Do most GEC 33 fans like the 32

Trey Fuller

Trey Fuller

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Apr 11, 2020
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I’m a big fan of the GEC 33 and I love the new 32. I know some people have very specific size preferences when it comes to their pocketknives so I’m sure not every person will like both knives. I’m wondering what most 33 fans think about the 32.IMG_6888.jpeg
 
I'd be interested in trying out a 32 but being in the EU might make it tricky....;) From your picture the 32 is notably bigger and less like a watch-pocket or smaller Penknife like the 33 . One of the great merits of the 33 in my experience, is it having a very good sized master blade despite its modest frame.

I like single-spring blade each end knives so I suspect other 33 fans will be drawn to the 32. :cool:
 
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I had the conductor once before. A little too dainty. The 32 looks to be much more substantial. Since I work on the railroad it’s almost obligatory I try the Engineer. The hemlock bone is the one I’d pick.
 
As an older guy (65) I find I prefer smaller, lighter knives so the 33 works great for me. I will be passing on the 32.
 
MattWRog said:
All the live long day. About 15 years now. I’m actually not an engineer or conductor but maintenance on the signal system.
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Love it. I have a 14-year-old that would gnaw your ears off with questions until they bleed. He loves everything trains and model trains.

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I’ve had several 33’s in the past and I love ‘em. I just can’t keep them. They really make great gifts!
 
My dad retired as a conductor on the Rock Island. That's his lantern, it's probably gone a million miles. I got hired as a laborer on the Rock when I turned 18. Hard work, great money. Got laid off and went back to the truck stop until joining the US Air Force, pic has my union military withdrawal card. The Rock Island was no longer a mighty fine line, it went bankrupt while I was on my first hitch. My background automatically drew me to the 33. I have OCD about blade rub, and most factory knives that open at opposite ends on a single spring generally can be expected to have some. Conductors are no exception. The 33 is a true slipjoint, no halfstops, it opens smoothly and doesn't try to bite you. Sharp tip works great for my uses. I don't have a 34 to compare but I prefer smaller traditional folders and can't see any advantage it's extra size and weight has over a 33. I do wish all 33s had coping secondaries.

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Chief said:
My dad retired as a conductor on the Rock Island. That's his lantern, it's probably gone a million miles. I got hired as a laborer on the Rock when I turned 18. Hard work, great money. Got laid off and went back to the truck stop until joining the US Air Force, pic has my union military withdrawal card. The Rock Island was no longer a mighty fine line, it went bankrupt while I was on my first hitch. My background automatically drew me to the 33. I have OCD about blade rub, and most factory knives that open at opposite ends on a single spring generally can be expected to have some. Conductors are no exception. The 33 is a true slipjoint, no halfstops, it opens smoothly and doesn't try to bite you. Sharp tip works great for my uses. I don't have a 34 to compare but I prefer smaller traditional folders and can't see any advantage it's extra size and weight has over a 33. I do wish all 33s had coping secondaries.

conductorsandlantern.jpg
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Agree on the coping secondary, see it rarely.
 
Chief said:
Yes sir. I was stationed at McConnell AFB and still have ties there. I sold it to a member who was looking for one.

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Very cool, I like that a lot. I believe that's the only one I've ever seen.

My Dad, brother and I used to go hunting in Colorado. We would drive straight through from KY and my turn to drive always came in Kansas. Lots and lots of flat land, seemed to take forever to get through that state. Man I miss those trips.
 
Chief said:
Yes sir. I was stationed at McConnell AFB and still have ties there. I sold it to a member who was looking for one.

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conductor007kansas2.jpg
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Wow -- that's an absolutely great looking version of the 33. Nice! :cool:👍
 
I really have enjoyed them both, but the 33 is much more of an office knife for me, while the 32 can handle whatever I need it to. I do agree with some others though and may have to modify the pen blade on my 32. I really don’t use pen secondary blades.
 
Will Power said:
I'd be interested in trying out a 32 but being in the EU might make it tricky....;) From your picture the 32 is notably bigger and less like a watch-pocket or smaller Penknife like the 33 . One of the great merits of the 33 in my experience, is it having a very good sized master blade despite its modest frame.

I like single-spring blade each end knives so I suspect other 33 fans will be down to the 32. :cool:
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The 33 is a fantastic size and the main blade packs a lot of punch for the size of the knife for sure
 
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