Cloverbrand Knife with Cap Lifter (Celluloid Out Gassing)

[Itsasportsbar]

I bought this at an antique store today.

I had not seen this tang stamp before so I bought it. I did a little research and Cloverbrand appears to be connected with Kastor Bros. but I defer to you all.

My question is, looking at the rust pattern on the cap lifter, does it look like the scales, and I'm guessing they are celluloid, are out gassing?

The main blade and backspring are not as rusted. Would they have made the caplifter out of a different steel which would have rusted differently, or is this knife toast?

Your opinions are appreciated.

Ken K.

 

[waynorth]

The shrinkage and rust are typical of celluloid decay. Different steels rust at different rates. If you wish to preserve the knife, remove the plastic handles.

 

[Itsasportsbar]

Thanks,

Will Do.

I took the scales off and found lots of rust.

Ken K.