Looking for a small one layer knife, could use some help.

We all started like you, and it's rewarding to learn, all the time.

Thanks, Will
 
willgoy said:
We all started like you, and it's rewarding to learn, all the time.

Thanks, Will
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I completely agree.

I've gotten a pretty go handle on fixed blades, and more modern folders, but this is really my first foray into traditionals. And while some of the concepts and terms are the same, the whole idea of "patterns" is a bit confusing at first glance is all :).
 
Don't forget Case's Eisenhower model. Or, if you don't mind searching for older vintage knives, a Robeson Cutlery 622319. Sorry, no pics of it yet.
 
Speaking of older knives, a US made Schrade 12OT might be what you're looking for. I'm surprised nobody has mentioned it.
 
Could you live with a small lockback? If so, look at the Buck 501, 503 and 55.

I have an old Schrade 5 OT that is about the size of a 501. It's a great carrying knife. The flat profile and rounded ends are the key.

An off the wall possibility to think about is the Opinel #6. Round, yes. But insanely light. Very inexpensive a d very tough too boot.
 
Mini toothpick? I've been really surprised with how well the full-size toothpick carries. Haven't actually tried the mini myself but it seems it would meet your spec.
 
dannyp said:
Speaking of older knives, a US made Schrade 12OT might be what you're looking for. I'm surprised nobody has mentioned it.
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Just reading this thread, and Dan said what I planned to. I just received a 12OT earlier today.

Here are the specs:

2.875" closed
5.25" w/clip blade open (2" blade length)
0.3125" wide

Here's a picture:

12OT.jpg


The Case pen, which has been mentioned, is also a favorite of mine.

Here are the specs:

3.3125" closed
5.75" w/clip blade open (2.125" blade length)
4.875" w/pen blade open (1.3125" blade length)
0.3125" wide

Here's a picture:

CasepenJan1.jpg


Here they are side-by-side:

12OTCasepena.jpg


12OTCasepenb.jpg


12OTCasepenc.jpg
 
The trapper pattern has two blades hinged on the same end of the frame. The typical blade layout is a clip blade and a "spey" blade. Like this:

CaseGrizzlytrapper.jpg


A stockman will have typically 3 blades - a clip, a "sheepsfoot" blade, and a short spey blade or pen blade. Here is a Case example I own:

111220006.jpg


None of these trappers or stockmen will be thin as they are two spring knives.

Ed J
 
I'd say a 120T would be your best bet, followed closely by the Case pen knife. I've given away a couple of both, and it would be hard to find better slicers that take up less room in your pocket.

Locutus D'Borg said:
Kershaw Leek? Maybe not too traditional ...
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Not even remotely traditional by any measure that I know of and also quite a bit bigger in every dimension, including weight.
 
If you're ok with a single bladed knife, I'd go for a Buck 302 Solitaire, or a Case single layer knife (my vote goes for the Swayback Gent).

Fausto
:cool:
 
quattromori said:
If you're ok with a single bladed knife, I'd go for a Buck 302 Solitaire, or a Case single layer knife (my vote goes for the Swayback Gent).

Fausto
:cool:
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Good call, Fausto. The "Gent" especially, will not be noticed in a pocket.
 
bemo said:
Mini toothpick? I've been really surprised with how well the full-size toothpick carries. Haven't actually tried the mini myself but it seems it would meet your spec.
Click to expand...

ive got a queen mini toothpick. its pretty thin, maybe three inches or so closed and unobtrusive in a pocket. well within the op price range also.
IMG_13371.jpg

top center of the pic.
 
I can't thank you all enough for all of the help that you've given me in my search. The explanation of the different patterns was greatly appreciated, and I've been looking into just about every model that was recommended.

I'm a slow mover on purchases, but I'll sort through all of these recommendations and find something that appeals to this use case sometime or other :).

Thanks again for the help :).
 
My response is that you should visit a few antique markets/malls, or flea markets and find a couple of solid $5-20 knives that you get to handle and see what you want in a knife that size. Nothing wrong with preowned, the chase can be part of the fun, and you get immediate satisfaction of finding the knife and taking it home with you. Often great values can be had because slipjoints are common and they look unthreatening so some vendors charge liquidation prices. Just my opinion.
 
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