Whether you’re deep in the wilderness or just trying to open a can of beans on a day hike, a Swiss Army Knife™—particularly the Victorinox Huntsman—is one of the most useful tools you can carry. With 15 integrated tools and limitless applications, this pocket-size powerhouse has earned its place in the kits of survivalists, bushcraft experts, and emergency responders alike.
Why the Huntsman Is a Survival Favorite
The Victorinox Huntsman includes two blades, a saw, scissors, can and bottle openers, screwdrivers, tweezers, corkscrew, and more. But the real value lies in how versatile each tool can be in the right hands. Wilderness guide Joe Bassett of Valiant Outfitters and everyday carry (EDC) expert Raffaele Salera say the key is creativity—and preparation.
“There are 15 tools on the Huntsman, and I can find at least three uses for each.” —Joe Bassett
From cutting tent stakes to slicing fruit, and from building fire-starting kits to rescuing wildlife, survivalists push this tool far beyond basic expectations.
Core Wilderness Uses: Fire, Shelter, and Food
In real-world survival situations, the Huntsman is indispensable. Bassett uses the large blade to carve tent stakes and feather sticks. The saw, he says, is perfect for cutting notches into wood to build a hearth board for fire-starting. Salera leans on it for more typical camping tasks: slicing food, trimming branches, opening cans, and preparing kindling. The scissors? “Underrated,” he says—especially with kids around.
Key Features for Everyday and Emergency Use
- Large Blade: Essential for carving, slicing, and utility cutting.
- Saw: Ideal for cutting wood for shelters or fire.
- Scissors: Useful for medical emergencies, tape, and precision work.
- Can Opener: Makes food access simple when packaging fails.
- Corkscrew: Surprisingly helpful for loosening knots or even light prying.
Unexpected Hacks in the Field
Beyond the basics, seasoned users have found ingenious ways to extend the Huntsman’s capabilities. Bassett has used it to reflect light for signaling and even build a wire antenna using the wire stripper. Salera once pried open a fence to rescue a trapped kangaroo using the flathead driver. “You’re only limited by your situation and imagination,” he says.
The Essential Tool for Day Hikers
Most rescues in the wilderness happen not during multi-day expeditions, but on day hikes—because people underestimate how quickly situations can turn. Bassett says a Huntsman, combined with basic skills and gear like water, shelter, food, and fire-starting tools, can dramatically improve a person’s chances of survival.
“Any day hiker with a Huntsman in their pocket, accompanied by mastery of some basic skills, will have a fighting chance of survival.” —Joe Bassett
Another Tool You Shouldn’t Leave Home Without
If the Huntsman is your go-to survival multitool, Salera recommends pairing it with Victorinox’s Rescue Tool. Built for emergency situations, it features a high-visibility yellow handle, seatbelt cutter, and glass breaker—making it ideal for vehicle rescue scenarios.
“I’ve got one in my wife’s car and mine,” says Salera. “That’s how highly I recommend it.”
The Knife That Earns Its Place
You may not know every possible use of the Swiss Army Huntsman, but when you need it—whether for sawing, slicing, signaling, or improvising—it’s always ready. In a world of flashy gear and endless survival gadgets, its simplicity and reliability remain unmatched. Carry one, and you’ll understand why survivalists swear by it.
