Pocket Knife ID Guide

Identitify collectable pocket knives.

The design of a pocket knife includes a blade that folds into the handle, making it safe for transport in a pocket. Pocket knives may have multiple blades and include tools like a screwdriver, scissors or tweezers.

History

The popularity of the pocket knife reaches back to the Barlow family, which began making pocket knives in England in the 1600s. In 1785, John Russell began producing the knives in America, changing the name to Russell Barlow.

Identification

For most knives, you can find the manufacturers name or symbol on the master blade of the handle.

Numbering System

Manufacturers of pocket knives use a company-specific numbering system to identify the number of blades, the type of bolsters, the material for the handle, the company pattern and other identifying information. You can find the 4 to 7 digit number on the master blade of the knife.

Expert Insight

Reference books on the topic include "Big Book of Pocket Knives: Identification and Values" by Ron Stewart and Roy Ritchie and "Collectible Pocket Knives" by Dominique Pascal.

Famous Ties

Mark Twain wrote about Barlow pocket knives in "The Adventures of Tom Sawyer" and "Adventures of Huckleberry Finn."

References

• All About Pocket Knives: Numbering Systems
• Barlow Knives: History
• Amazon: Books on Pocket Knives