“Swiss Army Knife” has come to mean a device that can do almost anything and everything. I have a small collection of Swiss Army Knives and am usually carrying one in my pocket, computer bag or camera bag – and sometimes in all three locations.

Swiss Army Knives really are supplied to the Swiss Army. In 1891, the Victorinox company began to supply the “Soldier’s Knife”. In 1897, a fancier “Officer’s Knife” was issued. After World War II, the Swiss Officer’s Knife became very popular with the military officers of the United States. Soon, civilians also wanted a “Swiss Army Knife” and the shortened version of the name stuck.

For over a hundred years, two companies manufactured knives for the Swiss Army: Victorinox and Wenger. In 2005, Victorinox acquired Wenger and now is the sole manufacturer of Swiss Army Knives. For more information on Victorinox and Swiss Army Brands, check out www.victorinox.com.

It amuses me greatly to photograph my Swiss Army Knives in various settings and, of course, the knives enjoy getting out and about as well!