Early Western L36 sheath knife

In 1911, H. N. Platts, was able to draw on his extensive friendships and family connections in the cutlery world to start Western States Cutlery and Manufacturing of Boulder Colorado. At first only a jobbing business, by 1920 construction and machinery purchases were underway to begin manufacture of knives. Through name changes--to Western States Cutlery Co. in 1953, then Western Cutlery Co. in 1956--and moves first across town and later to Longmont Colorado, the company stayed under the leadership of the Platt family until 1984. In that year, the company was sold to Coleman, becoming Coleman-Western. Eventually purchased by Camillus in 1991, Western continued until Camillus expired in 2007.
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98src
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Early Western L36 sheath knife

Post by 98src »

I recently purchased this early WESTERN sheath knife which I thought was an L36 based on a picture from the 1936 catalog page found in "The Knife Makers Who Went West" book. I am now wondering if the knife has been altered based on the workmanship on the pommel. If anyone has a real L36 please let me know if mine looks like yours. Of course, opinions are welcome. PS...I know that the scabbard is a replacement.
L36-1.JPG
L36-2.JPG
L36-4.JPG
L36-5.JPG
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eveled
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Re: Early Western L36 sheath knife

Post by eveled »

Thats a different take on the bifurcated tang. First one I’ve seen. Neat knife.
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djknife13
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Re: Early Western L36 sheath knife

Post by djknife13 »

i have one buried in my safe and will try to dig it out tonight to compare them. I've never noticed if mine had the double tang running through and you have my curiosity totally built up.____Dave
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zzyzzogeton
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Re: Early Western L36 sheath knife

Post by zzyzzogeton »

That's the normal construction. It is original, not modified.
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98src
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Re: Early Western L36 sheath knife

Post by 98src »

Thank you. I was hoping it was original.
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