Review

Damascus Limited Edition 2012 Swiss Army Knife

Originally published 2012

From the archive: originally posted on ProCamping in October 2012, when this limited edition launched. As a numbered limited run it will long since have sold out — treat this as a look back rather than a current buying guide.

The Victorinox Damascus was a limited edition knife for 2012. It was based on the tried-and-true Swiss Soldier's Knife issued to all Swiss army recruits, and this one-of-a-kind model was limited to just 5,000 units. Each knife had its serial number engraved on a plate behind the Phillips screwdriver.

The exterior of the knife was dark brown patterned walnut wood from Switzerland, shaped into an ergonomically designed handle — making it both an eye-catching design and a pleasure to hold. The Damascus name relates to the blade design, which used uniquely patterned Damascus stainless steel. Compared with conventional steels, Damascus steel, produced by means of powder metallurgy, is tougher, stronger and able to be honed to a sharp and resilient edge — not just eye-catching, but a genuinely superior blade for daily use.

The Damascus knife was made up of 10 tools:

  1. Large lock blade for one-hand opening
  2. Wood saw
  3. Can opener with small screwdriver
  4. Reamer, punch
  5. Phillips screwdriver
  6. Cap lifter with screwdriver and wire stripper
  7. Key ring

Related reading