tom tom:
Based on C Ben Susrool's testimony about the increasing quality of Case knives, I went over and took a look at their web <a href="http://www.wrcase.com/">site</a>. They really do seem to be getting their act together. I liked the looks of their new silver script cranberry bone models. However, if you look at the <a href="http://www.wrcase.com/knives/amber.htm">Amber Bone</a> family of knives, they offer some great stockman models in chrome vanadium steel, essential IMHO if your father-in-law is going to use the knife, as you said.
Since I prefer rounded bolsters (less wear and tear on the jeans pockets and they just ride easier), I loved the looks of the #039 (6318 CV) model which is a traditional serpentine stockman with clip, sheepfoot, and spey blades.
Then again, the #264 (6318PU CV) has a punch awl in addition to clip and sheepfoot blades.
If you prefer the traditional square bolsters, check out the #079 (63032 CV), which is a tad smaller than then 6318 models and has a pen blade rather than a spey blade.
And if you think he'd prefer a larger, premium stockman, the 204 (6375 CV) model is a hefty 4.25 inches closed.
Again, these models are all in chrome vanadium, not stainless steel.
[This message has been edited by mnblade (edited 03-21-2001).]