IF YOU ARE GONNA BUY A CHEAP KNIFE......

[chief38]

As some of you might know my Dad passes away almost 2 years ago and I inherited his guns and other various items. Among them were a huge amount of pocket knives that back when they were new would be considered "cheap knives". Some of the brands names are Camilus & Imperial. Now I have at least 30 or 35 of these "cheap" knives that I have been sharpening over the last few weeks and I have to say that even the cheapest bunch of them (the Imperial brand) is made of a very high quality of Carbon Steel and the ease of sharpening and the edge they take is simply unbelievable! Granted..... the cheap case, bolsters and liners are obvious, but as far as the actual knife blades are concerned I am VERY IMPRESSED with them. Seems back then even the cheap knives had good blades. Exactly how old they are is unbeknownst to me, but I would venture to guess most are from the late 40's and 50's.

So if you want a cheap knock-around pocket knife that you won't get nuts over if it falls overboard, look at a few garage sales and don't be afraid to buy one for a buck or two (even with some rust) if you have the opportunity. Clean it it and sharpen it and I think you will be amazed at just how good the older carbon steel bladed knives really are.

I have to say that even though I own some beautiful modern and expensive pocket & sheath knives, I have been using these "cheap" knives much much more. They work incredibly well and I don't worry about damaging them, loosing them or breaking them. Heck, I have a lifetime supply

Chief38

 

[Rule3]

I sense a "disturbance in the Force"

 

[GatorFarmer]

The Shrade Imperials out of Ireland were made up until the end. They alwayys had good carbon steel blades.

 

[K1500]

Cheap steel almost always sharpens easier and to a keener edge than expensive steel. It does not hold an edge nearly as long.