holster not the tool). It’s fairly worn out at this point. However I couldn’t imagine going to work without it. At this point I fairly biased and would love to for Victorinox to succeed.

[@Defender23AD]

Great video Jon. Thank you for putting in the effort to highlight the issue. As a user of SAKs for nearly 40yr carried them all over the world and used them as well. I have the champ and pretty much use it everyday. I feel almost naked without it. I’m glad they have put quality over profit. Keep up the good work both you and SAK.

[@gourmetsportsman]

Every interview I've ever seen with Carl Elsener has made me respect him more and more. This one is no different. In fact I like him and the brand even more. I love his commitment to keeping this a Swiss brand (and still being made in Switzerland). I hope this never changes. From my understanding that is a major reason he bought Wenger to keep it from the overall anme of Swiss Army Knives being degraded and keeping it from being Chinese owned. I don't know if that is true but if it is that is so awesome. I've love SAKs since I got my first as a 6th grade kid. This is a company that understands their customer and how attached we are to our SAKs. I recently returned a S14 for repair and we asked if it was sentimental. From my understanding any knife that comes in fro repair and is marked sentimental, if it can not be repaired it we be returned with a new model of the knife (or equivalent if discontinued). While that particular knife wasn't sentimental to me I do have a few that are and if they are ever beyond repair I certainly want it back so that is very cool! Great video as always Jon!

[@TheGrenadier97]

That's an interesting perspective to what happened to Wenger...

[@JonGadget]

Thanks for the feedback - interesting point re Wenger

[@fredfred4086]

My son got a Wenger as a gift when my wife's parents travelled to Europe many years ago. The SAK is more user friendly I feel.

[@derekslifer7774]

Thank you for being our representative and voice. Much love and respect.

[@karolromanski6192]

Recently I made a sensation with a hook. We set up several camp beds and the springs had to be stretched. The hook worked phenomenally.

[@stevengordon3407]

I've done this with trampoline springs 👍

[@paulf2529]

Yes, used mine many times to pull springs.

[@TheGrenadier97]

I never understood why some people are so bad towards the hook. It was added years ago to absolutely no impact against other functions. Can't complain at that.

[@JonGadget]

Yes, I've used on a trampoline too!

[@PlantDaddy1991]

I use it for its original purpose, believe it or not. But also to screw in eyelet screws, to pull rope, things like that. In my opinion, a very underrated tool.

[@millbean13]

This is great. I love when I see big companies take an active role in monitoring customers concerns of their product and then are willing to take action to improve. Speaks to a legitimate understanding of their specific business and the desire to provide value in their product. Very happy about this. And that they’re still local/family-owned is even better.

[@Cliff7257]

Well done Jon and a special thanks to Mr. Elsener for producing such wonderful pocket knives. I've carried one in my pocket every day for well over 30 years. The only problem I have is getting the springs for the pliers and scissors which are difficult to get hold of here in South Africa.

[@theun4giv3n]

The parcel hook is quite useful for wire pulling around the farm. The main issue with it is that it's in the middle of the "handle" rather than at the end making it have less reach.

[@benterwellen]

I like the hook where it is

[@philxcskier]

I actually really like the can opener- I find it works better than most kitchen openers you can buy, with a little practice. I can’t wait to see what they come up with in the near future!

[@beheadoth]

I received my SAK when I was 14 (now I'm 37). Since then, I've changed the exterior 3 times free of charge in theirs official stores. It is still sharp as day one. Not very often, you can say you carry every day a product that works perfectly for 23 years. Swiss made quality for sure

[@InGratitudeIam]

Bravo! SAK is definitely worthy of our respect and continued support.

[@user-qf1rw1ke1u]

Victorinox impressed me. Again. Time to ask my family to send me my grandpa's Victorinox - he doesn't use it rn, and I will carry it with all the great feelings.

[@stanleyknife1967]

Great video. Nice that are taking social media opinions seriously. They make great products and deserve to go on for another 100 years!

[@JonGadget]

Great way to respond 👍

[@TrustinChrist-truthseeker]

Here here!

[@omblackwell1183]

I love the story - I am sure a true one - in which the owner of Victorinox states that in his youth,(presumably the 1970s), you would be chastised by your teacher for NOT having a knife at school. How else would you be able to sharpen your pencil? How times have changed! It reminded me of the time that, at the same period, I was a Cub Scout in England. I walked around with a sheath knife dangling from my belt. This was recommended by Baden Powell and, if not part of the official uniform, was deemed a perfectly normal accessory. I note that the sharpest thing that modern scouts can carry is a pair of nail clippers. Beam me back Scotty.

[@lskazalski]

I grew up in the 60s-70s. Everyone I knew carried a folding knife all the time. My grandad gave me my first SAK when I was 6 or so... and put the fear of grandpa into me.

[@ErwinPommel]

Nice to know they're listening and paying attention. Looks like a pretty cool factory, too.

[@JonGadget]

I agree - and yes it is 👍

[@reality-cheque]

Thanks for the video. I also use the Compact as an EDC and have been caught out on a couple of occasions. One of my knives is at Buckingham Palace and another at the National Archaeological Museum in Athens. In return, I have two little plastic squares with numbers on them - having forgotten to collect the knives after they were effectively confiscated.

[@shane49520]

absolutely class act by Victorinox. Taking community feedback to heart and truly analyzing it in order to provide better products. Happy to see that they actually care.

[@geezer939]

Thank you very much for a riveting look into "the house of Victorinox", and a video visit with the leadership team of the same. I have been collecting, carrying, and gifting SAK Swiss Champs as high school graduation presents since approximately 1978. I also thank you for a tremendous job of presenting the summary trip report to Victorinox. Cheers from a Yank in Oregon, USA.

[@TristanRayner]

Great follow up video. Honestly not surprised that a company of Victorinox calibre are already well aware of their position in the market, and making plans for continuous improvement. The got some additional strong, free market research from the initial video and it's response. It's a bit painful reading some comments from people that seem to think that a company like that is run by people who don't know what they are doing (??) There is always a lot more than meets the eye going on in the background of large companies, initiatives that are not urgent or required to counter immediate threats to existence don't typically happen rapidly, especially when they are being carefully considered and analysed before implementation. Kudos to Victorinox for capitalising on this opportunity, and for their sustainability and corporate social responsibility efforts. Makes me feel even better about supporting a company of their nature.

[@JonGadget]

I agree 👍

[@lmorgan877]

I recently inherited my gradfathers SAK Standard (like the Spartan but with no scale tools or key ring loop). He was a fireman and, in his later years, a handyman. When i received his knife, it was covered in dried grout and paint. All of the tools were very stiff to open. The small blade was twisted at the tip and the large blade had its tip broken off from opening tins of paint. An hour of cleaning, regrinding and a bit of WD40 and it was back to screaming sharp with the characteristic 'walk and talk' snap rejuvinated. There wasn't even any blade wobble on a tool which is more than 36 years old and had been abused its whole life! It's even more impressive when you consider that this model was produced by the thousands and sold for a few pounds back in the 80's! The SAK is truly a design classic. Now i carry a Compact everyday and i hope to pass it down to my boy when the time comes. I have knives from Benchmade and Spyderco but nothing beats the utility and affordability of an SAK.

[@GazH-bz8fu]

Excellent work dude - thanks for representing us sak fans

[@JonGadget]

Thank you.

[@stephenhodges5162]

I am a US Scout leader and I swear by my Victorinox knives. Anything that will improve them make me an even bigger supporter. I am 100% behind even better blade steel and customization of their knives to make a knife that truly supports the users needs and environment. Thank you for this video and thank you Victorinox.

[@lskazalski]

Retired Girl Scout leader and outdoor education facilitator. I always recommended SAKs because they are lighter and more reliable than many other multitools. I've got one I've had over 30 years. It's beat up but does the job.

[@ThorstenWieking]

Great video although nothing that really surprises me because previous newspaper articles etc always showed Victorinox to be a great company with great values. And the bladeless knife (or Big Jetsetter as I would call it) makes sense in many surroundings. But the video once again affirmed me why I spend so much money on Victorinox knifes - always good to support company with moral values towards its employees.

[@zhint9355]

as a swiss the comment section makes me proud. thanks guys.

[@mokisan]

If folks at victorinox are reading these comments. Thanks for being so cool and understanding! A customisable victorinox knife would be awesome Cherrs lads.

[@AdrianStanese]

As a big fan of Victorinox, I got a few ideas I would like to share 1. Sorting products on the website should work also based on the tools they contain. If having a corkscrew is a must, I shouldn’t have to browse endlessly. 2. They should make a Alox with a corkscrew. 3. Higher customization in terms of color and engraving would make a difference IMO. 4. Limited editions only work if they are classy and stand for something. The yearly Alox with different color is not a good idea. The colors are nice but next year would feel like they are somehow expired. A better option would be to be associated with something people stand for: a green for Nature; a Blue for the Ocean; a Rainbow one for LGBT etc. 5. Minichamp is one of their best yet having it only in red plastic and basic Alox is a missed opportunity. p.s. Good video 👍

[@wvbeatlefan]

Great follow-up video. Having seen several previous interviews with Mr. Elsener, I wasn't surprised that they would show the care and respect they did. Personally, I don't care about Victorinox innovation; I've carried their knives for over 45 years because they dependably do what I need them to do. Having said that, I'm glad to see they are thinking toward the future with continued success.

[@bernardgochuico5621]

I' am an avid fan and user for decades of Victorinox(R) Swiss Army knife and can say my most effective tools in my pocket, both of my favorite models; Tinker and the Champ are really indispensable, reliable and dependable. Ask Mac Gyver - my idol. What I admire most is the lightweight and durability. In fact, this small but terrible utility tools helps me a lot in my job as Biomed for years. Imagine I can cut a steel tube when I can't find a grinder cutter and a tube cutter, and desperately use its wood saw-incredible!. God Bless Victorinox for making the best utility knives in the world!

[@paulf2529]

A company that stands by their reputation yet is willing to innovate and listen.

[@AllroundSwizzy]

20:30 for context, only paper/envelopes/magazines allowed in there. No cardboard. There’s an annual plan telling you what days you can put your paperstacks on the side of the road and they get picked up for recycling. It used to be something we did as the “youth gymnastics” (kids from the local town who do various sports once a week) every couple of months.

[@Michael-zo4ds]

This is great they are listening! customizable would be great, a pocket clip, but the best would be a slightly smaller locking models, possibly in alox with the pocket clip and maybe some new tools

[@poissonpuerile8897]

The pin on my early 1990s Swiss Champ has popped _sooooo_ many blisters that I don't know what I'd do without it!

[@ivovass195]

Airport security and hand luggage friendly SAK would be great, definitely will be paying attention when you inevitably get one to show us

[@trumphy911]

Impressive response by Victorinox Team! Kudos!

[@ytaliasid]

Thanks for this video! If the folks at Victorinox are reading this, they may be interested to know that this video convinced me to hold off buying a multitool until their blade-less options appear.

[@OregonMike]

Your multitool purchase was going to be bladeless... 🤔🤣

[@paullg48]

Great idea and execution! I live in CH since 25 years and have become an admirer of victorinox as a company. For most all the reasons you cover. But lots of details and conformation in this vid. Thanks!! Ps note that the company maintained successfully producing locally in an high income region! People should take note of this !!!

[@rabadabadoo491]

Nice work Jon & Jamie. And well done Victorinox 👏

[@CrispyTuckley]

Fascinating! I got my first SAK from my grandfather when I was in Boy Scouts. Thank you for this video!!

[@Meloncholymadness]

I really appreciate that Victorinox didn't move production to China. I would not buy from them if they did

[@fredfinger7092]

I've used Victorinox repair in Connecticut here in the US and they do AMAZING work for shockingly reasonable prices, even when the damage has been my fault.

[@Ty_The_Bonsai_Guy]

Exciting. Looking forward to see what's coming. Thanks Victorinox for listening to your customers.

[@boydovens4180]

To me the Knife was a survival tool that anybody traveling into the wild or being marooned on an island , had to have . I bought mine from a friend brand new , the first thing i noticed was the high quality of the product . I used it nearly every day at my work , it never let me down or failed me . Still have it after 30 years . clean it regularly and oil it .

[@calvinsbnb76]

A few years ago the US Dept of Homeland Security announced that small pocket knives (I think ~10-12 cm or less) were no longer deemed a threat and that it was rescinding its prohibition of them aboard flights. You'd have thought this cause for rejoicing, but instead there was a hue and cry from the general public, terrified at the prospect. Needless to say, the prohibition was quickly reinstated. A marketing campaign to reassure folks of the safety of small folding knives on planes might go a long way. If people could carry their pocket SAK from port to port sales would probably boom.

[@jonnyphenomenon]

I just posted a story about my experience with my SAK and the security check at an airport where I had to mail my knife to myself. It would be nice if they had a means to "check your knives plane-side" so to speak, so you could retrieve them when you get where you are going.

[@calvinsbnb76]

@@jonnyphenomenon While visiting India in 2000, I took a domestic commuter flight from one city to another. Before boarding we had to give up our pocket knives. Each of them was put in its own bag with our name written on it. Upon disembarking the knives were politely returned. I remember thinking, "How silly! Glad we don't have to do this at home!" Nowadays that seems highly civilised.

[@wethermon]

That's how you do good PR. Talk with fans. Much respect to Vitorinox. 🎩

[@hitchpost5822]

Thank you Jon for getting the conversation with Victorinox started, and being an ambassador representing the buying public. Getting there concerns addressed and hopefully acted upon. Also knocking down some of the rumors about the knife- less SAK’s.

[@JonGadget]

No problem, thanks for watching and commenting

[@orlandogomez8604]

Thank youb swiss, for listening. In a time where most companies ignore the the consumer. You stepped up and showed true grit and willingness to be innovative and, most importantly, listen to the people who purchase your products.

[@stevenhodgson834]

Great stuff Jon, thank you for representing us all. How ironic that you can buy a knife at the airport!

[@JonGadget]

I know!

[@matthewsmith9425]

Thank you Jon and Victorinox. Big fan of both of you. One mans voice can be just as powerful one companies product.

[@geoffcampbell7846]

Well done Jon, someone had to speak up and your video was perfectly placed to do the job. The personal treatment you received is something you would never find in larger industry I feel, where the connection between the employees and the brand is less personal. Thanks for all of your efforts on this, the factory walkabout was very interesting and the report of the visit very encouraging. And of course, this video was really interesting. Cheers 👋

[@JonGadget]

Thanks for the great feedback - yes, a great approach from what is clearly a great business

[@johnphelan6623]

I'm irish & 49 years old now. I was very ceremoniously taken by my dad to buy my SAK, which was also engraved on the day with my name and the date (23/7/85) for my tenth birthday, as were both of my brothers and indeed my own dad by his father on 1/1/1955 for his 10th birthday. I was delighted to carry on this family tradition with both of my own sons on their 10th birthdays ( 16/3/2015 & 2/5/2019] while we lived in Kazakhstan 🇰🇿 in central Asia and found a very good main dealer. This product obviously means a lot to my family and am delighted to watch your video and know the future IN SWITZERLAND is secure. Each Phelan male, although all using more complicated and newer SAK'S), still has their original engraved simple (large blade, small blade and scissors) model. ❤

[@garylyman4922]

A great follow-up from the original post. Thanks for the information regarding the future of Victorinox. Can’t wait to see what the next generation will look like.

[@patf.7828]

Thank you Jon, Jamie and Victorinox for taking the time to update us. Looking forward to see what comes of this. Would llive to see a Pro line of better tools for those of us that work with our tools everyday.

[@clockworkvanhellsing372]

Nice to see, that they are open to feedback and keep their commitment to switzerland. For the kniveless option going with a scalpel blade holder would allow for discarding the blade before flights while keeping the knive function at the destination (with little effort of buying a new blade in a pharmacy). Custom victorinox might also be possible via a partnership with the many custom builders. With verification of build quality and reliability, they could outsource it to individual partners and supply them with the parts (instead of using doner knives as of now).

[@Phantom-F4]

I love the replaceable scalpel blade idea ❤

[@fatmangaming2720]

There is a documentary on KZbin about Victorinox that explains almost everything you just covered, and then some. And their warranty is superior, I have had my Swisschamp repaired by them and a Victorinox solo. They fashioned a new blade for my Solo however when they made the new blade, they made it a clip point. So I have a Victorinox knife with an actual Victorinox clip point blade. All the repairs made only cost me $5 bucks to cover the return shipping, and they sent back all the parts that were salvaged from the knives.

[@Solaar_Punk]

There's a video that explains the warranty like you just did and then some. Oh yeah, it's this video.

[@Kosher_Slider]

Their warranty is top notch. I have a soldier knife that is still marked “Victoria” before they started using stainless steel and changed the name to Victorinox. They did a great job when I sent it in for repair a couple of years ago. I have a letter from them asking if it was a display piece because of how great of shape it is in. I carry it almost daily. They warranty it for life and that is no joke. The knife is over 110 years old. I got it at an estate sale.

[@MoonChild0678]

​@@Kosher_Sliderthat's awesome. I found a old wenger executive 81 small key chain swiss army knife at a garage sale and Paid $1 for it. The small scissors are also serrated, was a cool find.

[@jonnyphenomenon]

I just had to go find out what a clip point blade was. Thanks to you, I now know what it means, and the difference between clip point and drop point blades! Thanks for inspiring me to learn something new!

[@fatmangaming2720]

@@MoonChild0678 Victorinox owns Wenger now and warranty should apply to them as well.