I think a lot had to do with what was available locally, too. I’m not “that” old, but I do remember a pre-internet-knife-buying era when I’d go stare at the display of knives in my local hardware store and wonder about the different patterns. They were shiny and pretty and looked very enticing. A dozen or more different shapes, sizes, combinations! If the local store where you bought nails, tools, and lumber sold Case, you’d probably end up with one in your pocket. Likewise Camillus, Buck, Schrade, etc. I don’t think many back then agonized over the theoretical detail differences between an Ulster and a Robeson and a Shapleigh etc.
On a family history note, in that era: Grandpa carried Western and never really thought about it, I don’t think. Three old penknives, much sharpened, little snap, one held together with masking tape. Probably acquired in the 1945-60 timeframe. Dad had three as well, in much better shape (he was a carpenter/mechanic and took care of his tools.) Acquired in 1960s-80s. One was Case, but he was proud of his Bucks, and I think esteemed them slightly higher. Probably due mostly to reputation and that logo of someone striking the blade with a hammer. Buck pocketknives were first made by Schrade, then Camillus, then later in-house. My dads was one of the early Schrades, with the “inferior” Swinden-key type construction. Objectively his Case large stockman was and is the best of the lot in terms of intrinsic quality. That being said, they were all possessed of thin, slicey, and decently tempered blades, solid enough construction, and provided great service for years cutting twine, opening mail, and whittling a stick now and then. And could do so for another half century if necessary.
