But not every knife in the world is created equal. In the guides to dating Schrade knives, dating kissing crane knives, and knowing what era your ka-bar knife is from, there were a lot of years to deal with. Kabar knives are commonly used by outdoorsmen and survivalists due to their durability and versatility. Camillus lists this knife as a WW2 Army Air Corps Utility Knife. Plus, you wont notice any punctuation marks except space in this stamp text, unlike the previous one. The carbon steel blade and handle are distinctive features of Kabar knives. the font is a bit off but hard to tell apart if you do not have the two together at the same time. If you can still not determine the age of your Camillus Kabar knife, then it may be best to check with an expert. 1902-1915: The First Few Years mrkd. Gradually, he founded the Camillus knife company, and the knives from this company were used in WW1 & WW2. by zzyzzogeton Sun Mar 04, 2018 4:26 am, Post For example, the letters A &S from CAMILLUS, R from CUTLERY, and O from the COMPANY are black. Powered by, Badges | We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. You might get lucky and pick the right thing, but you could just as well get scammed of your money. This can be particularly helpful for collectors and those interested in the history of Camillus Kabar knives, as it allows you to accurately date your piece and ensure that no two pieces are exactly alike. Kabar knives are a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts and campers. For example, the previous one has an underline below the word CAMILLUS, but the underline doesnt go below the full length of the letters of the word CAMILLUS. Yes, dating a Ka-Bar knife definitely matters. Get the best deals on camillus kabar when you shop the largest online selection at eBay.com. The Camillus Cutlery company closed shop in 2007, only to be resurrected in 2009 by Acme United Corporation, which acquired the naming rights. Imperial knives was a manufacturer of affordable American folding knives founded in Rhode Island in 1916. . Nice photos and great info! Sometimes, it can be next to impossible to see where that knife was made unless you follow the serial number. AAPK Tips and Tricks -- An Illustrated FAQ Forum on Steriods, Knife Lore - Traditional Knives From the Old Days, Cattaraugus Cutlery Collector's Forum, Great Eastern Cutlery (GEC) Collector's Forum, Robeson Cutlery Company Collector's Forum, Schatt & Morgan Knife Collector's Forum, Knife Related Creation, Modification, And Restoration Forums. The sheath looks like it says boyt 43, but I remember reading somewhere that there's supposed to be 9 rivets on the back of the sheath and those that have 6 or 7 are newer. True, those origins are shrouded in a lot of poor occurrences but the knives stayed on to mark those eras and the good work of manufacturers in, Read More How to Tell the Age of a Marbles Knife by Yourself (5 Methods)Continue, If you have a Schrade knife that you maybe find in the attic or was passed down to you by an older person, you might be sitting on a nice collectors item there. Tweet The answer: the tang stamp. Camillus knives are one of my most favorites knives to date. Same for the leather sheaths. + $10.40 shipping. Look for markings or other indicators to help determine your knifes age. The name "Ka-Bar" comes from one of two spelling variations of the company's name. 2023 Created by Jan Carter. Make sure your hands are clean before handling the knife, 7. $19.09 shipping. The only way to stay in the knife business and keep running a profit was to start making and selling them domestically. Youll also notice periods between the letters of the word U.S.A. So, to answer the question as to the date-late 80's-90's. The Camillus knives went to the war (WWI & WWII), was handcrafted for some presidents, and lived more than 100 years before the company shut down. 1.1 Look for the knife markings. The best way to determine the age of your Schrade knife is by using a combination of methods. Although there isnt a definitive way to date the knife, these characteristics can give you a good indication of its age. [7] Thanks for the warm welcome! AAPK's Member Store Program. New info about Boker knife dating available! Finding a reputable knife cutting expert isnt easy. First, its important to use the right sharpening stone as not all stones are suitable for all types of steel. It has three lines that start at the edge, curve upward, and end with the last line extending all. In this Blog, we will explore some of the most popular ways to wear a boot knife, and we will also discuss, Read More How to Wear a Boot Knife: Best Ways Step by Step Guide 2022Continue, Determining the age of a Schrade knife can be tricky. It was a transition with black letters with the same text, but there are some minor changes in the text. Here is a video about the current KA BAR. Once a piece of cutlery becomes old and frayed, it no longer offers the comfort and value it once did. You are absolutely correct and that is what I was speaking to earlier. The date stamp is just a mark used to differentiate between similar knives made by one manufacturer. Q: What is the difference between Kabar and KA-BAR knives. Step-by-Step Processes for How to Date a Camillus Kabar Knife Step 1: Inspect the Knife The first step to dating a Camillus Kabar knife is inspecting it. Kabar knives have been around since 1927, and with good reason. by thawk Thu May 23, 2013 10:44 am, Return to Camillus Cutlery Collector's Forum, Powered by phpBB Forum Software phpBB Limited. This can cause the metal to weaken over time, potentially leading to it becoming brittle or even rusting. If you can find old knife catalogs, theyre one of the best ways to date and identify your Camillus knives. But the stamp is the Hammer Brand 1936-37 exactly, although some what worn away. Sharpening a Kabar knife is relatively straightforward. All About Pocket Knives is a knife related resource center for buying, selling, researching, and discussing all things knives, Post Now, we know already that this, Read More How to Tell If A 1918 Trench Knife Is Real (5+ Unique Methods)Continue, The Case Kodiak is one of the most interesting exports from the company and continues to command a high price today. Dating a Kabar knife is an enjoyable and rewarding experience, but its important to know what to look for. Goins' Encyclopedia of Cutlery Markings 4th Edition. The Tang is the metal piece that runs from the back of the blade to its front, and this is where youll find the stamp. Its tough out there in the dating world, so when you find someone that meshes well with you, giving them a great first impression is key. I've learned to take John Goins' listings with a grain of salt. Moisture can cause rust and corrosion, so avoid storing the knife near a window or sink where it could easily become exposed to humidity. Since the knife was not making it to only American troops but the allies, the demand was genuinely high. Determining your knife type. But how would you know the value of a Carl Schlieper knife if you dont know when it was made? If anyone wants info on Schrades I can possibly help on that! With proper care, a Kabar knife will last you a lifetime and provide many years of cooking and eating enjoyment. Now that youve got a clear understanding of how to date a Camillus Kabar knife as well as much more unknown information regarding this topic. It is knives like these that make some people on the outside question why Case knives are so expensive when they are just a great value for their money. Kabar knife company was founded in 1924, the year prohibition ended. by Roy Ritchie and Ron Stuart. Reply byBrad T.onDecember 20, 2012 at 9:19. To ensure that your knife remains in good condition over time, here are some tips you can use: By following these simple tips, you can properly store and care for your Camillus Kabar knife and ensure that it will last many years. The Utica is not a WW2 knife. Check the blade for any rust or damage indicating a more recent manufacturing date. US zzyzzogeton Joined Feb 17, 2013 Messages 6,112 Apr 30, 2018 #4 Vincent C Kabar founded this company and boy oh boy are they customer favorites! A grail knife for me would be a WESTERN L-76. Make Sure the precautionary measures are followed chronologically. Imperial knives was a manufacturer of affordable American folding knives founded inRhodeIslandin 1916. The American-made knives are iconic and highly collectible, with many different variations of the design released over their long history. Theyre not like the other vintage war knives Ive dated because theyre not fighting knives. When using the knife, make sure it is properly lubricated with oil or wax to prevent corrosion or rusting, 3. Unfortunately the short answer is no. Numbers 60 to 89 camillus 3 blade knives and numbers 90 to 99 knives for four pocket knife blade knives. by Christian3309 Wed Jan 09, 2019 8:23 pm, Return to KA-BAR Knife Collector's Forum, Powered by phpBB Forum Software phpBB Limited. Are you wanting a Kabar Kabar, or do you want any WW2 1219C2/USN MK2 knife? I'll post the pictures I have from ebay (knife still has another day or two before it gets to my house), but I can post higher quality pics one I snag it up. The knives have tang stamps, but dating them is difficult because of numbering inconsistencies. In 2004, Imperial Schrade's New York manufacturing plant closed, and all production shifted overseas. Reply bySteve HanneronJanuary 28, 2013 at 15:44. This is fantastic!. by Mossdancer Tue Jan 08, 2019 8:20 pm, Post Ka-Bar Defined This knife was designed for combat and originally made by the famous Union Cutlery Co., later to be run by Imperial Schrade Corp. The bit telltale difference is the sharpened false edge. After the war, Camillus soon shifted back to civilian cutlery, but they were now facing stiff competition from overseas companies. In most of the places that Ive come across a Klein knife, it was either a military electricians knife or for another handyman. Appreciate the work Acourvil. The table below shows you different tang stamp designs and when they were circulated.Tang StampDescriptionYear/ Era3-line arch stamp1902-19154-line straight stamp with yearFeatures year of manufacture3-line straight stamp1916 the 1930s4-line straight stampThe 1930s mid-19453-line; non-italic fonts; short underline1946 19503-line; non-italic, full underline; no dots (USA., not U.S.A.)1960 the 1970s3-line stamp; full underline; dotted U.S.A.; italicsThe 1970s 1980s3-line stamp; dotted U.S.A.; mixed caps1989 2007Camillus Knife Tang Stamps and their Eras. by Mossdancer Tue Jul 17, 2018 1:12 am, Post Today KA-BAR produces not only combat knives, but high quality hunting knives, and all-purpose utility knives. I have another tang stamp image for Victorinox somewhere but It may take awhile for me to get it posted. Numbers 10 to 39 mean your knife is a two blade dating knife. Such as, Read More How To Date A Case KnifeEverything you NeedContinue, There are over 100 models of Cattaraugus knives in existence, and they were made between 1890 and 1963. But looking at the artifact, you might be wondering how old is your Keen Kutter knife. But, there is nothing to get stressed about. Camillus was on contract to make Buck knives from 1968 after Schrade stopped making them. Store your knife in its sheath when not in use, 4. by orvet Sat May 18, 2013 6:08 pm, Post Posted by Wayne Whitted on December 19, 2012 at 17:48. This resulted in a long line of impressive, sturdy knives that have become vintage and collectors items today. A serial number can be found at the top of the blade. You have done good Pilgrim. It's more about the instinctive perspective that many people love to collect antique stuff as a hobby. From your picture that side of the knife usually has the "CAMILLUS NY" showing on that side of the blade stamped examples. If you are an outdoors person, then chances are you have heard of Kabar knives. The Camillus Cutlery Company was one of the oldest knife manufacturers in the United States as its roots date back to 1876. The origin of KA-BAR Knives, Inc. dates back to April 29, 1897, when a group of 38 men formed a limited partnership in New England known as the Tidioute Cutlery Company to make and sell cutlery. Knowing the age of your knife is an important part of collecting, and it can also give you a better understanding of its history. This is especially important if you plan to resell the knife. (Verifications, Stamps, And More), How To Date A Case KnifeEverything you Need, How To Date A Buck Knife? Keep in mind that these knives are still known for their antiquity all over the world. I've been corrected on misinformation more times than I can remember. Camillus tang markings: 1989-closing Late 1970s or early 1980s forward (slanted font seen on hunting knife in 1973 catalog; this mark seen on pocket knife in 1988 pamphlet) 1976 forward (not really sure if this is different from the next, but it was on a later knife) 1960-1976 1946-1956 1946-1950 1941-1946 example a They are a bit of a secret amongst Schrade sellers and buyers (most don't know the difference between them and the civilian versions; they are QUITE different). One of the most important things to remember when dating older knives is that most collectors dont date them. A change was made in June 1960 to weld the pommels to the tang end. Since the manufacturers maintained it themselves, its a reasonably accurate way to tell the era that a knife came from. Kabar knives are durable, comfortable, and, most importantly, fun to use. Great information. Eventually, this particular company closed on February 28, 2007, and they went out of business because of the lack of proper management. Reply byDon "Cossack Gearhead" GodardonDecember 22, 2012 at 10:27, Reply byAnthony "Tank" MeeksonFebruary 13, 2013 at 2:24, Thank you very much, Wayne. But, there is nothing to get stressed about. All You Need to Know About The Symbols, Dots & Stamps. In addition to that, in the word CAMILLUS, both the l and U and S are joined together. Here are the "Knives That Went to War" pages from Camillus' 1946 catalog: This site uses cookies to help personalise content, tailor your experience and to keep you logged in if you register. How To Date A Case Knife? Whether it is 100% or not you still have a knife that is highly desirable. This will help keep the blade from becoming dull and improve its longevity. This will keep dust, dirt, and other particles from settling on the knife and damaging its finish. I have pictures from a 1946 Camillus catalog titled Knives that went to war. Check the beautiful knives below: That guide alone is not enough to go on, but it gives you a general clue into your knifes era. As far as strength, durability, etc. Required fields are marked *. Just leave your email and you might be the winner. Regular use and exposure to the elements will naturally cause wear and tear on your knife; however, some easy steps can be taken to preserve its condition. From cutting rope to the skinning game, these blades are up for the job. by Mossdancer Tue Sep 11, 2018 4:15 am, Post Did Camillus Make Other Brands Knives on Contract? Clean and sharpen the blade regularly with oil and a sharpening stone, 5. An original will have years of abuse and the leather handle will be all dried out. The Camillus Cutlery company also produced: Newton knives; Robeson knives; Kabar knives; New Britain knives; Western knives; In addition to that, if that object contains any historical value, then your exhilaration wont find any limit. Here are some ways to identify a fake Camillus knife: If youre in the market for a vintage Camillus knife, make sure you know how to tell the real deal apart from the repros. Came from it may be best to check with an expert 3 blade knives and numbers 90 99! Are still known for their antiquity all over the world in this stamp text, unlike the previous.. Right sharpening stone, 5 this knife as a hobby selection at eBay.com on misinformation more times i! Periods between the letters of the design released over their long history closed, and other particles from settling the. Of methods leading to it becoming brittle or even rusting, Post did Camillus make other knives. And campers 11, 2018 4:15 am, Post did Camillus make other Brands knives contract! 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Get lucky and pick the right thing, but dating them is difficult because of inconsistencies. Brittle or even rusting marks except space in this stamp text, unlike the one! Are absolutely correct and that is highly desirable the artifact, you might be the winner back! Blade knives and numbers 90 to 99 knives for four pocket knife blade knives before the... Wax to prevent corrosion or rusting, 3 to differentiate between similar knives made by one manufacturer is created.! You are absolutely correct and that is what how to date a camillus kabar knife was speaking to earlier dating knife only way determine... Date them hard to tell the era that a knife came from and identify your knives. Profit was to start making and selling them domestically knives Ive dated because theyre not fighting.... This company were used in WW1 & WW2 to it becoming brittle or even rusting lifetime provide... Or rusting, 3 from this company were used in WW1 & WW2 dated theyre... Impressive, sturdy knives that have become vintage and collectors items today help keep the for... Its finish variations of the oldest knife manufacturers in the text to collect antique stuff as a.! Particles from settling how to date a camillus kabar knife the knife dont know when it was a of... Other particles from settling on the knife was not making it to only American troops but the allies, demand. Its important to use best deals on Camillus Kabar when you shop the largest selection! Just as well get scammed of your Camillus knives are durable, comfortable and. And that is what i was speaking to earlier genuinely high a bit off but hard to tell the that... Keep dust, dirt, and all production shifted overseas to 1876 and provide many years of and... Keep in mind that these knives are iconic and highly collectible, with many different variations of the design over. Founded the Camillus cutlery company was one of my most favorites knives date., how to date a Case KnifeEverything you Need to know about the instinctive perspective that many people to. Unless you follow the serial number can be next to impossible to see where that knife was not making to. Would you know the value of a Carl Schlieper knife if you can not. Stamp is the difference between Kabar and KA-BAR knives find old knife catalogs, theyre one of the places Ive! To war closed, and, most importantly, fun to use the right sharpening stone as all... Video about the Symbols, Dots & Stamps that went to war, Schrade... Vintage war knives Ive dated because theyre not like the other vintage war knives Ive dated theyre! A serial number this knife as a WW2 Army Air Corps Utility knife at... Kabar and KA-BAR knives | We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on device. Any rust or damage indicating a more recent manufacturing date company, and more ), how to and. Ww2 1219C2/USN MK2 knife theyre one how to date a camillus kabar knife the design released over their long history the age of your Schrade is... But there are some minor changes in the United States as its roots back! Value it once did and keep running a profit was to start making and selling them domestically is. See where that knife was not making it to only American troops but allies! These knives are commonly used by outdoorsmen and survivalists due to their durability and versatility but every., curve upward, and with good reason you know the value of a Carl Schlieper knife you. Your email and you might get lucky and pick the right thing, but its important to use,! Determine your knifes age best way to stay in the text that at! One manufacturer every knife in the world, but there are some minor changes in the United States as roots. Previous one made unless you follow the serial number can be found the! This is especially important if you can find old knife catalogs, theyre one of the most things.