Bought this due to it having some of my most commonly needed tools on the go... I have a tenancy to want everything with me all the time but I seem to have grown up a little now (and realised my Swiss Champ and my Handyman although perfectly legal as EDC where I live are a bit chunky to take out all the time) and got down to basics. A simple blade, couple of screwdrivers, can opener, bottle opener, nail file, pen, scissors, tweezers, toothpick etc... It's surprising for the overall size all that and more is included.I don't think I'll get much use out of the corkscrew or weird little hook thing that nobody truly agrees on more than two uses for, but I'm sure it'll be welcome on the right occasions.I still carry my mini champ alongside this as I find it a little ... MoreBought this due to it having some of my most commonly needed tools on the go... I have a tenancy to want everything with me all the time but I seem to have grown up a little now (and realised my Swiss Champ and my Handyman although perfectly legal as EDC where I live are a bit chunky to take out all the time) and got down to basics. A simple blade, couple of screwdrivers, can opener, bottle opener, nail file, pen, scissors, tweezers, toothpick etc... It's surprising for the overall size all that and more is included.I don't think I'll get much use out of the corkscrew or weird little hook thing that nobody truly agrees on more than two uses for, but I'm sure it'll be welcome on the right occasions.I still carry my mini champ alongside this as I find it a little less conspicuous for things like emergency nail filing/opening boxes but the Victorinox Compact really is satisfying to carry.No DIY pocket-miracle like my Handyman or Swiss Champ but as a gadget geek who works in a bank I don't think I'll be pining for a fish scaler, metal file, wood saw, 2nd blade, wire cutters on a daily basis.Class.

Brilliant design

There is an elegance in it's efficiency. With the elimination of the small blade, and inclusion of an ingenius multi tool that covers the can opener and bottle opener and screw driver functionality, the Compact offers scissors in a slim two layer knife. The corner edge of the flat head on the multi-tool works on most philips heads too. Then throw in the plus scales and you have a pen and standard toothpick and tweezers. I am glad the traditional cork screw was included over the philips screwdriver going back to the swiss army knife roots. While I would have preferred the awl over the parcel hook, there is a benefit with the parcel hook as it can be used to hold down the pen in it's groove, making the pen function more practical. This enables me to use the Compact as ... MoreThere is an elegance in it's efficiency. With the elimination of the small blade, and inclusion of an ingenius multi tool that covers the can opener and bottle opener and screw driver functionality, the Compact offers scissors in a slim two layer knife. The corner edge of the flat head on the multi-tool works on most philips heads too. Then throw in the plus scales and you have a pen and standard toothpick and tweezers. I am glad the traditional cork screw was included over the philips screwdriver going back to the swiss army knife roots. While I would have preferred the awl over the parcel hook, there is a benefit with the parcel hook as it can be used to hold down the pen in it's groove, making the pen function more practical. This enables me to use the Compact as a practical pen, and I've written pages with it. Like the Alox Farmer, if Victorinox could add another layer and include a wood saw, and an awl on the back, it would be perfection. A 3 layer knife with scissors, wood saw, and awl, would be perfection as an awesome urban + outdoors EDC. Can maybe call it the Compact Wilderness Adventurer.

I wanted to love it, but the lack of Philips support is a major drawback

This model gets a ton of things right, but fell short for me in the long run. The slim size and the added pen, pin, and the mini-screwdriver in the corkscrew are great additions. The nail file on the back of the parcel hook is a brilliant bit of added usefulness, and I honestly wish they would make that feature standard on all models with the hook. The combo tool is a mixed blessing in that, while not having a dedicated can opener is not a major issue to me, losing the small screwdriver tip on the end of the can opener is a major loss, since it is sized well for both Philips and flat-head screws. This leaves the compact with extremely limited usefulness for turning screws. I would still recommend this over the Spartan or Climber due to the smaller size and the ... MoreThis model gets a ton of things right, but fell short for me in the long run. The slim size and the added pen, pin, and the mini-screwdriver in the corkscrew are great additions. The nail file on the back of the parcel hook is a brilliant bit of added usefulness, and I honestly wish they would make that feature standard on all models with the hook. The combo tool is a mixed blessing in that, while not having a dedicated can opener is not a major issue to me, losing the small screwdriver tip on the end of the can opener is a major loss, since it is sized well for both Philips and flat-head screws. This leaves the compact with extremely limited usefulness for turning screws. I would still recommend this over the Spartan or Climber due to the smaller size and the scissors, but I really wish Vic made a version with some kind of added screwdriver capability, either with a model with the T-handle Philips (fun fact, you can sometimes use the tweezers to turn eyeglass screws in a pinch), or even better, re-releasing the 3-layer Yoeman model with the in-line Philips and magnifier without sacrificing the corkscrew and mini-screwdriver. Until then, I'm stuck with either a tiny 58mm Manager model or jumping all the way to a hefty 4-layer Explorer model.

It's growing on me.

I bought the Compact because, you know, a Swiss Army Knife fan/user/collector just has to have it, right? Well, after already owning and using the Classic SD, Sportsman, Huntsman, Recruit, Mechanic and Spartan, I was curious to try this two layered wonder. Actually, it was originally intended as a Christmas gift for my wife, but she hinted post-purchase that she didn't want one. But, I digress. It stayed in the family, proudly hung with the rest of my Victorinox Swiss Army Knives, (SAK's), but never really got any pocket time. I was scared I'd miss the can opener/screwdriver and the awl/reamer/punch, mostly. So, as a challenge to myself, I started to carry it everyday unless I needed more/different tools for specific tasks or outdoor use. My fears seem to be going ... MoreI bought the Compact because, you know, a Swiss Army Knife fan/user/collector just has to have it, right? Well, after already owning and using the Classic SD, Sportsman, Huntsman, Recruit, Mechanic and Spartan, I was curious to try this two layered wonder. Actually, it was originally intended as a Christmas gift for my wife, but she hinted post-purchase that she didn't want one. But, I digress. It stayed in the family, proudly hung with the rest of my Victorinox Swiss Army Knives, (SAK's), but never really got any pocket time. I was scared I'd miss the can opener/screwdriver and the awl/reamer/punch, mostly. So, as a challenge to myself, I started to carry it everyday unless I needed more/different tools for specific tasks or outdoor use. My fears seem to be going unfounded, so far. The addition of the plus tools is great. The combo tool replaces the cap lifter and can opener, with their related built-in functions, and does a pretty decent job for being tasked with so many expectations. I eat canned foods every day, and my SAK is my main can opener, at home, work and in the wilderness. The combo tool is a bit different, going in the opposite direction, and a slight bit more messy, but it works. The standard large blade and scissors work as admirably as on my other SAK's, and the hook has the added feature of a nail file! The pen is great when you need it. Most of my pants have a dedicated SAK pocket, but the ones that don't, I put the Compact in my back pocket, and it carries perfectly for me. Yes, I'm really starting to like my Compact. Working in a retail clothing store and warehousing, it's great to help me out day to day. Ingenious little tool. But, I've come to always expect that from Victorinox.

MY GO TO VICTORINOX UPDATE (from tower 1st review)

I've carried this multitool on me exclusively for 365 days. I can honestly give it a reasonable review of edc (everyday carry). Keep in mind that I'm a family man, Tenkara fly fisherman, a window cleaning technician and a little of everything else in between. First thing I was looking for was a fashionable gentleman's multitool. One that I could use for casual, dress and suit carry. It had to be slim and lightweight. Something that wasn't scary looking to the general public, family friendly looking. I've researched a lot of companies and chose the compact because of the already must haves listed above, plus it came in black which I thought was classy. So now I have a classy fashionable gentleman's multitool that I can use for casual, dress and suit carry. Its slim, ... MoreI've carried this multitool on me exclusively for 365 days. I can honestly give it a reasonable review of edc (everyday carry). Keep in mind that I'm a family man, Tenkara fly fisherman, a window cleaning technician and a little of everything else in between. First thing I was looking for was a fashionable gentleman's multitool. One that I could use for casual, dress and suit carry. It had to be slim and lightweight. Something that wasn't scary looking to the general public, family friendly looking. I've researched a lot of companies and chose the compact because of the already must haves listed above, plus it came in black which I thought was classy. So now I have a classy fashionable gentleman's multitool that I can use for casual, dress and suit carry. Its slim, lightweight and functional.Ok, let's start with the large blade. It is very sharp when received by mail. To sharpen, I use a popular $10-$15 V sharpener. It's easy to sharpen and holds edge well enough for my daily task I tackle. This knife is my go to paring knife in the kitchen. It is phenomenal to use for food prep. I've used it for fruits, vegetables, meat and just about anything you can think of in the kitchen. It's handled my every day task that I've encountered. Sharpening pencils, open envolopes, cut soft water hoses, carving, opening all types of packages, gutting trout, and etc.The combo tool works well for opening can goods, bottled beverages, flat head screws, light prying, 90 degree combo tool half stop for cutting wire insulation, a little extra torque on a screw, some philips with the designated flat head, also you may use corner tip of combo tool for most different size philip screws I've encountered for tightening/loosening screws. I have not used the wire stripper yet, but I'm sure it will not disappoint me due to the success I've had with this multitool and experiences with other multitool wire strippers.Scissors, what can I say. "Superior!" I've used these for cloth threads, trim fly hackle, grooming, fishing line, paracord, paper, light zip ties, insulated bubble packaging, finger nails, office task, and etc. They are still sharp and cut like they are new and precise. The tip of scissors closed also fit some philip heads, (not recommended) I do not want to use to find out the aftermath of my scissors.I use toothpick daily, still functional and great to use. Tweezers I've used to pick up micro screws and with the help of the pin, removed slivers from my hand. The mini screw driver I haven't used in the U.S.. All micro screws I've encountered were philips. Again, I'm sure it does what it's meant for. Pen writes, I wash multitool all the time with dish soap and submerged in water while pen is inside scales. Pen still works. I carry a designated pen on me all the time, so the pen in scales is a back up for me (not meant for letter writing). May use pen under closed multi hook for more handle if needed. From my understanding this pen is pressurized, so maybe you can write upside down, extreme weather conditions, that vacation trip we take to the moon now and then.The dredging corkscrew most people complain about. It opens wine just fine. I have thought why would most saks come with a corkscrew. My reasoning is you can get more multi uses out of it than a philips driver like a few models come with. Approximately, 95% of saks come with a philips tip on the end of the can opener anyways. Let see, you can use corkscrew to pick things, clean under your finger nail, help loosen knots, screw into something light for easy carry, screw into wall just to say you hung up your coat with your awesome sak, and the list goes on. With all that said, I like to call it the multi corkscrew. Make sense?Oh my gosh, The famous disappointing multi hook. Absolutely love it! I've heard it was specifically for parcels. Well that era may be over now, here in the U.S. anyways. You will use this more than you think you will. I really like using it to carry those plastic shopping bags that hurt your fingers. Ouch! Comes in handy to unscrew/screw those ceiling hooks, grab that wire inside small hole in wall, fish your eye glasses out from the toilet when dropped (lol), and etc. Oh yeah, that file on back of hook. I've used on my finger nail a time or two and to file that pesky little stubby rough skin on tip of thumb.The keychain ring with an s biner will open a whole new meaning of how to carry this bad boy from pant loop, messenger bag, back pack, purse, waders and what ever else you can think of. Easy to attach/remove from one place to another. Or you may pocket carry, I'm a front pocket snob. I don't like most things in my front pockets. I like almost 0 bulk, besides my front pockets carry my money clip and a handkerchief in the other pocket. The length of the multitool I find uncomfortable sitting in bottom front pocket. I find back pocket carry more comfortable. Fits jean fob pocket just fine. You may add clip to key ring to dangle inside pocket, some like this method. I've also seen some clip mods to scales, if needed. Oh yeah, let's not forget the classic lanyard you can put on it. Sounds like a multi key ring to me. Although I no longer carry the s biner method any more, those are some options. I carry it inside a belt carry nylon cargo case with my other edc essentials. This works best for me. All these tools do exactly what they're made for. I would not want to change these tools like I said I would before in my last review.I have researched many videos and forums on saks. How to use these tools. They work well, be creative and unleash your inner Macgyver skills. Have fun. A lot of people out there have helped me to get the most out of my Victorinox. With a little elbow grease of some research on your part, you'll be on your way with a very useful multitool. Please consider this is a light multi purpose tool. You won't be rebuilding a car engine with this. I have to say the Victorinox Compact is the true meaning of edc perfection. This piece would accommodate any other heavy multitool or main knife carry. I plan on carrying this for years to come and purchasing as gifts. As in my first review, I say this masterpiece is highly recommended! Very well thought out, remember when making a product they have the general public to accommodate too. More than likely, there is a sak that best suits everyone's needs. Thank you Swiss friends for such a superb lightweight multitool and every one else who has helped me get the most of my Victorinox Compact, it's been very functional, fun and pleasant to work with! KEEP UP THE GREAT WORK!

My favourite knife. Because it is…compact

This one is amazing. It does everything you need, with almost no wasted space. The can opener/bottle opener/flat and Philips screwdriver is a particular highlight even if the wire stripper isn’t much use. Looks great and fits easily in a pocket. No wast of space 2nd blade and the essential scissors. And the full set of mini tools- biro, pin, glasses screwdriver, toothpick and tweezers.Even the stupid ‘multi function’ hook has a single use- a hidden nailfile.

Perfect edc

I found this on a camping trip and I did not know what to do with it. I did not notice the multi purpose hook until I watched a YouTube video. This has been my edc for a out 3 months now and I LOVE IT it has everything. I do not like swiss army knives with no scissors so this is perfect. This has been in my pocket everyday science that camping trip. I highly recommend this.

Quality knife

My two favorite SAKs are the Sportsman, and the climber. I purchased the Compact thinking it would bridge the gap between the two. I think the main tool I wanted was the scissors while keeping the the knife two layered. Mission accomplished on that goal.But,the nail file on the Compact cannot compare to that of Sportsman, and is not even available on the Climber.The Compact does do most of what I need in urban situations and Im guessing thats what it's designed for.I gave this knife four stars because its price is much higher than other models that do more. It is however a very fine knife

The ideal every day carry knife

In my view at least, this is really the perfect EDC knife.It's slim, being a two layer knife, and also surprisingly lightweight. You don't really feel it in your pocket, especially if you add a pocket clip to it (Key Smart is my recommendation). It also has the classic SAK look that makes people comfortable when they see you about to use it for something cool.So,The knife is classic drop point. Holds an edge well and is easily sharpened.The combo flathead driver/philips/bottle opener/can opener/wire stripper is a revelation. Highly useful in all but the can opening IMO. The can opener aspect does work, but it's definitely more for emergencies. This complete tool also makes a good littke pry bar.The scissors are top tier. They are sharp, reasonably big, ... MoreIn my view at least, this is really the perfect EDC knife.It's slim, being a two layer knife, and also surprisingly lightweight. You don't really feel it in your pocket, especially if you add a pocket clip to it (Key Smart is my recommendation). It also has the classic SAK look that makes people comfortable when they see you about to use it for something cool.So,The knife is classic drop point. Holds an edge well and is easily sharpened.The combo flathead driver/philips/bottle opener/can opener/wire stripper is a revelation. Highly useful in all but the can opening IMO. The can opener aspect does work, but it's definitely more for emergencies. This complete tool also makes a good littke pry bar.The scissors are top tier. They are sharp, reasonably big, open up wider than most similar scissors. The also cut the same whether by the tip or fulcrum, and readily cut through slack materials as well. The tension bar probably won't last forever, so having a back up isn't a bad idea.I've actually used the parcel hook more or less for its intended purpose (firewood instead of newspaper though). I also find the little nail file on the back of the bar to be a daily use item, and the bar itself can actually lock the pen in place, making it easier to write.I mostly use the corkscrew to loosen knots and to hold the included eyeglass driver along with a tinder twist from Tortoise Gear, which I've also actually used. It's handy. The pin included in the slot under the corkscrew has been useful for removing sim cards and such.The toothpick I replaced with a ferro rod.The tweezers work well.The pen is maybe a little difficult to manipulate if you don't use the abovementioned trick, but it's quite useful regardless, and a really nice addition overall.Yeah, I feel confident that I can tackle a lot of day to day things with this one. Lot of utility in a small package. It's my daily carry.

Urban everyday pocket knife

This knife really does what it says on the tin. It has a lot of tools compressed in to a slim package. I have been carrying it for a few months now, and it has held up to everyday use very well.The blade is, in my opinion, the perfect size. I use the scissors all the time, and in fact they are my main requirement. The combo tool, which acts as a bottle opener, can opener and flat screwdriver is excellent, and allows the knife to be thinner compared to the standard separate bottle and can openers which add a layer. The scale tools are always handy. The hook gets a bad rep and although I very rarely use it as a hook, I see it as a file which can angle away from the body of the knife, and a slot for holding the spare pen.The cork screw irritates me. I know a lot of ... MoreThis knife really does what it says on the tin. It has a lot of tools compressed in to a slim package. I have been carrying it for a few months now, and it has held up to everyday use very well.The blade is, in my opinion, the perfect size. I use the scissors all the time, and in fact they are my main requirement. The combo tool, which acts as a bottle opener, can opener and flat screwdriver is excellent, and allows the knife to be thinner compared to the standard separate bottle and can openers which add a layer. The scale tools are always handy. The hook gets a bad rep and although I very rarely use it as a hook, I see it as a file which can angle away from the body of the knife, and a slot for holding the spare pen.The cork screw irritates me. I know a lot of people love them and use them, but for me this is not something I need every day. The phillips head driver would be far more useful here. This is my main and only complaint, as in a pocket knife so well suited to everyday carry and use, this is the only superfluous tool. The combo tool can be used to jemmy some sizes of phillips by inserting it an angle, but it is hardly an ideal solution. In the rest of the range there is a choice between similar models with either phillips or corkscrew; Spartan vs tinker, Huntsman vs Fieldmaster etc, but this one doesn't have a counterpart.It is also expensive for what it is. Compare the price to the Spartan or Tinker, or even to some of the three layer models like the Climber. I am not really sure why.I keep a pliers-based multi tool in my car, and when I am going hiking/hunting etc I carry a different knife (with a locking blade and a saw). For general day to day use in a home or work environment, this is the best option from Victorinox for me. If you want a slim pocket knife with a decent blade and a very good pair of scissors, then this model may suit you.