Schrade Knives
About Schrade
Schrade has been a cornerstone of American knife manufacturing since 1904, when George Schrade founded the company in Walden, New York.
George Schrade was an innovative English cutler from Sheffield who pioneered switchblade technology with his first patent in 1892.
The company revolutionized knife manufacturing with mass-production techniques while maintaining high-quality standards that were unique in the industry.
Schrade played a significant role in supplying military knives during WWII and the Vietnam War, establishing their reputation for durability and reliability.
Today, under Smith & Wesson Brands ownership, Schrade continues their legacy of producing dependable cutting tools for hunters, outdoor enthusiasts, and professionals worldwide.
Popular Schrade Features
Premium Steel Options
- Schrade utilizes D2 tool steel, AUS-8, AUS-10, and high-carbon stainless steel for superior edge retention and corrosion resistance.
Three Quality Tiers
- Alpha Class knives are exclusively made in USA with premium materials, Beta Class are USA assembled with upgraded materials, and Delta Class offers reliable performance at value prices.
Traditional Craftsmanship
- Schrade blends old-world knife-making techniques with modern materials and precision manufacturing for authentic quality.
Full Tang Construction
- Fixed blade knives feature full tang construction for maximum strength and durability in demanding applications.
Ergonomic Handle Design
- Comfortable handles crafted from sawcut Delrin, Staglon, aluminum, and TPE materials provide secure grip during extended use.
Blade Treatments
- Advanced coatings including black oxide and stonewashed finishes enhance corrosion resistance and reduce glare.
Best-Selling Schrade Knives
Old Timer Sharpfinger (152OT)
- This iconic fixed blade knife has been popular since the 1970s and remains one of the most recognizable hunting knives in America.
Old Timer Senior (8OT)
- A traditional folding pocket knife with classic sawcut Delrin handles that exemplifies timeless American knife design.
Old Timer Deerslayer (15OT)
- This 10.5" overall hunting knife features a 5 7/8" upswept blade perfect for field dressing and game processing.
Old Timer Mountain Lion (160OT)
- A versatile fixed blade hunting knife designed for outdoor enthusiasts who demand reliability in wilderness conditions.
Uncle Henry Series
- This premium line features upgraded materials and construction, making it especially popular among serious hunters and outdoorsmen.
SCHF Tactical Series
- Fixed blade tactical and survival knives including the SCHF9N, SCHF12, and SCHF26 models serve military and law enforcement professionals.
Frontier Series
- Large survival knives engineered for extreme wilderness situations where reliability can mean the difference between life and death.
Popular Uses for Schrade Knives
Hunting and Game Processing
- Schrade knives excel at field dressing, skinning, and processing game with precision blades designed specifically for hunting applications.
Outdoor Adventures
- Campers, hikers, and bushcraft enthusiasts rely on Schrade knives for camp utility, fire preparation, and wilderness survival tasks.
Everyday Carry (EDC)
- Professionals, tradesmen, and everyday users choose Schrade folding knives for daily cutting tasks and general utility applications.
Tactical and Professional Use
- Law enforcement, military personnel, and first responders depend on Schrade tactical knives for mission-critical cutting needs.
Collecting and Traditional Crafts
- Knife collectors appreciate Schrade's historical significance and traditional patterns, while craftsmen use them for whittling and woodworking projects.
Schrade Knives FAQs
QUESTION: What warranty does Schrade offer on their knives?
ANSWER: Schrade provides a limited lifetime warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship for the original owner.
QUESTION: Where are Schrade knives manufactured?
ANSWER: Manufacturing varies by product line - Alpha Class knives are made exclusively in USA, Beta Class are assembled in USA, and Delta Class are manufactured in China with quality oversight.
QUESTION: What steel types does Schrade use in their knife blades?
ANSWER: Schrade utilizes premium steels including D2 tool steel, AUS-8, AUS-10, 9Cr18MoV, 7Cr17MoV, and high-carbon stainless steel depending on the model.
QUESTION: Are Schrade Old Timer knives good for hunting?
ANSWER: Yes, Old Timer knives like the Sharpfinger and Deerslayer are specifically designed for hunting applications and have been trusted by hunters for over 50 years.
QUESTION: What is the difference between Schrade Alpha, Beta, and Delta Class knives?
ANSWER: Alpha Class offers premium USA-made knives, Beta Class provides USA-assembled knives with upgraded materials, and Delta Class delivers reliable performance at value prices.
QUESTION: Can I get replacement parts for my Schrade knife?
ANSWER: Replacement parts availability varies by model and age, with current production models having better parts support than older Imperial Schrade models.
QUESTION: What makes Schrade knives different from other knife brands?
ANSWER: Schrade combines over 120 years of knife-making heritage with modern materials and manufacturing techniques, offering reliable cutting tools at various price points.
QUESTION: Are Schrade tactical knives suitable for law enforcement use?
ANSWER: Yes, Schrade's SCHF tactical series and other professional-grade knives are designed specifically for law enforcement, military, and first responder applications.
QUESTION: How do I properly maintain my Schrade knife?
ANSWER: Clean and dry your knife after use, oil carbon steel blades to prevent corrosion, and use standard knife sharpening techniques to maintain the edge.
QUESTION: What is the price range for Schrade knives and cutting tools?
ANSWER: Schrade offers knives from budget-friendly options under $75 to mid-range models up to $200, providing quality options for various budgets.

