Field Notes
Standard carry on AT day hikes where I want some capability but not 8.5oz of multi-tool. The scissors get used for cutting moleskin and packaging. The blade handles food prep on trail. The saw surprised me — on a Maryland AT section I needed a rough stake for a tarp corner and cut a green branch to length in 30 seconds. For trips that are primarily hiking with some camp cooking, the Huntsman covers 90% of what the Leatherman does at half the weight and half the price.
3.3oz, 15 tools, TSA legal — the Swiss Army knife that has been doing this for a century
Who This Is For
The Victorinox Huntsman is right for: ultralight backpackers who want multi-tool capability without the Leatherman weight penalty, hikers who fly to trailheads and need something carry-on legal, and anyone who wants the classic Swiss Army knife experience with a full saw.
I review gear the way most people actually use it — weekend trips in the mid-Atlantic, day hikes on the AT, car camping in the Smokies and down at the Outer Banks. Normal outdoor life for normal people.
A note on pricing and links: Prices are current as of May 2026. Some links are affiliate links.
How It Compares
Common Questions
Does the Victorinox Huntsman have pliers?
No — pliers are the one significant tool the Huntsman lacks versus a full multi-tool like the Leatherman Wave+. If you need pliers for gear repair or camp tasks, you need the Leatherman. For food prep, cutting, saw work, and camp utility without pliers, the Huntsman is excellent.
Is a Swiss Army knife TSA legal?
Blades over 4cm are prohibited in US carry-on by TSA; the Huntsman's 2.8" (7.1cm) blade exceeds that. However, the Huntsman without the main blade removed (using it as a multi-tool only) may be acceptable in some international airports. Check current TSA and airline rules before flying.
Victorinox Huntsman vs Leatherman Wingman — which is better?
The Huntsman (3.3oz, $55) is lighter, has a better saw, and has Swiss build quality. The Leatherman Wingman (7oz, $55) adds spring-loaded pliers. For camping without pliers needs: Huntsman. For camping with pliers needs: Wingman or Leatherman Wave+.
How do you sharpen Victorinox knives?
Victorinox steel holds an edge well and requires less frequent sharpening than most knives. A pocket-sized diamond sharpener or ceramic rod works for field touch-ups. Full sharpening at home on a whetstone or pull-through sharpener takes 10-15 minutes. Victorinox also offers a mail-in sharpening service.
