Tc barlows & mind blowing sheath give-away**WINNERS ANNOUNCED**

So much generosity here, awesome to see. I do currently own one TC Barlow.

1. I think the Case CV swayback will become very collectible. They didn't make them for long but were a really great and well received knife. Not sure why they were discontinued.

2. I would like to see a "Charlow" etch, it's the unofficial nickname for these knives, let's make it official.

3. The size and shape of these knives is just perfect, slim, the right length, great blade to handle length ratio, and beautiful bolsters. I love the play on "TC", standing both for "Tom's Choice" and Tidioute Cutlery. Finely the quality for the price is very good, GEC really take care in producing a quality knife.

4. No good reason for this one, all I can say is if I win it I will never put it up for sale and treasure it as a symbol of why this forum community is so great. I will also make sure to pay-it-forward in some way at some point.
 
Hello all, what a cool thread and I thank everyone for their generosity and presence on the forum.
I don't own a Charlow at present -- so I'll throw in my number (I did have one but had to sell it a while back -- if this disqualifies me then please proceed as such!)

1) I feel that any of the GEC SFO runs, including Charlie's but also the BFC knives, Derrick and Mike's stuff, etc. will prove especially elusive as they are all great designs and should stand the test of time. Production runs come and go and are exclusives in their own right, but when it comes to these special commissions they'll be top of the heap. I own and appreciate other brands, and have especially gotten more into vintage knives lately, but in 100+ years I think that GEC will have a special place in the pantheon of collectibles as it has really reached the apex of quality and design, IMHO.

2) Personally (and this is my own bias) I would LOVE to see DEEP STAMPED Charlow blades in the future. I know GEC has done it with a few of the steel #73 runs, one of the big whaler patterns and also on the original #92 Eureka run. Regardless of whatever image or text there is, I love that historical touch and also the charming imprecision that you sometimes get with a deep stamped blade marking. Edit: Also would like to see a matchstrike long pull, maybe a long pull that goes through the tang? Lambsfoot blade (as posted on a later page in this thread?)

3) Well, the #15 in general is the best generic jack pattern that GEC finally found. It's pocketable, the springs are manageable, and it is versatile enough to house a number of configurations. In comes Charlie with the classy bolster touch, continuing the all-steel construction, and the wonderful materials like sawcut bone and heritage walnut for people to ahgle and oogle over. It's a no-brainer as far as popularity is concerned, and the fast pace and diverse nature of the SFO runs has seen their demand skyrocketing.

4) I just think they are beautiful, solid little pieces and I'd love to be totin' one. Always appreciate seeing the great collections people have and it would be cool to have a one-share stake in the Charlow legacy :D Also if I happen to be picked for this one I'll be hosting my own premier GAW thread as I have been saddled with a hefty helping of forum generosity, most recently thanks to one Mr. Primble!

Thanks gents, have a good weekend all!
 
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slide13 said:
2. I would like to see a "Charlow" etch, it's the unofficial nickname for these knives, let's make it official.
Click to expand...

That's actually a great idea. I don't know if Charlie would be on board (I don't know if he loves that name as much as we do), but it would be awesome if he was.
It's not everyday that a knife (or any object) has so much attention and interest swirling around it that an official nickname is given is given to it. I'd be interested to see the first thread where that name came up...
This post isn't an entry.
 
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Not an entry........I am quite new to traditionals, but am fortunate enough to have acquired two TC Barlows. I have been totally amazed at the spirit of
family and applaude the generosity of forum members who are willing to help others enjoy this great hobby. I am glad to be here and am learning something new
every day. Thanks to all for making this forum my favorite.....by far.
 
I've been mystified by the Charlow phenomenon, and after reading Duncan's urging on the "naughty thread" and a lot of thought I've decided to take part. For the record: I do not now, nor have I ever, owned a TC Barlow knife. In fact, I don't own any barlows.


1,What 21st century model production traditional folder besides the TC Barlow do you think will be a desirable collectible in the future?
By the future I'm thinking 50 to 100 years down the line. I am reminded of something I saw Mr. Levine post that rang true with me. "RARITY is a negative factor in value, a strong negative factor." Everybody wants to collect somebody that other people look at and think it's cool. Nobody wants a collection of things that nobody knows what they are. When you look at things that are highly collectible they are usually things that were originally inexpensive. This leads them to being widespread enough that a large portion of the population has memories of them, and they become iconic. The barlow knife is a good example of this. Other examples would be Coca-Cola memorabilia, comic books, baseball cards and Boy Scouts memorabilia. When I think about a knife that fits this mold the first thing that pops into my head is a Schrade USA Old Timer. They're common enough that even non-knife people know one when they see one. They are quality enough to last long enough to become collectible, and the company no longer exists so the number of knives in existence is capped. The problem with GEC as a long term collectible is that their primary market is collectors. Things that are collectible when they're new don't become widespread enough to ever become iconic to the mainstream.

2,What etching/graphics would you like to see on a TC Barlow blade?
My ideal TC Barlow would be a sheepsfoot/cap lifter and the etch would say Bottle Buster with a picture of a bottle being busted in half in between the words.

3,Why you like the TC Barlow - in what design?
I don't know that I do like the TC Barlow. I've read up on them quite a bit. I like the story behind them and I like the community feel of them. I really respect Charlie and all of the work that he's put into them, but I've never held the knife and don't know that I like them. There are plenty of things that I thought I'd like until I had one, so I have learned not to assume that I'll fall in love with something until it actually happens. In my mind at this point, the TC Barlow is a gussied up boy's knife. That's not meant to be disrespectful to the line. It's just how I see it. It's the same frame with mostly the same handle material and the same blades made by the same manufacturer. The big difference I see is the bolster and the shape of the scales. I really like my #15 boy's knife, so I think I'd like a TC Barlow, I just don't know if I'll like it significantly more than the boy's knife that I already own.

4,Why you think you should win a TC barlow ( this may be a hard one to answer - but give it a shot ).
I don't know that I should win, but I know why I'd like to. I'd like to give the TC Barlow a shot and see what the fuss is about. I don't think I'd ever buy one without having held one first, though that may change. I wasn't really sold on the #15 pattern at all until I got my boy's knife. I mostly bought that one because I thought I'd like the one-armed razor blade and it came up on a really good deal. I figured that if it didn't work out I could easily recoup my cost. If I were to win a Charlow it would go in direct competition with the boy's knife I already own. If the Charlow wins me over as the superior knife I'll do a giveaway for my boy's knife. If I don't see a significant difference I'll do a giveaway for the Charlow, so that it can be in a home that'll appreciate it like it deserves. I'm basically looking at this giveaway as an opportunity to be won over by this knife, if I'm lucky enough to win.

No matter how it pans out, thank you all for your generosity. This is an extremely altruistic concept, and truly shows the character of all who have volunteered their own property for the enjoyment of others.
 
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I love Barlows! An awesome thread, and an amazingly generous effort on the part of the donors. I do own a few of Charlie's knives. I can't pass up a chance to acquire a Sheepsfoot "Real Barlow", that is one blade style I love and don't have. I have a couple 15's with that blade, and I think it's a great design for a primary blade. That being said:

1,What 21st century model production traditional folder besides the TC Barlow do you think will be a desirable collectible in the future?
Well. for collectors, the old traditional knives that are coveted today are those of high original quality in like new condition or nearly so. So I think that any high quality pocket knife of today that is well maintained, and kept with original box, etc. will be collectible. As the years pass, many are damaged, broken or lost, so the good ones end up few and far between. GEC knives in particular are of the highest quality on average. I don't fancy myself a collector though. I buy them and don't sell many, and they accumulate.

2,What etching/graphics would you like to see on a TC Barlow blade?
I use my knives, gently, but most get used. The etches are somewhat fragile. I love the way they look. I do love the Mark Twain theme, and something along those lines would b e great. I also like the idea of Charlie's signature. That would be appropriate as well.

3,Why you like the TC Barlow - in what design?
I love Barlows! Ever since I was a kid, I love the size, shape & utility of them. I have a few, but with the first photo I saw of the GEC TC Barlow, I knew I had to have one. The first one I found & actually held in hand, I said to myself, this is the best built & designed Barlow I have ever seen.

4,Why you think you should win a TC barlow ( this may be a hard one to answer - but give it a shot ).
I should win one because I love Barlows! I take care of my knives. I respect them. I share them with others in the hopes of passing on my passion for high quality knives of all sorts.

5. Oh, and did I say - I Love Barlows!

L>R Case 62009, Ulster, Camillus 51, Queen Robeson, Craftsman 9540 (Schrade built I believe), Ka-Bar, a couple of TC's
 
I apologize earlier for not having decent pictures of the Sheepfoot/Pen TC Barlow in African Blackwood---They are now updated back on page one:thumbup:

The GAW entries are coming along nicely---way to go Duncan as you are truly the Mastermind here:D

Remeber guys and gals---if you say "this is not an entry" it is TOTALLY ignored by Duncan and you are in so you might as well give us your input in regards to the questions as it is Greatly appreciated:thumbup: Duncan wields a HEAVY hand as an infraction "giver outer"---just sayin:p

The beauty is if you already own one and feel you would be taking from others that don't own one, then please gift to another member out there---spread the love kinda thing;)
 
I have to say that this is the most awesome giveaway ever on BF. I do not own a TC Barlow but have been jonesing for one for a long time. There is one on an auction site that going to pass the $200 mark, and that is bigger than my piggy bank.

1,What 21st century model production traditional folder besides the TC Barlow do you think will be a desirable collectible in the future? For me, the Case Canoe. Though its not a limited production flavor, it is so smooth and awesome in the hand and the pocket, and not hard on the eyeball. My dad carried one for many moons, and that has something to do with what I think about Canoes.

2,What etching/graphics would you like to see on a TC Barlow blade? Something old timey or rustic. A rocking chair. A hatchet. A cow. Yeah, I said it.

3,Why you like the TC Barlow - in what design? The way it looks in someone's hand when they show it on BF. Its just about perfect.

4,Why you think you should win a TC barlow. I don't. I sure wouldn't give me one if I had anything to say about it.

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1,What 21st century model production traditional folder besides the TC Barlow do you think will be a desirable collectible in the future?

The Radio Jack & Caplifter #15 models will always be popular as long as we have bottles with caps that need assistance to remove :) I'd also agree with an earlier post mentioning the #92. If I was to think outside of GEC, the Case Peanut has stood the test of time, and should always be a practical choice.

2,What etching/graphics would you like to see on a TC Barlow blade?

Woodrow F Call said:
Now if I must pick one.... maybe make it a fishing pole with a line and a worm on it. I seem to remember Tom fishing.
Click to expand...

Primble said:
Yes - I was thinking similar thoughts - Tom napping on a river bank with his cane pole stuck in the mud!
Click to expand...

Great ideas there.

3,Why you like the TC Barlow - in what design?

The long pull spear in ebony was the first TC Barlow I ever saw a picture of. I was not into traditionals at the time, and this one sparked my interest. In a relatively short time, I've got a nice collection of traditionals in my stable, and that first picture was the reason.

4,Why you think you should win a TC barlow ( this may be a hard one to answer - but give it a shot ).

I don't think I should win, but if I did, I'd hope it was Paul's beautiful Sheepfoot! That's the last one on my list of 'must-have' TC Barlows (All 2 blades, Clip, Spear, Sheepfoot). I was lucky to get the clip in the last run, and this week finally tracked down 'the one that started it all' in my above answer.

I'd love to win Barry's sheath! I live in Alberta, and our motto is "Welcome to Wildrose Country"

If fortunate enough to win one of the TC Barlows, I'd be extremely happy, but wish I was able to get around the rules of every post is an entry. I have experienced these fantastic knives, and would prefer the winner be in the spirit of the thread and giving someone that hasn't been able to get one the chance to enjoy owning one.

Just wanted to post to say this is another excellent display of the generosity of this forum, and the members here. Good luck to all!
 
Duncan, you are incredible my friend! Truly, this GAW will be the 'Mother of All GAW's' and will be remembered for a verrry lonnng time. Thanks to everyone for their thoughtful answers! I do own more than a few TCBarlows, and they are among my favorite knives. However, my ownership is temporary as I am only curator for the moment.

1,What 21st century model production traditional folder besides the TC Barlow do you think will be a desirable collectible in the future?
Many of the SFO’s produced by GEC are already highly collectible. We are fortunate to have several vendors commissioning SFO's for us to enjoy. GEC produces some rare ones for the Rendezvous and also many short runs. Here are photos of some collectible beauties that have slipped through my hands on the way to financing knife inventory for my store (sniff):











2,What etching/graphics would you like to see on a TC Barlow blade?
Someone mentioned Charlie’s signature, and I like that idea.
“ Charlie (logo) Campagna”
Signature Edition

3,Why you like the TC Barlow - in what design?

What’s not to like? The design is classic and Charlie & Bill have really pulled it off perfectly! My favorites are the Saw Cut bone single blade models, but it’s hard to choose. Favorite blade? Probably the sheepsfoot, or spear, or clip, or.....

4,Why you think you should win a TC barlow.

I don't deserve to win due to the fact that I am a TCB dealer (thank you CC) and I don't think it would be at all fair. I would prefer that the prizes go to a deserving winner.

 
PLEASE don't send me a knife, but I just wanted to show my support for this awesome bunch of guys and this incredible giveaway! I'll take my infraction, but I won't take your Charlow!:thumbup:

1. I'll agree with Phil, that anything Charlie touches will be highly desirable and collectible for years to come. Besides that, I think GEC's #48 pattern will be desirable as a collectable in the future, Charlie's Diamond Jack's in particular ;)

E0FC3AE9-6081-45D4-99D2-3B1F53514F65_zpsuujljqxy.jpg


2. I would have to say any etch made by the timeless artist, Mr. Johnson, of whom I am a HUGE fan!! I am particularly fond of the Diamond Jack etches (there I go drooling over the DJ's again!)

3. There are many things I like about the TC Barlow. The added weight and stability the larger bolster provides, the beautiful scale options, the true to traditional blade patterns, the glorious etches, the magnificent TC stamp, the pattern size... well what can I say, there isn't much I don't love about these knives!!! As far as my favorite goes, I think I would have to go with a LP sheepsfoot blade.

4. I really REALLY shouldn't win, as I have accumulated enough of these on my own...

I just want to give an extra shout out to Barry. Thank you for all you have contributed to helping Charlie with these timeless knives, and helping us beggars to get them into our pockets! You truly are an invaluable asset to our traditionals community! Bud, you are the BEST!!!
 
Nice to see 48 Diamond Jack supports :)

I still am amazed at this give away. It is a testament to type of people that congregate here in the traditionals. Personally, all give aways are in my opinion, but seeing that ebony sheepsfoot makes my gut hurt a bit. You gentlemen are better men than I. :thumbup:

Sherman ~ that is a beautiful Robeson barlow.

Barry ~ Forgive my ignorance but what are those beauties with the 15 serial numbers? Those are absolutely gorgeous!
 
KBA said:
Barry ~ Forgive my ignorance but what are those beauties with the 15 serial numbers? Those are absolutely gorgeous!
Click to expand...

Brett, those are the very limited production Red Elk stag that GEC used only once due to production issues with the scale material. They will not be made again due to the problem.

The two pictured now reside in Juneau AK in a sizable collection of same.
 
Wow what a killer contest!
1 I’d say the Case SBJ it’s just one of those knives in my opinion.
2 Truth is I like minimal etching on the blades.
3 a single blade clip point just trips my trigger.
4 I probably shouldn’t win one.
I’m a big Barlow fan. I have and carry a GEC 25, small Russel, and haven’t picked up a TC yet. Truth is I’ve put all knife purchases on hold for the last few years. And this is by far the best forum on the net with the greatest people by far. I’m lucky to have been hear from the start.
 
Thanks Barry. Who ever has that collection needs to post some pics on here.
 
I'll play! I have been harboring a small lust for one of these beauties but haven't sprung quickly enough or had the ready cash when the time was right. You know, a day late and a dollar short... kinda the story of my life.
If I don't win one of these awesome pieces (which experience says I won't), I'll probably end up flipping a handful of knives out of storage to buy one--I'm in a mood lately to exchange quantity for quality, and this seems a worthwhile target.

1. I think what Cory Hess wrote rings true--we'll probably see what we believe to be common patterns to be desirable in the future, if only for nostalgia. In this respect, I think the humble TL-29 pattern might (or its kin, like the Radio Jack) be sought in the future. Particularly as lots of veterans or tradesmen carried them in the mid-to-late 20th century, their sons and grandsons might find some link to their past in these knives. But that's probably a crap shoot, like any of this prognostication. I think the Swayback Jack is probably equal a contender. For what it's worth, I'm not planning on getting rid of either my TLs or SBJs, just in case...

2. I'm not too fond of etchings, so I'd opt for none. But, Shakespeare offers one: "The hardest knife ill-used doth lose his edge."

3. Clearly in that it is a classic of the first order (I'm a historian, so I have a preference for stuff that's old). And by all accounts it is marvelously executed, which makes it a great vehicle for reviving the best ideas of the old with the best techniques of the present.

4. I don't deserve to win one of these. I'd probably cut myself with it. Actually, I'd probably drop it, lose it, find it, run it through the wash, scrape things, pry things (but not too hard) and otherwise use it. Then I'd have to figure out why I had all those other knives if I was doing all this and more with the Barlow.

Many, many thanks for the generosity of everyone who's behind this. You're awesome :thumbup:
 
Non tc owner here
I really like most all of Charlies designs, I am blessed and fortunate
to have some of his HJ designs.
In the TC category, I like the spear and clip main, single blade and with the
pen blade. Ebony is my favorite handle ever, but I like most others.
I would like to win, because I have no $ to purchase one.
My youngest of 5 turned 1 in July, and from the time my
wife was pregnant (over 35 means 2 different doctors) money
has just been tight. And boy do they sell out quick.
I would love to have one to give to my youngest son
when he is of age.
What an awesome gaw, guys. Top notch.
 
TLHL'ASLD AFLK LAE/K V'ALKE G/ADSB[';LQE' ' '. . . . Sorry, my mind was blown! :D

But really, what a fantastic display of the Traditionals spirit by all of you presenters. This is epic!

I currently own two TC barlows and have let a couple others pass through my hands. They have all been A++ in all regards. My entry:

1. Just because so few are made, I think the #92 Eureka Jack could be a collectible for the future. A great pattern and one of the few modern production knives made with an extension spring for the coping blade. I modified my spear into a clip, but would like to see a GEC version with long pull clip and coping.

2. A barefoot kid with a straw hat and cane fishing pole laying in the shade would be an appropriate etch.

3. Favorite TC design would be a clip and coping with the somewhat greenish antique amber bone sawcut covers. Great W&T and the TC bolster is just terrific!

4. I don’t like blowing my own horn, but you asked for it! I should win because I’ve been a good supporter of Traditionals (both by years of paid membership and participation, close to 7000 posts) and have done a lot of my own giveaways (nearly $500 worth).

And thanks again, for the love!
 
I have never been a fan of the Barlow pattern, but the Charlow is a different breed of cat compared to the old brown plastic handled Imperials you might find next to the register at the five and dime.
I have not owned a Barlow in at least 25 years, but like I said the Charlow is a different kind of knife that I think anyone can appreciate.


1,What 21st century model production traditional folder besides the TC Barlow do you think will be a desirable collectible in the future?
I am not sure if the production numbers are high enough for them to ever be a well known collectable, but the Traditional Forum annual knives I think will be (and already are) very desirable collectibles.

2,What etching/graphics would you like to see on a TC Barlow blade?
None would be best. I like the blade free of any etchings/graphics

3,Why you like the TC Barlow - in what design?
I like either single clip, or Clip/Pen. I like these TC Barlows because of the quality of design and materials, and because they are being designed by guy who I think truly does it for all the right reasons. Who wouldn't want to be a part of that?

4,Why you think you should win a TC barlow ( this may be a hard one to answer - but give it a shot ).
I don't think I "should" exactly, but I sure would like to! :D
 
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