77OT questions .

[Grateful]

Hi guys . I got a 77ot the other day and have a few questions about it . This knife was sold to me as new never used and it appers to be so . However the Improved Muskrat etching is missing from the blade . Does this date the knife or did somebody just polish it off. This 77ot appears to be on a 8ot frame or vise versa but it is noticbly lighter than my 8ot and it appers that the bolsters are thinner than the bolsters on either my 8ot or 94ot . Is this normal ? The scales are also darker than my other Old Timers .
Anybody have any thoughts on these questions , observations of mine .

 

[philw]

I can only give a guess but it could be one that Schrade put together with what was available to them on the last production run of muskrats or they may have found some spare parts and put a few together before they closed.
The color of the scales I don't think is abnormal. I have new Old Timers that vary in color when compared to each other. Not a huge difference but it is noticeable when comparing side by side.

 

[Bob W]

I too have noticed a color difference in the OldTimers. Particularly, it seems the older knives have a lighter color underneath. My 77OT has the "Improved Muscrat" etching, but I've seen them without. It should be an age diagnostic, and I bet someone here will be able to tell you more.

Personally, I'd prefer one without etching...

Best Wishes,
Bob

 

[Grateful]

I'm not really unhappy that my 77ot is missing the etching I just thought they all had them . Since the #77 was discontinued a few years before Schrade closed it's doors I guess it is safe to assume that it is not a final production piece ?
Anyway I am already likeing this knife alot . It may become my orange handled 165's new best friend .

 

[lrv]

Looks like 2002 was the last production year for the 77OT. I see it in the 2002 shortline and missing in 2003 pricelist. They did continue making the pattern for the cigar box series right to the end. CSW77.
TTYL
Larry