History: NewRanger plier knives

Wenger introduced a wide variety of 120mm NewRanger knives in 2007. Evo contoured grip panels and a push-button lock release distinguish them from the previous Ranger series. Most exciting of all, an elegent folding plier mechanism (and folding scissor on some models) was developed which gave the NewRangers the ability to compete with full sized plier-type multitools from other makers.

Handles/Frame

NewRangers are equipped with nylon scales, contoured in the Evo style to fit the hand. Deep checkering is molded into the thumb area on both sides. It is only available in black. One side carries the Wenger cross logo, along with the Wenger name molded in. The cross logo icon itself is actually a push button, which when depressed releases the liner lock on the knife blade.

Pliers

The pliers and plier handle are a clever three-piece assembly that folds completely away when not needed. Despite this complex function they are quite strong and rugged.

The pliers themselves are spring loaded, powered by the backspring.

The jaws have fine serrations out near the tips and a coarse gripping area in the center. The wire cutter is of the anvil type.

Blades

The NewRanger plier knives are equipped with different blade selections depending upon the model. Following is the blade selection of the Model 75 Handyman. See VARIATIONS below for other models.

• Plain edge knife blade with drop point profile. WENGER is stamped near the base. Overall length is 3-3/4" (95mm)
• Combination cap lifter/medium flathead screwdriver. Note that screwdriver uses Wenger's patented pressure-locking feature.
• Can opener

On the backspring:

• Phillips screwdriver
• Sewing awl with hole

Locking Mechanism

Model 75 Handyman

Model 74 Handyman

Model 73 Electrician

Model 70 Handyman

Wenger's NewRanger series of knives employ a standard liner lock to lock the main blade open. Release of this lock is accomplished by depressing the white and red Wenger cross button on the side of the handle.

The flathead screwdriver locks open automatically when pressure is applied to it. This is the same patented Wenger mechanism that has been used on their Swiss Army Knife for decades.

Other Features

A split key ring is firmly attached to a mounting hole in the frame.

Sheath

None.

Dimensions

• Folded length = 5" (130mm)
• Total length, blade unfolded = 9" (225mm)
• Total length, pliers unfolded = 7" (178mm)
• Thickness = 1-1/8" (30mm)
• Weight = 7.7 oz (219g)

Variations

NewRanger plier knife models differ only in their blade selection. See BLADES above for those included with the Model 75 Handyman. Additional models are as follows:

• Model 74 Handyman - same as Model 75, except phillips screwdriver has been replaced with a corkscrew.

• Model 73 Electrician - same as Model 75, except can opener has been replaced with short hawksbill knife blade.

• Model 70 Handyman - the awl blade has been removed completely, and a large saw blade has replaced the can opener and combination tool

Background

The NewRanger series was introduced in 2007. They are produced in Switzerland. Of the variations listed above, at this time only the Model 73 and Model 75 are being imported to North America.

Related Tools

• The 2008 Patrouille de Glaciers knife is a special variant, the NewRanger Touring 174.
• The NewRanger plier knives share many similarities to the Wenger Alinghi knives.

More Info

• NewRanger Comparison Matrix - compiled by ufox9al at SAKWiki

Off The Record

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	The plier jaws do not open very wide on the NewRangers. Maximum jaw opening is around 5/8" (15mm) Click on photo at left for comparison to a Leatherman Juice.
Jaw opening