It’s not just for opening boxes—though it does that like a champ.
Let’s be honest: the Swiss Army Knife (SAK) is the original multitool flex. Since long before “EDC” entered the vocabulary of gearheads, the iconic red-handled wonder was already saving the day—from campgrounds to office cubicles.
Sure, we all know the basics. Package slicing? Check. Bottle opening? Always. But if that’s where your skills stop, you’re missing out on some next-level usefulness. These compact tools are hiding far more than you think.
Here are 10 clever, unexpected, and downright impressive things you can do with your Multi Tool—because greatness should never be limited to cardboard.
- Pop a SIM Card Tray
Lost your SIM ejector tool? The tiny pin on a SAK toothpick or sewing awl can slide into that phone tray like it was designed for it. No need to raid your paperclip stash again.
- Tame a Tangled Necklace Chain
The precision tweezers included with most SAKs aren’t just for splinters—they’re perfect for delicately untangling tiny knots in jewelry chains, fishing line, or even headphone cords (for the vintage folks).
- Tighten That Wobbly Sunglasses Arm
That impossibly tiny Phillips screwdriver? It’s a lifesaver when your shades (or eyeglasses) decide to go rogue. Especially handy on travel days or outdoor trips.
- Carve Tinder for a Campfire
Use the blade or saw to make feather sticks and shavings for fire-starting. The awl works great to rough up bark and help spark catch. Some models even come with a firestarter—talk about self-sufficiency.
- Clean Your Fingernails on the Go
Rough day? Dirty hands? Use the nail cleaner on the file or small blade to get your digits looking less “I just wrestled a raccoon” and more “ready to meet people.”
- Fix a Zipper on the Fly
If your jacket zipper pull snaps off, use the keyring or awl to pull the zipper up and down.
- Open a Can When You Forgot the Can Opener
That little can opener is real—and surprisingly effective. Beans at the campsite? No problem. Just take your time and work the edge around the lid.
- Cut Down a Stray Thread (or Loose Tag)
That hanging thread that’s driving you nuts? Precision snip it with the small scissors and avoid accidentally unraveling your whole sleeve like a sitcom character.
- Score Soft Materials for Craft Projects
The SAK’s smaller tools are great for scoring leather, foam board, or even wood for light-duty hobby work. No fancy workshop required.
- Make a Toothpick Work Double Duty
Need to reset a router? Press a tiny watch button? That plastic toothpick can do it—just maybe rinse it off before it goes back in your mouth.
What’s Your Swiss Army Knife Trick?
We’ve seen folks use their SAKs for everything from emergency bike repairs to popping the cap off a stubborn paint can. Now it’s your turn:
What’s the smartest or weirdest way you’ve used your Swiss Army Knife? Drop it in the comments—we’d love to hear your MacGyver moment.
Shop Swiss Army Knives at Knife Depot—because every hero deserves a proper sidekick.
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