best choice in a Barlow knife for 81 year old.

Tony Perez · Dec 18, 2001

This past weekend my 81 year old father-in-law came to visit for Christmas. When he gave my son a present that needed to be cut open, Grampa pulled out his trusty old Barlow. My son (14) knows how to handle knives but he almost cut himself on this DULL and loose knife. I took a look at the knife and the blades (2) actually are loose. This knife is not very expensive, at least 20 years old and I think he got it at Sears.
My question is this...does anyone have any ideas as to who is the best manufacturer of a simple 2 bladed BARLOW style knife I could get him ? His birthday is next February.

I myself carry any variety of knives depending on situation but he is from the old school of truly carrying it as an everyday item, which when yoiu think about it is what we all wish people would do as it would mean that they had a more healthy attitude toward knives.
Anyway please ...I welcome your suggestions.

also please pray for me...I found a sproting goods store close to work...easy to get to on the way home...that carries a good selection of knives. just what I need. I feel the urge...must get new knife..

92degrees · Dec 18, 2001

Not sure what your budget is. Camillus makes a Barlow available through Bestknives for <$16. Not my favorite style so I'm not familiar with that knife. I've had very good luck with their other products, though.

Michael Bennett · Dec 18, 2001

There are plenty of decent brands, but you need to ask: does his old Barlow have sentimental value to him?

Mike

dsvirsky · Dec 18, 2001

Coincidentally, I recently did some research for a co-worker who was looking to buy his father-in-law a barlow knife for Christmas. One of the best deals I found was a two blade barlow by Boker, with tortoise shell celluloid handle. Carbon steel clip and pen blades, 3 1/4" closed. Available at BestKnives.com for $22.95.

Of course there's also a somewhat more modern interpretation by Mel Pardue that is available over atTrue North Knives that I kind of like.

bob bowie · Dec 18, 2001

I'd also recommend the Boker. On the more expensive side, Schatt & Morgan has/does make some nice Barlow knives.

HTH

!!!

Tony Perez · Dec 19, 2001

Thanks to everyone for their suggestions. TO Michael Bennet...No the knife has no sentimental value to him.
I think I am going to go with dsvirsky idea...a BOKER..good knife...inexpensive...and while I am at it I am going to get myselg the ESCORT. You know ...just to save on shipping charges..not like I need a new knife.

mnblade · Dec 19, 2001

What!? No one's posted the old favorite "Why not just spend the extra money and upgrade to a Sebenza" post yet!? You guys are slipping!

Kodiak PA · Dec 19, 2001

I like the Schatt and Morgan limited edition single blade barlow that is out this year. Available from A G Russell. About $65. Gorgeous bone handle knife. Great springs. He would love it.