Case Senator

[kevins73cigars]

I recently won an auction for a little Case Senator that I plan to use. I was wondering if any of you guys have any experience with this little pen knife. It's a Case M279 (8 dots) and it's stainless. Definitely used, but hopefully not abused.

I understand that the "M" stands for metal or metallic, that the "2" is the number of blades, and that "79" is Case's pattern number for a Senator or pen knife. I can't really see the tang stamp in the photo so, I'm guessing this little knife was made in 1972 or 1982.

If it arrives, this will be my second Case knife and my first Case Senator so, if anybody knows...
What are the dimensions? 3" closed? Blade lengths?
How much did the M279 cost when it was new? i.e. was it cheap and therefore not well made?
Did Case make alot of them (are they common)?
What's the best way to buff up the scales? Is 220 grit sandpaper O.K.?

If anyone is curious what it looks like, the ENDED eBay auction Item number is 180132458431.


Thanks,
Kevin

 

[knifeaholic]

I can answer some of your questions...M279SS was a common Case pattern, standard product and widely sold...in production from the 30's to the ealry 80's. In the 70's it would have retailed in the $10 range. 3-1/8" closed length if I recall correctly.