Imperial jack, Providence RI, USA.

[akula83]

[/IMG]

[/IMG]
Looks like synthetic covers, bolsters have a "tab" that wraps around the liner. No blade play with good snap, gaps between liners and covers are acceptable. Any body know about these? are the covers celluloid ? looks like a common and inexpensive model from the 1940's? Thanks.

 

[Tilley Knife]

I have several of these old imperial. Most of mine have metal (read tin) covers that are painted black. I always thought that they were celluloid until I came across one that had so much pocket wear, the black was gone and the tin covers were shiny. I'll check mine to see if any are cell. Nice old jack you've got there.

 

[akula83]

I have several of these old imperial. Most of mine have metal (read tin) covers that are painted black. I always thought that they were celluloid until I came across one that had so much pocket wear, the black was gone and the tin covers were shiny. I'll check mine to see if any are cell. Nice old jack you've got there.

Thanks, Tilley.

 

[Stich2442]

Imperial used that tang stamp from 1956-1988

Pete

 

[Old Hunter]

They are known as "shell handled" knives - cheap to make and sell, decent enough quality to be dependable. Many have a thin piece of celluloid glued to the shell (which shrinks with age), some are just painted metal. Imperial, Hammer Brand (a mark owned by Imperial in the shell-handled era), Colonial and others made them by the millions. Many have 1075 steel which takes an easy edge and works well. Sold in gas stations, hardware stores, bait shops, etc. on colorful cards. OH

 

[akula83]

Thanks, everyone. I finally own a gas station knife! On a side note, it indeed is a "shell handle" per Old Hunter. That glued on coating came off when I was inspecting a rough corner. I will just paint the jigged section, it has a remarkably sturdy frame for a cheapie.