Opinions on this older Case folder

Like I said it was this weeks $5 scratch ticket that walked into my store. Regardless of value I like it. Maybe I will just pack it away for that day when I finally have grand kids lol
 
You are correct. The black oxidation is a form of rust. It is less aggressive than red rust.

I wasn't trying to be a smart aleck, I simply need to understand just how deleterious patina is to the structure of the blade. I'm using Rennaisance Microcrytalline Wax/Polish to inhibit the formation of patina on my Chrome Vanadium and 1095 steel blades.

Captain O
 
The reaction that forms black oxide is much slower and less aggressive than the reaction that forms red rust. On a microscopic level, it roughens the surface, which provides a nice base for oil. I have a carving knife which dates from the turn of the last century (i.e. from before the development of stainless steel). It has been uniformly dark for decades, so obviously black oxide is not terribly deleterious.

If you like a shiny surface, that works OK, too. I have a well used pocket knife that dates from the 1930's which still has a fair amount of shiny metal.
 
Yep after everything you guys have said it has been put away I have never seen this particle one before and doubt I will again
 
This thread is very interesting. Before this, I hadn't even heard of "outgassing". Guess I'll have to look out for this now. Kudos, Thanks for sharing. :thumbup::thumbup:
 
Pretty sure that it is not gassing and the blade patina was either forced or from regular use. Many times the gassing will cause the blades to rust and there will be a distinct line down the blades where the blades are protected somewhat from the handles. The celluloid looks bright and clean on yours. My only caution would be storing it in a box away from all other knives. I never buy them though, although many are very pretty.
 
IMO it's not off gassing. The dark "patina" that happens on an off gassing knife happens above (outside) the handle.
It happens quite quickly at times and usually includes pitting. Yours looks in very great condition, no shrinkage at the bolsters and a nice clean surface. Here is an extreme affect on the blade. If you google "celluloid gassing Oregon knife club" Theres a good article on the subject.

Best regards

Robin

 
American Premium Guide To Knives & Razors: Identification And Value Guide page 244 makes reference to this case knife as RM2096
 
Patina is good. It protects the blade from further rusting.
Not all celluloid is equally unstable. Yellow is the least stable. I have knives with Christmas Tree cell and none of the handles have out-gassed at all.
My belief is that if a knife is 50 or more years old and the cell handles have not out-gassed, then it is very unlikely to out-gas as long as it is stored away from heat & sunlight and away from petro chemicals. That said, it is always a good idea to store knives with stable cell handles in a drawer or container just for them. If you have any knives in which the cell already shows some deterioration either remove the cell handles or send the knife to the dump.
kj
 
I would like to thank you all. I was pretty sure that was just normal patina from age and use. To be expected for a knife of this age. I am starting to think my friend was using the outgassing as a plow to get me to sell cheap. It was a nice try but I kind of like the fact I have never seen one of these before.

Nice little knife you got there. Not so sure bout your "friend". Hahaha. :confused:
 
Hi Benny, that is a nice old Case and looks to be in good shape for it's age. From everything I have read about the old celluloid handles, it is not am matter of "if" but "when" they will outgass. Store it in a cool dark place away from your other knives to be sure that they aren't effected from outgassing.

Now, if it was mine, the celluloid would be removed immediately and replaced with wood or bone. Not everyone will agree with me but that is how I feel about old celluloid or MOT Mother of Toiletseat in the pearl colored handles.

Nice snag.

I would do the same.

Mike
 
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