Schrade 51OT Big Timer Research
In 1978 the Schrade catalogs featured several new patterns. The 13OT, 14OT, RL2 fixed blade hunting knives, and the LB7, 858OT, 51OT folders.
As with most patterns introduced, tooling and production ramp-up and run to rate for the 51OT began in 1977 with almost 18.000 pieces produced. Over the six years of production between 1977 and 1982, the year production ceased, a total of approximately 125,000 of the 51OT were produced. With a total volume this large, the Big Timer can hardly be called rare. However the number of years elapsed since production was halted (22 years), combined with ISC’s closing in 2004, creates an apparent scarcity of this pattern on the market. Thus, rarity is a matter of perception.
I think maybe the fact that many were held from the beginning in collections, or were used hard as was intended adds to the current scarcity. Twenty two years add up to a lot of natural attrition for any non-commemorative or limited edition production knife.
One factor that led to it being deleted from the Old Timer line in the first place acted in it’s favor for a good percentage of production surviving intact. Because of it’s awkward size and shape, a good many were lightly used, if at all. We’ve all purchased a knife to use because of eye appeal and then found it to be uncomfortable to use or unwieldy to carry.
Another factor affecting the decision to delete it from the line was relatively slow sales due to what I call the “bang-for-the-buck”. When introduced, it was more expensive than any other folder in both the Schrade and Uncle Henry lines, and topped even four of the OT fixed blades including the 165OT which listed for three dollars less, and the 15OT which was priced eight dollars less. Over the six years of production, they averaged only 20,000 per year sold.
Looking at them critically, you will see a lot of resemblance in the shapes and construction of the 3OT, 5OT, 6OT and other later introduced lockbacks.
The 51OT...rare? No. Scarce? Somewhat. Collectable? Yes. I am yet to go after one for my own collection, but with 125,000 of them having been made, I am willing to wait for one at a reasonable price.
Michael
. Definitely an acquired taste which I have not acquired!