Help me decide GEC or Northfield....

D

d.weglarz13

Joined
Jun 4, 2008
Messages
1,945
Okay guys, I am really feeling the need to put down my newer tech tactical knives, and really want to go traditional. I want a knife that is not too expensive, but great quality, again Im feeling the need to try something more traditional.
Now I'm seeing a lot of pics of GEC knives and Northfield. I don't know a lot about these companies or these knives so I was kind of hoping you guys have some recommendations or some direction for me to look.

The GEC bullnose model 71 is really catching my eye, and Im seeming to find these pics showing up more and more lately. I see they are located in Pa, which is great. I love USA made stuff.

So tell me, is this the best place to start? Or should I be looking somewhere else? Is there a difference between the quality of GEC or Northfield?

Are these the same company? Along with Tidioute and Farm and Field knives. I feel like i am missing something terribly here.

Any info or breakdown as to the differences with these companies, or maybe even other companies I can look at in the same price range like these would really be great too. Thanks guys, Im really needing a traditional pocket knife.

Dave
 
Last edited:
Just to clear things up...
GEC (Great Easter Cutlery) manufactures the Northfield brand of knives as well as Tidioute and also GEC Stainless.
There is another brand called "Northwoods" which is sold by KSF (Knives Shipped Free).
 
GEC has three main lines. Tidioute is the plain jane line, northfields are embellished more with pinched bolsters, long pulls, fancy shields, and high end handle materials. GEC also has a stainless steel line along with many special factory orders that go by different names (northwoods, JBF Champlin, etc).

Cant go wrong with any of them.
 
Here's a link that gives you the info you are looking for
http://greateasterncutlery.net/blog/about/about-our-brands/

My personal experience with the patterns of Tidioute and Northfield patterns I own are, Tidioute slightly more robust, and stiffer pull, Northfield more refined swedged blades, pinched bolsters, long pulls, and softer pull, but the difference in pull might be specific to pattern not the two brands.
Pete
 
I have recently gone through the same change in my collecting interests. Prior purchases were super steels. I have recently purchased 2 Northfields and each have different pulls and quality of finishing. Have decided to pursue a Northwoods which (this model at least) is also manufactured by GEC. I am very happy with both purchases to date.
 
Last edited:
redbike said:
Absolutely correct! Error fixed.
Click to expand...

No worries, just didn't want to confuse anyone, Gec also did a few Tuna Valley, and Bulldog, I really like what Derrick has done with his recent Northwoods/Gec collaborations, I haven't purchased any but they look great:thumbup::thumbup:

Pete
 
Wow, that was fast. Thank you guys for that info, I am really digging these "older" style pocket knives.

I like the GEC Bullnose a lot in green micarta, i think i will see if I can track one of those down. There are so many different styles and patterns, its unbelievable. I can't believe that I didn't get into these type of knives before.
 
Dave,
I think you are on the right path.
Great Eastern Cutlery makes a Great Knife.
As far as the particular style, take your time and buy what appeals to you.
If you are ever near Titusville, Pa, check out the factory, The craftspeople that work there are SUPER.
If you have time, google Titusville Pa, Drakes well. If you don't know what I am refering to, you might be surprised.
 
Oh man, Im becoming obsessed now...I will do my research before I pull the trigger, Im just filled with this excitement right now thats hindering me from making a cool,calm,calculated decision again......Oh boy, this is bad for the wallet...again!

Don't suppose I would be able to find a Sodbuster type knife with micarta for the same price....Im not so crazy about the delrin handles, and Im not really a Stag guy. But there are so many choices!!!!

I did see a GEC with green micarta somewhere but I understand it was a rare limited run. I think right now its down to GEC or Queen. I'll be trying to learn more while I fight the urge to just buy one already........thanks again guys!

dave
 
d.weglarz13 said:
I did see a GEC with green micarta somewhere but I understand it was a rare limited run. I think right now its down to GEC or Queen. I'll be trying to learn more while I fight the urge to just buy one already........thanks again guys!
dave
Click to expand...

The green linen micarta are still readily available, the green canvas micarta are gone.
 
The GEC micarta are a great knife and easy to personalize if you choose. I smoothed and polished the handles, rounded the front of the handle and dropped the blade tip a bit. Works better for me this way.
 
thanks again guys. going to pick up a green micarta GEC bullnose I think. will post pics when i get her....!

dave
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top