two types construction

The Outrider model

During the last years Victorinox transform models from the 111mm slide-lock category into the tougher 111mm liner-locking category.  One of the favorite models is the traditional Outrider with the slide-lock configuration.  On the pictures you can see some of them side by side with the new liner-lock edition. The traditional model can be used for most things and will go a long way for normal use. The step up to the services range category lifts it up to a higher quality that is stronger and tougher. The selection of tools is the same in both tools and this selection is very good with scissors and long Phillips screwdriver. Large blade, wood saw and several other nice functions place this model to be one the best choices anywhere. It is just a great quality and you feel it in the hand.

Today I would like to show you my latest 111mm slide-lock SAK. It is the Outrider model and it is one of my absolute favorite 111mm knives. The reason for why I secured myself another one is because it is retired. This information has been out for some time now. Victorinox transformed and made a liner-locking Outrider since the slide lock 111mm SAKs was going to be retired.

Both 111mm designs are very good with the liner locking one the toughest. I mentioned a short time ago that Victorinox is a gigantic Company so if this category is 100% retired remains to be seen. I do not have much information besides the confirmation from collectors that from 2017 the slide-lock is to be retired. I have no doubts about this. There is also a statement from Victorinox on this I believe. This is how it is and true. It is also clear to see because several models are transformed.

It is still possible to get the slide-lock Outrider from web shops. On the picture above you can see some Outrider models with both 111mm constructions shown. On the picture below you can see my latest one. The selection of functions is very versatile and interesting. You can see some of the functions on the picture. Some prefer the sleek design and functionality on this old Outrider model. The blade on this is very easy to maintain because of the traditional edge. This locking is also very comfortable to use. For traditional use it is more than enough. Large wood saw, long slim phillips screwdriver, scissors and much more. I do like both design very much and I totally understand the reason for the services range robust philosophy.

I remember when researching the 91mm category with one of the spring factors how a particular key ring design was produced just for a short time. I found it on different SAKs from time to time much later than the production year too. I do not any doubts that this design is retired. The reason for why I mentioned the possibility for it is simply because of the reach this design had. As mentioned it is used by outdoors people, military and other services. You can find it with advertising and special models. I do not know how many parts Victorinox made and when it runs out. I just have a feeling it could be room for this model with slide-lock still. Perhaps it will appear again in the future. The 111mm slide-lock can be found used all over the world. This Outrider model got the latest attributions on the design. It got the closed spring for the locking mechanism, tang stamp and so forth. On the picture below you can see the backside functions with the long Phillips & hook, key ring, awl and corkscrew. The only thing I found on this is that the blade centering on the main blade could be some better. I know about production variations so it is fine. PS the long Phillips is not backside unless you want to use the hook 😉

You can find some information on the functions on the internet. The hook design on it is interesting because it is designed to be used for opening the long Phillips. It rests under the scissors neatly fitted between the dividers. The outrider is a strong package functions wise. I know that the hook on the Phillips has been used for a couple things besides opening it with. It is not a function in itself. The interesting thing with Swiss Army Knives is how the design of the functions can be used for much more than the designated name. On the web you can find this put into perspective and use. It can be educating and fun to see. The awl got the eye which is useful. The corkscrew can be used for opening knots. This is the thing with SAKs that they are never limited in functionality. The flat screwdriver with cap opener and notch is another example on this. It is not limited at all. The long Phillips is 0/1.

PS The advantage with the liner-locking construction makes it totally understandable with the change. It all depends on your need and interest too. I found it nice with the old one and the fact with two types of locking mechanisms. It is really cool and functional with the slider button and design. About the edge it is only a small difference. The only thing perhaps is that the old design could have a few advantages for sharpening and reach. The tang portion is about the level with the edge. Good luck!