Wenger Evolution range

Pete Wadeson looks at a select few models from the Wenger Evolution range and discovers the world’s best known ‘pocket knife’ has well and truly evolved ...

Even though Wenger created the original Swiss Army Knife the selection of similar designs they now offers is humungous. They certainly have a design for all situations as was ably displayed by the Hardwoods collection I reviewed recently, which is now consolidated here by the Evolution range. I’ve chosen two models to look at – the more traditional Evolution and the EvoGrip, which shows rubber inserts in the handle that should give a more secure hold.

This insert arrangement is basically the selling point of the latter as both models hold a very similar, if not identical array of tools. In that respect, you’ll either choose the EvoGrip for its handles alone, excepting the EvoGrip 54 model as this apart from the company’s ‘GIANT’ knife holds more tools than any other.

Campers and Shooters

My only reason for not choosing to feature this over the Evo 52 is the simple fact this model suits the general hunter the most, whilst the EvoGrip 54 will certainly appeal to some shooters but it could be seen as being almost overly featured, as campers, ramblers and gadget-obsessed outdoorsmen will love it. Check out the website for full details on this and any others in the range.

Measuring 3 ¼” long and 5/8” wide the EvoGrip 14 immediately feels good in the hand and reassures you that even in the wettest weather those inserts are certainly going to help you maintain a sure safe grip while you work. Despite it being the most basic of the bunch it still features a large 2 1/8” knife blade, corkscrew, nail file/cleaner, reamer, wire bender, can/bottle opener, scissors, flat head and cross head screwdrivers. In fact coupled with those innovative handle inserts this is a very useful and surprisingly versatile ‘multi-function’ knife.

Bigger, Better, you Bet

Now to the Evo 52, which is the same length but twice as wide, immediately I must state that although there aren’t any handle inserts the addition of a pair of lever tension mini pliers as well as a wood saw and scissors makes this one for me. So if happy with the usual contoured handles, these alone are a bonus to have in a Swiss Army style knife. Other ‘fold out’ tools include a large 2 1/8” knife blade, corkscrew, nail file/cleaner, safety lock screwdriver, reamer, tag clamp, outside wire cutter, inside wire cutter and a can/bottle opener.

To sum up, Evolution is a fitting name for the range as basically that’s what these knifes are – a progression from the original Swiss Army Knife bringing the format well and truly into the 21st Century. So if this time-tested and trusted design appeals to your traditional side, you’ll certainly find a model in the range to suit your style of hunting.

For – Great little tools, without the build of a multi

Against – Could be viewed as a camping knife

Verdict – They’ve been around along time and they work; that has to say something

PRICE:
£36.95p and 47.95p respectively including stylish gift box