The quality of the lighting in this video is exceptional. Very pleasing to the eyes, both the foreground and background. Well done! Top notch audio too.
@@JonGadget Just found your channel today, and I'm going through all your videos. Really impressed at the high production quality right from the first video: audio, lighting, quality content... all good stuff.
SAKs are incredible. Never any blade wobble, walk and talk, edge bevels, overall fit and finish, etc. are always excellent and at such a low price. The common problems with slip joint knives are almost non-existent with Victorinox. People exaggerate edge retention, so they criticize Victorinox steel. But I cut cardboard all the time with my SAKs, and they do fine. Victorinox steel excels in all other categories: corrosion resistance, ease of sharpening, chipping resistance, sharpness, etc.
I finally broke down and purchased my first SAK a couple of months ago despite being a life-long jack knife carrier and I’ve got to say I’ve developed such a genuine affection for Swiss Army Knives in general even though I own a couple of beautiful edc folders with premium steel that I also carry. If I had to choose to carry only one knife for the rest of my life I would definitely choose a SAK even over a far more expensive premium knife all day long! There is just something so romantic about these classic folders that is truly undeniable…at least as far as I’m concerned ❤️
I love the look and feel of Alox but will always carry the classic red scales. The scale tools have become a daily use for me. Like many, I’ve grinded out the extra slot in the plus scales, but also added a slot in the front scale, giving me room for 7 tools (pressurized pen, toothpick, small tweezers, large tweezers ground down to a fine pound for splinters and tick removal, the ferro-rod, and two magnetized pins) that I would be without when using the Alox. Aside from that, the classic red scales are very nostalgic for me. My grandfather would always carry a large Victorinox when I was little, and I remember him using it all the time, from fixing my bicycle to cutting open a snack wrapper. Appreciate your EDC videos; I credit them to my switch from the Leatherman Wave to the Swiss champ, as well as my further appreciation of Victorinox in general. Cheers!
30-plus years of using Victorinox knives, and I only learned today that there is a distinct difference between the "93 mm" knives and the "91 mm knives", that the 93 mm range has more robust blades and tools. Now I'm considering getting one, but I can't decide quite which. In the past, I've used the Huntsman and SwissChamp in the 91 mm range, but never owned a 93 mm range Victorinox. The only Victorinox I carry on a daily basis now is the 58 mm Rambler, which is very possibly my favorite knife of all time and certainly my most-used knife.
Your dilemma is amusing to me, because I had a similar debate between the Farmer X and the Fieldmaster. My initial debate was on the fact that I wouldn’t need the Phillips head screwdriver since I intend to use the knife for various kinds of pruning tasks in the garden, but the thought kept creeping back in, “But what if you find out after the fact you really did need that screwdriver?” What finally settled the debate was the sewing eye on the awl/reamer. I don’t know leather-working yet, but I decided to teach myself and the sewing eye adds an important function in that craft.
Great comparison! Didn't know I needed a Compact until now... Been carrying a Pioneer X since they came out and I love it. Recently picked up a Super Tinker to throw into the EDC rotation, but I think I might toss a Compact into the rotation as well. Just discovered your channel, BTW. Some great content. Really enjoyed the videos on your kits. Very practical and well thought out without any gimmicks. Take care!
Jon the quality of his videos and transparent and impartial analysis, conquers the public more and more. Congratulations for this great review. Hugs from Brazil!
In my honest opinion, the deluxe tinker is forgotten far too often. It really has everything you need (if you don't need a saw because when you're not a bushcraft person) and is still very compact. The deluxe tinker is always there and i have never missed any functionality in my everyday life. I also added the pin and put the plus scales to have the pen. For me by DISTANCE the best EDC!
My to go to is the huntsman with the plus scales to make it more urban friendly, i am an outdoor hobbyist but im not outdoors all the time but i find the saw pretty handy in some urban situations tho, making some chocolate flakes for desert hahaha, also sometimes some tree branches are to long and people who take care of that dont notice it i just cut it off with my saw (ofcourse for both situations i wash it first hahahaha)
@@MrSuvvri buy some plus scales for it (its not expensive at all) on etsy or any places on the internet (but buy one wich comes with the pen) and you have the ultimate urban EDC with you hahaha
@@MrSuvvrihow do you like the Explorer? I just ordered the explorer today as my first SAK because I wanted the inline phillips. I did purchase plus scales so that I can add a pen to it. Should arrive in a few days
Watched a bunch of your reviews lately, in the middle of a philosophical reboot of a lot of my edc type stuff and I'm enjoying your (and a number of other) channels ability to review a product with relatively little subjective information, and precisely zero bent towards ridiculous theories like "Oh my God the world ended I'm a SAS/SF/Ranger now, this one pocket tool will have to get me through Armageddon!!!" Just reasonable uses by reasonable people, keep doing what your doing!
I agree with you on your choice Jon. My compact I use as my EDC during the work week for it’s additional functionality. My pioneer X in red is my more casual carry in the rotation.
Compact is a great tool and has every day issues covered. Splinters, note taking, cutting loose threads or opening post with the knife or beer with the combo tool this SAK is great. At work I have a leatherman surge. The truck has a leatherman wave+ and at home I have a shed full of tools.
I remember being so stoked for the release of the Pioneer X, then summarily unimpressed upon taking delivery of mine. It never saw the inside of my pocket. Great vid!
@@allemander It all boils down to personal preference. I’ve found that I like the light weight and extra implements in the scales of the cellidor 91mm models- not to mention the extra tools on the back. Years and years of carrying pocketknives, and I’ve found that 2 layers is the most I carry in a SAK. The awl on the Pioneer 93mm range is second to none, but not enough to warrant the extra weight, bulk, and lack of functionality. If I were inclined to “go big”, I’d carry the Climber or Explorer over the Pioneer X. But again, this is just my preference. I appreciate the robust nature of the Alox models, but at the end of the day I feel they underdeliver when compared with their 91mm cellidor cousins.
Hey John, thanks for a great review. Every time i watch one of your reviews on a SAK, i end up buying it. You’re killing me, LOL. I really enjoy your videos.
I love the Army-7 (harvester?).. I drilled & tapped the aluminum scales on the side opposite the red shield and attached a spiderco titanium pocket clip. It's totally badass. It has been my EDC for nearly 3 years. I plan to buy another and do the same thing, keep as a backup in case I lose the one I currently carry. Anyway, love your victorianox reviews.. thanks to you I am doing to buy the spirit-x. Thank you.
Hey Jonathan, I've become a massive fan of yours, your videos are top notch material, very pleasant and relaxing to listen to! I've recently finally acted on my childhood fascination with SAKs and started sort of collecting them. The Alox series, while lacking in some of the tools, is just so appealing, I managed to get myself a Pioneer X in red, and it's just so nice. I've got my eyes set on a black Alox Cadet, but it's just so hard to get one. Also, I can't wait to replace my keychain Classic with Silver Alox MiniChamp. You also got me hooked on when it comes to the Compact. I've realised I can only fit a two-layer SAK for pocket carrying (as a female in close-fitting jeans anything thicker becomes very noticeable). The Compact seems like the best option for me to combine with my keychain multitool. The only thing I wasn't able to get is the pocket clip.
Thanks for the feedback Katerina, I am really pleased you are enjoying the content. The red Pioneer X is a really great option. Compact is still my EDC. Google Keysmart for the pocket hanger - there is another similar product too. It is a game changer for carrying for such a low cost item. Good luck with your collection.
Well done! I love your reviews. I have both knives and come to the same conclusions as you. The compact for EDC is unbeatable with its ideal weight and tools.
Great video Jon. I tried carrying a Pioneer X for a month or so but I just couldn’t get on with the additional weight (and I missed the toothpick!). I went back to my Spartan / Super Tinker rotation. Incidentally, I carried an explorer (which is still own) for a good 10 years. Owned it since I was 16 , I’m 50 now.
Very thorough, detailed, unbiased comparison. Thank you for sharing and I also wanted to take the opportunity to thank you for turning me onto the Compact model overall not long ago in the first place. It wasn’t on my radar initially but it’s a beautiful little edc on those days I might not want to carry my slightly bigger, heavier and bulkier Huntsman and/or Handyman. I’m now considering purchasing one to have available to slip into the pocket of a pair of shorts on those days when it’s uncomfortably hot and do so without unwillingly sacrificing my edc. That’s not going to happen.
I'm in complete agreement with this video. I've owned both for several years (and lots of other expensive pocket knives). Yes, my PioneerX is unquestionably the better built, higher quality, more luxurious knife, but I find that I just can't give up that pragmatic Compact toolset. From the pin (for ejecting your celphone sim tray) to the glasses tool (summertime sunglasses arm tightening) to the little pen (signing random receipts) it's just such a thoughtful everyday urban/suburban workhorse. If you own one and brush aside all pretention, in the long one it will be the one that wins the war of attrition for your pocket. At least for me. I just wish victoranox tools came in higher quality steel because damn, I'm sick of the frequent re-sharpening.
I have a No 7 Alox in silver. In fact, I have two. Brilliant knives. Lovely, thick blade stock and smooth, positive action. The saw, and in particular the hawksbill blade (a highly underrated blade), get the most use. I wish that the saw had a liner lock, but as an EDC option, little comes close.
I EDC a Hiker. Has all the tools I need and the "normal" style phillips screwdriver works for me. It compliments the Leatherman Wingman I wear on my belt nicely. I'm a building maintenance tech and these two tools have saved me countless trips to my truck when noticing the loose doorknob or lock set. I use the leathermans blade as a "beater" blade for things like scraping glue, saving the hikers blades for cutting chores. Just a winning combination. BTW, the quality of your videos are outstanding. Lighting, audio, and content are top shelf!
I'd really love to have a closer look at the Pioneer X, but I'm good with my Waiter and Huntsman, so I'm considering to give it to my dad for his birthday. The Alox versions are gorgeous, but the loss of functionality is undeniable as you said. I don't think he'd miss those functions, though.
Simply an outstanding channel. The right amount of detail and attention to detail (for me), excellent production value, helped by top-shelf editing. Doffed cap Sir !
Great review. You are new to my feed. I think your content will become quite popular! Keep up the good work. You’re great to listen to. Thank you from the USA 🇺🇸!
Hi Jonathan, love your videos. Do you have any plan to review the Victorinox Traveller or Traveller Lite please? I couldn't find one in the playlist. Thanks in advance.
I only have one alox, I believe it is called the farmer... it has the wood saw. I like it but I carry the compact every day. Being American, I also carry a thicker locking blade in my other pocket for heavier cutting jobs. thanks, I really like your channel.
I have spent a lifetime wearing a tool pouch or pocket carrying tools for work so both these options are light carry to me. I prefer a point on my tweezers so I carry a Sliver Gripper on my key ring. I never considered the toothpick any more sanitary than carving my own toothpick from a twig. The Compact is a great “don’t know it’s there” carry for those inconveniences that come up. I personally prefer the Farmer X Alox since I find need for the saw and having the awl on the end of the knife rather than centred on the handle. The only bad thing I have to say about the Compact is that it is so light that I forget I’m carrying it until I’m halfway to the toolbox. This was a very good presentation of both knives.
You can put a point on the SAK tweezers with a grinding stone on a Dremel tool or even a file. Extra tweezers are available and inexpensive if (like me) you need a bit of trial and error to get things just right. Just a thought.
Excellent review! Many thanks for posting it. I do carry the Pioneer X as an EDC because of the size and the Alox scales. I used to carry a Compact an it’s scales pick up damage. Take care!
Huge fan, got my first LE-Alox thanks to you. Although it’s heavier than the Compact. I got some big hands and can appreciate the extra thickness. A switch blade pocket knife video would be sick. Thank you
Personally, the Huntsman is the EDC tool for me. I live in a rural area near a forest, and own quite a bit of the forest aswell, so it definitely is useful, apart from that I also carry a small foldable saw and a carving knife with me at all times
@@greekveteran2715 note technically for hiking, but it's fantastic to take the hot lid off of your bushcrafting pot, to twist some metal wires together, pulling tent stakes out of the ground, doing and undoing complicated knots, as a handle carrying a plastic bag (especially garbage bags) that otherwise cuts into your palm, carrying a slippery heavy fish, touch zippers, stubborn pull-tabs on cans, kick-stand for your phone, to pull out nails out of a baseball bat, to pull out the tools out of your bigger multitool.
As a normal EDC, the Compact(mostlyaroundthe houseor to the store) . Change to the Pioneer X if you know you're going to be doing something where a heavier blade/tool set would help. I really wish they made a Pioneer EIectrition X. Would be sweet if they made a 93mm version of the combo tool to replace the cap lifter Screwdriver as well.
Agree, I did something similar with a custom SAK builder from CH. We decided to make something like the Electrician Duo and add a scissors layer in the middle. Pretty much my ideal Victorinox.
I mentioned this earlier but to remind you of the ask - what is the best complimentary two knives to have, with least overlap, e.g. the Alox 7 (aka Harvester) and the Manager, combined you get short and long blade, small scissors, pen, twezzers or tooth pick or short ferrorod, small phillips, large flat, small file, wood saw, awl. I like the Manager on my keyring, it helps me hear it if falls from pocket,
The issue with the colored Alox models is that they look so good and I'm scared that they will lose their color if I carry and use them. So I keep them in my collection and use the standard silver ones only
Swiss army climber is my EDC of choice. I love my Pioner X. Have used my Regular Pioneer (Black) now for over 6 years and its my EDC for work as its non threatening.
I like how the combo tool slims down the Compact to 2 layers, but I find it inferior in functionality, to the standard opener/driver set, especially for Phillips screws. At a little over half the Compact's price (less if you compare used ones), the Hiker is a better value in my opinion. It has pretty much the same tools as the Compact but with the standard opener set and the awl on the back, and it's only a little over a half ounce heavier and one scale width wider. There is no pen or file on the backside of the hook, but Victorinox could include those just as easily on the Hiker.
As much as I like the Alox scales. I prefer the Plus scales. I like the extra small tools you get. Also I use them more as to why I carry 91mm Victorinox with Plus scales. I also love the hook with the nail file! Keep up the great videos!
I have been a fan of the Alox knife after I found a lost one since the early 1960's. I have bought 4 more of the same since then. My question is, why do they not put a blade lock on this model? I have had the blade cut my hand several times over the years. This to me is my only complaint.Thanks for your review. 👍
I also had a hard time to come to terms which one to choose, and I concluded that the biggest drawback for the compact was that the alox is a nicer looking knife, especially compared to the red scales. So I changed the scales to an other colour and found it easier to stick with the compact. But I'm always going to miss the awl.
Swiss army knives are so good,that you canr easily choose,which to carry. However,for the same reason,you cant go wrong,no matter which you choose! Im getting older,so the Explorer is essential for me,because of the magnifying glass,which helps with reading and/or spot details on objects when needed!
Super Tinker for my EDC. Have been using it for the last 6 months and I love it. Was using the slimmer Tinker for years but I found more need for the scissors and the slightly thicker form of the ST fits nicer in the small pocket of my jeans for work. I was a knifehand for 16 years in 2 abbatoirs, so I know a quality blade steel when I sharpen them. Love these knives. Will be moving to the Explorer for EDC when it shows up. I'm a big fan of most Victorinox products, I even have their Inox Automatic watch.
I would Go with the Pioneer X because in the long run its going to out last the compact also it's got much better driver's and stronger tools / just a stronger allrandr poickit knife even the farmer x is better and a very little bit bigger size for the saw thanks for sharing 👍🏻
Well each is designed for a different persons edc. For a casual urbanite, the compact is great since you don't need the heaviest duty tools and the pen really sells me on it. For someone in a more outdoorsy environment, then the farmer or a different pocket knife may serve you better. Each knife is purpose built, so best to understand your scope of commonly encountered uses.
@@aboriginite I'm 💯% with you this is the reason where all on TH-cam looking at the reviews maybe someone might just want one blade on there Swiss army knife form the small 58mm right up to the 130mm yes I understand what you're saying but I'm just saying i like the victorinox pioneer X over the victorinox compact I've also got both of them and use both for different tasks but yea i understand what you're saying thanks for your reply 👍🏻
I purchased the"Cadet"not too long ago, and now I have the "FarmerX" which I think is the better deal, because I can EDC my favorite on a sheath on my belt.
I’m a bit confused about the idea that the Pioneer X would outlast the Compact. I haven’t met a Victorinox knife that isn’t high quality and built to last. I have Victorinox SAKs going back to the 1990’s. Why do you think the PX would outlast a Compact? Is it just the scales you’re talking about?
Hi Jon, love the channel, great review. I always carry a victorinox alox cadet in my pocket as you don't even know it's there and it's so practical. Along with my new rovyvon a8x which you persuaded me to buy, I think that's the perfect pocket EDC. Mind you, this is very nice and I love the colour
Great video!! IMHO the Compact SAK it's a better casual urban EDC, slimmest with very useful "accessories". Under my experience: opening the "hidden slot" of the "corkscrew scale" there's an space for a short tweezers .. and the teethpicker comes again to our SAK! Hurraaa! I'm a fan of your high quality videos. Regards from Germany.
Love the Waiter. Blade, Combination tool and Corkscrew. So light and nimble. Have had a few, and getting another when this one wears out. No snip snip though ;) Use the blade for that. Been sailing, so the Corkscrew is really handy untying wet knots. The alox bantam with a screw would be ideal (Edit: if one has gloves that is, since the alox seems a bit slippery sometimes in a wet environment)
Bottle opener 90 degree stop: on all *modern* Victornox knives. The older 84 mm (Cellidor and Alox) and 91 mm (Cellidor) knives had no half stop on the bottle opener, but the 93 mm Alox always did, since 1957.
These are my two favorites too. I have them both, but the Compact usually wins because there's a swisstool spirit in my bag, which covers everything the Pioneer would bring and lots more.
I have a heavy duty Victorinox multi tool pliers, ironically the awl has been the most useful tool so far. When I had to put screws into hard wood and they would slide off it made the starting hole and they would just drive in. Or when I had to remove some metal clips and I could slide the tip under and pry them out. Since I carry that thing with me wherever I go I am trying a bit too hard to justify getting another Victorinox. But being a collector I guess it's inevitable. Thanks for another great review.
I do love my Pioneer X and think it’s perfect for most people. However, the Compact does have quite a bit more functionality than the Pioneer X. I think if I had to pick only one for a minimalistic excursion, I think the Compact would have to be a better option, especially for those wearing glasses and also carrying electronic gear. I think if they could swap the parcel hook with an inline Phillips, there would be zero contest.
I'd be SO on board with the Compact if they had a phillips and awl in place of the corkscrew and parcel hook (it's the backside of the Compact that I find so disappointing). Add to the phillips and awl a built-in deep carry clip and--most importantly--a locking main blade (the latter-most of which was why the Wenger Evolution line was so intriguing), and you'd arguably have the edc pinnacle of what Victorinox had to offer in terms of weight vs functionality.
@@sda4jesus1 I would agree with all your suggestions apart from the locking knife which for the UK would make it illegal to carry! Let's hope Vic are listening. The Keysmart clip I am using is very good though in the absence of a pocket clip.
@@JonGadget I did take note of your clip solution, which is so much better than carrying it loose. I feel sorry for you blokes having to deal with crazy-restrictive knife laws (I hope the pols here never shackle us so). I really enjoy your videos. I'm kind of a gear nut. :-)
A Farmer X just found its way into my pocket. It's got some weight to it, that's for sure! The weight doesn't bother me; it's just something I notice. Another Alox knife will join my carry rotation soon. I seem to be addicted...likely I'll be selling some stuff to get more Alox. Getting the tiger orange limited models before they go for silly money on eBay has suddenly gone way up on my priority list. If it's not super-secret, I'd love some details on your camera and lighting setup. I could use some improvement in that regard (though I've finally ordered up a tripod). Thanks for a great showing of a superb knife!
Thanks for the feedback Dan and the kind comments. No secret, cameras are Sony Zv-1 and DJI Pocket 2! Front lighting is a basic light box and honeycomb grid to avoid too much spill - was quite cheap on Amazon. Then a side light which is a led panel, again quite low cost. The channel was launched this year so still new. I kept costs low to start with whilst I worked things out. Some updates will help but I have to say everything works OK.
Some edc-gear works better in a system. For example the alox works pretty well in combination with the swisscard. Great content btw. I really like enjoyed all the Victorinox and leatherman videos. Greetings from the Netherlands!
TH-cam algorithm brought me to your channel. You have good content so I just subscribed. My go-to EDC is a pocket knife pairing with Victorinox Rambler. I live in city environment hence Rambler is handy for small cutting job (small blade or scissors) and dealing with electrical stuff (flat head and Philip screw). When I travel abroad, typically I would carry Victorinox Pioneer X on body to replace Rambler and folding knife, on my casual or formal attire. Obviously I don't want to break the local law while still able to have useful tool on me. Pioneer X with sturdier build, sufficient tools on it while not bulky to carry is a plus, looks nice too.
I've been using my compact for many years as my EDC knife. Love its two layers reduced profile, pen, SCISSORS, screwdriver, tweezers and pin. I also use its hook, but only for fishing purposes (knot tightening) More tools add weight and thickness. For field day y prefer having a saw as well, but not for the city.
Excellent review. Agree the Compact is better suited for EDC. If only Victorinox would allow one to customize a knife to include preferred tools that would be fantastic!
@@Johonavich49 some come with pliers, although they’re not heavy duty- and yeah the lack of pocket clip is annoying, there’s a lot of aftermarket options but we shouldn’t need them
The Pioneer X is my second favorite SAK. Sort of Climber-like but more compact. No tweezers....but carry some on my keys. I will say the awl is one of the tools I use the most frequently. I wish the Compact had an awl in lieu of the corkscrew (I do like the corkscrew, very handy at times.). I use the in-line awl to open boxes, packages, etc...and preserve the edge of the blade from tape residue or dulling. If I don't have my mug with me and get a beverage in a 'go cup' with a plastic lid, I'll use the awl to open a little vent hole in the lid. I've done this too many times to count. I was in an airport with a plastic lid on a coffee cup and reflexively reached for my SAK with its handy awl to improve the vent hole.....oooops.... *** sigh ***... air travel today....... And then there is the Farmer X.......
Another great vid. Brilliant production quality and you're a really confident speaker. I've a pioneer on the way i think it'll make a great tool to keep in the glove box of the van. Cheers 🍻
Carry the Pioneer X and a manager on your keyring. I think that's a pretty good compromise, personally I bought and Evogrip s18 a week ago. Enjoying it because means I can leave the house with only one knife before I carried a Super Tinker and a Opinel or other light weight locking knife. Don't worry I no long live under the Draconian UK knife laws.
Great review. I love the ferro rod accessory. I didn't know such a thing existed. I have 6 Swiss Army knives and I am going to add a ferro rod to each of them. Also, I agree with your final decision on which knife to carry.
Well done on your review Jon! I do have the Compact and Pioneer X Silver Alox which are my favorites, you must have both really and it's up to you which to carry on day to day basis, but to be honest I carry the compact more due to weight as well and the toothpick. Now i'm looking on getting the super tinker as I want to preserve my compact due to its rarety here in NZ.
If I was to carry the Pioneer X I’d also carry one of the 58mm with the pen & replace the toothpick with a FireFly Ferro rod. Yes that’s 2 items but to add a nail file, tweezer, FireFly, pen IMO is worth it. Wish the Farmer X came with colored alox scales. Love a saw. The 58mm Rambler in Alox & colors I think would be a screaming success.
You know what would be close to perfect EDC, would be a Cadet Alox with scissors. A Cadet X? I have a Cadet Alox and it is a great EDC knife. I keep mine in a pocket organizer along with a tactical pen.
I just purchased a farmer x today and I have to say I might just be a fan of the alox SAKs. It's awesome so far! You should carry both! Also Nice comparison video!
In 1976 while in US Army helicopter pilot training my only request for a Christmas present was a Swiss Army knife with a knife blade, a reguar screw driver and a Philips head screw driver. for 22 years it was my carry knife in my flight suit and was used to keep my helicopter flyable for opening and closing panels, setting screw that had come undone. The helicopter I flew had more standard slotted screws than Philips head. If the Pioneer X had been available at the time it would have been my choice due to the beefy nature of the components and size. The Air Force issued me a switch blade used to cut parachute cords one handed if I was dangling in a parachute. Something we didn't use in helicopters. but the utility of my Tinker swiss army knife served me well and still does as my EDC knife. However, now as I am getting older, no longer flying my needs have changed, and fortunately Victorinox has many new options.
I use a victorinox bantam alox and a Classic sd alox in my wallet so I don't forget them when I leave the house, they have all the functions of the Pioneer x, except the punch which I rarely use, but they are only 6 mm thick which makes them makes it highly portable. Almost no one uses a pen outside of work these days. The hook has more use than the pen nowadays.
Victorinox are just absolutely great. The compact is my most carried and favorite model. Lately I've been enjoying having an Alox Electrician with me. It's a Pioneer but has an electricians blade instead of the can opener. The electricians sheepfoot blade is really good too. I prefer the heavier duty Alox tools also. I have yet to get a Pioneer X but I do carry my regular Pioneer quite a bit. The Cadet is another wonderful tool as well. Very small slim and light. I don't typically miss the scale tools as I keep a classic on my keyring which is either in my pocket or nearby if I'm out of the house. Now if they made an alox Compact or basically something like a Pioneer X with a combo tool instead of a separate opener layer. Angle the combo opener so that it fits with the scissors and keep the main blade an awl and it might be able to stay as a 2 layer tool then. Until then I'll just have to buy more sak's until I have them all I suppose.
Perfect comparison. I have almost bought the Pioneer X now multiple times. I love the Alox series - how it looks, how it feels, how sturdy it is. But I always argue myself out of it because of the missing functionality, and in the end it comes down to the tweezers. I would accept missing out on anything else, but tweezers are actually one of the most used tools for me. I now mostly carry a Super Tinker or an Explorer, the latter in a belt pouch together with a Bullet Pen.
@@mrsentencename7334 By now I actually do have a Pioneer X in my daily rotation (gorgeous in a dark green); the tweezer problem is solved by a Victorinox Manager on my key ring.
Rationally, you are probably right with choosing the Compact. But because of the look, sturdy tools and the reamer, I really love 93 mm Alox, especially colored ones... So my heart chooses the Pioneer-range, and I don't care what my brain says :D
The orange colour on the 2021 Pioneer X is really attractive. It looks much better in person than it does in photos. I can't wait to see what colour they choose for the 2022 run.
Fantastic reviews Jon. I wasn’t that keen on this model, but watching your review has made me think again. I really wish that they offered it in assorted colours. The limited edition is considerably more expensive than the standard silver. I can’t justify the premium price just for the colour though. Looks like I will get the silver.😀
Great review! I can see why you chose the Compact over the Pioneer X. I love most of the Alox SAKs and my EDC is the Farmer X which adds a saw blade. I'm an avid outdoors person, hiker and camper and I prefer the more robust Alox versions of SAKs for outdoor use. I would not carry the Pioneer X or Farmer X in my front pocket because that is just too much. But I almost always wear cargo pants so my larger Farmer X rides unnoticed in a side pocket. The saw is a real bonus for woods use as is the awl. I have tweezers on my keychain and carry a pen in my vest which is EDC for me.
I wish they made the compact with alox scales, just give me the excellent scissors, knife and multi bottle/can opener. But I got myself the Pioneer X a few weeks ago and have to say I'm super happy with it, been useful already in many little ways, also the half stop of the bottle opener on the Pioneer is a nice fidget device I discovered (clicking between full open and half stop).
@@JonGadget I am such an idiot! I was checking out my alox collection and I already own this knife. 🫤 well… at least I’ll have a mint in box backup now. Off to find a gray one now. 🤣🤣
Replaced my modded compact with philips now, I built a cadet with a wenger scissor layer. Smaller and thinner than a compact with a complete set of tools.
I have been collecting the yearly Limited edition Pioneers for a few years and was pleased this year they changed it to a Pioneer X. The scissors are in a fact a joy! Will be getting SAKs with the scissors hopefully from now on.
The quality of the lighting in this video is exceptional. Very pleasing to the eyes, both the foreground and background. Well done!
Top notch audio too.
thanks for the comments - really nice to hear 🙏
@@JonGadget Just found your channel today, and I'm going through all your videos. Really impressed at the high production quality right from the first video: audio, lighting, quality content... all good stuff.
@@TokyoXtreme thank you 🙏 that's really great to hear 😊 thanks for watching.
Yeah your right -exceptional
I don't really know what's in the background, but I like the colors and lighting there in addition to what has already been mentioned.
SAKs are incredible. Never any blade wobble, walk and talk, edge bevels, overall fit and finish, etc. are always excellent and at such a low price. The common problems with slip joint knives are almost non-existent with Victorinox. People exaggerate edge retention, so they criticize Victorinox steel. But I cut cardboard all the time with my SAKs, and they do fine. Victorinox steel excels in all other categories: corrosion resistance, ease of sharpening, chipping resistance, sharpness, etc.
totally agree!
Well said!! Victorinox Swiss army knives,are by far the best edc knives by far! That,will never change!!
Out of all the knives I’ve used the Victorinox blade is my all around favorite. It’s so easy and effortless to get them razor sharp.
👍
I finally broke down and purchased my first SAK a couple of months ago despite being a life-long jack knife carrier and I’ve got to say I’ve developed such a genuine affection for Swiss Army Knives in general even though I own a couple of beautiful edc folders with premium steel that I also carry. If I had to choose to carry only one knife for the rest of my life I would definitely choose a SAK even over a far more expensive premium knife all day long! There is just something so romantic about these classic folders that is truly undeniable…at least as far as I’m concerned ❤️
The fact remains, you just can’t have it awl.
😂
Well played, sir.
😁👍🏻
Boo.
I love the look and feel of Alox but will always carry the classic red scales. The scale tools have become a daily use for me. Like many, I’ve grinded out the extra slot in the plus scales, but also added a slot in the front scale, giving me room for 7 tools (pressurized pen, toothpick, small tweezers, large tweezers ground down to a fine pound for splinters and tick removal, the ferro-rod, and two magnetized pins) that I would be without when using the Alox. Aside from that, the classic red scales are very nostalgic for me. My grandfather would always carry a large Victorinox when I was little, and I remember him using it all the time, from fixing my bicycle to cutting open a snack wrapper.
Appreciate your EDC videos; I credit them to my switch from the Leatherman Wave to the Swiss champ, as well as my further appreciation of Victorinox in general. Cheers!
Great feedback 👍 thanks for taking time to share
30-plus years of using Victorinox knives, and I only learned today that there is a distinct difference between the "93 mm" knives and the "91 mm knives", that the 93 mm range has more robust blades and tools. Now I'm considering getting one, but I can't decide quite which. In the past, I've used the Huntsman and SwissChamp in the 91 mm range, but never owned a 93 mm range Victorinox. The only Victorinox I carry on a daily basis now is the 58 mm Rambler, which is very possibly my favorite knife of all time and certainly my most-used knife.
They are a great addition to any Vic collection - not too many to choose from!
17:07 The Farmer X with stashed toothpick and pin and tweezers in a wire heat shrink tubing fits by the saw !
Your dilemma is amusing to me, because I had a similar debate between the Farmer X and the Fieldmaster. My initial debate was on the fact that I wouldn’t need the Phillips head screwdriver since I intend to use the knife for various kinds of pruning tasks in the garden, but the thought kept creeping back in, “But what if you find out after the fact you really did need that screwdriver?” What finally settled the debate was the sewing eye on the awl/reamer. I don’t know leather-working yet, but I decided to teach myself and the sewing eye adds an important function in that craft.
it is a bit of a dilemma - scale tools did it for me in the end
One of my new found favorite TH-cam channels. Keep it coming brother.
Thank you 🙏
Great comparison! Didn't know I needed a Compact until now... Been carrying a Pioneer X since they came out and I love it. Recently picked up a Super Tinker to throw into the EDC rotation, but I think I might toss a Compact into the rotation as well.
Just discovered your channel, BTW. Some great content. Really enjoyed the videos on your kits. Very practical and well thought out without any gimmicks.
Take care!
Thanks for the kind feedback and welcome to the channel 👍
Jon the quality of his videos and transparent and impartial analysis, conquers the public more and more. Congratulations for this great review.
Hugs from Brazil!
Thank you Sávio - really appreciated 🙏
In my honest opinion, the deluxe tinker is forgotten far too often.
It really has everything you need (if you don't need a saw because when you're not a bushcraft person) and is still very compact.
The deluxe tinker is always there and i have never missed any functionality in my everyday life.
I also added the pin and put the plus scales to have the pen.
For me by DISTANCE the best EDC!
My to go to is the huntsman with the plus scales to make it more urban friendly, i am an outdoor hobbyist but im not outdoors all the time but i find the saw pretty handy in some urban situations tho, making some chocolate flakes for desert hahaha, also sometimes some tree branches are to long and people who take care of that dont notice it i just cut it off with my saw (ofcourse for both situations i wash it first hahahaha)
I almost went with the deluxe tinker but in the end pulled trigger on explorer and that solely because of the inline philips
@@MrSuvvri buy some plus scales for it (its not expensive at all) on etsy or any places on the internet (but buy one wich comes with the pen) and you have the ultimate urban EDC with you hahaha
@@MrSuvvrihow do you like the Explorer? I just ordered the explorer today as my first SAK because I wanted the inline phillips. I did purchase plus scales so that I can add a pen to it. Should arrive in a few days
@@Oshianis yeah I like it. I take it with me almost anytime i go somewhere :)
Watched a bunch of your reviews lately, in the middle of a philosophical reboot of a lot of my edc type stuff and I'm enjoying your (and a number of other) channels ability to review a product with relatively little subjective information, and precisely zero bent towards ridiculous theories like "Oh my God the world ended I'm a SAS/SF/Ranger now, this one pocket tool will have to get me through Armageddon!!!" Just reasonable uses by reasonable people, keep doing what your doing!
I agree with you on your choice Jon. My compact I use as my EDC during the work week for it’s additional functionality. My pioneer X in red is my more casual carry in the rotation.
good to know 👍
Compact is a great tool and has every day issues covered. Splinters, note taking, cutting loose threads or opening post with the knife or beer with the combo tool this SAK is great. At work I have a leatherman surge. The truck has a leatherman wave+ and at home I have a shed full of tools.
I am a big fan of the Surge too
I don’t know if anyone has told you this, but your background looks REALLY similar to another channel Technology Connections.
just had a look - I see what you mean - although mine is a bit more er....vintage?
@@JonGadget fair, I am not opposed to your setup it looks great. Definitely subbed
Love your detailed reviews and 4K camera resolution. Please review all your multi tool collections!!
Thanks for the feedback - lots of multitools to come!
I remember being so stoked for the release of the Pioneer X, then summarily unimpressed upon taking delivery of mine. It never saw the inside of my pocket. Great vid!
Why never carry?
Really? Why? If you don’t mind 👍🏻
Thanks for kind comments re the vid 😃
@@allemander It all boils down to personal preference. I’ve found that I like the light weight and extra implements in the scales of the cellidor 91mm models- not to mention the extra tools on the back. Years and years of carrying pocketknives, and I’ve found that 2 layers is the most I carry in a SAK. The awl on the Pioneer 93mm range is second to none, but not enough to warrant the extra weight, bulk, and lack of functionality. If I were inclined to “go big”, I’d carry the Climber or Explorer over the Pioneer X. But again, this is just my preference. I appreciate the robust nature of the Alox models, but at the end of the day I feel they underdeliver when compared with their 91mm cellidor cousins.
I’ve been edcing the compact for 6 years, 8 months and 13 days. It’s my go too, every single day. It never let me down. 😊💪👊
🤣🤣🤣
so at this point 9 years 8months and odd days
@@bryanCLXT Yes, I’m still edcing the compact. 9 years, 9 months and 14 days. 🙂💪👊
@@49684 Thank you for responding I aspire to keep the beaten path
It’ll let you down when you need to tackle smaller, recessed Phillips screws that are too big for the mini screwdriver.
I LOVE the color burnt orange and always have for some reason. It’s such a rich looking color.
Hey John, thanks for a great review. Every time i watch one of your reviews on a SAK, i end up buying it. You’re killing me, LOL. I really enjoy your videos.
Keep up the good work Jon, excellent channel and very good reviews
thank you 🙏
I love the Army-7 (harvester?)..
I drilled & tapped the aluminum scales on the side opposite the red shield and attached a spiderco titanium pocket clip.
It's totally badass. It has been my EDC for nearly 3 years. I plan to buy another and do the same thing, keep as a backup in case I lose the one I currently carry.
Anyway, love your victorianox reviews.. thanks to you I am doing to buy the spirit-x.
Thank you.
Harvester,Explorer,Spirit x and the Rucksack, are my favorite Victorinox! Best edc ever and forever!!!
Hey Jonathan, I've become a massive fan of yours, your videos are top notch material, very pleasant and relaxing to listen to! I've recently finally acted on my childhood fascination with SAKs and started sort of collecting them. The Alox series, while lacking in some of the tools, is just so appealing, I managed to get myself a Pioneer X in red, and it's just so nice. I've got my eyes set on a black Alox Cadet, but it's just so hard to get one. Also, I can't wait to replace my keychain Classic with Silver Alox MiniChamp. You also got me hooked on when it comes to the Compact. I've realised I can only fit a two-layer SAK for pocket carrying (as a female in close-fitting jeans anything thicker becomes very noticeable). The Compact seems like the best option for me to combine with my keychain multitool. The only thing I wasn't able to get is the pocket clip.
Thanks for the feedback Katerina, I am really pleased you are enjoying the content. The red Pioneer X is a really great option. Compact is still my EDC. Google Keysmart for the pocket hanger - there is another similar product too. It is a game changer for carrying for such a low cost item. Good luck with your collection.
Well done! I love your reviews. I have both knives and come to the same conclusions as you. The compact for EDC is unbeatable with its ideal weight and tools.
Thanks Pierre 🙏 😃
Great video Jon. I tried carrying a Pioneer X for a month or so but I just couldn’t get on with the additional weight (and I missed the toothpick!). I went back to my Spartan / Super Tinker rotation. Incidentally, I carried an explorer (which is still own) for a good 10 years. Owned it since I was 16 , I’m 50 now.
great feedback - the weight is what stopped me too
Very thorough, detailed, unbiased comparison. Thank you for sharing and I also wanted to take the opportunity to thank you for turning me onto the Compact model overall not long ago in the first place. It wasn’t on my radar initially but it’s a beautiful little edc on those days I might not want to carry my slightly bigger, heavier and bulkier Huntsman and/or Handyman. I’m now considering purchasing one to have available to slip into the pocket of a pair of shorts on those days when it’s uncomfortably hot and do so without unwillingly sacrificing my edc. That’s not going to happen.
I'm in complete agreement with this video. I've owned both for several years (and lots of other expensive pocket knives). Yes, my PioneerX is unquestionably the better built, higher quality, more luxurious knife, but I find that I just can't give up that pragmatic Compact toolset. From the pin (for ejecting your celphone sim tray) to the glasses tool (summertime sunglasses arm tightening) to the little pen (signing random receipts) it's just such a thoughtful everyday urban/suburban workhorse. If you own one and brush aside all pretention, in the long one it will be the one that wins the war of attrition for your pocket. At least for me.
I just wish victoranox tools came in higher quality steel because damn, I'm sick of the frequent re-sharpening.
Great feedback - exactly my thoughts too.
I have a No 7 Alox in silver. In fact, I have two. Brilliant knives. Lovely, thick blade stock and smooth, positive action. The saw, and in particular the hawksbill blade (a highly underrated blade), get the most use. I wish that the saw had a liner lock, but as an EDC option, little comes close.
I EDC a Hiker. Has all the tools I need and the "normal" style phillips screwdriver works for me. It compliments the Leatherman Wingman I wear on my belt nicely. I'm a building maintenance tech and these two tools have saved me countless trips to my truck when noticing the loose doorknob or lock set. I use the leathermans blade as a "beater" blade for things like scraping glue, saving the hikers blades for cutting chores. Just a winning combination.
BTW, the quality of your videos are outstanding. Lighting, audio, and content are top shelf!
Thanks for sharing, it's great to see how other people choose to carry. Thanks also for the channel feedback, much appreciated 🙏
I'd really love to have a closer look at the Pioneer X, but I'm good with my Waiter and Huntsman, so I'm considering to give it to my dad for his birthday. The Alox versions are gorgeous, but the loss of functionality is undeniable as you said. I don't think he'd miss those functions, though.
I friggin love my waiter.
It's just the most elegant object I've ever touched. Perfect size, perfect balance, fits perfectly in your pocket
Great to hear 👍
Simply an outstanding channel. The right amount of detail and attention to detail (for me), excellent production value, helped by top-shelf editing. Doffed cap Sir !
Only found your channel a few days ago, and I must say I I loving your content! Keep it up
Thank you 🙏 👍
Lovely video as usual Jon!
Thanks Ben. I think we have a similar mindset when it comes to reviews, although I don't appreciate keyboards in the way you do!
@@JonGadget Heh yeah for sure! Great to see your channel going from strength to strength!
@@BenVallack Thanks Ben. if you wanted to connect to share YT experiences feel free to drop me an email - address is in the about section 👍
@@JonGadget Will do cheers!
Great review. You are new to my feed. I think your content will become quite popular! Keep up the good work. You’re great to listen to. Thank you from the USA 🇺🇸!
Thank you, much appreciated 🙏
Hi Jonathan, love your videos. Do you have any plan to review the Victorinox Traveller or Traveller Lite please? I couldn't find one in the playlist. Thanks in advance.
I'll put it on the list - thank you
I just discovered your channel. Fantastic. Cool EDC content.
Thank you 🙏
I only have one alox, I believe it is called the farmer... it has the wood saw. I like it but I carry the compact every day. Being American, I also carry a thicker locking blade in my other pocket for heavier cutting jobs. thanks, I really like your channel.
Just ordered the 2023 limited edition pioneer can't wait to get it.
I have spent a lifetime wearing a tool pouch or pocket carrying tools for work so both these options are light carry to me. I prefer a point on my tweezers so I carry a Sliver Gripper on my key ring. I never considered the toothpick any more sanitary than carving my own toothpick from a twig. The Compact is a great “don’t know it’s there” carry for those inconveniences that come up. I personally prefer the Farmer X Alox since I find need for the saw and having the awl on the end of the knife rather than centred on the handle. The only bad thing I have to say about the Compact is that it is so light that I forget I’m carrying it until I’m halfway to the toolbox. This was a very good presentation of both knives.
thanks for the feedback - if you don' mind the weight the Farmer X takes some beating
You can put a point on the SAK tweezers with a grinding stone on a Dremel tool or even a file. Extra tweezers are available and inexpensive if (like me) you need a bit of trial and error to get things just right. Just a thought.
I've actually got exactly the same knife, orange alox, and all. It's probably my favorite Victorinox knife, and I often use it as my daily carry.
Excellent review! Many thanks for posting it.
I do carry the Pioneer X as an EDC because of the size and the Alox scales. I used to carry a Compact an it’s scales pick up damage.
Take care!
great feedback - thank you
Huge fan, got my first LE-Alox thanks to you. Although it’s heavier than the Compact. I got some big hands and can appreciate the extra thickness. A switch blade pocket knife video would be sick. Thank you
both great options 👍
Personally, the Huntsman is the EDC tool for me. I live in a rural area near a forest, and own quite a bit of the forest aswell, so it definitely is useful, apart from that I also carry a small foldable saw and a carving knife with me at all times
Huntsman is my pick for the outdoors backpack as well, I would not wanna go on a hike without the hook, tweezers and the saw.
@@Hamachingo Yeah i also want to buy a huntsman and then i saw the farmer X alox and now i cant decide 🤦♂
@@brokmuk2602 what do you think to the ranger?
@@Hamachingo What do you use the hook on the Victorinox,on your hikes??
@@greekveteran2715 note technically for hiking, but it's fantastic to take the hot lid off of your bushcrafting pot, to twist some metal wires together, pulling tent stakes out of the ground, doing and undoing complicated knots, as a handle carrying a plastic bag (especially garbage bags) that otherwise cuts into your palm, carrying a slippery heavy fish, touch zippers, stubborn pull-tabs on cans, kick-stand for your phone, to pull out nails out of a baseball bat, to pull out the tools out of your bigger multitool.
Thanks for the review Jon, it looks a lovely knife, i've just subscribed and learned so much from the reviews, thanks very much.
As a normal EDC, the Compact(mostlyaroundthe houseor to the store) . Change to the Pioneer X if you know you're going to be doing something where a heavier blade/tool set would help.
I really wish they made a Pioneer EIectrition X. Would be sweet if they made a 93mm version of the combo tool to replace the cap lifter Screwdriver as well.
I am with you all the way 😃
Agree, I did something similar with a custom SAK builder from CH. We decided to make something like the Electrician Duo and add a scissors layer in the middle. Pretty much my ideal Victorinox.
Great video and I just bought this knife. This is the one I have been wanting to find for awhile so thanks for doing a video on it.
I mentioned this earlier but to remind you of the ask - what is the best complimentary two knives to have, with least overlap, e.g. the Alox 7 (aka Harvester) and the Manager, combined you get short and long blade, small scissors, pen, twezzers or tooth pick or short ferrorod, small phillips, large flat, small file, wood saw, awl. I like the Manager on my keyring, it helps me hear it if falls from pocket,
The issue with the colored Alox models is that they look so good and I'm scared that they will lose their color if I carry and use them. So I keep them in my collection and use the standard silver ones only
They actually look better as they start to wear!
@@norby0418 Some do for sure... I got a dark green Farmer X as I think it will wear beautifully.
I know what you mean!
Especially when they're discontinued.. you'll get them on eBay for at least twice the price..
That‘s why I buy at least two of the colours I like: one for wear and one for the collection 🙈
Swiss army climber is my EDC of choice. I love my Pioner X. Have used my Regular Pioneer (Black) now for over 6 years and its my EDC for work as its non threatening.
I like how the combo tool slims down the Compact to 2 layers, but I find it inferior in functionality, to the standard opener/driver set, especially for Phillips screws. At a little over half the Compact's price (less if you compare used ones), the Hiker is a better value in my opinion. It has pretty much the same tools as the Compact but with the standard opener set and the awl on the back, and it's only a little over a half ounce heavier and one scale width wider. There is no pen or file on the backside of the hook, but Victorinox could include those just as easily on the Hiker.
Good argument Dale. I will prioritize size over almost everything, but I am a bit ocd on that score!
Dale, do you mean the Climber? The Hiker has no scissors.
As much as I like the Alox scales. I prefer the Plus scales. I like the extra small tools you get. Also I use them more as to why I carry 91mm Victorinox with Plus scales. I also love the hook with the nail file! Keep up the great videos!
That orange is gorgeous. I just ordered last years (2023) yellow. Pound for pound the alox SAK’s are the best there is for my money
I have both. I love the pioneer x but I find the spring hard to get the tools out sometimes so end up using the compact on a day to day.
Good info 👍
I have been a fan of the Alox knife after I found a lost one since the early 1960's. I have bought 4 more of the same since then. My question is, why do they not put a blade lock on this model? I have had the blade cut my hand several times over the years. This to me is my only complaint.Thanks for your review. 👍
I also had a hard time to come to terms which one to choose, and I concluded that the biggest drawback for the compact was that the alox is a nicer looking knife, especially compared to the red scales. So I changed the scales to an other colour and found it easier to stick with the compact. But I'm always going to miss the awl.
I'm with you on all counts
Swiss army knives are so good,that you canr easily choose,which to carry. However,for the same reason,you cant go wrong,no matter which you choose! Im getting older,so the Explorer is essential for me,because of the magnifying glass,which helps with reading and/or spot details on objects when needed!
You do great reviews! Keep up the good videos!
Super Tinker for my EDC. Have been using it for the last 6 months and I love it. Was using the slimmer Tinker for years but I found more need for the scissors and the slightly thicker form of the ST fits nicer in the small pocket of my jeans for work. I was a knifehand for 16 years in 2 abbatoirs, so I know a quality blade steel when I sharpen them. Love these knives. Will be moving to the Explorer for EDC when it shows up. I'm a big fan of most Victorinox products, I even have their Inox Automatic watch.
I would Go with the Pioneer X because in the long run its going to out last the compact also it's got much better driver's and stronger tools / just a stronger allrandr poickit knife even the farmer x is better and a very little bit bigger size for the saw thanks for sharing 👍🏻
Well each is designed for a different persons edc. For a casual urbanite, the compact is great since you don't need the heaviest duty tools and the pen really sells me on it. For someone in a more outdoorsy environment, then the farmer or a different pocket knife may serve you better. Each knife is purpose built, so best to understand your scope of commonly encountered uses.
@@aboriginite I'm 💯% with you this is the reason where all on TH-cam looking at the reviews maybe someone might just want one blade on there Swiss army knife form the small 58mm right up to the 130mm yes I understand what you're saying but I'm just saying i like the victorinox pioneer X over the victorinox compact I've also got both of them and use both for different tasks but yea i understand what you're saying thanks for your reply 👍🏻
I purchased the"Cadet"not too long ago, and now I have the "FarmerX" which I think is the better deal, because I can EDC my favorite on a sheath on my belt.
thanks for feedback William 👍
I’m a bit confused about the idea that the Pioneer X would outlast the Compact. I haven’t met a Victorinox knife that isn’t high quality and built to last. I have Victorinox SAKs going back to the 1990’s. Why do you think the PX would outlast a Compact? Is it just the scales you’re talking about?
Hi Jon, love the channel, great review. I always carry a victorinox alox cadet in my pocket as you don't even know it's there and it's so practical. Along with my new rovyvon a8x which you persuaded me to buy, I think that's the perfect pocket EDC. Mind you, this is very nice and I love the colour
great EDC you have their John - I would miss the scissors though
I very much enjoyed this video. Thank you for the comparisons. I still am undecided on which I prefer.
Thank you for reviewing and comparing. I was looking for a edc multitool so now I have a better idea what to look!
Great to hear 👍
Really enjoy your videos! How about one on the Farmer X Alox?
The ultimate Alox...... 😃
Great video!!
IMHO the Compact SAK it's a better casual urban EDC, slimmest with very useful "accessories".
Under my experience: opening the "hidden slot" of the "corkscrew scale" there's an space for a short tweezers
.. and the teethpicker comes again to our SAK! Hurraaa!
I'm a fan of your high quality videos.
Regards from Germany.
great feedback - thanks Tano
Love the Waiter. Blade, Combination tool and Corkscrew. So light and nimble. Have had a few, and getting another when this one wears out. No snip snip though ;) Use the blade for that. Been sailing, so the Corkscrew is really handy untying wet knots. The alox bantam with a screw would be ideal (Edit: if one has gloves that is, since the alox seems a bit slippery sometimes in a wet environment)
Bottle opener 90 degree stop: on all *modern* Victornox knives.
The older 84 mm (Cellidor and Alox) and 91 mm (Cellidor) knives had no half stop on the bottle opener, but the 93 mm Alox always did, since 1957.
I am living in-the-moment 😁 great feedback 👍 everyday's a school day
These are my two favorites too. I have them both, but the Compact usually wins because there's a swisstool spirit in my bag, which covers everything the Pioneer would bring and lots more.
agree!
I have a heavy duty Victorinox multi tool pliers, ironically the awl has been the most useful tool so far.
When I had to put screws into hard wood and they would slide off it made the starting hole and they would just drive in.
Or when I had to remove some metal clips and I could slide the tip under and pry them out.
Since I carry that thing with me wherever I go I am trying a bit too hard to justify getting another Victorinox.
But being a collector I guess it's inevitable.
Thanks for another great review.
Thanks for sharing Christos - Victorinox make a great multitool 👍
I carried the super tinker for years. I like your choices as well. I want it all!
😃
I do love my Pioneer X and think it’s perfect for most people. However, the Compact does have quite a bit more functionality than the Pioneer X. I think if I had to pick only one for a minimalistic excursion, I think the Compact would have to be a better option, especially for those wearing glasses and also carrying electronic gear. I think if they could swap the parcel hook with an inline Phillips, there would be zero contest.
I agree 😃 thanks for the feedback.
I'd be SO on board with the Compact if they had a phillips and awl in place of the corkscrew and parcel hook (it's the backside of the Compact that I find so disappointing).
Add to the phillips and awl a built-in deep carry clip and--most importantly--a locking main blade (the latter-most of which was why the Wenger Evolution line was so intriguing), and you'd arguably have the edc pinnacle of what Victorinox had to offer in terms of weight vs functionality.
@@sda4jesus1 I would agree with all your suggestions apart from the locking knife which for the UK would make it illegal to carry! Let's hope Vic are listening. The Keysmart clip I am using is very good though in the absence of a pocket clip.
@@JonGadget I did take note of your clip solution, which is so much better than carrying it loose.
I feel sorry for you blokes having to deal with crazy-restrictive knife laws (I hope the pols here never shackle us so).
I really enjoy your videos. I'm kind of a gear nut. :-)
@@JonGadget Strong detents are adequate most of the time, but the absence of a positive lock really limits confident work toward the tip. :-(
A Farmer X just found its way into my pocket. It's got some weight to it, that's for sure! The weight doesn't bother me; it's just something I notice. Another Alox knife will join my carry rotation soon. I seem to be addicted...likely I'll be selling some stuff to get more Alox. Getting the tiger orange limited models before they go for silly money on eBay has suddenly gone way up on my priority list.
If it's not super-secret, I'd love some details on your camera and lighting setup. I could use some improvement in that regard (though I've finally ordered up a tripod).
Thanks for a great showing of a superb knife!
Thanks for the feedback Dan and the kind comments. No secret, cameras are Sony Zv-1 and DJI Pocket 2! Front lighting is a basic light box and honeycomb grid to avoid too much spill - was quite cheap on Amazon. Then a side light which is a led panel, again quite low cost. The channel was launched this year so still new. I kept costs low to start with whilst I worked things out. Some updates will help but I have to say everything works OK.
Some edc-gear works better in a system. For example the alox works pretty well in combination with the swisscard. Great content btw. I really like enjoyed all the Victorinox and leatherman videos. Greetings from the Netherlands!
thanks Dennis for the feedback - good point re system 👍
TH-cam algorithm brought me to your channel. You have good content so I just subscribed.
My go-to EDC is a pocket knife pairing with Victorinox Rambler. I live in city environment hence Rambler is handy for small cutting job (small blade or scissors) and dealing with electrical stuff (flat head and Philip screw).
When I travel abroad, typically I would carry Victorinox Pioneer X on body to replace Rambler and folding knife, on my casual or formal attire. Obviously I don't want to break the local law while still able to have useful tool on me. Pioneer X with sturdier build, sufficient tools on it while not bulky to carry is a plus, looks nice too.
Apologies for the very slow slow response - I'm just playing catchup - thanks for the sub and welcome to the channel 👍
I've been using my compact for many years as my EDC knife.
Love its two layers reduced profile, pen, SCISSORS, screwdriver, tweezers and pin.
I also use its hook, but only for fishing purposes (knot tightening)
More tools add weight and thickness. For field day y prefer having a saw as well, but not for the city.
Tip for awl.
Boring two or three holes in some wood or branches with it is a good way to make some tinder
Excellent review. Agree the Compact is better suited for EDC. If only Victorinox would allow one to customize a knife to include preferred tools that would be fantastic!
It would be great 👍 😁
If only victorinox would have a pocket clip and pliers.
@@Johonavich49 some come with pliers, although they’re not heavy duty- and yeah the lack of pocket clip is annoying, there’s a lot of aftermarket options but we shouldn’t need them
@@alros1212 thanks
They will never allowed it, sales would fall like a rock.
I know I’m late to the party. However, I’m really enjoying your Victorinox series 👍
Jonathan, I really enjoy your reviews. I take great stock and what you say.
The Pioneer X is my second favorite SAK. Sort of Climber-like but more compact. No tweezers....but carry some on my keys.
I will say the awl is one of the tools I use the most frequently. I wish the Compact had an awl in lieu of the corkscrew (I do like the corkscrew, very handy at times.). I use the in-line awl to open boxes, packages, etc...and preserve the edge of the blade from tape residue or dulling. If I don't have my mug with me and get a beverage in a 'go cup' with a plastic lid, I'll use the awl to open a little vent hole in the lid. I've done this too many times to count. I was in an airport with a plastic lid on a coffee cup and reflexively reached for my SAK with its handy awl to improve the vent hole.....oooops.... *** sigh ***... air travel today.......
And then there is the Farmer X.......
great feedback Jack - I agree
Another great vid. Brilliant production quality and you're a really confident speaker.
I've a pioneer on the way i think it'll make a great tool to keep in the glove box of the van.
Cheers 🍻
Thanks Rab for the feedback - appreciated 🙏
Carry the Pioneer X and a manager on your keyring. I think that's a pretty good compromise, personally I bought and Evogrip s18 a week ago. Enjoying it because means I can leave the house with only one knife before I carried a Super Tinker and a Opinel or other light weight locking knife. Don't worry I no long live under the Draconian UK knife laws.
thanks for sharing 👍
Great review. I love the ferro rod accessory. I didn't know such a thing existed. I have 6 Swiss Army knives and I am going to add a ferro rod to each of them. Also, I agree with your final decision on which knife to carry.
Well done on your review Jon! I do have the Compact and Pioneer X Silver Alox which are my favorites, you must have both really and it's up to you which to carry on day to day basis, but to be honest I carry the compact more due to weight as well and the toothpick. Now i'm looking on getting the super tinker as I want to preserve my compact due to its rarety here in NZ.
Thanks for the feedback, good too hear your thoughts.
I have to say, for an urban enviroment every day use, the Pioneer X seems perfect.
If I was to carry the Pioneer X I’d also carry one of the 58mm with the pen & replace the toothpick with a FireFly Ferro rod. Yes that’s 2 items but to add a nail file, tweezer, FireFly, pen IMO is worth it. Wish the Farmer X came with colored alox scales. Love a saw.
The 58mm Rambler in Alox & colors I think would be a screaming success.
Thanks for sharing- agree re Alox Rambler
You know what would be close to perfect EDC, would be a Cadet Alox with scissors. A Cadet X? I have a Cadet Alox and it is a great EDC knife. I keep mine in a pocket organizer along with a tactical pen.
that would be good
I just purchased a farmer x today and I have to say I might just be a fan of the alox SAKs. It's awesome so far! You should carry both! Also Nice comparison video!
In 1976 while in US Army helicopter pilot training my only request for a Christmas present was a Swiss Army knife with a knife blade, a reguar screw driver and a Philips head screw driver. for 22 years it was my carry knife in my flight suit and was used to keep my helicopter flyable for opening and closing panels, setting screw that had come undone. The helicopter I flew had more standard slotted screws than Philips head. If the Pioneer X had been available at the time it would have been my choice due to the beefy nature of the components and size. The Air Force issued me a switch blade used to cut parachute cords one handed if I was dangling in a parachute. Something we didn't use in helicopters. but the utility of my Tinker swiss army knife served me well and still does as my EDC knife. However, now as I am getting older, no longer flying my needs have changed, and fortunately Victorinox has many new options.
I use a victorinox bantam alox and a Classic sd alox in my wallet so I don't forget them when I leave the house, they have all the functions of the Pioneer x, except the punch which I rarely use, but they are only 6 mm thick which makes them makes it highly portable. Almost no one uses a pen outside of work these days. The hook has more use than the pen nowadays.
Victorinox are just absolutely great. The compact is my most carried and favorite model. Lately I've been enjoying having an Alox Electrician with me. It's a Pioneer but has an electricians blade instead of the can opener. The electricians sheepfoot blade is really good too. I prefer the heavier duty Alox tools also. I have yet to get a Pioneer X but I do carry my regular Pioneer quite a bit. The Cadet is another wonderful tool as well. Very small slim and light. I don't typically miss the scale tools as I keep a classic on my keyring which is either in my pocket or nearby if I'm out of the house. Now if they made an alox Compact or basically something like a Pioneer X with a combo tool instead of a separate opener layer. Angle the combo opener so that it fits with the scissors and keep the main blade an awl and it might be able to stay as a 2 layer tool then. Until then I'll just have to buy more sak's until I have them all I suppose.
Perfect comparison. I have almost bought the Pioneer X now multiple times. I love the Alox series - how it looks, how it feels, how sturdy it is. But I always argue myself out of it because of the missing functionality, and in the end it comes down to the tweezers. I would accept missing out on anything else, but tweezers are actually one of the most used tools for me. I now mostly carry a Super Tinker or an Explorer, the latter in a belt pouch together with a Bullet Pen.
PockeTweez “Tweeze Two” are great keychain tweezers
great feedback Morpheus 👍
Exact problem I have. If it wasn’t for the tweezers Alox all the way
@@mrsentencename7334 By now I actually do have a Pioneer X in my daily rotation (gorgeous in a dark green); the tweezer problem is solved by a Victorinox Manager on my key ring.
@@Morpheus451 ah interesting thank you
Rationally, you are probably right with choosing the Compact.
But because of the look, sturdy tools and the reamer, I really love 93 mm Alox, especially colored ones... So my heart chooses the Pioneer-range, and I don't care what my brain says :D
Ha! I know what you mean
The orange colour on the 2021 Pioneer X is really attractive. It looks much better in person than it does in photos.
I can't wait to see what colour they choose for the 2022 run.
me too!
Fantastic reviews Jon. I wasn’t that keen on this model, but watching your review has made me think again. I really wish that they offered it in assorted colours. The limited edition is considerably more expensive than the standard silver. I can’t justify the premium price just for the colour though. Looks like I will get the silver.😀
The silver is very nice too 😊
You can paint the silver whatever color you like. Search for "how to paint victorinox alox".
Great review! I can see why you chose the Compact over the Pioneer X. I love most of the Alox SAKs and my EDC is the Farmer X which adds a saw blade. I'm an avid outdoors person, hiker and camper and I prefer the more robust Alox versions of SAKs for outdoor use. I would not carry the Pioneer X or Farmer X in my front pocket because that is just too much. But I almost always wear cargo pants so my larger Farmer X rides unnoticed in a side pocket. The saw is a real bonus for woods use as is the awl. I have tweezers on my keychain and carry a pen in my vest which is EDC for me.
I wish they made the compact with alox scales, just give me the excellent scissors, knife and multi bottle/can opener.
But I got myself the Pioneer X a few weeks ago and have to say I'm super happy with it, been useful already in many little ways, also the half stop of the bottle opener on the Pioneer is a nice fidget device I discovered (clicking between full open and half stop).
I have one on the way, can’t wait!!
You can't go wrong with either of these
@@JonGadget I am such an idiot! I was checking out my alox collection and I already own this knife. 🫤 well… at least I’ll have a mint in box backup now. Off to find a gray one now. 🤣🤣
Replaced my modded compact with philips now, I built a cadet with a wenger scissor layer. Smaller and thinner than a compact with a complete set of tools.
I have been collecting the yearly Limited edition Pioneers for a few years and was pleased this year they changed it to a Pioneer X. The scissors are in a fact a joy! Will be getting SAKs with the scissors hopefully from now on.
thanks for the feedback Ramiro