Please tell me about the history of this pattern!

el gigantor

el gigantor

Gold Member
Joined
Oct 5, 2015
Messages
2,512
Earlier today I posted my Winchester/Queen knife on the porch. It got me thinking; I’d love to know more about this pattern.

One of the things I enjoy most about traditional pocket knives is the history. I’ve learned about stockmans, sodbusters, and barlows in the past. My blade is a clasp knife, according to the box. I’ve discovered that phrase could mean a few different things, though.

Google informed me this Winchester run happened in 1994, but what about the shape and design itself? How far back does it go?

Thanks for any information you’ve got for me!

IMG_7508.jpeg
 
This post linked below shows a book description of the Clasp Knife, noting some old examples from the late 19th century at least. I think the book is Levine's Guide.
JW225

Post in thread 'What is the definition of "Clasp Knife"?'

Here's some more comprehensive info...

tJTEdfd.jpg
  • Like

(The linked post above^ can be found in this older thread on BF, linked below.)
SonnyJim

Thread 'What is the definition of "Clasp Knife"?'

I searched here, and on Google, but the answers seemed vague and pretty general. Is it just another name for a slip joint?:confused:

Jim

Another interesting thread from Bernard Levine's subforum here on BF:
 
Last edited:
These folding hunters are much smaller than the "Bulldog". My first two pieces which I collaborated with Ken Erickson on...

Erickson Bone Hunter2.jpg



Scan_677.jpg



And a long but comparatively svelte, (compared to a "bulldog"), vintage version from Eye Brand...


Scan_212.jpg
 
20260501_075717(1).jpg
Clasp: grip or hold tightly or firmly...that's the basic definition of the word as a verb.
As a noun a clasp is lock or clip that keeps something closed.
I need to do more research on the origins of the word...likely the English pinched/inherited from another language language.
The knives themselves in modern form seem to be descended from the Spanish shepherds type knives pictured above.
All the newer ones are big hefty blades ..maybe easier to clasp in hand while working.....all of mine pictured have locks...and a kind of downwr curved handle which gives that arched shape when open.....
 
Both clasp and clip descend from clyppan in olde English.
However the people at MeakoCorporations
International Department In Outthere Theories..I.D.I.O.T.
Postulate that the clasp knife was designed for Ladies to keep in their clasps or purses.
Those responsible have been executed.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top