The Swiss folding knife of the century lost its blade

The Swiss multi-purpose knife (also known as the Swiss army knife) - an iconic folding knife that has been loved by everyone for more than a century, including astronauts, is about to launch with a new version. The new version no longer has the blade.

Victorinox, the famous Swiss knife maker, is adapting to stricter weapons regulations around the world, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Carl Elsener told Blick newspaper on May 7.

'We are concerned about the increasing regulation of knives due to violence around the world,' Mr. Elsener said, citing laws in the UK and Asian countries that only allow carrying knives at work. or outdoor activities.

'In some markets, the blade creates the image of a weapon,' vi CEO added.

Last year, a man with a Victorinox knife in his pocket was fined in Osaka, Japan, for carrying a dangerous object, Swissinfo reported in December 2023.

We are concerned about the increasing regulation of knives due to violence in the world.

Victorinox CEO Carl Elsener

In Switzerland, a small amendment was proposed to the weapons ordinance in 2016, with a member of parliament asking: 'Should the famous Swiss army knife be banned?'.

'The increasing regulation of knives in many countries is a major challenge for the company,' a Victorinox company spokesperson told Bloomberg News , confirming Blick's information.

Victorinox pocket knives became famous when American soldiers brought them home as souvenirs after World War II.

The Victorinox company has been manufacturing in Switzerland since 1897, supplying equipment to the Swiss military as well as NASA.

The company produces about 10 million pocket tools each year. There are about 400 different types to choose from, including one with 73 functions. They were even taken into space by Nasa astronauts.

Victorinox exports about 80% of the knives and watches it produces in Switzerland. The CEO said that in response to fluctuations in the Swiss franc, they increased prices by 9% and plan to automate more in the future.

David Pac

Update 08 May 2024