Asking this question is akin to asking, "what's the best pie to eat on Thanksgiving." You're going to get a bunch of different answers based on what other people's wants and needs are. Especially since Victorinox has such a wide selection of very similar tools.


Here's what I would suggest:

1. Stick with the models that have locking blades.
-They're simply safer to use when your motor skills might be compromised from being cold, wet, and/or hungry.

2. Look for a model that has a saw.
-Victorinox saws cut well, despite their diminutive size. They sometimes come in handy for shelter building and other bushcraft.

3. Look at your other gear.
-Find a model that has a tool selection that will work with your other gear. Do you need a long Phillips screwdriver for anything you carry? If so, consider getting a tool with that on there.

4. If the bag is staying in your vehicle most of the time, I would look heavily into their multi-tool models.
-I find their pliers, wire cutters, and slightly longer screwdrivers to be helpful with vehicle repairs.

5. Really take the time to go over the tool selections and pick a model that works for you.
-For example, years ago the consensus was that the Farmer model was "THE" survival Swiss Army knife. So I had to own one. But, then I realized the Camper model was a much better fit for me. It can do the same stuff as the Farmer, but it also has a spare blade, tweezers, and a place for a small glasses screwdriver....all things I use relatively often.

I've since replaced that model with a One-Handed Fireman. Again, similar tool selection to the Camper, just larger with a locking main blade.