Canadian Explosives Ltd. by Harrison Bros & Howson; Pre 1930

[wlwhittier]

86.3mm long folded, 13.7mm deep, 5.4mm thick, 18cm fully open, 31.5 grams. Carbon steel blades, Nickel-Silver scales/integral liners & pins; no bolsters; note the individual, offset nail nick access relief on the scales. The shorter blade has a relief chamfer opposite the nail nick to accommodate the longer blade when folding. Both tangs are marked on both sides. There are no intermediate detents in either blade.

This is the sweetest gentleman's knife ever, in my limited experience. Everything about it shows engineering and manufacturing skill and quality, and it is a silky delight in hand.

My intent is to list it on eBay. I would like to know what the correct name is for "compliments of" advertising knives, and if this one is rare or more common, based on maker, age, and quality. Any other pertinent comments are most welcome! Thanks for lookin'!

 

[shane45-1911]

I would like to know what the correct name is for "compliments of" advertising knives

Gas station knives.

While Harrison and Howson have a long history going back to the early 1900's, I don't believe this is an example of their best work. It seems more like it was created as a cheap giveaway for advertising.

Here's another example:

Vintage Harrison brothers and Howson pocket knife | Collectors Weekly

Shop for—and learn—about vintage and antiques. Browse the best of eBay, connect with other collectors, and explore the history behind your favorite finds.

www.collectorsweekly.com

 

[sceva]

I would list it as a Harrison Bros. Sheffield Advertising knife.

Once you come up with a price you might try listing it in the classifieds here under "For sale by individuals, Traditional section before going to ebay. It would save you the ebay fees.

For Sale: Traditionals, Slipjoints, "Old Timey"

A subsection for the classic styles from years past.

www.bladeforums.com