May 7, 2024, 09:03
The historic pocket multi-tool, developed in Switzerland by the international company Victorinox, is now having to change course following a global crackdown on products with sharp edges.
Photo: Alamy
The makers of the historic Swiss Army knife are being forced to develop new tools in the wake of a major global crackdown on carrying cutlery.
The historic pocket multi-tool, developed in Switzerland by international company Victorinox, has now had to change course following a widespread crackdown on cutlery products, angering fans of the historic item.
Recognized by its iconic red Swiss flag logo and various folding tools, this gadget has long been an essential pocket item for campers, outdoor enthusiasts, and globetrotters.
It has now been revealed that the company is in the early stages of product development regarding a bladeless design.
Until now, all designs had at least one blade.
Karl Elsner, the company’s fourth chief executive, now points to the UK as a prime example of a market that has been significantly affected by the knife crackdown.
“I’m concerned that the violence in the world is leading to stricter regulations on knives,” he told Swiss news outlet Blick.
The gadget was first developed in 1891 in Ibach, Switzerland, and was then called the Offiziersmesse (officer’s knife), but six years later the term was changed to Swiss Army Knife.
Photo: Alamy
As a result, the company appears to have been forced to get creative with alternative tools.
A release date for the bladeless design has not yet been revealed.
Victorinox manufactures approximately 10 million pocket tools a year and offers over 400 customizable attachments and gadgets to choose from.
“In some markets, the blade creates the image of a weapon. We keep in mind that we are creating a useful tool for cyclists,” Elsner said.
“Cyclists need specific tools, but they don’t necessarily need blades. We already have tools specifically for golfers.”
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Elsner cited the United Kingdom as an example, where “people may only be allowed to carry a knife if necessary to carry out their job or if they are outdoors.”
Victorinox’s CEO highlighted Britain’s strict rules that make it illegal to carry knives unless necessary for work or religious purposes.
The gadget was first developed in 1891 in Ibach, Switzerland, and was then called the Offiziersmesse (officer’s knife), but six years later the term was changed to Swiss Army Knife.
The gadget was first developed in 1891 in Ibach, Switzerland, and was then called the Offiziersmesse (officer’s knife), but six years later the term was changed to Swiss Army Knife.
Photo: Alamy
Even if a blade complies with these rules, it must have a folding blade less than 3 inches or 7.62 cm in length.
“Victorinox wants to counter this trend by developing bladeless tools for specific outdoor activities and sports,” he continued as part of the interview.
The Sept. 11 terrorist attacks marked a notable development milestone, and it’s not the first time the company has been forced to make design changes.
“September 11 showed us that we cannot rely solely on products in one area,” Elsner said.
Victorinox has now diversified to include bags, watches, and accessories in addition to pocket knives.
The case follows a wave of knife crime in Britain, including three teenagers who were jailed this week for stabbing a 16-year-old boy at a house party in Bath last year.