Looking for comparison pictures: Case Small Texas Jack and GEC Eureka Jack.

StuntDouble

StuntDouble

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Apr 26, 2004
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So I've had the new knife itch for a while now, and I'm considering getting another Case Small Texas Jack, or giving GEC another shot by getting a Eureka Jack. The problem is, I've never handled the GEC, and I don't really know how it compares size wise. Is there anyone that has both and might be able to provide pictures comparing the two knives? I would greatly appreciate it.
 
No pix from me I'm afraid....

But, I do have both knives and like them. They are rather different from each other, so let's consider some aspects. The CASE has a narrower body and a much narrower Master blade - a Clip (Turkish slim type) rather than a relatively broad Spear on the GEC. The secondary blades are completely different too, Modified Pen v Coping. The GEC has nail nicks both side, I used to think this better more Old School but changed my mind on this, I prefer turning the knife round to open the secondary, just habit. I assume you're after a Barehead Eureka, because weight plays a role here: CASE 65g GEC 77g a double bolster GEC will be heavier still. The GEC is a bit longer than the TJ and has a much different handle, very comfortable in hand. The Barehead is also all steel so it requires more careful maintenance than the NS and brass lined CASE, the double bolster GEC is brass/NS though. Half-stops on the GEC, I prefer not to have these, but the pull and W&T on both knives is smooth,good.Wish I had the Ivory Bone version of the GEC as it looks really special, the Antique Green is good though.

The GEC is the more unusual knife, another closer test would be a CASE v GEC 66 Serp same blades, again different animals.

Hope this is some use, Will
 
That does help Will. Do you find that the GEC has the same issue with the nail nick on the main blade being hard to get to, like on the #15 Boy's knife?

I think the spear point blade is actually what drew me to the design. After owning numerous SAK's, the blade shape has kinda grown on me. Plus, I wouldn't mind having something just a little larger and slightly more robust than the Case.
 
On my Eureka jack the nick on the main is easier to access than the nick than the boys knives and Barlows.

Ed J
 
I put this composite photo together so that both knives are actual size on the screen, with the
Eureka Jack @ 3-11/16" and the Texas Jack @ 3-9/16", or 1/8" shorter (in closed position).

Eureka_v_TJ_zpsb3e5a147.jpg~original


To my hand, this difference is hardly noticeable. The main difference is how the curve of the frame fits your hand,
and of course, the different blade shapes. Surprisingly, even though the frames curve in opposite directions, both
patterns are noted for their comfort in use.

Photo of Eureka Jack is from Collectorknives.net website.
 
I never owned a Texas Jack, but I have the Eureka Jack and the #15's. I haven't had any problems with mine. The nail nick was tough to get to at first on the 15's, but after they smoothed out, and I got a good purchase on the blade, they were fine.
 
Thanks for the photo Jeff. I was a little concerned about the handle shape on the #92, mainly because it looks like it should have been turned around the other way. I would think you'd want the flat side in your palm, while your fingers would wrap around the side with the curves, if that makes any sense. Good to hear it's still comfortable to use.

There isn't as much difference in size as I expected. The main blade on the GEC is bigger, of course, but overall it seems close to the Case.

Man, here I was thinking the decision was going to get easier..:p
 
No difficulty with getting at the Master nail nick on mine. The secondary Coping did have a nasty sharp spine that made holding it uncomfortable, a Sharpmaker rod soon tamed that down. Otherwise, the Eureka is really something in the hand a rare knife that I think suits a small to large hand. So nice to run your thumb down the backsprings, no sharp raised edges between spring&liners, quality finish.

Have you made up your mind about Barehead or twin bolster Eureka yet? If I had a fre!e hand, I'd get the Ivory Smooth Bone Barehead and Calico Bone twin bolster! The Antique Green is interesting but I still think I made a mistake getting it instead of smooth bone.....

Regards, Will
 
Will,

If I go with the Eureka, I'm definitely going with the Barehead model in either Ebony or Smooth Ivory Bone. I've never had a knife in Ebony before, and I've heard it gains character with use. Then again, I hear the same thing about the Smooth bone as well..
 
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What's this IF???:eek::eek::D

You're running the risk of them being out of stock or an uncertain wait hunched up in the For Sale forum waiting to strike! Just saying....;)

Another good thing about the Eureka is it isn't as heavy or bulky feeling as many a GEC
 
willgoy said:
What's this IF???:eek::eek::D

You're running the risk of them being out of stock or an uncertain wait hunched up in the For Sale forum waiting to strike! Just saying....;)

Another good thing about the Eureka is it isn't as heavy or bulky feeling as many a GEC
Click to expand...

I know, I know. It's just been a while since I've spent over $40 on a knife, and it's hard to get past that little lump I get in my stomach when I push that "Add to Cart" button.
 
I love the Eureka Jack. The Texas Jack is a great little knife, a bit lighter and more slender. I'll see if I can snap a pic tonight.
 
I understand (partially....:D) but look at it this way: GEC make an undeniably decent knife, it's never a problem to sell on at a good price or better still, trade it for something you like more.

Win win I'd say
 
Gentlemen,

After much thought and deliberation, I feel like I must pass on a new knife right now. As much as it pains me, I think spending money that is needed for more important matters would hurt even more. I figure if I have to give this much thought to such a minor purchase, then it's probably best to wait a bit.

I appreciate all the input I received, and I certainly apologize if I've wasted anyone's time.
 
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Pichurs...

Open:
100_2686_zpsd0804364.jpg


Closed:
100_2687_zps8b32aa41.jpg


I recommend them both. The main blade on the Texas jack is somewhat easier to get to, but the nick on the Eureka main is not obscured as much as it looks in that photo as the angle was bad for showing that. The Eureka is in the smooth ivory bone you were thinking about. I'm sure you would like it. Ebony is great too, but I hope they bring a cocobolo to market.

Ed J
 
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Ed,

Thank you for the photos. They show exactly what I was looking for.

Of course, they're not making my decision to hold off on a new knife any easier. I do feel more confident in saying that I'll be getting a Eureka when the funds allow though.
 
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