1940's Randall #1 questions/advice

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RZskier

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Oct 25, 2013
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I have inherited a Randall #1 which my Dad got while in Naval Aircorp training during WWII. He carried it during his service and then used it as a hunting knife until I recieved it. He tried to polish it using a Dremel tool before I recieved it, which left the blade scratched and shiny, ruining the old patina on the blade.
I'm trying to decide if I should send it back to Randall for refurbishing of the blade. I understand that it is a valuable piece, and although I'm not wanting to sell it, I would like to retain as much value as possible. I intend to pass it down to my son eventually. Any suggestions?
Also, i would like to identify if the sheath is an original. This one does not have a sharpening stone pouch or any manufacturer's identification. Could it be original or is it an aftermarket. Before my Dad died, he told me that he thought it was original, but wasn't sure. Again, any help would be appreciated.
https://www.dropbox.com/sc/3oon23r8tv9r3h6/2Fr0ttcWGw
 
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I would probably do nothing and consider the work your father did to the blade apart of its history. If you were to send it back to the shop, they could restore the grind lines and satin finish. Sheath is not original.

Regardless, it's a wonderful gift from your father and you're lucky to have it. Thanks for posting!
 
I love the older knives. I wonder what king of restore the modern shop would be capable of.
 
Unless you absolutely can't stand it, I'd leave it as is. Sending it home for a spa treatment would pretty much wipe out the "battle scars" of its life.

Agreed the sheath probably isn't original, but there are better experts than me....
 
Thanks for the responses. I think I'll take your advice and leave it as is. I was just envious of the look of the new blades I saw in this forum. Maybe I'll just have to buy a new one and start a collection.
 
RZskier said:
Thanks for the responses. I think I'll take your advice and leave it as is. I was just envious of the look of the new blades I saw in this forum. Maybe I'll just have to buy a new one and start a collection.
Click to expand...

Real shame that a dremmel came in contact with it. (the Dremmel has ruined more blades. Never a good idea).

I agree, though, that a return to the manufacturer would get rid of all the history on that blade.

If you want a shiny new blade, just buy a new/unused one.
 
Unlike a lot of the used knives that one still has her spacers. Unlike folks who have said so, I might have it refurbished by the shop. Just a polishing to try and buff out the scratches.

It doesn't have the original sheath.
It has been beaten.
It has all its bits and pieces where they should be otherwise.

Therefore a cleanup and appropriate sheath might be a respectable new life for this classic. The rough finish from the grinding exposes more surface area and will effect the life of the finish. I would rather let it re-patina with respect rather than just stay as bad or potentially get worse.

Just my opinion. A classy revitalized large guard #1 with most of her original blade would look so much better in hand and in use. The leather handle will never rot if it sees your hand often enough.
 
Leave it as your Dad passed it down! Do not loose the history of 2 great warriors, IMHO, Bart
 
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