I owned a Victorinox Huntsman for years, then upgraded to an Alox and now I can’t go back
I have carried a multitool in my daypack for over a decade. Somehow, I always need a pair of scissors, a small knife to open a package, or a bottle opener to… well, open bottles.
For years, my daily carry has been Victorinox’s Huntsman, an affordable model with 15 tools, including tweezers, something I’m always surprised by how often I end up needing.
(Photo credit: Matt Kollat)
I’m used to carrying the Huntsman once it’s been picked up at the airport. I was using my daypack as a small carry-on, and I completely forgot that the multitool was still there, because always in there.
Guess who didn’t forget to check my bag? The security guard, who spoke to me like a child when the Victorinox was discovered, informed me that knives are not allowed on the plane.
Thanks for the info, guys! Needless to say, I ordered a replacement soon after I got it, so I didn’t have to be without a multitool for too long.
Concerns about aluminum
As expected from Victorinox, I had no desire to replace my Huntsman after 5+ years, as all the tools were as good as when the multitool arrived. However, I couldn’t help but drool over the brand’s Alox brand, which eventually led me to upgrade to the Pioneer X Alox.
(Photo credit: Matt Kollat)
Alox is short for anodised aluminum oxide, and it’s aluminum scales that are pressed, hardened and anodised to create a tough outer layer. The Huntsman – and other glossy Victorinox models – use a Cellidor plastic case, which is thick and heavy.
(Photo credit: Matt Kollat)
Pioneer’s textured grip looks modern and provides a better grip, especially if your hands are soft. The embossed logo is also a nice touch, lending the Pioneer a premium look. The visible aluminum rivets that hold the structure together also help distinguish the Alox from older Victorinox models.
The age of plastic
I’ve been using my Huntsman for everything from DIY to camping, and the Cellidor plastic is chipped at the corners. The shell is scratched, too, which doesn’t bother me, but shows the multitool’s age.
(Photo credit: Matt Kollat)
In terms of installed equipment, Alox models include Cellidor models. Gone are the tweezers and toothpicks, the saw, and the cork screw. Instead, the Initiator follows a stripped-down, one-sided approach with no tools.
That does not mean that the Pioneer does not have enough; On the contrary. It still has a large blade, a can opener, a 3mm and 7mm flathead screwdriver, a bottle opener, a wire stripper (surprisingly useful for everyday situations), a reamer/punch, scissors, and a key ring. More than enough for everyday use if you ask me!
(Photo credit: Matt Kollat)
The main blade isn’t too big, either, and it doesn’t lock, making the Pioneer legal to carry in most countries. To be honest, I use scissors more than a knife, and luckily, Pioneer has a full size pair of scissors like Huntsman.
A color you probably don’t need (but you’ll get it anyway)
The Alox models are more expensive than the Cellidor line, but sit well within the gift category. I chose the Limited Edition 2026 version for its beautiful Glacial Blue finish, which costs £75. This brand has been producing special colors for Alox multitools for over ten years.
In comparison, the standard silver Pioneer X Alox retails for £59, and has exactly the same performance, but doesn’t come in a swanky gift box, making it a better option for those buying the instrument for themselves. I couldn’t help myself, that’s why I chose the Glacial Blue option.
(Photo credit: Matt Kollat)
It would be easy to say that the Pioneer X Alox was a worthwhile purchase, but I’m glad I upgraded. I still keep my Huntsman; I’m sure it will come in handy at some point. I would recommend the Pioneer X Alox to anyone who doesn’t want to look too serious carrying a Leatherman but needs more functionality than a pocket knife.
You can buy the Pioneer X Alox Limited Edition 2026 now from Victorinox UK, Victorinox US and Victorinox EU for £75 / $82 / €75 (~AU$124).
