Some products are timeless.  Although they might change in design over the years to adapt, their overall functionality remains the same.  The Timex watch, the Ford Mustang, and of course the Swiss Army Soldier’s Knife.

The knife that has been issued to every Swiss Army recruit since 1961 has received its first upgrade in almost 50 years.  This marks only the fourth time in the knife’s 120 year history that the design has been altered.

To fully appreciate the new standard issue Swiss Army Knife you need to know about its great-grandfather.  It could repair a leather harness so a horse could pull a wagon.  Disassemble a rifle for cleaning.  Pry the lid off a tin of food.  It was the perfect tool for the modern Soldier.  So said the Swiss Army in 1891.  And so says the Swiss Army today.

The new knife sports a dual density ergonomic handle which allows for grip in both cold and wet weather conditions.  Other updates and features include a one-hand serrated locking blade, Phillips Screwdriver, can opener with small screwdriver, bottle opener with large locking screwdriver, wire stripper, reamer, key ring and wood saw.

Seven firms vied for the right to produce the soon to be released design.  Once chosen the knife underwent a battery of both laboratory and real world testing to ensure its worthiness.

The Soldier Knife comes in a black and olive green combination handle and sells for $58.00.

More information about the Swiss Army Soldier’s Knife can be gather on the Swiss Army web site.

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