What is a "waterfall" handle?

[toothed]

I've seen this description given to a handle on an old stockman but I don't know what it looks like nor have I been able to read more details of this style of handle. Can anyone help?

 

[Bastid]

I'll try to post a pic later on.
Basically it is a light yellowish tan celluloid with slightly darker wavy lines.

Off the top of my head until the 1990's you only found them on antiques. Case Classics, Winchester and I think Schatt&Morgan (all Queen produced) started using it in the mid-90's again.) Good looking stuff.

 

[bob bowie]

Gus pinned it down. If you spin the knife the handle sorta looks like a waterfall. Buck Creek uses the stuff also.

 

[toothed]

Thanks for the quick replies. My imagination was so far off on this one--I thought the "waterfall" name was due to beveled handle edges or because of slanted bolsters.

Bastid, based on your description the style sounds interesting and is, apparently, uncommon. I'm looking forward to seeing an actual picture of the waterfall handle. It would be even better if we can see a side-by-side comparison of the old vs new versions.

I used to think that natural handle materials like stag, mop, or bone were the way to go on traditional SJs; however, I'm beginning to develop an appreciation for celluloid handles.

 

[Bastid]

This is a Case Classic. The pic does not do the handle material justice at all.

I do not have an old one in Waterfall.

Antique celluloid knives need to be kept apart from other handle material blades. When and if the stuff starts to break down I have read in several sources that it produces corrosive fumes. I wax the modern ones once or twice year.

On the Dr. knife that you have. When I first purchased the set about 6 or 7 years ago the celluoid was even with the handle pins (too smooth to feel the transition from the handle to the pin.) Now the celluoid has shrunk a little so that the pins stick up above the handles.

There is a pic of the oldest celluloid I own (as well as one of the ugliest )
here. (or it may just be plastic)

 

[toothed]

Thanks Bastid. It's very clear to me now. I can see the dark lines that represent the waterfall. Knowing today's "macho" marketers, you would think they'd call those markings "tiger stripes." Nonetheless, it's obvious that no two of these handles should be identical since the pattern develops randomly in the manufacturing process. I like the results.

Thanks for the tip about storage of the celluloid handled knives. Perhaps in another thread you can tell us more about your periodic waxing procedures. Despite corrosive fumes given off during aging and its inevitable shrinkage, the celluloid material still has its pluses (e.g., it is dazzling and it is made in a "no two identically alike" pattern).

I noticed the "protruding" pins on the Dr. pattern Bulldog I received as a prize and now understand how they got that way--i.e., by handle material shrinkage due to aging and not because of manufacturing deficiencies. This still does not detract from one beautiful knife. Thanks.

 

[NGK-Webmaster]

Thanks, I have seen those handles for years but never knew they were called "waterfall", learn something new everyday (or for me every 3-5 min.)

 

[mikespens]

Just want to add that really good waterfall celluloid is "active". When you move the knife in the light, the lines will move and appear to be liquid.

 

[toothed]

mikespens, the "active" waterfall sounds interesting. What make/models are good examples? Are any currently available?

I have a Waterman "Edson" ball point pen with a blue celluloid barrel that appears to glow as you move the pen around in under a light. I like the "aura" of the pen and wouldn't mind also acquiring a pocket knife that has an "optical" effect.

 

[mikespens]

Toothed, I only collect old pocket knives so I'm not familar with the current waterfall offered by Bulldog, Case, Remington, Winchester, and any others being made today. I do know they are probably not celluloid but a modern material such as acrylic.
As for older knives (pre 1940's), all the good American brands offered waterfall that was active. I have some New York Knife, E.C. Simmons, Robeson, and Remington examples that are all very nice.
I'd suggest doing a search on eBay if you don't have access to a knife show or club. Be sure to check the "titles and descriptions" box on your search. You might also want to email the seller and ask about the action of the waterfall.
A waterfall theme would make a nice collection in itself.
Good luck.

 

[toothed]

mikespens, thanks for the info. I'm starting to develop an internal "buzz" that's telling me I need one of those.