Opinions sought on Marble's woodcraft/fieldcraft knives

S

Stainz

Joined
Jun 24, 2007
Messages
3,760
I have always wanted a Marble's sheath knife. I never wanted the 'Cowboy' knife, but the 'Woodcraft' and it's smaller cousin, 'Fieldcraft', just look 'traditional'. I have located some 'deals' on the plain-Jane carbon steel knives - with brass finger guard, various hardwood handles, and stag pommels (and leather sheath) - $55. Still made here, not 'offshore'.

How are these things nowadays? Is this just something to look at - or okay to use - with my new Spydie 'Sharpmaker' at the ready? Just reliving my childhood, I suppose. Any experieces? Thanks!

Stainz
 
The 'Safe Grips' have 420 blades and black Kraton handles - and what looks like nylon sheaths. They have the same blade profile - but they are made 'off shore', not here like the carbon steel/leather/wood/brass/stag handled ones I was interested in. Thanks for the good report on their other line, however.

Anyone try the carbon steel, ie, original USA-made Marbles? Thanks!

Stainz
 
I've tried the Fieldcraft when they just turned to the current carbon steel and liked it. Gave it away later though. I now have their Boundry Waters (I think that's the name) from a bit earlier that was made in 52100 steel and it's one of my favorite users. Hopefully their current crop still have their very sharp full convex grind.
 
I cherish my Fieldcraft... it's in 52100, from when Mike Stewart was running things there in the knife department. It is still one of my all-time favorites, a blade about 3/16th thick so lots of steel there, nice sweep to the edge, and a sturdy tip that is still good for fine work. Mine has the stacked leather grip, which I treated with SnowSeal after taking the washers off so I could dose the tang with BreakFree.
 
I don't care for the rubberized handles. They are still excellent knives--and made in the US.

I prefer the stag or gamegetter handles (nolonger made, but some are still out there (about $50-60).
 
Well, I got one - $67 shipped. It's Gladstone, MI (On the box.) stock - new - but a rosewood handled/stag pommel 'Woodcraft' model. It has the "If it's Marbles, it's quality" round decal (?) on the blade. Above the brass finger guard, it states 'Marbles USA'. The blade measures .177+" at the thickest, and has a very good edge. I am toying with touching it up on my Sharpmaker fine 'files'. The natural leather sheath has 'Marbles Quality Knives' over some carved 'cat tails', and has a nylon-like insert. The stag pommel seemingly has a round slotted top threaded brass 'nut' to hold it on the tang. All in all, this really is a well-made - and traditional-looking knife. I am pleased. I have certainly paid a lot more for a lot less - quality and value wise.

What steel is this? I am sure it is a carbon steel - but I wonder which one? It measures .177+" at the thickest. Thanks for any/all help.

Stainz
 
I have the Ideal model w/leather handle I like it.The convex edge is easy to keep sharp stroping it every so often.the steel they use is 0170-6 acording to their website.I also have one of the older plainsmen models w/rubber handle, steel is also 0170-6, made before they swiched them to 420 stainless,I bought it on sale for a good price from DLT around a year ago or so.I dont care much for the rubber handle but it is a very good cutter.
 
They used to have 52-100 steel. We still have a few of them, but they are getting scarce. The 0170-6 still has excellent edge retention and toughness. I have read several side by side comparisons and they tip slightly toward the 52100.

The convex edge and US made stuff makes them an excellent choice for a low cost knife. They are better than Buck, but not as great as a Bark River.
 
I own a a trailcraft and fieldcraft,both exellent imo,takes and holds a wonderfull edge good solid knives-values.
 
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