So cool to see a video where someone says, "Hey, I tested this thing and I'm going back to my previous choice." It's that honesty and integrity that make your channel so useful.
It’s like. Ok. I have little to say but if I say a negative it’ll let me find a positive. So. I’ll say a positive. I’m waiting for the negative. And so it continues. But. It’s all money in the bank. And it’s UA-cam paying. But in reality. You’re selling your self short. Easy money isn’t exhilarating. It’s boring. Do it for love not gain less is always more
If I remember correctly, and correct me if I'm wrong, but didn't you say didn't need those extra's that the Compact had because they were in your edc kit? Either way, cool video. The Compact has been my edc since watching your video on the Compact. The only time I don't carry it is at the school I work, so I carry the Victorinox Jetsetter instead.
@@kilruf I think the deal here is, sure, he has those tools but having the same tools in your pocket, easily at hand, suits him more because he uses those tools very frequently. Doesn't require opening a pouch, etc
Agree with your observation about the ‘non- threatening’ and friendly appearance of the familiar Victorinox. This is a key reason for this being my pocket knife of choice.
Well the blacked out is very aggressive looking. Color changes perception strongly. I once was at an Airport check with metal detector (for the visitor deck, so not as strict). My baby-blue Mini Griptillian was ok, but my Victorinox Spirit RT (dark glossy frame, polished tools). And let's face it, that makes no sense.
I retired 8 years ago from my job in corrections, where carrying any type of knife was strictly forbidden. I chose the Compact for my EDC. I carry it in a leather sheath made for me by a dear friend 40 years ago. I've found the Compact meets almost all of my needs. I've even used the pen on a few occasions!
Your previous videos had made me realize what I was missing when my EDC knife has evolved from a Boy Scout to a tactical knife. I had switched back to a three blade stockmen knife like I carried from elementary school through being a Marine grunt. I finally got a Compact just before you released the Ellis video, and have been very pleased to carry it for many of the same reasons as you. Now I’m fully back, after several decades, to EDC a utility pocket knife. Like you, and thanks to you, I found the Victorinox Compact hard to beat. I do have a Hunter for hiking and camping. Looking back, a Victorinox or Wenger was my go to even when my EDC was a Kabar and my knife was in constant use, from meal time to gear maintenance, and even personal grooming and minor medical chores.
Cool to hear you have a Hunter as well. It’s what I went with and I really enjoy it. Mind you some if that enjoyment is just pulling out all the tools to look at them, haha
There is a version of the compact that has a Phillips instead of the corkscrew. It's called the Duke of Edinburgh pocket tool. Bought one for my daughter to gift to her when she is older. For myself I had a compact modified and switch between the regular and the modified version when there is a need to...
I was disappointed when you went away from the Compact, but I’m glad you’re back. I bought one thanks to your previous review. I have 10 Victorinox knives, but the Compact is my go-to. I sometimes carry the Explorer, but I miss the file on the Compact hook.
I like this video and your brand as a whole. Many youtubers say that "this is the best thing ever and I'm only going to us this form now own" and we never see them use or talk about it again. Its also nice to see someone try new things and not just swear by the same old gear that they've always used.
Totally agree, I've carried a small knife in my pocket since I was a boy and I'm 54 now. Mostly a SAK of some sort and for the last 30 or so its been a Spartan. Nobody bats an eyelid when you pull a SAK out of your pocket (I've a AAA powered smally torch attached to mine which can be a hindrance and can be removed but adds to the 'fluffiness') as they're sort of known as a handy tool rather than a knife, all down to perception of course but that's where we're at so why make life hard for yourself by carrying some 'tacticool' looking pocket knife when there's a SAK that will cover pretty much all your bases whatever it is you're after (apart from a machete).
@@deeps2761 I carry a handyman despite the girth. The large blade never sees any use, the small blade is my package opener, otherwise it’s an entire toolbox in my pocket.
I've carried a Camper (I think) in the past and I didn't take to that slightly wider knife. That's absolutely batcrap crazy because I carry a lot of other gear in my pockets so don't have a leg to stand on with that logic but there ya go.... people, we're a strange bunch. There's pretty much a SAK for whatever you want though and I still have to stop and stare like a kid if I'm passing a display of SAK's.
Great video Jon. I like it when someone admits they were wrong in the light of new evidence. Great call out to Felix. He is a Swiss star! So practicality won out over style. I chose the Pioneer X alox after your video. Less doodads than the Compact but enough for me and so much more stylish/slimmer in my pocket.
I also purchased and daily carry the Pioneer X after watching Jon's video. It's a great tool. I do kinda wish the alox scales could be produced with the ability to include the two compartments to hold the toothpick and tweezers.
For years, I carried the Pioneer. In 2016, they came out with the Pioneer X. Since then, I have carried it a lot but I still often go back to the original Pioneer. I fully understand going back to what works for you.
My desire to own a Compact is gone (as I've realized my scissors use has greatly diminished and I never use the pen), but I completely understand why people like them. I have seen them modded with a Phillips screwdriver in place of the corkscrew. My favorite SAK carriers these days are Spartans, Tinkers, Pioneers, and Alox Bantams. A wood saw is a must if I'm doing yard work. From the Ellis being a little more intimidating to the bit about the ear hairs, there is much truth in this video. Nicely done!
@@dizawnofwizar I can't recall having gotten my SAK saws gummed up with sap. But they usually come pretty clean with warm water, mild dish soap (blue Dawn excels if you can get it), and a toothbrush.
I’ve been carrying a Spartan for years, I saw your video on the Compact with the KeySmart clip. This clip is a game changer, it keeps your SAK in place so it’s easy to get to. I used to fish around in my pocket trying to find my Spartan, not any more, I also bought a Compact which I just received and I am loving it. Thank you for videos and the great tip on SAK accessories, I’ll probably be ordering the Firefly ferro rods and tinder. Keep up the great work.
Glad your back! Please give more consideration to the humble hook. I use it often. Mostly to open tabs of packaging. Consider a product with clear plastic packaging with a tab clasp on one end.(usually for rectangular packages). With my hands to open the tab only pulls the sides in tighter till I must rip it and hopefully not cut myself on the rough jagged plastic. Much better to slide the hook in the packaging parallel to the tap. Turn perpendicular to catch the tab and pull open the package! For boxes like nails and screws, this saves the cardboard box from tearing making its reuse easy over and over. Lastly it’s a great zipper pull when you catch your clothes or gear in the teath of the zipper. I hope you give these suggestions a try. Thanks for reading my comment.
Nothing beats my Compact personally at this stage of my life. I actually just bought black scales to replace the original red to make it more preferable for me. A lot of us for sure keeps on coming back with Victorinox Compact.
I really love my compact, it's always on me even though for everyday cutting tasks I prefer a one-hand operated blade. But while those change rather often, the compact always stays in my other pockets because of its (in my eyes) perfect toolset for edc
I've had a similar experience with a similar SAK, the Climber (not going to go into why I prefer it over the Compact but really they're very similar). I own a Farmer X which is more or less the same thickness but still find myself carrying the Climber 5 days a week as (a) I am less afraid of losing it as the Farmer X is around 50 quid and my Climber was less than half that and (b) I use the small blade pretty much every day for mundane stuff like cutting boxes for the recycling at work. I have other nice knives with better blade steel like Manly Wasp in S90V or Bokerplus Atlas in 12C27 but these have less functionality - so I only carry them in combination with a multitool like the LM Squirt - and are a bit threatening looking in deepest London, so the Climber which I bought on a whim as it was a good price for the black scaled model at the time, and didn't carry a lot at first, has ended up being carried and used most. But like me it gets a weekend off so tomorrow it's probably the Farmer together with the Nextool Mini.
Great video, thanks! You know, I first got the Compact about a year ago, based solely on your recommendation, and carry it daily in the 5th pocket of my jeans. I saw your switch to the Ellis, but EDC a larger knife as well, a Spyderco, Benchmade, ZT, Chaves, Reeve, etc. And thought the James Brand stuff was overpriced for the steel you get, so just stuck with the Compact. I’m glad to see you take another look at your EDC needs and go back. I also have the tortoise gear setup on all my SAK’s, and it’s a great option. I learned quickly NOT to strike on the Firefly rod with the tip on the ground with the wire stripper pushing down as they’ll snap pretty easily (dumb lesson) but now do it correctly the way you show. Thanks again.
Glad you went back! I live in the USA and collected all different pocket knives from Chris Reeves to Victorinox. To this day a Swiss Army Knife is the only Knife that doesn't cause alarm in any way. Understandable in any environment. There is a positive level of intelligence tied to a SAK with no violent attributes and rightly so.
@@dizawnofwizar yup, in most cases but sometimes, because of the locking blade they can be misconstrued as a weapon. Not that it is, I think it's just an image thing.
Two reasons why the corkscrew is, for many, a better choice than the phillips screwdriver: 1 - Many other tools, such as included can opener tool, can be a screwdriver when needed. However, no other tool really works when you're facing a cork. 2 - The screwdriver lets you also include the eyeglasses mini-screwdriver, and, if desired, the tinder.
Welcome back to the Compact squad. Still the best urban EDC ever. The other day I fix my roborock with only a compact and a screwdriver, stripping wire, with the blade and combi tool, clean up hard places with the pin and the tweezer…etc feel so good!
Great video Jon. I finally picked up the Compact after watching many UA-camrs and scouring over the comments and have to say you are so right 👍 I really like it for an EDC. I have a pretty fair collection of Victorinox pocket knives that I have collected over the years to choose from but I think this one will be hard to beat. Glad you came back to it and that guys like you take the time to share these videos and information for everyone. Take care.
Just ordered a compact yesterday and can’t wait to get my hands on it. Been wanting it for many months and a 15% sale on Amazon give me the push to make a move and buy it. Love your channel, one of my favorite of all time. Thanks !
The years of experience Victorinox has in knife construction really paid off in the well designed Compact model. I like your tip in using the wire stripper to strike the Firefly, up until now I didn’t have a good use for that tool. I prefer using the blade to strip wire or a proper stripping tool. Thanks for the video, reminded me why I like the Compact model so much.
I used to use the small blade to strip wire too, I found it quicker than the cutter (with a bit of practice). My most left field use for a SAK tool was the awl for poking holes in your beret to put a cap badge through. Improvise, adapt and overcome and all that.
@@dizawnofwizar I do (and did) know mate but as I said, for what I was doing I figured out how much pressure to put on to cut the plastic and bite the end off quicker than folding the tool over. I was doing a lot of them at the time but whatever works eh ?
@@deeps2761 The proper technique isn't folding the knife blade over on the wire (which doesn't work at all on thicker SAKs anyways). But there is a technique to use the wire stripper that seems to work surprisingly well when you get the hang of it.
I like the changes to the editing! I had a feeling you'll come around 😉But every tool has its role, I guess for a nicer occasion you would prefer the Ellis.
These videos are always so informative: there's loads of detail about the equipment and the visuals + audio are excellent as well. JG is an ambassador for safe EDC knife use in the UK, and anyone who wants to own + carry a swiss army knife should refer to his videos. Great material.
LOL! Tweezers and the story ear hair! For all of us “of a certain age”, I heartily thank you for reminding me how often I use those tweezers for just that purpose! As I’ve aged it seems incredible to me how hair just seems to sprout from the most inopportune places. Great review!
I’ve had my huntsman for 41 years and still use it although I often carry my pioneer x. My most useful knife is a little alox sd for cutting and filing my nails. 🙂
I do absolutely agree on your decision, I own 8 Victorinox knifes and more than 50 pocket knifes in total, but the Compact is the one I carry all day and it never disappointed me for now.
So I’m a farmer and used several compacts since 25 yrs, I put a yellow cable tie loop on mine and find because the loop is stiff it’s the easiest way of pulling it out of your pocket with one finger.
I was just watching your 'my new edc is the james..' video, saw your comment that you'd update in a few months, and thought "great i'd like to see the update', then realize the video was posted a few months ago, so I came to your channel (and subscribed) to see if there was an update...and here we are. You're really playing with my EDC emotions here
I started with a Huntsman and then picked up a Handyman for the extra pliers and a more complete edc tool but just ordered the compact for warmer days I want to wear shorts or when I’m just bumming around home in just track pants for something a little lighter but still chock full of useful tools. Wasn’t really on my radar but thanks to UA-camrs like yourself I have since seen the light! Great little edc on those days you might want something a little lighter, slimmer and basic! I love it! Love Swiss Army ❤
I think the perfect EDC tool is going to vary greatly depending on the person. I use a SOG powerpint, which is somewhat similar to the leatherman micra. It's tiny but the tools are all quite functional. I have a full sized leatherman, but it tends to stay at home or in a larger bag. The powerpint is always on me. It's light, totally non-threatening, and does so much. The leatherman micra is pretty nice as well (the one with the scissors in lieu of pliers). The big scissors are excellent. But the other tools are a bit flimsy. I had a gerber dime too. it's better than the micra, but the scissors were too small, pliers too thin, and the bottle opener can get in the way. And it's just slightly too small.
I love the PowerPint… very capable pliers and locking tools (impressive for the size). But I find myself missing the scissors on the compact (also the combi-tool for cleaning my nails). The PowerPint and Compact compliment each other nicely.
Nice to see that your Compact is back. I use a Victorinox Compact as my daily goto EDC knife, i carry mine in a homemade canvas holster together with a small torch. I think i use it everyday. Sometimes my coworkers calls to me do you have your tools on you. About thd pin, in every Victorino i own if they can carry a pin i put one there.
I love that your channel just reads like every one else that EDCs stuff. "Ohhhhh a new shiney, I love this thing, this is perfect!" .... then stuff happens and you miss that other perfect thing you liked before and you back and forth. Great content!
Happy Friday Jon, the parable of the return of the prodigal son comes to mind. I told you that the James Brand Ellis is not an EDC knife its a Wottsisname, an undefined gizmo more suited as a door stop, paper weight or a waiters cheese knife as serrated edge blades are only suitable for cutting bread & cheese. I hope you will be donating your JBE to the Oxfam Shop. As you know I am not a fan of the Compact & mine languishes in the cupboard since like Maestro Felix Immler I prefer to carry the Huntsman ( albeit mine are fitted with plus scales, a SwissQlip for convenient pocket carry & firefly ferro rod instead of a toothpick, tinder & eyeglass screwdriver on the corkscrew ), the Climber ( decked out like the Huntsman with add ons ) & a number of other SAK's that I wont detail here as you cant legally carry them as they are lock blades & some over the 3" blade limit in the UK . I also have in my EDC rotation the Pioneer X & Farmer X and several flipper knives as I am covered for the tools they lack by my permanent key ring carry SAK, currently a hybrid SilverTech scaled 58mm Midnite Mini-Champ. Just one more observation of why I was disappointed with the Compact is that it wont take the SwissQlip like almost all the other popular SAK's & its just too long to fit in the ticket pocket of a pair of jeans unlike most of the 84/85 mm 2 & 3 layer useful SAK's I own including the various Wengers & Victorinox models that have a scissors & corkscrew enabling them to carry the fire ant & tinder set up just like the 91mm models
Hi Steve 🤣 you're options are great and I have many of them! The Keysmart Nano does a brilliant job for the Compact carry and I wouldn't change to a SwissQlip even if it did fit! I'm glad to be back 👍
@@JonGadget Its good to have you back in the Brotherhood of the SAK. We all occasionally get seduced by the sirens song of some new gadget but sooner or later we come to our senses & realize that the SAK is the king of the EDC hill when it comes to practicality, reliability, availability and often on price too!
@@JonGadget Happy Monday, I have an announcement which will no doubt please a devotee of the Compact like you. " The Victorinox Compact is BACK in my EDC rotation as from today July 4th 2022 " This morning I was doing a checking & cleaning of my SAK collection in my cupboard. By chance I found a set of unused 91mm Rubi red translucent Plus scales that I had forgotten about ( I have several brand new & reusable 58mm, 85mm, 91mm & 111mm scale sets ) and having checked & cleaned off any dust on several disused SAK's including my almost never carried 91mm Compact, I decided on the spur of the moment to take off those dull & boring Red Plus scales on my Compact & fit it with Rubi Red Plus scales! My favourite SAK scale colours are SilverTech followed by Rubi Red then Sapphire Blue & so within a few minutes I had mounted the brilliant Rubi Red Plus scales on my Compact & thought "go all the way old son! " and decked it out with a Firefly ferro rod in place of the useless toothpick & put a tinder spiral held down by the micro-screwdriver on the corkscrew, replaced the 91mm sized split ring with the small 58mm sized split ring, added a green & black nylon Victorinox lanyard & a put a straight pin in the pin shaft and after satisfying myself that this dolled up Compact was in order popped it into a skai ( artificial leather ) pocket sheath & carried it in my pocket when I went out today! ( I also had in my pockets my 58mm key ring SilverTech Midnite Mini-Champ SAK in its sheath & a 3" blade assisted opening Kershaw Leek lock back knife ). Now back at home the knife I have on the computer desk in front of me as I type this is my revitalized 91mm Rubi Red Compact & I put it down to your good ( or bad ) influence on me in reintroducing the Compact into my EDC rotation, so Jon a big thanks to you for inspiring me, like yourself, to put the Compact back into service !
Great video. A lot of people feel like going back is somehow wrong, but it isn't. I personally had a similar evolution, from multi tools to a tactical knife (USA), but I added on instead of going back. I found I had a lot of uses for the larger blade that wouldn't be fulfilled by the multi tool, so now I carry both a Victorinox minichamp and a ZT or OKT RAT.
I love the Compact for its size. That said, I’ve settled on the Explorer because it has an in-line Philip’s (and as a dad, using the Philip’s to open battery compartments of my kids toys is one of the most common things I use my SAK for). Likewise, if ever there was anything less intimidating than the Victornox logo when using a knife in public, it’s the Victornox logo plus the Eagle Scout badge - which the Explorer offers but the Compact doesn’t.
Glad you recommended Felix “Hello UA-cam “ Immler. He’s a legend. I don’t think I’ll ever get round to all the tricks and clever uses he has on his channel. Or even some of your tips ( ear hair pulling!). But I love all things SAK and have but a few choice models that I love. Your presentations confirm my choices are justified.
I was thinking about you last week when I was using my Compact to solve more than one problem on a tractor-trailer connection here in the USA. I thought, "I wonder how Jon is making out with the.....the......um, that black knife he switched to a while back! " Happy to see your initial logic prevailed. And THANKS AGAIN for helping me sort out my EDC preferences in a real-world thought process. Now if I can just find a more compact alternative to a Cold Steel Espada XL......
I went with the Victorinox based on your remommendation. The Compact replaces so many other tools that it has become my indispensable companion...if anything I'll probably buy another one just to have a back up!
Ya know, it’s funny how us knife guys will spend untold amounts of money on expensive modern folders, or vintage sought after slip joints, but when it comes down to practical usefulness, it’s always the SAK. I would say I’ve recommended the SAK as a first knife to people, more than anything else. In fact, I was on the modern folder kick for awhile, until I bought a new huntsman and then I totally got into slip joints over modern folders.
After your original vid suggesting the key smart clip for the compact, I decided to epoxy mine onto the scales of my compact for deep carry. It’s been great and the key smart is holding up well, despite a little discoloration.
Hello, Jonathan - Good video! Once you have used the"tried & true" it's kind of hard to stay away for too long...you begin to miss it...I know you like thinner, but may I suggest the Explorer & if you can get the scales, make it into a plus...like your new intro & outro & music...nice!
The EDC knife is an extremely personal thing, what's right for one person is totally wrong for another. For me, the Victorinox Deluxe Tinker is the best fit, I've been carrying one for at least 30 years. The way that I carry it on my belt means that I don't notice the weight but on occasion I do notice the size when I'm forced to lay on the floor to repair something and roll onto that side. I cannot count how many time these knives have bailed me out of a situation, as I'm sure all Victorinox owners can. They are wonderful little knives. Very nice video, Jon. Oh yea, I also carry a Victorinox Classic on my key chain, sometimes smaller is better. 😀
I love a Victorinox and carry the Explorer as I need to read the tiny print on stuff that I am building all the time, and the magnifying glass is essential. I would love to see some gadgets around us older guys who need such enhancements to keep doing what we love HEHe I find your honesty and precise style to be totally refreshing and I am a huge fan of your channel!
Right! The Compact is a “stand alone” carry, but in sacrificing the extra goodies of the Compact assumes you are carrying an additional case to supplement. One does not always carry all the additional accouchements.
I completely agree that the Swiss Army knife is seen as a work tool and far less threatening. This is a huge important feature in the U.K. Its really not worth the hassle and risk of arrest carrying a knife that is strictly legal but looks threatening.
I know what you mean, I bought a Manly Wasp in S90V and put a thumb stud on it so I can open it one handed, and it's still completely legal to EDC but living in London I tend not to or if I do I never take it out in public, whereas I can do that with my SAKs.
My compact version is from 1992 and called a timekeeper because it has a watch in it, it's a bit different because there's no file on the back of the hook and also no tweezer. That's because the watch sits there. Glad you went back to the compact..
I love my compact! It has a place in my pocket. Since I’ve picked mine up some time last year. I’ve been watching the prices on them go up! Seems you can’t find a “new” one for under $40+!🤦🏻♂️ Speaking of the “Super Tinker”. It’s the one knife I keep on my side in a small cordura sheath. It only gets used when I have bigger tasks that my Compact can’t complete. Sometimes I carry a Bantam or Waiter, or even the Walker since they are smaller than my others and aren’t as intimidating as the others. ( Yes Some people think that my Super Tinker is a little intimidating 🤷🏻♂️🤦🏻♂️) I’ll carry the smaller 84mm’s when I can’t carry the others. They usually will ride in my wallet because they are small.
Yup, they went up in price based on their usefulness. If you have an Amazon prime account save it to your list as well as a few other SAKs you might like and you will be able to get notifications of price changes. They tend to go up and down on Amazon quite a bit. I have paid $30 for a brand new Huntsman and $20 for a Spartan. You just need to catch them at the right time.
I don’t have a compact yet but very tempted to get one. I think I would prefer the awl (with a file on it) to the hook. I just modded a Rambler to be an “Alox” Rambler with titanium scalers. Very happy with it. It’s now made me think that I could mod a Minichamp down to complement a Compact. Or mod both. Perhaps removing the scissors on the compact and replacing them with two tools since the scissors are still pretty good on the Rambler.
If the corkscrew was replaced with a Philips head and the hook with a nail file it would be the perfect tool. Still gonna use it cos it’s the most compact and useful medium size tool that has a pen but god a man can dream
Perfect Jon, many times i changed some edc gear and many times i went back to my older stuff. In Switzerland we say, you can better cook on a old pan.👍😏 Kind regards Eugene
You inadvertently sold me on the Ellis. My must haves are a substantial blade, scissors and a clip. In my wallet I carry a Swiss Card Lite which has anything else I want. I was turned off by the half serrated blade on the Ellis but on their website they show a full straight blade. Given the quality you have mentioned, I ordered it. I’m excited.
I’m waiting for an Ellis two, even though I’ve seen the (clearly planned, but still good) return to the SAK. But for use case (emergency services) the serrated blade is exactly what I need to cut clothing and other fibrous things.
I saw that little pocket clip and I'm buying like three! I always carry a SAK in my left pocket and my main tool or knife in the right, and that clip is brilliant!
I was searching and searching for my everyday carry and I knew I wanted it to be 2 layered not 3, have the standard blade plus scissors and the corkscrew after watching some of your reviews. After looking at various UK high street sites I thought I was going to have to compromise on either the Spartan or the Climber and then I saw your review on your top 8 Victorinox and at last, it does exist!- the Compact, has everything I think I might need everyday and nothing that I wont - that's what you want in your pocket! Great videos, keep up the good work and thank you👍
I saw the video when you went away from the compact and it had me thinking. I’m not surprised you went back to it. I’ve carried a Leatherman Juice SC2 for almost 20 years.
I ADORE my Vic Compact. Hook can be use to retrieve keys if to deep to grab, just tie some cord on the SAK with the hook opened and lower to get keys or whatever you can with the hook.
I agree with your assessment of the Compact. I have recommended it to others, and it isn't until they actually buy and use it that they understand my enthusiasm. I have many other Swiss Army Knives, but I find myself reaching for the Compact very often. In the 58mm range, I like the Vagabond, discontinued, but worth finding on the used marketplace.
Great video! Always fine to hear opinions based on experience. I learned a truth two years ago: it's impossible to get rid of these red things as soon as you get them, hahaha. One may say that you're being unnecessarily focused in minor details - like the scale texture and clip - but those "minor details" truly show up in everyday carry and use and may be really annoying to just ignore.
I carry the explorer daily and it seems to me to be a somewhat overlooked tool. I was looking at a huntsman but what swung it was the end mounted Philips seemed more day to day useful than a saw and luckily I was right. If I'm going to be anywhere that I'll need a saw chances are I'll have my leatherman anyway. Granted tye explorer is a but chunky but I'm not a skinny jeans type of guy anyway. Reckon I'll look at that firefly though looks very useful as I never use the toothpick either. Cheers dude keep up the good work, as fellow Brit it's nice to have a UK EDC guy that also has to conform to our silly knife laws. 👍
Grest video. I also purchased a Compact. It will arrive today and will replace my current Bantam as EDC knife because of more options by being light and compact at the same time.
In the American vernacular "I love me some Felix too!" I am also quit fond of your series. Thanks for this video. I have a small collection of knives and I am currently trying to explain to my wife why I need "just one more" and I think you've just shown me the perfect knife. Help me by wishin' me good luck with the Mrs. So here I go. Thanks again!
Late to the party. For me the Executive beats the Compact in terms of functionality. I've carried the Executive for something like 30 years. I've tried several others but like the Executive form factor; two layer, 75mm, twin blades. After watching your video's, and hearing your commitment to the Compact, I purchased one and have been trying. What I like about the Compact is the more robust blade and scissors. I miss the file on the Executive that also doubles as a phillips screw driver as well as the small blade. I also really like the lighter weight of the Executive. The Compact has certainly earned a place in the rotation; but the Executive is still my go to EDC Knife. To be sure, habit plays a large part in my preference! You also introduced me to the KeySmart clip, I don't know how I got along without it! I did have to change pockets, I had always carried my knife in my left pocket, with the clip I find the right pocket makes much more sense to easily operate the clip. Easy adjustment!
You just saved me quite a bit of money. Thanks! It turns out it's hard to beat the original and I already have a couple of Victorinox knives that do their job very well.
I wouldn't say it beats the Compact, but I find myself carrying the Victorinox Spartan a bit more than my Compact. With that said, I added a mini screwdriver and pin to my Spartan because I missed those features from the Compact. The two tools are pretty similar and are about the same price, so I think it just depends on which tool set fits your needs better.
I might have been your channel that suggested the Compact pairs well with the original Swisstool multi tool. They appear to compliment each other in terms of functionality; what either tool lacks the other probably has available. I am convinced.
Your first video made me think about getting a compact. Your newer video is gonna make me get one right now. As I mentioned in the last video, the only thing that would make the compact perfect is if they made one in Alox WITH the pen, tweezers, toothpick, and pin.
I dont like to say it(but l do really) "l told you so"... all the small features add up into something that is unreal handy. Full points for trying something new too.
Love the compact I find myself using the spartan on a daily basis also have a pin and fire rod in the cork screw I like to use the awl reamer for striking cheers mate
I am getting the Super Tinker for my first Swiss Army knife! I was considering the Compact, but I don't drink wine. It should arrive in few days, really looking forward to it!
@@JonGadget Glad that you confirmed my choice! I was also considering the Fieldmaster for that extra saw blade. But I'm not sure if it'll feel comfortable in my pocket as it looks too bulky and I've only needed to saw something like once in two years. Why don't they create the Compat but with a screw driver anyway? Maybe because it'll kill other models? :D
So cool to see a video where someone says, "Hey, I tested this thing and I'm going back to my previous choice." It's that honesty and integrity that make your channel so useful.
Thanks Jason that's appreciated.
It’s like. Ok. I have little to say but if I say a negative it’ll let me find a positive. So. I’ll say a positive. I’m waiting for the negative. And so it continues. But. It’s all money in the bank. And it’s UA-cam paying. But in reality. You’re selling your self short. Easy money isn’t exhilarating. It’s boring. Do it for love not gain less is always more
If I remember correctly, and correct me if I'm wrong, but didn't you say didn't need those extra's that the Compact had because they were in your edc kit? Either way, cool video. The Compact has been my edc since watching your video on the Compact. The only time I don't carry it is at the school I work, so I carry the Victorinox Jetsetter instead.
I thought it was his buttery accent and mild mannerisms
@@kilruf I think the deal here is, sure, he has those tools but having the same tools in your pocket, easily at hand, suits him more because he uses those tools very frequently. Doesn't require opening a pouch, etc
Thanks a lot for this interesting reasons why you go with the Victorinox. Greetings from Switzerland
Hi Felix, hope you are keeping well.
When legends collide!
Agree with your observation about the ‘non- threatening’ and friendly appearance of the familiar Victorinox. This is a key reason for this being my pocket knife of choice.
Well the blacked out is very aggressive looking. Color changes perception strongly.
I once was at an Airport check with metal detector (for the visitor deck, so not as strict). My baby-blue Mini Griptillian was ok, but my Victorinox Spirit RT (dark glossy frame, polished tools). And let's face it, that makes no sense.
wish I could...but no
..the Compact is king unless you make a custom one.
yep - that's how I see it as well Dom
I retired 8 years ago from my job in corrections, where carrying any type of knife was strictly forbidden. I chose the Compact for my EDC. I carry it in a leather sheath made for me by a dear friend 40 years ago. I've found the Compact meets almost all of my needs. I've even used the pen on a few occasions!
So glad to have you back among "us"!!! Best regards.
Victorinox Fundamentalist Group.
Your previous videos had made me realize what I was missing when my EDC knife has evolved from a Boy Scout to a tactical knife. I had switched back to a three blade stockmen knife like I carried from elementary school through being a Marine grunt. I finally got a Compact just before you released the Ellis video, and have been very pleased to carry it for many of the same reasons as you. Now I’m fully back, after several decades, to EDC a utility pocket knife. Like you, and thanks to you, I found the Victorinox Compact hard to beat. I do have a Hunter for hiking and camping. Looking back, a Victorinox or Wenger was my go to even when my EDC was a Kabar and my knife was in constant use, from meal time to gear maintenance, and even personal grooming and minor medical chores.
Thanks for the great feedback Doug 👍
Cool to hear you have a Hunter as well. It’s what I went with and I really enjoy it. Mind you some if that enjoyment is just pulling out all the tools to look at them, haha
@@lemmyjoker3678 A fidget toy since whenever the first one was made.
There is a version of the compact that has a Phillips instead of the corkscrew. It's called the Duke of Edinburgh pocket tool. Bought one for my daughter to gift to her when she is older.
For myself I had a compact modified and switch between the regular and the modified version when there is a need to...
Unfortunately the DoE knife seems to only be available in the UK. I also don't like how they rounded the knife end. Makes it much less usable.
I was disappointed when you went away from the Compact, but I’m glad you’re back. I bought one thanks to your previous review. I have 10 Victorinox knives, but the Compact is my go-to. I sometimes carry the Explorer, but I miss the file on the Compact hook.
Hi Kevin. It looks like the Compact is going to be hard to beat!
Same here, Compact my number one and sometimes Explorer. I own 8 knives / multitools and love them all but Compact is the king for daily urban EDC 🥳
There's a file on the Manager, except for the corkscrew the Manager has smaller versions of tools but is even smaller.
I like this video and your brand as a whole. Many youtubers say that "this is the best thing ever and I'm only going to us this form now own" and we never see them use or talk about it again. Its also nice to see someone try new things and not just swear by the same old gear that they've always used.
This is exactly the appeal of victorinox, the blade is non threatening and the tool set is unmatched.
yeah exactly
Totally agree, I've carried a small knife in my pocket since I was a boy and I'm 54 now. Mostly a SAK of some sort and for the last 30 or so its been a Spartan. Nobody bats an eyelid when you pull a SAK out of your pocket (I've a AAA powered smally torch attached to mine which can be a hindrance and can be removed but adds to the 'fluffiness') as they're sort of known as a handy tool rather than a knife, all down to perception of course but that's where we're at so why make life hard for yourself by carrying some 'tacticool' looking pocket knife when there's a SAK that will cover pretty much all your bases whatever it is you're after (apart from a machete).
very true!
@@deeps2761 I carry a handyman despite the girth. The large blade never sees any use, the small blade is my package opener, otherwise it’s an entire toolbox in my pocket.
I've carried a Camper (I think) in the past and I didn't take to that slightly wider knife. That's absolutely batcrap crazy because I carry a lot of other gear in my pockets so don't have a leg to stand on with that logic but there ya go.... people, we're a strange bunch. There's pretty much a SAK for whatever you want though and I still have to stop and stare like a kid if I'm passing a display of SAK's.
Great video Jon. I like it when someone admits they were wrong in the light of new evidence. Great call out to Felix. He is a Swiss star! So practicality won out over style. I chose the Pioneer X alox after your video. Less doodads than the Compact but enough for me and so much more stylish/slimmer in my pocket.
Thanks Mark - Pioneer X is a great option.
I also purchased and daily carry the Pioneer X after watching Jon's video. It's a great tool. I do kinda wish the alox scales could be produced with the ability to include the two compartments to hold the toothpick and tweezers.
For years, I carried the Pioneer. In 2016, they came out with the Pioneer X. Since then, I have carried it a lot but I still often go back to the original Pioneer. I fully understand going back to what works for you.
My desire to own a Compact is gone (as I've realized my scissors use has greatly diminished and I never use the pen), but I completely understand why people like them. I have seen them modded with a Phillips screwdriver in place of the corkscrew. My favorite SAK carriers these days are Spartans, Tinkers, Pioneers, and Alox Bantams. A wood saw is a must if I'm doing yard work.
From the Ellis being a little more intimidating to the bit about the ear hairs, there is much truth in this video. Nicely done!
Thanks for the feedback and comments 👍
My favorite SAK is the Fieldmaster. Double blades, scissors, saw, & no corkscrew.
i'm not really a big fan of the saw. Sure it can be handy but damn does it get FILTHY with sap and crap. difficult to clean.
@@dizawnofwizar I can't recall having gotten my SAK saws gummed up with sap. But they usually come pretty clean with warm water, mild dish soap (blue Dawn excels if you can get it), and a toothbrush.
@@daninmi1648 SAK saws are designed for green wood that's why they don't gunk up like others.
I’ve been carrying a Spartan for years, I saw your video on the Compact with the KeySmart clip. This clip is a game changer, it keeps your SAK in place so it’s easy to get to. I used to fish around in my pocket trying to find my Spartan, not any more, I also bought a Compact which I just received and I am loving it. Thank you for videos and the great tip on SAK accessories, I’ll probably be ordering the Firefly ferro rods and tinder. Keep up the great work.
Glad your back! Please give more consideration to the humble hook. I use it often. Mostly to open tabs of packaging. Consider a product with clear plastic packaging with a tab clasp on one end.(usually for rectangular packages). With my hands to open the tab only pulls the sides in tighter till I must rip it and hopefully not cut myself on the rough jagged plastic.
Much better to slide the hook in the packaging parallel to the tap. Turn perpendicular to catch the tab and pull open the package!
For boxes like nails and screws, this saves the cardboard box from tearing making its reuse easy over and over. Lastly it’s a great zipper pull when you catch your clothes or gear in the teath of the zipper.
I hope you give these suggestions a try. Thanks for reading my comment.
Thanks for the great suggestions - I am beginning to appreciate the hook more!
Nothing beats my Compact personally at this stage of my life. I actually just bought black scales to replace the original red to make it more preferable for me. A lot of us for sure keeps on coming back with Victorinox Compact.
I really love my compact, it's always on me even though for everyday cutting tasks I prefer a one-hand operated blade. But while those change rather often, the compact always stays in my other pockets because of its (in my eyes) perfect toolset for edc
I've had a similar experience with a similar SAK, the Climber (not going to go into why I prefer it over the Compact but really they're very similar). I own a Farmer X which is more or less the same thickness but still find myself carrying the Climber 5 days a week as (a) I am less afraid of losing it as the Farmer X is around 50 quid and my Climber was less than half that and (b) I use the small blade pretty much every day for mundane stuff like cutting boxes for the recycling at work. I have other nice knives with better blade steel like Manly Wasp in S90V or Bokerplus Atlas in 12C27 but these have less functionality - so I only carry them in combination with a multitool like the LM Squirt - and are a bit threatening looking in deepest London, so the Climber which I bought on a whim as it was a good price for the black scaled model at the time, and didn't carry a lot at first, has ended up being carried and used most. But like me it gets a weekend off so tomorrow it's probably the Farmer together with the Nextool Mini.
Yeah, I like having the secondary blade and the awl/reamer.
Great video, thanks! You know, I first got the Compact about a year ago, based solely on your recommendation, and carry it daily in the 5th pocket of my jeans. I saw your switch to the Ellis, but EDC a larger knife as well, a Spyderco, Benchmade, ZT, Chaves, Reeve, etc. And thought the James Brand stuff was overpriced for the steel you get, so just stuck with the Compact. I’m glad to see you take another look at your EDC needs and go back.
I also have the tortoise gear setup on all my SAK’s, and it’s a great option. I learned quickly NOT to strike on the Firefly rod with the tip on the ground with the wire stripper pushing down as they’ll snap pretty easily (dumb lesson) but now do it correctly the way you show. Thanks again.
Classic: “I use the tweezer to grab a stray ear hair” That’s the clincher for me!. 😁 Welcome back to the SAK Compact. 👍🏻
Thank you 😁
Glad you went back! I live in the USA and collected all different pocket knives from Chris Reeves to Victorinox. To this day a Swiss Army Knife is the only Knife that doesn't cause alarm in any way. Understandable in any environment. There is a positive level of intelligence tied to a SAK with no violent attributes and rightly so.
@@charlesandrews2513 thanks Charles! 😊
Thanks Brian (and Charles) I completely agree 👍
leatherman products don't have negative connotations. If anyone asks it's 'ah it's just my multitool'. Regardless of how accessible the blade is.
@@dizawnofwizar yup, in most cases but sometimes, because of the locking blade they can be misconstrued as a weapon. Not that it is, I think it's just an image thing.
Two reasons why the corkscrew is, for many, a better choice than the phillips screwdriver:
1 - Many other tools, such as included can opener tool, can be a screwdriver when needed. However, no other tool really works when you're facing a cork.
2 - The screwdriver lets you also include the eyeglasses mini-screwdriver, and, if desired, the tinder.
Welcome back to the Compact squad. Still the best urban EDC ever. The other day I fix my roborock with only a compact and a screwdriver, stripping wire, with the blade and combi tool, clean up hard places with the pin and the tweezer…etc feel so good!
It is a great feeling!
Great video Jon. I finally picked up the Compact after watching many UA-camrs and scouring over the comments and have to say you are so right 👍 I really like it for an EDC. I have a pretty fair collection of Victorinox pocket knives that I have collected over the years to choose from but I think this one will be hard to beat. Glad you came back to it and that guys like you take the time to share these videos and information for everyone. Take care.
Just ordered a compact yesterday and can’t wait to get my hands on it. Been wanting it for many months and a 15% sale on Amazon give me the push to make a move and buy it. Love your channel, one of my favorite of all time. Thanks !
The years of experience Victorinox has in knife construction really
paid off in the well designed Compact model. I like your tip in
using the wire stripper to strike the Firefly, up until now I didn’t
have a good use for that tool. I prefer using the blade to strip wire
or a proper stripping tool. Thanks for the video, reminded me why
I like the Compact model so much.
No problem - you're welcome.
I used to use the small blade to strip wire too, I found it quicker than the cutter (with a bit of practice).
My most left field use for a SAK tool was the awl for poking holes in your beret to put a cap badge through. Improvise, adapt and overcome and all that.
you should look up a video on how to use the SAK wire stripper properly. It's not how you think.
@@dizawnofwizar I do (and did) know mate but as I said, for what I was doing I figured out how much pressure to put on to cut the plastic and bite the end off quicker than folding the tool over. I was doing a lot of them at the time but whatever works eh ?
@@deeps2761 The proper technique isn't folding the knife blade over on the wire (which doesn't work at all on thicker SAKs anyways). But there is a technique to use the wire stripper that seems to work surprisingly well when you get the hang of it.
Two layers are my favorite for EDC
I like the changes to the editing!
I had a feeling you'll come around 😉But every tool has its role, I guess for a nicer occasion you would prefer the Ellis.
The Ellis will find a place - it's a good knife - just not my EDC 😊
Called it! This is why I enjoy you videos Jon, we're often on the same wavelength when it comes to EDC.
You did call it!
These videos are always so informative: there's loads of detail about the equipment and the visuals + audio are excellent as well. JG is an ambassador for safe EDC knife use in the UK, and anyone who wants to own + carry a swiss army knife should refer to his videos. Great material.
Good that you went back to the light, a reminder of the old saying "If your EDC ain't broke, don't fix it"
yes!
LOL! Tweezers and the story ear hair! For all of us “of a certain age”, I heartily thank you for reminding me how often I use those tweezers for just that purpose! As I’ve aged it seems incredible to me how hair just seems to sprout from the most inopportune places. Great review!
Ha! I'm glad I'm not alone on that one 🤣
Totally agree! My most use for the tweezers 😅
I am learning this pain. Usually use different tweezers though
Lol, I get mine waxed
I’ve had my huntsman for 41 years and still use it although I often carry my pioneer x. My most useful knife is a little alox sd for cutting and filing my nails. 🙂
I do absolutely agree on your decision, I own 8 Victorinox knifes and more than 50 pocket knifes in total, but the Compact is the one I carry all day and it never disappointed me for now.
So I’m a farmer and used several compacts since 25 yrs, I put a yellow cable tie loop on mine and find because the loop is stiff it’s the easiest way of pulling it out of your pocket with one finger.
I think that’s a great idea! I’m going to give that a try-thanks!
I almost changed to the Ellis, but kept with the Compact in the end. Now I feel happy having saves £110 in the process! Thanks Jon. 👍
The Ellis is good but I couldn't cope with sacrificing so much compared with the Ellis.
I switch from the Cadet to the compact for my EDC. Thanks for reviewing this knife.
I was just watching your 'my new edc is the james..' video, saw your comment that you'd update in a few months, and thought "great i'd like to see the update', then realize the video was posted a few months ago, so I came to your channel (and subscribed) to see if there was an update...and here we are. You're really playing with my EDC emotions here
And mine 😵💫
Nice review. I ordered my compact today. It is exactly what I wanted. Thank you
I started with a Huntsman and then picked up a Handyman for the extra pliers and a more complete edc tool but just ordered the compact for warmer days I want to wear shorts or when I’m just bumming around home in just track pants for something a little lighter but still chock full of useful tools. Wasn’t really on my radar but thanks to UA-camrs like yourself I have since seen the light! Great little edc on those days you might want something a little lighter, slimmer and basic! I love it! Love Swiss Army ❤
I think the perfect EDC tool is going to vary greatly depending on the person. I use a SOG powerpint, which is somewhat similar to the leatherman micra. It's tiny but the tools are all quite functional. I have a full sized leatherman, but it tends to stay at home or in a larger bag. The powerpint is always on me. It's light, totally non-threatening, and does so much.
The leatherman micra is pretty nice as well (the one with the scissors in lieu of pliers). The big scissors are excellent. But the other tools are a bit flimsy. I had a gerber dime too. it's better than the micra, but the scissors were too small, pliers too thin, and the bottle opener can get in the way. And it's just slightly too small.
I love the PowerPint… very capable pliers and locking tools (impressive for the size). But I find myself missing the scissors on the compact (also the combi-tool for cleaning my nails). The PowerPint and Compact compliment each other nicely.
Nice to see that your Compact is back. I use a Victorinox Compact as my daily goto EDC knife, i carry mine in a homemade canvas holster together with a small torch. I think i use it everyday. Sometimes my coworkers calls to me do you have your tools on you. About thd pin, in every Victorino i own if they can carry a pin i put one there.
great feedback and good to know 👍
I recently bought a Real Steel Luna LIte and gave it a try for everyday carry, but after a couple weeks went back to my Victorinox Compact.
Cheers John! I just got mine in the mail and couldnt be more pleased. Im hoping to carry it for many years
Thanks for posting this review 😊. The pen also fits into the corkscrew for writing.
I love that your channel just reads like every one else that EDCs stuff. "Ohhhhh a new shiney, I love this thing, this is perfect!" .... then stuff happens and you miss that other perfect thing you liked before and you back and forth. Great content!
Bonus for having the corkscrew over the phillips, is that you can fit in a pin with colored glass head. Easier to find and pickup if you drop the pin.
nice idea!
Happy Friday Jon, the parable of the return of the prodigal son comes to mind. I told you that the James Brand Ellis is not an EDC knife its a Wottsisname, an undefined gizmo more suited as a door stop, paper weight or a waiters cheese knife as serrated edge blades are only suitable for cutting bread & cheese. I hope you will be donating your JBE to the Oxfam Shop. As you know I am not a fan of the Compact & mine languishes in the cupboard since like Maestro Felix Immler I prefer to carry the Huntsman ( albeit mine are fitted with plus scales, a SwissQlip for convenient pocket carry & firefly ferro rod instead of a toothpick, tinder & eyeglass screwdriver on the corkscrew ), the Climber ( decked out like the Huntsman with add ons ) & a number of other SAK's that I wont detail here as you cant legally carry them as they are lock blades & some over the 3" blade limit in the UK . I also have in my EDC rotation the Pioneer X & Farmer X and several flipper knives as I am covered for the tools they lack by my permanent key ring carry SAK, currently a hybrid SilverTech scaled 58mm Midnite Mini-Champ. Just one more observation of why I was disappointed with the Compact is that it wont take the SwissQlip like almost all the other popular SAK's & its just too long to fit in the ticket pocket of a pair of jeans unlike most of the 84/85 mm 2 & 3 layer useful SAK's I own including the various Wengers & Victorinox models that have a scissors & corkscrew enabling them to carry the fire ant & tinder set up just like the 91mm models
Hi Steve 🤣 you're options are great and I have many of them! The Keysmart Nano does a brilliant job for the Compact carry and I wouldn't change to a SwissQlip even if it did fit! I'm glad to be back 👍
@@JonGadget Its good to have you back in the Brotherhood of the SAK. We all occasionally get seduced by the sirens song of some new gadget but sooner or later we come to our senses & realize that the SAK is the king of the EDC hill when it comes to practicality, reliability, availability and often on price too!
@@JonGadget Happy Monday, I have an announcement which will no doubt please a devotee of the Compact like you. " The Victorinox Compact is BACK in my EDC rotation as from today July 4th 2022 " This morning I was doing a checking & cleaning of my SAK collection in my cupboard. By chance I found a set of unused 91mm Rubi red translucent Plus scales that I had forgotten about ( I have several brand new & reusable 58mm, 85mm, 91mm & 111mm scale sets ) and having checked & cleaned off any dust on several disused SAK's including my almost never carried 91mm Compact, I decided on the spur of the moment to take off those dull & boring Red Plus scales on my Compact & fit it with Rubi Red Plus scales! My favourite SAK scale colours are SilverTech followed by Rubi Red then Sapphire Blue & so within a few minutes I had mounted the brilliant Rubi Red Plus scales on my Compact & thought "go all the way old son! " and decked it out with a Firefly ferro rod in place of the useless toothpick & put a tinder spiral held down by the micro-screwdriver on the corkscrew, replaced the 91mm sized split ring with the small 58mm sized split ring, added a green & black nylon Victorinox lanyard & a put a straight pin in the pin shaft and after satisfying myself that this dolled up Compact was in order popped it into a skai ( artificial leather ) pocket sheath & carried it in my pocket when I went out today! ( I also had in my pockets my 58mm key ring SilverTech Midnite Mini-Champ SAK in its sheath & a 3" blade assisted opening Kershaw Leek lock back knife ). Now back at home the knife I have on the computer desk in front of me as I type this is my revitalized 91mm Rubi Red Compact & I put it down to your good ( or bad ) influence on me in reintroducing the Compact into my EDC rotation, so Jon a big thanks to you for inspiring me, like yourself, to put the Compact back into service !
Great video. A lot of people feel like going back is somehow wrong, but it isn't. I personally had a similar evolution, from multi tools to a tactical knife (USA), but I added on instead of going back. I found I had a lot of uses for the larger blade that wouldn't be fulfilled by the multi tool, so now I carry both a Victorinox minichamp and a ZT or OKT RAT.
I like your reviews a lot. I like your voice (it's calming), your backdrop, professionalism and neatness.
thank you - very kind
I love the Compact for its size. That said, I’ve settled on the Explorer because it has an in-line Philip’s (and as a dad, using the Philip’s to open battery compartments of my kids toys is one of the most common things I use my SAK for).
Likewise, if ever there was anything less intimidating than the Victornox logo when using a knife in public, it’s the Victornox logo plus the Eagle Scout badge - which the Explorer offers but the Compact doesn’t.
Glad you recommended Felix “Hello UA-cam “ Immler. He’s a legend. I don’t think I’ll ever get round to all the tricks and clever uses he has on his channel. Or even some of your tips ( ear hair pulling!). But I love all things SAK and have but a few choice models that I love. Your presentations confirm my choices are justified.
Thanks for the feedback David - he is a legend!
I was thinking about you last week when I was using my Compact to solve more than one problem on a tractor-trailer connection here in the USA. I thought, "I wonder how Jon is making out with the.....the......um, that black knife he switched to a while back! "
Happy to see your initial logic prevailed. And THANKS AGAIN for helping me sort out my EDC preferences in a real-world thought process. Now if I can just find a more compact alternative to a Cold Steel Espada XL......
Thanks for the feedback Elliot, I'm glad to be back!
I went with the Victorinox based on your remommendation. The Compact replaces so many other tools that it has become my indispensable companion...if anything I'll probably buy another one just to have a back up!
Glad you’ve seen the light again Jon. Welcome back
Thanks Mike 😁
Ya know, it’s funny how us knife guys will spend untold amounts of money on expensive modern folders, or vintage sought after slip joints, but when it comes down to practical usefulness, it’s always the SAK. I would say I’ve recommended the SAK as a first knife to people, more than anything else. In fact, I was on the modern folder kick for awhile, until I bought a new huntsman and then I totally got into slip joints over modern folders.
Hey there Jon, great video. You said it, Compact is the best! Love mine and I feel naked leaving home without it!
Best choice! Welcome back to SAK! As a minimalist I prefer the Bantam (in urban areas), outdoor the Camper 🙂.
Good choices 👍
Being a big fan of the Compact and Jon's reviews, this video was incredibly heartwarming LOL. Thank you Jon!
After your original vid suggesting the key smart clip for the compact, I decided to epoxy mine onto the scales of my compact for deep carry. It’s been great and the key smart is holding up well, despite a little discoloration.
I never thought of doing that! I'm not sure it's needed though.....
@@JonGadget perhaps not, but for me it felt a little too loose in my pocket to be hanging from the chain.
Hello, Jonathan - Good video! Once you have used the"tried & true" it's kind of hard to stay away for too long...you begin to miss it...I know you like thinner, but may I suggest the Explorer & if you can get the scales, make it into a plus...like your new intro & outro & music...nice!
I do have the Explorer and like it - I usually keep it on my desk! I'm glad you like the new intro/outro thanks for the feedback 👍
@@JonGadget You are most welcome!
The EDC knife is an extremely personal thing, what's right for one person is totally wrong for another. For me, the Victorinox Deluxe Tinker is the best fit, I've been carrying one for at least 30 years. The way that I carry it on my belt means that I don't notice the weight but on occasion I do notice the size when I'm forced to lay on the floor to repair something and roll onto that side. I cannot count how many time these knives have bailed me out of a situation, as I'm sure all Victorinox owners can. They are wonderful little knives. Very nice video, Jon. Oh yea, I also carry a Victorinox Classic on my key chain, sometimes smaller is better. 😀
Great to hear about your experiences. Thank you for sharing 👍
I love a Victorinox and carry the Explorer as I need to read the tiny print on stuff that I am building all the time, and the magnifying glass is essential. I would love to see some gadgets around us older guys who need such enhancements to keep doing what we love HEHe I find your honesty and precise style to be totally refreshing and I am a huge fan of your channel!
Right! The Compact is a “stand alone” carry, but in sacrificing the extra goodies of the Compact assumes you are carrying an additional case to supplement. One does not always carry all the additional accouchements.
I completely agree that the Swiss Army knife is seen as a work tool and far less threatening.
This is a huge important feature in the U.K.
Its really not worth the hassle and risk of arrest carrying a knife that is strictly legal but looks threatening.
No joke, this is exactly why mine is bright pink.
I know what you mean, I bought a Manly Wasp in S90V and put a thumb stud on it so I can open it one handed, and it's still completely legal to EDC but living in London I tend not to or if I do I never take it out in public, whereas I can do that with my SAKs.
My compact version is from 1992 and called a timekeeper because it has a watch in it, it's a bit different because there's no file on the back of the hook and also no tweezer. That's because the watch sits there. Glad you went back to the compact..
I love my compact! It has a place in my pocket. Since I’ve picked mine up some time last year. I’ve been watching the prices on them go up! Seems you can’t find a “new” one for under $40+!🤦🏻♂️
Speaking of the “Super Tinker”. It’s the one knife I keep on my side in a small cordura sheath. It only gets used when I have bigger tasks that my Compact can’t complete.
Sometimes I carry a Bantam or Waiter, or even the Walker since they are smaller than my others and aren’t as intimidating as the others. ( Yes Some people think that my Super Tinker is a little intimidating 🤷🏻♂️🤦🏻♂️) I’ll carry the smaller 84mm’s when I can’t carry the others. They usually will ride in my wallet because they are small.
Yup, they went up in price based on their usefulness. If you have an Amazon prime account save it to your list as well as a few other SAKs you might like and you will be able to get notifications of price changes. They tend to go up and down on Amazon quite a bit. I have paid $30 for a brand new Huntsman and $20 for a Spartan. You just need to catch them at the right time.
The Compact is strangely expensive compared - I also don't understand why all hooks don't include the file - may be these two things are related?
Good suggestions Brian
@@JonGadget totally agree, they could easily add the file and maximize efficiency for all of them. Hopefully the do at some point in the future 🙏
@@JonGadget thank Jon!!! Love your reviews they are excellent!
Thanks for the honesty. Bought a compact.
I don’t have a compact yet but very tempted to get one. I think I would prefer the awl (with a file on it) to the hook. I just modded a Rambler to be an “Alox” Rambler with titanium scalers. Very happy with it. It’s now made me think that I could mod a Minichamp down to complement a Compact. Or mod both. Perhaps removing the scissors on the compact and replacing them with two tools since the scissors are still pretty good on the Rambler.
The alox awl fits where the scissors go, don't they?
Specifically for the Compact since the scissors are on the outside.
If the corkscrew was replaced with a Philips head and the hook with a nail file it would be the perfect tool. Still gonna use it cos it’s the most compact and useful medium size tool that has a pen but god a man can dream
I hear you.. id like a saw and awl that what's kinda holding me back on the compact because I like the other tools it has
Perfect Jon, many times i changed some edc gear and many times i went back to my older stuff. In Switzerland we say, you can better cook on a old pan.👍😏
Kind regards
Eugene
Welcome back. Quite honestly, the Compact is the bomb. Every one of your observations is spot on.
I'm happy to be back 😊
😂 I knew it!! And I commented about it. There’s no way in the world this other knife is comparable with a Victorinox knife.
You inadvertently sold me on the Ellis. My must haves are a substantial blade, scissors and a clip. In my wallet I carry a Swiss Card Lite which has anything else I want. I was turned off by the half serrated blade on the Ellis but on their website they show a full straight blade. Given the quality you have mentioned, I ordered it. I’m excited.
It is a great knife and the straight blade is a great option 👍
I’m waiting for an Ellis two, even though I’ve seen the (clearly planned, but still good) return to the SAK. But for use case (emergency services) the serrated blade is exactly what I need to cut clothing and other fibrous things.
I'm a PT and the parcel hook is great for untying knots in Theraband without tearing it.
I saw that little pocket clip and I'm buying like three! I always carry a SAK in my left pocket and my main tool or knife in the right, and that clip is brilliant!
I was searching and searching for my everyday carry and I knew I wanted it to be 2 layered not 3, have the standard blade plus scissors and the corkscrew after watching some of your reviews. After looking at various UK high street sites I thought I was going to have to compromise on either the Spartan or the Climber and then I saw your review on your top 8 Victorinox and at last, it does exist!- the Compact, has everything I think I might need everyday and nothing that I wont - that's what you want in your pocket! Great videos, keep up the good work and thank you👍
I saw the video when you went away from the compact and it had me thinking. I’m not surprised you went back to it. I’ve carried a Leatherman Juice SC2 for almost 20 years.
I ADORE my Vic Compact. Hook can be use to retrieve keys if to deep to grab, just tie some cord on the SAK with the hook opened and lower to get keys or whatever you can with the hook.
I agree with your assessment of the Compact. I have recommended it to others, and it isn't until they actually buy and use it that they understand my enthusiasm. I have many other Swiss Army Knives, but I find myself reaching for the Compact very often. In the 58mm range, I like the Vagabond, discontinued, but worth finding on the used marketplace.
Great video! Always fine to hear opinions based on experience. I learned a truth two years ago: it's impossible to get rid of these red things as soon as you get them, hahaha. One may say that you're being unnecessarily focused in minor details - like the scale texture and clip - but those "minor details" truly show up in everyday carry and use and may be really annoying to just ignore.
That's very true - the small things become amplified with lot's of use
I carry the explorer daily and it seems to me to be a somewhat overlooked tool. I was looking at a huntsman but what swung it was the end mounted Philips seemed more day to day useful than a saw and luckily I was right. If I'm going to be anywhere that I'll need a saw chances are I'll have my leatherman anyway. Granted tye explorer is a but chunky but I'm not a skinny jeans type of guy anyway. Reckon I'll look at that firefly though looks very useful as I never use the toothpick either. Cheers dude keep up the good work, as fellow Brit it's nice to have a UK EDC guy that also has to conform to our silly knife laws. 👍
Grest video. I also purchased a Compact. It will arrive today and will replace my current Bantam as EDC knife because of more options by being light and compact at the same time.
I like the integrated glasses screw driver and fire starter kit, which I don't have in my 6 layer SAK (9cm).
In the American vernacular "I love me some Felix too!" I am also quit fond of your series. Thanks for this video. I have a small collection of knives and I am currently trying to explain to my wife why I need "just one more" and I think you've just shown me the perfect knife. Help me by wishin' me good luck with the Mrs. So here I go. Thanks again!
Just bought a super tinker for someone’s 18th birthday but I personally use the compact
It takes a big man to admit it when he's wrong, and a bigger one to make a video about it.
Welcome back to the family, Jon.
😊 thanks for that
Late to the party. For me the Executive beats the Compact in terms of functionality. I've carried the Executive for something like 30 years. I've tried several others but like the Executive form factor; two layer, 75mm, twin blades. After watching your video's, and hearing your commitment to the Compact, I purchased one and have been trying. What I like about the Compact is the more robust blade and scissors. I miss the file on the Executive that also doubles as a phillips screw driver as well as the small blade. I also really like the lighter weight of the Executive. The Compact has certainly earned a place in the rotation; but the Executive is still my go to EDC Knife. To be sure, habit plays a large part in my preference!
You also introduced me to the KeySmart clip, I don't know how I got along without it! I did have to change pockets, I had always carried my knife in my left pocket, with the clip I find the right pocket makes much more sense to easily operate the clip. Easy adjustment!
Brilliant. You have convinced me to replace the tooth pick and get the tinder bit.
You just saved me quite a bit of money. Thanks!
It turns out it's hard to beat the original and I already have a couple of Victorinox knives that do their job very well.
I told you so ;-) I bought the Compact after your first review of it and I absolutely love it. Thanks Jon!
I wouldn't say it beats the Compact, but I find myself carrying the Victorinox Spartan a bit more than my Compact. With that said, I added a mini screwdriver and pin to my Spartan because I missed those features from the Compact.
The two tools are pretty similar and are about the same price, so I think it just depends on which tool set fits your needs better.
Sure - every one has their favourite
Like you I carry my Compact everyday! Great tool set in a light package 📦
good to know
I might have been your channel that suggested the Compact pairs well with the original Swisstool multi tool. They appear to compliment each other in terms of functionality; what either tool lacks the other probably has available. I am convinced.
Yes 👍 They compliment each other really well
Your first video made me think about getting a compact. Your newer video is gonna make me get one right now.
As I mentioned in the last video, the only thing that would make the compact perfect is if they made one in Alox WITH the pen, tweezers, toothpick, and pin.
I dont like to say it(but l do really) "l told you so"... all the small features add up into something that is unreal handy. Full points for trying something new too.
Love the compact I find myself using the spartan on a daily basis also have a pin and fire rod in the cork screw I like to use the awl reamer for striking cheers mate
I am getting the Super Tinker for my first Swiss Army knife! I was considering the Compact, but I don't drink wine. It should arrive in few days, really looking forward to it!
good choice 👍
@@JonGadget Glad that you confirmed my choice! I was also considering the Fieldmaster for that extra saw blade.
But I'm not sure if it'll feel comfortable in my pocket as it looks too bulky and I've only needed to saw something like once in two years.
Why don't they create the Compat but with a screw driver anyway? Maybe because it'll kill other models? :D
Compact fan here...I fully understand your turnaround.
great to hear