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What’s the best Scout pocket knife? I am not sure there’s only one absolute best pocket knife for every Scout in every situation, but the Victorinox Hiker is an excellent choice and here’s why:
COST
A decent knife will last a lifetime (really!). Because a Scout will likely loose a knife or two along the way long before it gets worn out parents are tempted to buy a cheap pocket knife. Cheaper knives don’t stay sharp, they have loose joints and are only minimally functional. A sharp knife is actually safer than a dull knife and a cheap knife with loose joints is likely to break or fold up accidentally with normal use. Victorinox produces quality knives at a reasonable cost and guarantees them for life The Hiker is usually around $25.00, a bit more expensive than cheaper alternatives, but well worth the additional cost.
UTILITY
A bright red knife is slightly less likely to be lost. The hiker features a number of practical tools:
- Large/small blade
- Bottle/can opener (see the illustration for using the can opener, it’s important to note you move the opener forward along the rim of the can.)
- Wood saw – cuts aggressively, these saws are much more practical than they seem.
- Slotted large and small screwdrivers
- Phillips screwdrivers – instead of a corkscrew. (Scouts don’t need a corkscrew very often!)
- Awl, reamer, with sewing eye – directions for sewing with the awl are illustrated below
- Split ring – it’s a good idea to fit a knife with a lanyard, there’s less chance of misplacing or loosing a knife with a lanyard.
- Wire stripper
- Toothpick
- Tweezers
The Victorinox Swiss Army Hiker is available at Amazon.
