How to Buy a Swiss Army Knife as a Gift

Swiss army knives, indeed invented in Switzerland for use by the Swiss army, are some of the finest-engineered knives in the world. Choosing one to give as a gift can be a daunting task, but knowing something about the recipient will help narrow down your choices.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Gift Ribbons
• Ribbons
• Tissue Paper
• Gift Cards
• Gift Bags
• Gift Bows
• Wrapping Paper
• Gift Certificates
• Swiss Army Knives
• SwissCards

1. Think about which components of a Swiss army knife might be useful to the recipient. Don't overestimate: Aunt Sally can probably get along without the fish scaler with hook disgorger - unless she's a fisherwoman.
2. Look for models that are made for a hobby the recipient enjoys. The Angler, the Camper, the Climber and the Golfer are some of the models available, and there are many more.
3. Consider the weight of the knife. The more components included, the heavier - and bulkier - the knife will be.
4. Decide on your price range. You can expect to pay $25 to $100 for a Swiss army knife.
5. Give a gift certificate if you're not sure which model you should buy; the recipient can then choose the model he or she wants.

Tips & Warnings

• Some of the tools available in a Swiss army knife include large and small blades, toothpicks, hooks, awls with eyes, saws, chisels, magnifying glasses, scissors, nail files, letter openers, divot removers, fish scalers, tweezers and screwdrivers.
• A new option to consider is the SwissCard, a flat, credit card-like holder into which the implements are inserted, making them removable. An added advantage is that you can sometimes choose the implements you want and customize the card for the user.