Ring Openers

Joined
Apr 4, 2001
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118
I picked up a couple of Schrade Cutlery (pre-1946) "ring openers" at a flea market in Winnipeg over the weekend. Both knives have men's names etched on the back of the main blades. The name etchings closely match the "STAINLESS STEEL" etch on the front of the blades, so I'm assuming they were done by the factory. There is no advertising on either knife. Does anyone have an idea of the reason for the names? Has anyone seen similar knives? Thanks for any help.
 
oh goody i get to say it first..........................."pictures would help". and what type knife?
 
Hi MResner, Schrade Cut. Co. offered a number of embellishments on their knives, including blade etching, handle and cover engraving, as well as custom shields (even images under clear celluloid). The etching and engraving was available for smaller lots than the custom shields, I've seen a number of knives with individual's names engraved on the brass or nickel silver covers. Back in those days Schrade took orders of as few as 25 knives per customer's specifications. Those ring openers are pretty unique, aren't they?

Eric
 
Anyone have a picture of a "ring opener"? Not sure if I know what it is.

Knives035.jpg


The ring is used to maneuver the blades. Seems an odd feature that would be nothing more than a unique gadget.
 
The ring turn knives were developed for ease of opening without fingernail breakage. Spring tension is substantially lower than a standard pocket knife. You turn the ring to get the blade opened a bit till you can grab the blade and pull it open the rest of the way. This design actually pre-dates the press buttons.
 
...Ebay item I recently sold back to U.S. #300833703466 Schrade Cut Co Ring Opener from the 1930's...12 photos..easy as to open, perfect design for anyone with hand disability as well I feel.....the box is not original to this knife....Hoo Roo
 
Here's a couple more...

Schrademetal3.jpg
 
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