Traditional Recommendation for an Old Man

I may also get him a SAK, but he's having difficulty with multiple tools (dexterity isn't what it used to be).

The parameters I initially outlined were from my aunt - she said to get him a single blade, as hassle-free as possible.


Good points all around, though.
 
I forget the model number, but there's a great single-blade Schrade Old Timer, about 2 7/8" closed. You can find the old American-made carbon steel models for not too much dough on that big auction site. Very easy to open and a darn handy, high quality pocketknife.

-- Mark

ADDED: I just remembered: it's the 12OT. Great little knife.
 
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There is a case dealer with a SFO version of the single-blade slimline trapper with an easy-open notch. It is a red/green "magician's" knife (one side red, one green) for Christmas. Can't link the dealer directly but if you Google "EZ OPEN MAGICIANS RED/GREEN CHRISTMAS SLIMLINE TRAPPER" it will be the first link. $50 plus shipping. I don't care for the coloration myself but it's quite in the spirit for the season. It's stainless steel.

I have a regular Case slimline trapper, and due to the length (leverage) and thinness of the spring, it is quite easy to open in general. Also a very competent slicer, and the long handle allows for a good full hand grip. So this one might be something to consider.
 
Considering your latest post, I would get him a Victorinox Alox solo. Mild pull, familiar looks, good quality...I wouldn't go any further than that.
If I would, I would probably go with Frank and get him a single bladed Buck 300 series.

Fausto
:cool:
 
I'd give the man credit for knowing what he likes, vs what we'd like him to like. If he carried a SAK, was it a knife he'd picked out andf bought himself? Did he carry it for quite a while? Does the older gentleman tinker with stuff, and maybe need a screw driver at off times? Was he attached to the SA, as in missing and maybe regretting the loss?

Maybe Aunty means well, but maybe the gentleman in question doesn't mind it being a little hard to open, if it has the tools he's used to having to fiddle with and tinker with things. Do ytou have any idea what model SAK he carried? I'd try to start a causal conversation with hime to feel him out how he feels about.

No sense buying him something he doesn't want.

Carl.
 
Fausto and Carl bring up good points , no pun intended.

A Vic Alox cadet solo would be the best choice so far, but what does he want? My father likes small pen knives, like the case peanut I gave him last year. A GEC would elicit a nice thank you, then go in the sock drawer. I am figuring he 'll like the 10ot I'm giving him for Christmas because he carried one since I was a small child. My father doesn't have the iron grip I remember from my youth, and at 60 yrs he really prefers an easy opening knife. Can't break with tradition though.

If you have a knife shop or sporting goods store near you that has a good selection of Vics, he may enjoy spending an afternoon with his grandson picking out the SAK that works for him. He gets a tool out of it, Christmas lasts a little longer, and the both of you have a great holiday memory.
 
Another SAK, or a Buck. My dad was in his mid 80's and was having trouble opening a Case pen that I bought him in the late 60's. I got him a Lancer after he tried several knives; he used it until he passed away in 1998.
 
I think the Buck 302 is an excellent suggestion.

Buck302001.jpg


Ed J
 
I agree with those who say to get your grandfather a knife he is familiar with. However, if you think there I another pattern he might like better don't be afraid to take a chance. Here's a story about the knife a man got from his grandson.

- Christian
 
You might look at an easy opening harness jack. Check in with Charlie for a good look at the pattern and its advantages for someone with declining dexterity.
 
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