A Gentleman's folder.

Finally, found the time to scan my collection for knives that better represent what I'd consider to be "gentleman's folders," which I define as "smaller" pocket knives with blades generally measuring around 3" (+/- 0.125"). So, here are 3 sets of pics of the ones in my collection that fit this description . . .

Spyderco Folders:

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1) Viele (C42)
2) Zowada (C56CF)
3) Des Horn (C153G)
4) Kiwi (C752)
5) Centofante 3 (C66BK3)
6) PITS Blue (C1923TIBL)
7) Terzuola Slip-it (C131)

Spyderco Flippers:

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1) Positron ( C195CF)
2) Hanan (C227G)
3) Ikuchi (C242CF)
4) Mantra 1 (C202TI)
5) Mantra 2 (C203TI)
6) Mantra 3 (C223CF)

Kershaw Folders:
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1) Wild Turkey (1430)
2) Wild Turkey - G10 (1431)
3) Nakamura - VG10/420J2 Clad - Quince (1490)
4) OD-1: Front Flipper (1775)
5) Zing - Machined 14C28N (1734)
6) Dividend M390 (1812BLK)
7) Speedform 2 - Elmax (3550)
8) The Gentleman's Folder - VG10 (1993-2)
9) Big Joe - Rosewood (4200)

Of course, I have many other larger folders that also could be considered a "gentleman's folder' (like the iMamba & Drift LC that I posted pics of in the thread previously) but I think these knives best fit the category.
 
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Great thread, rdnzl rdnzl !

I went back and found my answer to the question "What is a gentleman's knife?" in a similar thread from August 2022 to see if my thoughts have changed any. Nope, what I wrote then still describes my take on a gentleman's knife:

"My impression is that a gentleman’s knife grew out of the original pen knife - a small, one bladed knife for dressing quill pens or pencils. Thin and unobtrusive in the pocket. Something utilitarian that grew into also being elegant pocket jewelry. These men had other tools for other purposes (work, defense, etc), but this was the knife that was always on them for refined tasks in the house or in town, not in the barn, on the trail, or when afield.

My personal take is that any knife with a thumb stud, hole, or pocket clip is not a gentleman’s knife. Quiet opening and closing is a must, but that’s not to say a good snick or snap is out - just that you can open it quietly when desired. Excellent fit and finish is required, and polish isn’t a bad thing. Wood, horn, antler, and bone are good, but not required. Smooth - no rough edges to wear dress clothes.

When I reach for a gentleman’s knife, It’s one of these three."

My humble two pennies,
Culprit99

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Culprit99 said:
Great thread, rdnzl rdnzl !

I went back and found my answer to the question "What is a gentleman's knife?" in a similar thread from August 2022 to see if my thoughts have changed any. Nope, what I wrote then still describes my take on a gentleman's knife:

"My impression is that a gentleman’s knife grew out of the original pen knife - a small, one bladed knife for dressing quill pens or pencils. Thin and unobtrusive in the pocket. Something utilitarian that grew into also being elegant pocket jewelry. These men had other tools for other purposes (work, defense, etc), but this was the knife that was always on them for refined tasks in the house or in town, not in the barn, on the trail, or when afield.

My personal take is that any knife with a thumb stud, hole, or pocket clip is not a gentleman’s knife. Quiet opening and closing is a must, but that’s not to say a good snick or snap is out - just that you can open it quietly when desired. Excellent fit and finish is required, and polish isn’t a bad thing. Wood, horn, antler, and bone are good, but not required. Smooth - no rough edges to wear dress clothes.

When I reach for a gentleman’s knife, It’s one of these three."

My humble two pennies,
Culprit99

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I agree with so much of what you said here. Especially the part about a thumb stud or pocket clip. But for me personally, you can throw a locking blade into that mix as well. Not sure why, I just feel that places a knife more into a utilitarian role. Not that gentlemen don’t need utility or functionality.

I will say there are a ton of amazing knives in this thread that are hard to really argue as to whether or not they would qualify. I guess it really does show how subjective that “gentleman’s” descriptor can be.
 
My grandfather was the VP of Utica Cutlery many decades ago. He always carried one of their small, two or three blade, what we called, pen knives when I was a kid. Those were my first pocket knives too. Almost all with stag (or fake stag) scales. I still have mine and a few of the ones he carried. As a Harvard man (Class of 1925, when that school still meant something), well traveled and read, he was indeed someone I'd call a gentleman!
 
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