Charlow Barlow History

Yesterday Evan posted these prime examples with their respective unstuck labels. Don't ask me where he got those labels. I do know, but don't ask me! :p

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Nice to see them all matched up and in one photo!
 
I do not think that the stag is stabilized. I remember Charlie mentioning that they use a CA finish on the 3rd cut stag to prevent the marrow from absorbing too much of the polishing compound. The CA acts as a surface stabilizer by sealing all of the pores in the marrow, preventing stains, and adding some strength to the material. Really great stuff.

After comparing the scales on this latest run of 3rd cuts, and the original run, they do seam to have the same finish treatment. Also, feeling the slight give on the marrow of the 3rd cut confirms that it was not stabilized using epoxy, as it would be hard as a rock.

I am by no means an expert, so anyone please correct me if I am wrong. :D


Thanks for bringing this one back from the dead Phil, tons of awesome info and beautiful pictures in here!!:thumbup::thumbup::thumbup:

Oh, and a fun fact for those who don't know, Cyanoacrylate Adhesive (CA) is more commonly known as super glue!

Stag by it's nature is stabilized (not much shrinking) after a one year drying period. It is an antler which is actually hair and is shed every year on animals with antlers. Horn, like on Rams, Buffalo and such do not fall off (shed) yearly.
With that said, an application of CA is a preventative from holding dirt in the pours of the cut antler. The CA will not make it stronger, just cleaner by way of repelling moisture and oils.

:)
 
Here is a side by side pic of the PPP antique yellow and the '13 pile side with "rust red jig bone". Notice the subtle differences in the saw cut depth and the bolster size and threading?

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Notice the radius of the saw kerf on the Rust Red...

Charlie changed the depth and the "vintage saw mark" via a radius cutter on the production knives.
 
That info may be found in his barlow thread at the beginning as I remember the same thing regarding the differences in the sawcut bone.
 
They're pretty tough little knives. Certainly up to most tasks most guys/gals will put them through.

 
Is there a specific list of every TC made? More specifically, I'm interested in collecting each model of the Clip/Pen with long pull. How many different ones were made?
 
Is there a specific list of every TC made? More specifically, I'm interested in collecting each model of the Clip/Pen with long pull. How many different ones were made?

Good question. All I know is that is my favorite configuration too and I'm always on the hunt for good examples. GEC does release its annual production totals.
 
I have just spent about 2 hours going back and re-reading the Charlow Barlow History thread. I learn something new everytime. Love the history lesson. Thanks for all who have contributed.
 
Is there a specific list of every TC made? More specifically, I'm interested in collecting each model of the Clip/Pen with long pull. How many different ones were made?
Knowtracks (Dave) has been answering that with his pictures in the "What Makes a Good Traditional Barlow" thread. Too bad he has to work for a living!:D
 
Good question. All I know is that is my favorite configuration too and I'm always on the hunt for good examples. GEC does release its annual production totals.

The #15 TC Barlow, as an SFO, I don't think is listed in the GEC Annual Production Totals.
 
The production totals are listed on GEC's website; they are at the bottom of the page.
 
Is there a specific list of every TC made? More specifically, I'm interested in collecting each model of the Clip/Pen with long pull. How many different ones were made?

There were five two blade clip/pen models made in 2013. I believe these all had long pulls.
 
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