Great history of some iconic USA knife makers followed by their tang stamp charts. Every great knife has a tang stamp.

Below you will find some great history of some iconic pocket knife makers followed by their tang stamp information.

If you would like to skip the history section and go directly to the tang stamp charts simply chose a maker to the right.

W.R. Case & Sons Cutlery Company, commonly known as Case, is one of the most well-known and respected knife manufacturers in the United States. Here's a brief overview of the company's history:

Founding: The Case company traces its roots back to 1889 when William Russell ("W.R.") Case and his brothers, Jean, John, and Andrew, started making knives in Little Valley, New York. They initially operated under the name Case Brothers Cutlery Company.
Move to Bradford: In 1905, the Case brothers relocated their operations to Bradford, Pennsylvania, where the company remains headquartered to this day. The move was prompted by a desire for better access to raw materials and transportation routes.
Trademark: In 1900, the Case company introduced the distinctive "XX" trademark, which was used to signify the highest quality in their knives. This trademark became an iconic symbol of Case knives and is still used today.
Expansion: Over the years, Case expanded its product line to include a wide range of pocket knives, fixed-blade knives, and specialty knives for various purposes such as hunting, fishing, and everyday carry.
Innovation: Case has been known for its commitment to craftsmanship and innovation. Throughout its history, the company has introduced many innovative features and designs in its knives, while still maintaining the traditional quality and craftsmanship that it's known for.
Ownership Changes: The ownership of Case has changed hands several times over the years. In 1993, Case was acquired by Zippo Manufacturing Company, another iconic American brand known for its lighters. Today, Case operates as a subsidiary of Zippo.
Continued Legacy: Despite changes in ownership and the evolving landscape of the knife industry, Case continues to be a symbol of American craftsmanship and tradition. Its knives are highly sought after by collectors and users alike for their quality, durability, and timeless designs.

Throughout its long history, Case has remained true to its founding principles of quality, craftsmanship, and attention to detail, making it one of the most enduring and respected names in the knife industry.

W.R. Case & Sons Cutlery

Case XX folding knife tang stamp chart:

The history of KA-BAR Knives is a fascinating journey that begins over a century ago. Here's an overview:

Founding: KA-BAR traces its roots back to the late 19th century when a group of 38 German immigrants established a cutlery company in Tidioute, Pennsylvania, in 1898. Originally named the Union Cutlery Company, it later became known as KA-BAR Cutlery Co.
Military Contract: During World War II, KA-BAR gained widespread recognition when the United States Marine Corps adopted its fighting/utility knife as the standard issue for Marines. The knife became known as the "KA-BAR" due to the company's trademark.
Iconic Design: The KA-BAR USMC Fighting/Utility Knife, with its distinctive clip-point blade and stacked leather handle, became legendary for its durability and performance in combat. It remains one of the most iconic knives in military history.
Post-War Expansion: After World War II, KA-BAR continued to produce knives for both military and civilian use. The company diversified its product line to include a wide range of hunting, sporting, and outdoor knives, along with tactical and survival tools.
Ownership Changes: Over the years, KA-BAR underwent several ownership changes and corporate restructuring. In 1952, the company moved its operations to Olean, New York, where it remains headquartered today. In 1996, KA-BAR was acquired by Alcas Corporation.
Continued Legacy: Despite changes in ownership and the evolving knife industry, KA-BAR has maintained its reputation for producing high-quality, rugged knives. The company continues to innovate and expand its product offerings while staying true to its heritage.
Cultural Impact: The KA-BAR knife has become ingrained in American culture, symbolizing toughness, reliability, and the spirit of the Marine Corps. It is widely used by military personnel, law enforcement officers, outdoor enthusiasts, and collectors around the world.

KA-BAR's legacy as a manufacturer of dependable knives with a rich military history has solidified its position as one of the most respected names in the knife industry.

KA-BAR knife tang stamp chart:

KA-BAR

Queen Cutlery Company is a well-known American manufacturer of traditional pocket knives, based in Titusville, Pennsylvania. Here's a brief overview of its history:

Early History: Queen Cutlery was founded in 1895 by five businessmen in Titusville, Pennsylvania. Originally known as the Schatt & Morgan Cutlery Company, it quickly gained a reputation for producing high-quality pocket knives.

Rebranding as Queen Cutlery: In 1933, the company was rebranded as Queen Cutlery Company. Under this new name, it continued to produce a wide range of pocket knives, hunting knives, and specialty knives.

Craftsmanship and Quality: Queen Cutlery earned a strong reputation for its commitment to craftsmanship and quality. The company's knives were handcrafted by skilled artisans using traditional techniques, and they were known for their durability and reliability.

Ownership Changes: Over the years, Queen Cutlery underwent several ownership changes and periods of financial difficulty. However, the company managed to survive these challenges and maintain its reputation as a respected knife manufacturer.

Closure: Unfortunately, in 2018, Queen Cutlery announced that it was ceasing production and closing its doors. The closure was attributed to a combination of factors, including changing market conditions and increased competition from overseas manufacturers.

Despite its closure, Queen Cutlery knives remain highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts, who appreciate their craftsmanship and historical significance in the American cutlery industry.

Queen Cutlery Co.

Queen Cutlery Company tang stamp chart

Schrade Cutlery Company has a rich history in knife manufacturing. Here's an overview:

Founding and Early Years:

The company was founded in 1904 by George Schrade in Walden, New York. Initially, it was named the Schrade Walden Cutlery Company. George Schrade was a talented inventor who held numerous knife-related patents. One of his notable inventions was the switchblade knife, patented in 1923.

Growth and Innovation:

Schrade Cutlery Company grew steadily over the years, gaining a reputation for producing high-quality knives. They were known for their pocketknives, hunting knives, and specialized tools. They also developed a variety of mechanisms for folding knives, including the "Old Timer" line, which became iconic among outdoor enthusiasts.

Acquisitions and Changes:

In 1946, Albert Baer acquired Schrade Cutlery Company. Under Baer's leadership, the company expanded its product line and modernized its manufacturing processes. In 1973, the company changed its name to Schrade Corporation.

Decline and Closure:

Unfortunately, Schrade Corporation faced financial difficulties in the late 20th century due to various factors, including increased competition and changing consumer preferences. In 2004, the company filed for bankruptcy and ceased operations.

Legacy:

Despite the closure of the original company, the Schrade brand continues to be recognized and respected in the knife industry. In 2004, Taylor Brands LLC acquired the rights to the Schrade brand and began producing knives under the Schrade name. They've continued the tradition of quality and innovation that was established by George Schrade over a century ago. Today, Schrade knives are still popular among collectors and outdoor enthusiasts for their durability and craftsmanship.

Schrade Cut Co.

Schrade Cutlery Co. tang stamp chart:

The Western Knife Company, historically known as Western Cutlery, has a rich history in American knife manufacturing. Here’s an overview of its history:

Founding: Western Cutlery was founded in 1896 in Boulder, Colorado, by Charles W. Platts. Initially, the company focused on producing kitchen cutlery and razors.
Expansion and Product Range: Over the years, Western expanded its product line to include hunting knives, pocket knives, and outdoor knives. They became well-known for their craftsmanship and quality, catering especially to hunters and outdoor enthusiasts.
Military Contracts: During World War II, Western Knife Company received contracts to supply the US military with knives. This boosted their reputation and production capabilities significantly.
Move to Colorado: In the mid-20th century, Western moved its operations from Boulder, Colorado, to nearby Longmont, where it continued to manufacture knives.
Acquisition by Coleman: In 1984, Western was acquired by Coleman, a company known for outdoor products such as camping gear and lanterns. This acquisition helped Coleman expand its product range to include knives and other cutting tools.
Subsequent Changes: The ownership of Western Knife Company changed hands a few times after its acquisition by Coleman, affecting its operations and branding.
Legacy: Western knives are still appreciated for their durability and utility. Collectors often seek out vintage Western knives due to their craftsmanship and historical significance.
Current Status: As of the latest updates, the exact status and operations of Western Knife Company may have evolved due to subsequent acquisitions or changes in the industry.

Western Knife Company's legacy lies in its contribution to American knife-making tradition, particularly in the realm of outdoor and utility knives. Its products have been recognized for their robustness and functionality, catering to both civilian and military markets throughout its history.

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Western tang stamp chart:

Western

Imperial / Hammer Brand tang stamp chart:

The Imperial Knife Company has a rich history in the United States, known for producing a variety of knives and cutlery since its founding. Here's a brief overview of its history:

Founding: The Imperial Knife Company was founded in 1916 in Providence, Rhode Island. It started as a small operation producing high-quality pocket knives.
Growth and Expansion: Throughout the early to mid-20th century, Imperial Knife Company expanded its product line to include hunting knives, fishing knives, and other outdoor tools. It gained popularity for its durable and reliable products.
Military Contracts: During World War II, Imperial Knife Company was one of the many American companies that shifted production to support the war effort. They produced knives and bayonets for the military, which further enhanced their reputation for craftsmanship.
Post-War Era: After the war, Imperial continued to grow and innovate in the cutlery industry. They expanded their product range to include kitchen knives, utility knives, and even promotional knives.
Acquisitions and Changes: Over the years, Imperial Knife Company underwent various ownership changes and acquisitions. In 1984, it was acquired by the Schrade Corporation, which also had a long history in knife manufacturing.
Recent History: In the late 20th and early 21st centuries, Imperial knives continued to be produced under different ownerships, and the brand maintained its reputation for producing affordable, functional knives for everyday use.
Legacy: Today, the Imperial brand is still recognized in the knife community, though its ownership and manufacturing have seen changes over time. It remains a part of American knife-making history, known particularly for its early contributions to pocket knives and military blades.

Throughout its history, the Imperial Knife Company played a significant role in the development of American knife craftsmanship and continues to be appreciated by collectors and users alike for its quality and utility.

Imperial Knife Company / Hammer Brand

Boker tang stamp chart:

Boker is a renowned knife manufacturer with a long history dating back to the 17th century. Here’s a brief overview of Boker’s history:

1. **Founding in Germany**: The Boker company was founded in Solingen, Germany, in 1869 by Heinrich Boker. Solingen is known as the "City of Blades" due to its long-standing reputation for producing high-quality swords, knives, and scissors.

2. **Early Years**: The early Boker knives were primarily manufactured in Germany and marketed in the United States. The company established a sales office in New York in 1865, which helped expand its market presence in America.

3. **Divided Company**: In 1869, Heinrich Boker’s cousin Hermann Boker established a branch of the Boker company in New York, which eventually became known as H. Boker & Co. This led to the formation of two separate companies: Heinrich Boker & Co. in Solingen, Germany, and H. Boker & Co. in New York.

4. **Historical Events**: The Boker company faced challenges during World War II, when its facilities in Solingen were destroyed by allied bombing. After the war, the German and American branches of the company operated independently, with the American branch eventually becoming a separate entity.

5. **Modern Era**: Today, Boker knives are still manufactured in Solingen, Germany, known for their exceptional craftsmanship and quality. The company produces a wide range of knives, including kitchen knives, folding knives, hunting knives, and tactical knives, among others.

6. **Global Reach**: Boker knives are highly regarded worldwide and are known for their innovative designs and durable construction. The company continues to uphold its reputation for excellence in knife-making, catering to both collectors and outdoor enthusiasts.

Overall, Boker’s long history and commitment to quality have solidified its position as one of the premier knife manufacturers in the world.

Boker

The Remington Knife Company has a rich history that dates back to the early 1920s. Here’s an overview of its background:

Early Years
- Foundation: Remington Arms, a well-known firearms manufacturer, established the Remington Cutlery division in 1920 to complement its existing product line.
- Location: The company was initially based in Bridgeport, Connecticut.

Product Range and Development
- Knife Production: Remington initially focused on producing a wide range of knives, including pocket knives, hunting knives, and specialized blades.
- Materials and Quality: They were known for using high-quality materials and innovative designs, which helped establish a reputation for durability and reliability.

Changes and Developments
- Expansion: Over the years, Remington expanded its product offerings to include more specialized knives for hunting, fishing, and everyday use.
- Ownership Changes: The company experienced several ownership changes and transitions throughout the 20th century, which influenced its product lines and market presence.

Legacy and Influence
- Historical Significance: Remington knives are valued by collectors and enthusiasts for their craftsmanship and historical significance.
- Collectibility: Some models and series of Remington knives are highly sought after in the collector's market due to their quality and rarity.

Recent Times
- Current Status: As of my last update, Remington Cutlery continues to produce knives, though specific details about recent developments may vary based on the company's current operations and market focus.

Overall, the Remington Knife Company has played a significant role in the history of American cutlery, combining craftsmanship with utility to create knives that are both functional and collectible.

Remington tang stamp chart:

Remington

Buck Knife tang stamp chart:

The Buck Knife Company, also known simply as Buck Knives, has a rich history that spans over a century. Here are some key points:

1. Founding: Buck Knives was founded by Hoyt H. Buck in 1902 in San Diego, California. However, the company truly began to gain prominence when Hoyt moved his family to Idaho in 1945 and set up a new knife-making operation there.

2. Invention of the Folding Hunter: One of Buck Knives' most iconic contributions to knife-making came in 1964 with the introduction of the Model 110 Folding Hunter. This knife revolutionized the industry by popularizing the use of folding knives with a sturdy locking mechanism.

3. Family Business: Buck Knives has remained a family-owned business throughout its history. After Hoyt Buck's passing, his son Al Buck took over the company and continued to expand its operations and reputation.

4. Quality and Innovation: Buck Knives has been known for its commitment to quality craftsmanship and innovation. They were one of the first companies to use heat treatment techniques to improve the strength and durability of their blades.

5. Popular Culture: Over the years, Buck Knives have gained popularity not only among outdoorsmen and hunters but also in popular culture. Their knives have been featured in movies, television shows, and even used by the military.

6. Headquarters: The company is currently headquartered in Post Falls, Idaho, where they continue to manufacture a wide range of knives for various purposes including hunting, fishing, survival, and everyday use.

Throughout its history, Buck Knives has maintained a reputation for producing reliable and high-quality knives that are trusted by outdoor enthusiasts and professionals alike. Their commitment to craftsmanship and innovation has solidified their place as one of the leading knife manufacturers in the world.

Buck Knife