Kershaw 1050 Folding Field, different versions???

[911rescue]

Hi folks,

am I right that there are two different versions of the knife stated above existing?

AFAIK one is marked with KAI on the blade tang and the other without?

If so, which one is older / better concerning the finish and built quality?

What other differences are between those two versions?

Thank you very much in advance for your input.

[A&E]

handles are phenolic (whatever that is) and bolsters are brass.

there's one stamped "Kai Japan" or maybe "Seki Japan" I can't remember . . .

there's another stamped "Oregon USA"

& then there's another one with cocobolo handles and nickel bolsters "Seki Japan"

there may be other variations . . . not sure which is older or better.

[philco]

I did a google search for Kershaw Folding Field knife and found several including one with a damascus blade for $350. Looks like it is a popular platform for different varialtions.

BTW, phenolic is a trade name for a plastic type compound used in knife handles. It shines up to a glossy finish and is very durable. Buck has a whole line of fixed blade knives with phenolic handles.

Phil

[911rescue]

Thank you so far.

Any more info?