Victorinox Swiss Army Huntsman Multitool Review

Bottom Line

The go-to for generations of DIY families and tinkerers, the Victorinox Swiss Army Huntsman multitool packs a generous assortment of 15 tools, including essentials like a knife, scissors, saw, and corkscrew, making it a reliable companion for camping trips, hikes, and everyday tasks. The “function meets style” walnut handle option adds a rustic, adventurous flair that feels right at home in the wilderness.

At just 3.5 inches long and 3.4 ounces, it won’t weigh you down, yet it packs enough capability to handle most situations you’ll encounter on the trail or at camp. This is a legendary multitasker, with the Victorinox durability you can count on.

That said, the lack of a locking blade might give some users pause when tackling tougher jobs, and cleaning the tool after messy tasks can be a bit fiddly. Still, for outdoor enthusiasts and casual adventurers alike, the Huntsman delivers impressive utility in a sleek, backpack-ready package.

For more reviews of the best multitools, head to our multitool gear guide.

How We Tested

With the dependable multitool bar set high, we expected greatness from the Huntsman, and it delivered. Over 75 days of consistent use, this beauty was front and center at a Wisconsin adventure basecamp, repairing balky tent zippers and yanking lanyard ties back to where they belong. The tool stood up to soggy days and icy cold mornings without fail.

Weight & Portability

The Huntsman strikes an impressive balance between capability and pocket-friendliness. At 3.4 ounces, it’s heavier than minimalist options but remains remarkably portable considering its 15 functions. Our testers found it easy to stow in cargo pockets during trail maintenance sessions in Colorado’s high mountains, though it is clearly noticeable in pants pockets.

The 3.6-inch closed length makes it palm-sized and easy to handle. During a weekend helping out at a small orchard, our team appreciated how the Huntsman rode comfortably in work pants, and testers particularly noted the lanyard ring’s security when working around equipment and piles of brush.

This isn’t an ultralight option, but for those who need genuine versatility beyond the basics, the weight-to-function ratio makes it an excellent companion.

Ease of Use

The Huntsman is a testament to Victorinox’s smooth operation and fine Swiss craftsmanship. Each tool opens and closes with precision, offering minimal resistance that feels deliberate rather than stiff. The mechanisms are impressively consistent, so whether you’re using the blade, scissors, or corkscrew, the experience is seamless and intuitive.

The spring tension is another standout feature—it remains firm and reliable, even after repeated use. This ensures the tools stay securely in place when deployed and fold away without a hitch. This reliability inspires confidence for a quick campsite fix or handling more intricate tasks.

A negative: Some users find that smaller tools, like the scissors or can opener, may require extra care to avoid wear with heavy use.

Overall, the Huntsman’s smooth operation makes it a pleasure to use, even for extended periods. It’s a multitool that doesn’t just function well but feels great in your hands, offering a balance of durability and elegance that’s rare in such a compact package.

Ergonomics

Our tester loved the Huntsman’s comfortable fit and feel. It’s a champion on long days of light-to medium-duty chores. Its compact design and smooth edges ensure a comfortable grip, and the balanced weight distribution adds to its usability, allowing it to feel stable and natural in your hand without causing strain.

Another highlight is minimal hand fatigue throughout all operations. Tools deploy smoothly, requiring just the right amount of effort. We rarely feel like we’re wrestling with mechanisms or putting unnecessary pressure on our fingers.

That said, there are a couple of common critiques. The compact size, while convenient, might feel cramped for users with larger hands. Additionally, the lack of any texturing or rubberized grip on the handle can make it slippery when wet. 

Even so, the Huntsman’s ergonomic design makes it a well-rounded multitool for casual and serious users.

Tool Deployment

The Huntsman shines when it comes to tool deployment, offering a user-friendly experience that balances speed and precision. Most tools can be accessed in 2-3 seconds, making them quick and convenient for on-the-go tasks. 

The two-handed blade deployment is particularly noteworthy—smooth, intuitive, and reliable, even in situations where your other hand is occupied. Transitions between functions are seamless, allowing you to switch tools efficiently without fumbling or frustration.

However, the non-locking blade can be a concern for tasks requiring extra force, and some tools, like the corkscrew or awl, can be a bit tricky to deploy quickly without practice. Additionally, users with larger fingers might find the tight spacing between tools slightly cumbersome.

Load Bearing Capacity

Durability meets versatility in this quintessential Swiss engineering marvel. This powerhouse tool delivers robust load-bearing performance that belies its compact size. 

Its pliers provide an exceptional grip, seemingly magnetized to challenging tasks with remarkable tenacity. The primary blade, although non-locking, is free of any wobble or lateral movement that might compromise cutting precision.

The integrated tools demonstrate an almost aggressive capability to tackle demanding workloads, from testing at our backwoods cabin in wilderness survival “practice runs” to impromptu repair missions.

The tool’s stainless steel construction ensures structural integrity under stress, with each implement engineered to handle big working loads without compromise. Weight distribution across the frame allows confident force, whether using the can opener, scissors, or primary cutting edge.

Material Quality

The Huntsman showcases Victorinox’s legendary Swiss craftsmanship. Our
Wisconsin tester subjected it to three months of regular use including camping trips and farm chores, and the fit and finish remained impeccable. The stainless steel showed remarkable resistance to corrosion despite exposure to dewy mornings and occasional rain during outdoor testing.

Testers were also particularly impressed by the precision of the scissor mechanism after using it repeatedly to trim cordage while setting up camp. Despite being carried alongside keys and other camp items, the ABS scales maintained their vibrant red color without scratching or fading.

During a week of daily use around a hobby farm, our team found the blade retained its edge while cutting twine and whittling improvised storage shed stakes. The tools still operated with the same satisfying snap as when new.

Should You Buy the Victorinox Swiss Army Huntsman?

The Victorinox Swiss Army Huntsman is a fantastic all-around choice for outdoor enthusiasts, DIYers, and anyone seeking a reliable multitool. With 15 well-crafted functions, we used it repeatedly for camping chores, on-trail hiking repairs, and general everyday use. Its lightweight design, smooth operation, and ergonomic feel make it practical and comfortable for extended tasks.

While the lack of a locking blade and occasional tool tightness may deter some, the Huntsman’s overall quality, durability, and ease of use outweigh these minor drawbacks.

What Other Multitools Should You Consider?

While the Huntsman is a top-notch tool, our best multitools gear guide has more of our favorites. Below are some similar options to the Huntsman that are on the market as well:

Victorinox Swiss Army Fieldmaster Review: The Fieldmaster is an excellent alternative to the Huntsman, offering the same 15-tool setup but with a subtle difference—it swaps the corkscrew for a Phillips screwdriver. This makes it a better choice for those who frequently handle screws or assemble gear. Like the Huntsman, it’s lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry on outdoor adventures. While it lacks the Huntsman’s rustic walnut handle option, the Fieldmaster provides equally smooth operation and reliability.

Leatherman Wingman Review: For those who need a multitool with more heavy-duty functionality, the Leatherman Wingman delivers. It includes 14 tools, such as spring-action pliers and a locking blade, which makes it a better option for more rugged tasks. While it’s slightly bulkier than the Huntsman, its additional strength and locking mechanisms make it feel more secure during tough jobs. The Wingman sacrifices some of the Huntsman’s sleek design for durability and power.

Gerber Suspension-NXT Review: The Suspension NXT offers a budget-friendly multitool alternative with 15 functions, including pliers and a locking blade for added safety. It’s larger and heavier than the Huntsman, but its locking tools and affordable price make it a strong contender for everyday carry or utility use. While it lacks the smooth finish and refined mechanics of the Huntsman, the Suspension-NXT’s value and rugged build are appealing for those on a budget or seeking a tougher feel.