The quest...the find...now what?

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waliguy

Joined
Mar 7, 2006
Messages
97
Going back into the forum thread archives, you guys have inspired me a lot. Thanks for all the suggestions on how to find Schrades in my own "backyard," as opposed to ordering them on ebay.

So this morning on my normal Saturday morning errand run, I stopped by my locally owned hardware store (which happens to be an Ace Hardware that's been here 20 years) and went to their knife display. I spied a couple of boxes in the back of the display, and asked to see the Schrades.

They had 4 left. Here's what I found:

Uncle Henry LB7 (new in box)...msrp 44.99
Uncle Henry 897 (new in box)...msrp 29.99
Uncle Henry 885 (new in box)...msrp 34.99
Old Timer 77 (no box, new, but in plastic bag)...msrp 24.99

I looked at each knife, and made sure that the tangs said Schrade USA. Everything looked good to me, the newbie. So I asked what was the best price they'd take for all 4. The guy was the son of the owner, and quoted me all msrp prices. He wouldn't budge. I gave him my name and asked that he hold them a few days for me...I'd have to think about that.

I'm inclined to pass on the 77OT because I already own one, and though I don't have a box for it, neither does this one. Plus I think that's a little high of a price (24.99 plus tax).

I could make the owner an offer...say $90 for the remaining three...and see what he says.

So it's all about prices and patience. My quandry is...do I go back and get the other three Uncle Henrys (which I don't have), or just be patient and wait til they come around down the road? All comments welcome. Thanks!
 
If I was selling those three knives (and I am not), I'd try for those same prices. Heck, I saw some dweeb spend more than the asking price for your dealer's King Ranch for a Taylor version. I see nothing wrong with asking MSRP for something no longer made-- and for which there is a market for. Fair prices, in my opinion.

But hey, you're new at this! Take your time, find what you want at a price you are comfortable with. There will be New in Box, USA made, recent issue Schrades available for years to come.

Be glad you didn't start your Schrade search a year ago.. Prices were very hgh then. And take a look at some of the older Schrades.

Stick with us, you're a good new member, the kind we need here to continue to grow. Good luck in your searches,
Phil
 
I think those prices are not too bad. 897 and 885 are comparable to ebay going rates, and you could probably get an LB7 for a few bucks less but not much. Plus you get to see in person before you buy. It's not distressed merchandise, so no reason for the owner to come down except goodwill. I think you should just go buy them, you won't be good for anything else until you do. :) BTDT.

Good luck,
Dave
 
You might go for the old "does that include sales tax?" ploy. That is good for up to 10% off depending on your local rate.

Codger
 
Good job on the hunt and find, half the fun is just finding some good Schrade's to look at. You have a good choice of nice models to pick from, buy what you want and can afford now and go back next month and get the rest. If you stop by again and the owner is there, make a all for one offer and see what he says, the worst he can say is no. USA made Schade's at those prices are still a good deal, they will only go up in value in the future.
 
I say buy'em all, at least then you know what you got is authentic.
BTW, the last suggested retail in 2004 was: LB7 $62.95 , 897UH $39.95 ,885UH $36.45 and the 77Ot was not on the 04' list but is probably worth $25.
Just my $.02 ,Rick
 
The last year the 77OT appeared in the price lists was 2002. The MSRP was $34.95. From what I can see the prices he is asking is not bad. Obviously he hadn't updated his prices each year. I find that is quite common in stores with older stock that wasn't clearanced like in the big box stores.

Dale
 
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