I just bought a SAK type knife I wanted to share with you. It was made in Japan and amd I would really like to get some info about it. maybe you could help me? The master blade has "Stainless steel Japan" on it and the handle the name STEVE along with some sort of shield, inside of which is an X and a crown.
Jakub, it appears to be an older Royal Crest 16 function knife. They are relatively inexpensive knives. I haven't seen the ones made in Japan, but the ones from China are very cheaply made with very thin blades. Hopefully the Japanese are better
Thank you for the information. I bought the knife at a flea market for aprox. 2USD, so it was not an expensive deal. The blades are not thinner when I compared them to my SAK knives.
I suspect that it is an older model and may have been of better quality than the current Chinese made Royal Crest line. The scissors don't have the tell tale hump of the current production
Okay, I'm going nuts looking. What current production 91MM Victorinox SAKs have both a corkscrew and a file blade instead of the small knife blade? Or is such a combination even offered? Do I need to look at Wenger?
I think the closet thing you might find is the 84mm Sportsman model with the small nail file instead of the small blade. 91mm models do not offer the small nail file replacing the small blade.
This is just confounding, when you think about it. the 91 mm is pretty much their flagship size with more option than most can imagine and it doesn't have a nail file blade like the Classic SD. Am I the only at a loss for words over this?
The Victorinox that was almost made especially for me: The Spartan Lite.
It hwas what I use all the time and doesn't have a bunch of stuff I don't use every day. The inline Phillips is the real charm for me. I've already got the little screwdriver for the corkscrew. The only other thing I want is a pen. Will the removable pen fit in the Tweezers' slot? (I don't really need them as I also always have an SD with me.)
No the tweezers slot will not fit the ink pen. Best thing to do is find a set of Plus scales to replace yours. They can usually be bought for around $10 or so. Message me if you can not find a set as I have a couple of sources.
Well, I got my hunter green plus scales and and now have a Hunter Green Spartan Lite, Plus for my EDC. Now if it had a nail file instead of a small pen blade, I could take my Midnight manager off my key chain. (But who am I kidding, I would still carry the MM, too!)
It took five minutes to swap out the handles. I've never done it before but it is quite easy and if you are careful, the old handles won't break. Along with the pressurized blue ink pen, I also have the little straight pin (not shown). I also have the little screwdriver for eyeglasses which store in the corkscrew. I love the Spartan lite frame mainly because it is the smallest 91 mm with the inline Phillips. The white LED light is also handy. The Spartan Lite is similar to the Passenger which is an Explorer without the Scissors.
I'm also looking at some cobalt blue scales. Those look mighty nice. I'm planning on swapping out handles on many of my red handled dupes (Climbers.) I'm also thinking a "Compact Plus" is in my future.
Also,
I've been told that once you pop the handles off, you really can't use them anymore. Is that your experience?
"I've been told that once you pop the handles off, you really can't use them anymore. Is that your experience?"
Not entirely. The rivet has a collar that "mushrooms" the plastic out over it and once you force the scale off it sometimes breaks out a bit of the plastic. If that happens they will no longer fit snugly without some kind of glue. The best thing is to be very careful when removing the scales. Warm the up some without getting them hot, and then try and pop them off. That will lessen the chance of breaking out too much plastic.
If you have to glue them back on a knife, remember to use a glue that is not permanent and can be removed somewhat easily. I have heard "Goop" is good but have no experience with it. Also be careful not to get any glue near the toothpick and tweezers slots.
Here is a good video showing how to do it. There are several places to buy NEW factory scales for Victorinox SAK's. If you need help in finding some send me a personal note and I will give you a short list.
wayne, i'm glad i was dialed into this convo between you tobias and todd about swapping scales on SAK's. i have a couple of really nice knives that i got some years back when i was still smoking marlboros. it's been almost 8 years since i quit smoking and i think it's about time to pop the marlboro ad off of my knives and replace those scales with the color of my choice. i really liked the yellow scales in the youtube vid that you provided the link for, wayne! thanks!
here's what i'm talking about in case you're not already familiar with the old marlboro miles incentive program marlboro/phillip morris used to promote smoking their brand...
i'm thinking yellow on one and black on the other?
I have those knives myself and must say I really like the tool layouts for them. If you are just wanting to rid yourself of the logo, they can be removed with some old fashioned elbow grease and hard work. If a color change is your motive I am with you there. I like various colors on my knives. You might consider a "Plus" scale set that includes a slot for the removable ink pen. The ink pens can be bought as well if you need one.
One neat little trick for using the ink pen is too "clamp" it underneath the "hook" in the bottom tools section and then use the entire knife to write with. It adds some weight especially useful for guys like me with big hands and fingers trying to use that little stick of an ink pen. LOL Works well.
i think i'm ready to take those knives in a whole new direction with some colorful new scales. like i mentioned, i like black and yellow. heck! i might even mix 'em up and do one side black and the other side yellow? hmm? i kind of like that idea. we'll see. thanks for the tip on the pen and the plus scales. i hadn't even thought of that.
Other than making several purchases from the place I have no other association with Central Valley Wholesales. I saw this item on eBay and it looked kind of cool for those who might need it. Its numerous replacement parts in a nice plastic case.
I know they're not that rare I was really excited to score another Huntsman Economy (also called the Woodsman) for $10 on a eBay bid!
My first SAK ever was this model and I still love it but it has a nasty gouge on the back sclae and the small blade got chipped. The new one has light surface scratches but has never been sharpened and looks pretty good. It'll never replace the original but it is nice to have a second one!
I can see the pic you've posted--thanks! However, I cannot see the tang stamp clearly. It does appear to be a vintage 2 layer 91mm Victorinox Officer's knife. I can't tell if the scales are fiber or celluloid? But it does have the old style can opener which would date it at pre-1946. If you can see a marking that indicates a date I will defer to your statement about the knife being around 1930. Victorinox started using the celluloid scales in 1937 I believe? So the scales on your knife must then be fiber? If the blades are stainless it would date between '23 and '37.
What's it worth? Better pictures are needed. But, like any old knife, it will be worth as much, or as little, as some collector will be willing to pay for it. That is usually determined in a no reserve eBay auction. Like water rising to its own level, so does the value of highly sought after knives in eBay auctions...USUALLY, but not always!
That's about all that I can contribute to your query. Here's a link to the online authority for all sharp things Swiss: http://tinyurl.com/SAK-Forum You might want to try there, also. And then, of course, there is always the SAK Wiki: http://www.sakwiki.com/
Oh! And maybe Wayne will check in with his assessment? WAYNE!
I just received a Wenger Snife Rhythm from an ebay bid. Paid $12. The knife is like new but missing the packaging. Does anyone have any info on these "snife" knives. I'm not really up on Wengers. I only own three, including this one. I bought it on impulse. What I kniw is it made on the cmmander frame and it its model number 1 93 03
Any other info, Original sale price, when made, etc, much appreciated.
Hello. Its been some time for me due to illness. The Snife was created to contrast the "Swatch" craze that was going on. There are 10 different large models and 5 Esquire sized smaller models. Average retail price was around $20 or so. Here is some of my blog posts about all of the different models including photos of each design.
I am so glad to see you're back in action! A week ago I was hoping you might be around to give one of our new member's some counsel on an SAK she was attempting gain knowledge about. Any knowledge about SAK's that I have pales in comparison to yours. So, I was not of much help I'm afraid?
In any event. I am certainly glad you're still around, and hopefully feeling a whole lot better, too!
OK, well looking at her(Cindy Benson) knife photo it looks genuine and probably from around the early 1930's but I would need to see good clear close up photos to confirm that. The key will be a good photo of the tang stamp both sides.
I am glad your feeling a bit better too Wayne. It is always good to see you. Ron does a fantastic job with the SAK info but we all agree that you are our resident EXPERT!! Thanks for the input
The smaller 65mm "Esquire" sized Snife set of knives front and back all NIB condition and then I have a group shot of 6 of the larger Snife series most in NIB condition. I need to take an updated photo of the larger Snife models I have.
I remember the first time I saw one of those on eBay. The seller accurately described it as an SAK but did not distinguish it as a Wenger. My initial reaction was that this guy trying to pull the wool over someone's eyes. Some digging around proved me wrong and enlightened me to the fact that they are indeed colorful, albeit unusual, SAK's. Super nice collection you have!
Does anyone else have personal pics of Snife's that they would care to share?
This SAK was designed by artist Jamie Cullen in 2009, in partnership with WALLPAPER, to celebrate London Design Festival. Others two sak with different style were made by other artists. They come in a 100 piece run each. They are available only in Bond Street Victorinox Retailer in London. If you want to see other picturesvisit my gallery
I have to admit before Wayne began sharing his collection with us I did not know that SAK's were so varied. I honestly had no idea they made small runs of only 100 knives. I REALLY had no idea they had a retailer on Bond Street in London but now I want to go there.
Wayne,
I like the lower pics. The one on the right with the bears and the one that looks like mosiac 4th in from the left
I have been overdue for a new SAK for quite a while now. So I was very happy when my neighborhood postal carrier knocked on my door and handed me the package containing my latest order from Central Valley Wholesale (a favorite source for new SAK's) this morning. The package held a fresh supply of Victorinox Multi-Tool Oil and a brand spanking new Vic Ranger with black cellidor "Plus" Scales. Observe...
I didn't take any pics of the backside tools so I will just include this one that I have "borrowed" from the seller of my knife...
I'll have to take another group photo of all my black handled Victorinox SAK's!
(Thanks to Patrik I have now found the proper group to post my new Ranger in. Thanks, again, Patrik)
Just Arrived! My brand new 111mm Outrider. This is the 4th of my 111mm knives. I think it is going to give my Hunter a run for its money. The long screwdriver and scissors are pretty cool options! Pictures to follow. Right now i'm too busy playing and comparing!
Here's an image or two of my Vic Outrider. Only negative so far - you need to open the scissors to deploy the long Phillips screwdriver. You have a similar problem with other in-line screwdrivers on the 111mm models. The in-line driver also snaps closes pretty fast and obviously the scissors need to be out of the way when closing. Other than that, this knife is excellent. As far as I can tell the scissors are the same as those found on the 91mm knives.
While the uncommon long Phillips is nice, I think I prefer the shorter in-line Phillips. I'd love it if they would swap the wrench on the Skipper and replace it with Scissors (maybe come up with a "Commodore" knife.) Anyway, here's a pic or two.
The Outrider above showing the scissors and in-line Phillips. Below, the Skipper, Hunter, Outrider, and Rescue Tool. The additional key ring was added by me for easy display/storage.
A rainbow of Vics! I tend to favor Vics with Corkscrews. I'm not a fan of the spine mounted Phillips. I've already got my own three other 111mm Vics.
Jakub Capek
I just bought a SAK type knife I wanted to share with you. It was made in Japan and amd I would really like to get some info about it. maybe you could help me? The master blade has "Stainless steel Japan" on it and the handle the name STEVE along with some sort of shield, inside of which is an X and a crown.
Oct 13, 2011
Tobias Gibson
Oct 13, 2011
Martin Desax
Oct 14, 2011
Jakub Capek
Oct 14, 2011
Tobias Gibson
I suspect that it is an older model and may have been of better quality than the current Chinese made Royal Crest line. The scissors don't have the tell tale hump of the current production
Oct 14, 2011
Tobias Gibson
Okay, I'm going nuts looking. What current production 91MM Victorinox SAKs have both a corkscrew and a file blade instead of the small knife blade? Or is such a combination even offered? Do I need to look at Wenger?
Nov 18, 2011
Martin Desax
You may use the selector to find a model. But as Keijo already mentioned, in 91mm there is only the long one.
Some models: Mountanirer, Ranger, Handyman, SwissChamp, Champion....
http://sakselector.info/cgi-bin/sak_selector.cgi
Nov 18, 2011
Wayne Whitted
I think the closet thing you might find is the 84mm Sportsman model with the small nail file instead of the small blade. 91mm models do not offer the small nail file replacing the small blade.
Nov 18, 2011
Tobias Gibson
This is just confounding, when you think about it. the 91 mm is pretty much their flagship size with more option than most can imagine and it doesn't have a nail file blade like the Classic SD. Am I the only at a loss for words over this?
Nov 18, 2011
Tobias Gibson
The Victorinox that was almost made especially for me: The Spartan Lite.
It hwas what I use all the time and doesn't have a bunch of stuff I don't use every day. The inline Phillips is the real charm for me. I've already got the little screwdriver for the corkscrew. The only other thing I want is a pen. Will the removable pen fit in the Tweezers' slot? (I don't really need them as I also always have an SD with me.)
Dec 29, 2011
Wayne Whitted
No the tweezers slot will not fit the ink pen. Best thing to do is find a set of Plus scales to replace yours. They can usually be bought for around $10 or so. Message me if you can not find a set as I have a couple of sources.
Dec 29, 2011
Tobias Gibson
Shot Show Vics. These just showed up in my face book feed from the LV shot show.
Jan 18, 2012
Luca Vignelli
Jan 28, 2012
Luca Vignelli
I just saw the sick knife below on ebay!
Jan 28, 2012
Tobias Gibson
Well, I got my hunter green plus scales and and now have a Hunter Green Spartan Lite, Plus for my EDC. Now if it had a nail file instead of a small pen blade, I could take my Midnight manager off my key chain. (But who am I kidding, I would still carry the MM, too!)
Feb 11, 2012
Wayne Whitted
I just ordered me a Cobalt Blue and White scales both "Plus" models. Now to decide which knife gets the new clothes.
Feb 11, 2012
Tobias Gibson
Hi Wayne,
I'm also looking at some cobalt blue scales. Those look mighty nice. I'm planning on swapping out handles on many of my red handled dupes (Climbers.) I'm also thinking a "Compact Plus" is in my future.
Also,
I've been told that once you pop the handles off, you really can't use them anymore. Is that your experience?
Toby
Feb 11, 2012
Wayne Whitted
"I've been told that once you pop the handles off, you really can't use them anymore. Is that your experience?"
Not entirely. The rivet has a collar that "mushrooms" the plastic out over it and once you force the scale off it sometimes breaks out a bit of the plastic. If that happens they will no longer fit snugly without some kind of glue. The best thing is to be very careful when removing the scales. Warm the up some without getting them hot, and then try and pop them off. That will lessen the chance of breaking out too much plastic.
If you have to glue them back on a knife, remember to use a glue that is not permanent and can be removed somewhat easily. I have heard "Goop" is good but have no experience with it. Also be careful not to get any glue near the toothpick and tweezers slots.
Feb 11, 2012
Todd Helmkamp
Thanks for the info, Wayne and Toby. I didn't know you could swap out Vic scales.
Feb 11, 2012
Wayne Whitted
Here is a good video showing how to do it. There are several places to buy NEW factory scales for Victorinox SAK's. If you need help in finding some send me a personal note and I will give you a short list.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kdf-bBOuI5Q
Feb 11, 2012
Ron Cooper
wayne, i'm glad i was dialed into this convo between you tobias and todd about swapping scales on SAK's. i have a couple of really nice knives that i got some years back when i was still smoking marlboros. it's been almost 8 years since i quit smoking and i think it's about time to pop the marlboro ad off of my knives and replace those scales with the color of my choice. i really liked the yellow scales in the youtube vid that you provided the link for, wayne! thanks!
here's what i'm talking about in case you're not already familiar with the old marlboro miles incentive program marlboro/phillip morris used to promote smoking their brand...
anyway...thanks, guys!
Feb 11, 2012
Wayne Whitted
I have those knives myself and must say I really like the tool layouts for them. If you are just wanting to rid yourself of the logo, they can be removed with some old fashioned elbow grease and hard work. If a color change is your motive I am with you there. I like various colors on my knives. You might consider a "Plus" scale set that includes a slot for the removable ink pen. The ink pens can be bought as well if you need one.
One neat little trick for using the ink pen is too "clamp" it underneath the "hook" in the bottom tools section and then use the entire knife to write with. It adds some weight especially useful for guys like me with big hands and fingers trying to use that little stick of an ink pen. LOL Works well.
Feb 11, 2012
Ron Cooper
i think i'm ready to take those knives in a whole new direction with some colorful new scales. like i mentioned, i like black and yellow. heck! i might even mix 'em up and do one side black and the other side yellow? hmm? i kind of like that idea. we'll see. thanks for the tip on the pen and the plus scales. i hadn't even thought of that.
Feb 11, 2012
Tobias Gibson
Other than making several purchases from the place I have no other association with Central Valley Wholesales. I saw this item on eBay and it looked kind of cool for those who might need it. Its numerous replacement parts in a nice plastic case.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/130686578856
Apr 26, 2012
In Memoriam
D ale
Here's a current BBC article on VICTORINOX that was interesting.
May 17, 2012
Jan Carter
The original cutlery factory, located at Ibach in Switzerland, was opened by Karl Elsener in 1884
GREAT Story Dale
Jul 30, 2012
Tobias Gibson
I know they're not that rare I was really excited to score another Huntsman Economy (also called the Woodsman) for $10 on a eBay bid!
My first SAK ever was this model and I still love it but it has a nasty gouge on the back sclae and the small blade got chipped. The new one has light surface scratches but has never been sharpened and looks pretty good. It'll never replace the original but it is nice to have a second one!
Aug 30, 2012
Featured
Craig Henry
Has Victorinox made the Classic in pearl handles in recent years?
Sep 5, 2012
Ron Cooper
Hi, Cindy!
I can see the pic you've posted--thanks! However, I cannot see the tang stamp clearly. It does appear to be a vintage 2 layer 91mm Victorinox Officer's knife. I can't tell if the scales are fiber or celluloid? But it does have the old style can opener which would date it at pre-1946. If you can see a marking that indicates a date I will defer to your statement about the knife being around 1930. Victorinox started using the celluloid scales in 1937 I believe? So the scales on your knife must then be fiber? If the blades are stainless it would date between '23 and '37.
What's it worth? Better pictures are needed. But, like any old knife, it will be worth as much, or as little, as some collector will be willing to pay for it. That is usually determined in a no reserve eBay auction. Like water rising to its own level, so does the value of highly sought after knives in eBay auctions...USUALLY, but not always!
That's about all that I can contribute to your query. Here's a link to the online authority for all sharp things Swiss: http://tinyurl.com/SAK-Forum You might want to try there, also. And then, of course, there is always the SAK Wiki: http://www.sakwiki.com/
Oh! And maybe Wayne will check in with his assessment? WAYNE!
Cheers!
Sep 14, 2012
Tobias Gibson
I just received a Wenger Snife Rhythm from an ebay bid. Paid $12. The knife is like new but missing the packaging. Does anyone have any info on these "snife" knives. I'm not really up on Wengers. I only own three, including this one. I bought it on impulse. What I kniw is it made on the cmmander frame and it its model number 1 93 03
Any other info, Original sale price, when made, etc, much appreciated.
Sep 21, 2012
Ron Cooper
Tobias,
It sounds like you already know everything the SAK Wiki has to say about your Snife: http://tinyurl.com/Rhythm-Snife
I own a few Wengers, but no Snifes. Sorry.
Sep 21, 2012
Ron Cooper
Here's another link in the SAK Wiki: http://tinyurl.com/Wenger-Snife
Not much more help, though.
Sep 21, 2012
Wayne Whitted
Hello. Its been some time for me due to illness. The Snife was created to contrast the "Swatch" craze that was going on. There are 10 different large models and 5 Esquire sized smaller models. Average retail price was around $20 or so. Here is some of my blog posts about all of the different models including photos of each design.
Snife blog posts
Sep 21, 2012
Ron Cooper
Wayne!
I am so glad to see you're back in action! A week ago I was hoping you might be around to give one of our new member's some counsel on an SAK she was attempting gain knowledge about. Any knowledge about SAK's that I have pales in comparison to yours. So, I was not of much help I'm afraid?
In any event. I am certainly glad you're still around, and hopefully feeling a whole lot better, too!
Cheers!
Sep 22, 2012
Wayne Whitted
OK, well looking at her(Cindy Benson) knife photo it looks genuine and probably from around the early 1930's but I would need to see good clear close up photos to confirm that. The key will be a good photo of the tang stamp both sides.
Sep 22, 2012
Ron Cooper
Thanks, Wayne! That's pretty much what I told her. I hope you're feeling better! Have a good weekend!
Sep 22, 2012
Jan Carter
I like the SNIFE!!!!
I am glad your feeling a bit better too Wayne. It is always good to see you. Ron does a fantastic job with the SAK info but we all agree that you are our resident EXPERT!! Thanks for the input
Sep 22, 2012
Tobias Gibson
Thanks Wayne! Glad you're feelign better. somehow i knew you would have the answer. You're the SAK guru!
Sep 22, 2012
Wayne Whitted
The smaller 65mm "Esquire" sized Snife set of knives front and back all NIB condition and then I have a group shot of 6 of the larger Snife series most in NIB condition. I need to take an updated photo of the larger Snife models I have.
Sep 24, 2012
Ron Cooper
Thanks for posting all those Snife's, Wayne!
I remember the first time I saw one of those on eBay. The seller accurately described it as an SAK but did not distinguish it as a Wenger. My initial reaction was that this guy trying to pull the wool over someone's eyes. Some digging around proved me wrong and enlightened me to the fact that they are indeed colorful, albeit unusual, SAK's. Super nice collection you have!
Does anyone else have personal pics of Snife's that they would care to share?
Sep 24, 2012
Featured
Craig Henry
Cool Wayne! But I don't like that one with the eyeball....it makes me feel paranoid.
Sep 24, 2012
In Memoriam
D ale
Oct 11, 2012
Featured
Craig Henry
LOL! Now THAT'S the coolest SAK of all!
I need a Lightsaber!
Oct 11, 2012
Adriano Demarinis
They are available only in Bond Street Victorinox Retailer in London.
If you want to see other picturesvisit my gallery
Oct 12, 2012
Jan Carter
Adriano,
I have to admit before Wayne began sharing his collection with us I did not know that SAK's were so varied. I honestly had no idea they made small runs of only 100 knives. I REALLY had no idea they had a retailer on Bond Street in London but now I want to go there.
Wayne,
I like the lower pics. The one on the right with the bears and the one that looks like mosiac 4th in from the left
Oct 19, 2012
Jan Carter
I have a question brought about by the SAK photos we have seen. Do you collect a particular pattern of SAK or is it more for the "series"?
Nov 27, 2012
Ron Cooper
I have been overdue for a new SAK for quite a while now. So I was very happy when my neighborhood postal carrier knocked on my door and handed me the package containing my latest order from Central Valley Wholesale (a favorite source for new SAK's) this morning. The package held a fresh supply of Victorinox Multi-Tool Oil and a brand spanking new Vic Ranger with black cellidor "Plus" Scales. Observe...
(Thanks to Patrik I have now found the proper group to post my new Ranger in. Thanks, again, Patrik)
Dec 4, 2012
Featured
Craig Henry
Classic black.....very nice Ron!
Dec 15, 2012
Tobias Gibson
Just Arrived! My brand new 111mm Outrider. This is the 4th of my 111mm knives. I think it is going to give my Hunter a run for its money. The long screwdriver and scissors are pretty cool options! Pictures to follow. Right now i'm too busy playing and comparing!
Jan 9, 2013
Tobias Gibson
Here's an image or two of my Vic Outrider. Only negative so far - you need to open the scissors to deploy the long Phillips screwdriver. You have a similar problem with other in-line screwdrivers on the 111mm models. The in-line driver also snaps closes pretty fast and obviously the scissors need to be out of the way when closing. Other than that, this knife is excellent. As far as I can tell the scissors are the same as those found on the 91mm knives.
While the uncommon long Phillips is nice, I think I prefer the shorter in-line Phillips. I'd love it if they would swap the wrench on the Skipper and replace it with Scissors (maybe come up with a "Commodore" knife.) Anyway, here's a pic or two.
Jan 10, 2013