Old Timer Knives

About Old Timer

Old Timer is a legendary American knife brand that has been synonymous with quality, tradition, and reliability for over 65 years.

The brand was introduced in 1958 by Schrade Cutlery Company, which was originally founded in 1904 by George Schrade and his brothers in Walden, New York.

George Schrade was an innovative inventor who held patents for numerous devices, including the first switchblade knife with button in bolster, and brought traditional Sheffield cutlery craftsmanship from England to America.

The first Old Timer model, the 2OT Barlow-style knife, was released in 1959 and quickly became a cultural icon representing American craftsmanship.

Today, under Smith & Wesson ownership since 2016, Old Timer continues their commitment to creating heirloom-quality knives with their motto "Built for Generations."

Popular Old Timer Features

Sawcut Handles

• Signature textured handle scales provide secure grip and represent the defining Old Timer feature that sets them apart from other knife brands.

7Cr17MoV High Carbon Stainless Steel

• Primary blade material offers excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance with hardness running 58-60 HRC for optimal performance.

Heat-Treated Back Springs

• Engineered springs maintain proper blade tension over time and ensure blades lock securely in both open and closed positions.

Nickel Silver Bolsters

• Durable metal end caps provide structural strength and the classic appearance that defines traditional American pocket knives.

Multiple Blade Configurations

• Traditional patterns feature 2-4 specialized blades per knife, including clip point, sheepsfoot, spey, and pen blades for various cutting tasks.

Generational Warranty

• Comprehensive lifetime warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship, reflecting their commitment to creating tools that last generations.

Best-Selling Old Timer Knives

108OT Junior

• Three-blade stockman with clip point, sheepsfoot, and pen blades represents one of the most popular models in the entire Old Timer lineup.

2OT Barlow

• The original Old Timer model that started the line in 1959 continues to be a bestseller with its classic single-blade design.

8OT Senior

• Large three-blade traditional knife with clip point, sheepsfoot, and spey blades provides maximum versatility for serious users.

25OT Hunter

• Fixed blade hunting knife with leather sheath delivers reliable performance for field dressing and hunting applications.

94OTY Gunstock Trapper

• Traditional two-blade trapper pattern offers the perfect balance of functionality and portability for everyday carry.

Minuteman Series

• Compact everyday carry models provide modern convenience while maintaining Old Timer's traditional quality and craftsmanship.

Popular Uses for Old Timer Knives

Hunting and Field Work

• Old Timer knives excel at field dressing, skinning, and general hunting tasks with specialized blade shapes designed for clean, precise cuts.

Everyday Carry and Utility

• Traditional pocket knives serve daily utility needs including package opening, general cutting tasks, and emergency preparedness situations.

Outdoor Recreation

• Camping, fishing, and hiking enthusiasts rely on Old Timer knives for food preparation, rope cutting, and general outdoor tasks.

Farm and Ranch Work

• Agricultural professionals use Old Timer knives for livestock care, equipment maintenance, and various ranch duties that require reliable cutting tools.

Collecting and Gift Giving

• Knife enthusiasts and gift buyers choose Old Timer knives as meaningful presents that can be passed down through generations as family heirlooms.

Old Timer Knives FAQs

QUESTION: What warranty coverage do Old Timer knives come with?
ANSWER: Old Timer offers a comprehensive lifetime warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship for the original owner with proof of purchase.

QUESTION: What steel does Old Timer use in their knife blades?
ANSWER: Old Timer primarily uses 7Cr17MoV high carbon stainless steel that offers excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance.

QUESTION: Are Old Timer pocket knives good for everyday carry?
ANSWER: Yes, Old Timer pocket knives are designed for comfortable everyday carry with traditional construction and multiple blade configurations for various daily tasks.

QUESTION: What makes Old Timer knives different from other brands?
ANSWER: Old Timer knives feature signature sawcut handles, heat-treated back springs, and traditional American patterns that have been refined over 65 years.

QUESTION: How do you maintain and care for Old Timer knives?
ANSWER: Clean with soap and water, dry thoroughly, apply light oil to pivot points, and store in dry conditions for optimal performance.

QUESTION: What is the most popular Old Timer knife model?
ANSWER: The 108OT Junior three-blade stockman is one of the most popular models, featuring clip point, sheepsfoot, and pen blades.

QUESTION: Are Old Timer knives made in the USA?
ANSWER: Current Old Timer knives are manufactured overseas, though premium Generational Series models may feature USA components and assembly.

QUESTION: What blade configurations are available in Old Timer knives?
ANSWER: Old Timer offers traditional patterns including stockman, barlow, trapper, and congress designs with 1-4 blade combinations.