Blade And Edge Integrity
Victorinox brings a long history of well-made blades to the table. The blade is slim and short and therefore isn’t suitable for extended cutting or laborious tasks. However, it is more than adequate for most household and office tasks. Upon initial deployment, the blade seems flimsy. However, in years and years of usage, our testing team has yet to see any failures.
The Swiss Army is well known for two things: Swiss men between the ages of 19 and 34 are required to be trained and equipped to defend their neutral country, and the government commissions the construction of official Swiss Army knives from two domestic manufacturers. Victorinox is one of those producers. Both manufacturers must mark near the base of the main blades of the official knives. The Classic SD model is labeled there with the simple designation “Victorinox Swiss Made Stainless.”
This understated description of the blade material belies its sophisticated and reliable construction. The steel is a proprietary blend but works very well. It holds an edge consistently and sharpens easily.
Victorinox Classic Sd Review: Is This The Best Keychain Swiss Army Knife
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I still remember the day I got my first Swiss Army Knife way back in 2008. It was the Victorinox Classic SD. When I got it out of the package, it looked like a puny tool not good for anything. But over the years, it has proved to be one of the most used everyday carry tools I have.
Reason? The Classic SD is always with me, dangling from my keychain. But when the need arises, it is there to tackle any light-duty task.
I bet some people havent heard the name Victorinox but recognize the Classic SD and may also be carrying it in their keychain. Thats the power of a world-class product.
Victorinox Makes 3 Classes Of Swiss Army Knives
Victorinox breaks up its Swiss Army knives into 3, somewhat vague categories.
Small Pocket Knives
Small Swiss Army knives, like our Classic SD, range between 2 and 3 and generally feature six or fewer tools. These pocket knives emphasize portability over performance.
Medium Pocket Knives
Medium-size Swiss Army knives are the most common option and balance performance, cost, and portability. Most are about 3.5 to 4.5 long and feature between six and 10 tools on average.
We recently reviewed the Victorinox Spartan if you want to see a good example!
Victorinox Evolution S557
Large Pocket Knives & Multi-Tools
Finally, large Swiss Army knives are at least 4.5 long when extended and feature anywhere from six to a few dozen tools . These pocket knives directly compete with other popular multi-tools made by companies like Leatherman and Gerber .
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Ease Of Use And Carrying
Over the years, I have tried many small keychain multi-tools, from one-piece tools to plier-based ones. Some I have discarded because of lack of functionality, and some others because of their bulk and weight. The Classic SD is the only one that fulfilled most of my needs while being inconspicuous at the same time.
All the tools in the Classic SD are easily accessible, better than many other muti-functional keychain tools that I have used or seen. Yes, you need both hands and fingernails to open all the tools, but thats the only requirement of using the Classic SD.
Its so light and convenient in the pocket that I dont even feel or notice it. With just a single layer of tools, the Classic SD is the thinnest 58mm Swiss Army Knife. The 58mm family of SAKs have many other models, with the thickest being the Mini Champ .
You can use the key ring on the Classic SD to attach to your keychain. However, I have started using a carabiner hook to do the same.
That gives me the flexibility of attaching and detaching the SAK in a jiffy.
Very convenient, especially when I want to use the SAK for a considerable amount of time without the added weight of the keychain and other keys dangling from it.
Want more ways of carrying the Classic SD with you, including by attaching a clip to it? I have written a detailed post on it, covering not only the Classic SD but also many other bigger Swiss Army Knives.
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List Of Tools/functions In The Victorinox Classic Sd
Before I dive deep into what makes the Classic SD such an effective keychain tool, lets have a look at the feature set of this single-layer keychain SAK. I know you can get this info from other sources too, but just for the sake of completeness, here is the list.
- Nail file with flathead screwdriver tip
Yes, you have that many functions in this tiny 2.3-inch-long tool!
I know what you are thinking: this toy-like thing is probably just good for the show and not durable or suitable for any real task. Well, let me run you through my experiences of using this for the better part of a decade.
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Is The Victorinox Classic Sd Good For Everyday Carry
It really depends on your needs . We bought the Classic SD Swiss Army knife for our editors wife because her EDC needs are pretty minimal.
If your requirements are limited to opening boxes or packages, the Classic SD works well. If you need something that can handle a bit more, then wed either recommend a full-size Swiss Army knife or another EDC blade entirely .
Before we finish up, here are a few answers to Victorinox knives FAQs.
Consider Function Over Form
If youre new to knife collecting or everyday carry, youll find that a lot of knife brands and makers have a tendency to mask poor-quality steel, mediocre handle materials, or shoddy craftsmanship with neat-looking designs .
Dont let looks deceive you: a basic design made with high-quality materials will almost always outlast flashy knives made from lesser quality steel, etc.
Fortunately, this isnt a huge consideration for Victorinox knives. Most options have an almost classy look and feel, and theyre solid in the performance department!
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Swiss Army Knife Review: The Victorinox Classic Sd
Okay, so its important to remember that the Victorinox Classic SD isnt like most Swiss Army knives. This pocket knife is mostly intended as a backup optionits something compact and lightweight that you can keep on a keychain without a second thought.
Dimension-wise, its only about 2 long and weighs less than an ounce. That saidand without giving too much awaythis is a surprisingly high-quality multi-tool that feels just as sturdy and well-made as its larger counterparts.
Heres our full review!
Classic Sd Limited Editions And Special Editions
Classic SD Limited Editions and Special Editions
Victorinox releases Limited Edition models of the Classic SD every year. These are basically the same knife but with scales of different colors and designs. What makes them unique is that each design is available only for a certain period.
The Alox version of the Classic SD has its own charm. It is better designed with a slimmer profile and looks quite attractive. Victorinox also releases a unique Classic SD Alox as part of their Victorinox Annual Alox Limited Edition.
And then there is the Victorinox Classic Precious Alox Collection, a set of Victorinox Classic Swiss Army Knives with Alox scales having a tactile woven pattern.
To know more about the Alox SAK models along with the Alox Limited Edition and Classic Precious Alox Collection, read this article.
The Limited Editions and Special Editions of the Classic SD are geared more toward collectors due to their uniqueness. But they make excellent gifts nonetheless.
With such a huge variety of colors and designs, theres a Classic SD to match nearly any interest or personality.
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It Depends On Your Needs
Kershaw Blur vs. Victorinox Classic SD
Unless youre a knife collector, we always recommend basing your knife purchases on your needs. If youre looking for an everyday utility knife, medium-size Swiss Army knives probably make the most sense as they offer the best balance of features, size, and pricing.
We already have a suite of multi-tools and everyday carry knives , but we dont have too many mini knives so the Victorinox Classic SD fit our needs best.
Should You Buy The Victorinox Classic Sd Swiss Army
Our testing team’s long history with the Victorinox Classic SD knife inspires nostalgia for those first youthful feelings of independence and usefulness. Our lead test editor owned one as a kid and was asked to test one for OutdoorGearLab. In both sessions with the knife, his recommendation would be the same. This is an excellent knife for anyone who otherwise wouldn’t bother to carry a blade or pocket tool. We find it remarkable that Victorinox can afford to distribute such a quality piece of equipment at this affordable price. It will last you as long as you can keep track of it, and you’ll readily replace it when misplaced.
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Which Classic Sd Should I Get
The Beauty of the Classic SD series is the endless variety of colors and unique handle designs for every possible style and taste. They are available in several of the standard Swiss Army Knife colorways and new models and designs are regularly released. We love the Classic SD so much here at Blade HQ we have released several exclusive variations including the Loco Lobo, Blade HQ Blue, and the always popular Mermaid. Still can’t decide? Check out the overview video up top for a quick breakdown of the SD series.
Who Should Buy The Classic Sd
The combination of quality, function, and price, that the Victorinox Classic SD offers is unmatched by any other similar multi-tool in its category.
Also, with so many variations available, theres basically a design out there for you if you want something unique. This is one multi-tool that can be recommended to anyone and everyone.
Is The Classic SD for You?
Of course, even if you are otherwise reluctant to carry a knife!
Get one for yourself, and get some more as gifts for people you love. Believe me, once they start carrying it, they will quickly discover that this small knife is all they need on a daily basis.
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What Kind Of Tools Does The Classic Sd Have
Our Classic SD packs a lot into such a small package. Despite its size, it has a:
- Straight-edge blade
Overall, the build quality of the Classic SD Swiss Army knife is solid.
When we ordered ours we werent sure whether it would match the quality of standard-size Swiss Army knives or if it would be a lame novelty piece. Fortunately, the former proved true and the Classic SD really does feel and function like a normal Swiss Army knife despite its tiny size.
We did notice that the blade bends if you put a decent amount of pressure on itnothing that affects its performance, but enough to be noticeable. On the other hand, this is a thin piece of steel thats only about 1.5 long, so it might be more surprising if it didnt bend.
Victorinox Knives Review: The Victorinox Classic Sd
Victorinox knives are world famous. But, if youve never heard of Victorinox before, youre not alone. So how exactly can a company be relatively unrecognizable, yet world famous? Easy! By making one of the worlds most famous pocket knives of all time: the Swiss Army knife!
Victorinox Swiss Army knives have been a pocket mainstay for the better part of a century. Professional militaries, casual campers, boy scouts, and more have all taken advantage of the versatility and longevity that these knives offer.
But are all Swiss Army knives created equal? Thats exactly what were here to talk about! And today, were checking out a micro entry to the Swiss Army knife family: the Victorinox Classic SD.
Well get started with a little bit of history about the company, but feel free to to skip right to our review!
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Our Analysis And Test Results
The Classic SD Swiss Army Knife is a tiny, multi-purpose, well-made piece of equipment. If you hardly have room in your pocket or purse for more than a car key and a house key, the Classic SD should slide in virtually unnoticed. Unnoticed, that is until you need it. Despite the toy-like stature, this little tool packs in function and quality at a very affordable price. It is nearly the smallest in our test but comes with features, each very useful and functional, despite their tiny stature. If you are looking for a knife to virtually disappear on your keychain but roar to practical life whenever you need to tackle some light-duty task – – look no further than the Victorinox Classic SD. If this knife doesn’t satisfy your needs, you’ll probably want to look into getting yourself a multi-tool.
Authentic Swiss Army Knives Are Made With Victorinox Steel
Victorinox keeps the exact composition of the steel it uses in its knives under wraps. That said, the steel likely incorporates a fair amount of chromium as the knives have fantastic corrosion and wear resistance.
Additionally, Victorinox knives score relatively well in terms of hardness, edge retention, ease of sharpening, and general durability. Compared to other types of knife steel, wed say Victorinox steel is probably above average, but many options offer improved performance.
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Victorinox Classic Sd Swiss Army Knife Review + Rambler Comparison
Are you curious about the Victorinox Classic SD? Read on to learn more about this compact Swiss Army Knife and how it compares to the Victorinox Rambler.
Its incredibly handy having a small knife as part of your EDC. When it comes to small pocket knives, Victorinoxs Swiss Army Knives are the classic.
In this review, Ill share my thoughts on the Victorinox Classic SD to help you decide if itd be a good knife for your everyday carry. Ill also compare it to the Victorinox Rambler.
The Price And Availability
The Classic SD is an entry-level Swiss Army Knife, probably one of the cheapest SAK models you will find. This is one of the main reasons for its popularity.
I have seen the price fluctuating between $12 and $18, depending on the color of the scales, and also the time of the year. The first one I got for about $10 almost 12 years back.
Do you know?
The Classic SD is the most-sold Victorinox Swiss Army Knife worldwide. Along with the Victorinox Swiss Champ, the Classic SD has remained the most popular Swiss Army Knife for many years now.
I paid around $15 for the most recent one that I bought. Check the .
You can probably get used ones for far less if you look around. eBay is one marketplace where you can get second-hand Vic Classics dirt cheap.
But considering how cheap these already are, especially when compared to other keychain multi-tools, I would recommend you get a new one. I bet you wont regret it.
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Victorinox Knives Are Made In Switzerland
Ironically, the first true Swiss Army knives were actually made in Germany in the late 1800s because Switzerland didnt have the industrial capacity to produce them. Eventually, this changed, and all Swiss Army knives were either made by Victorinox or Wenger .
Today, all authentic Swiss Army knives are made in Switzerland.
Bonus: Victorinox Also Makes Watches
Victorinox is also known for making mid-range and luxury watches.
Total Knife Life Score: 80/100
Overall, the Victorinox Classic SD is a great pick for everyday carry and general utility. Itâs a great backup blade and features a couple useful tools to handle small tasks. The Classic SD is one of those pocket knives that finds its way onto you key ring and stays there. During my years carrying this small Swiss Army Knife, I have used it for everything from trimming strings and fingernails to pulling splinters and fixing bikes. Itâs a small, simple knife, but proves more useful than most regular size knives. With a huge assortment of colors and designs, thereâs a Classic SD for nearly any interest or personality. The great things about the Victorinox Classic SD certainly outweigh the bad and thatâs why it earned a solid 80/100 knife life score. Check out our full selection of Classic SDs by clicking below.
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