KaBar question

[terryl308]

Would like to know approx. when these two were made, the tang stamp has a Capitol K then all low case with he "b" having some funny looking marks on it. One is a nice stag handle the other looks to be some type of laminated wood? Thanks in advance for the help. Terry

[dlr110]

Terry have you read this post?
viewtopic.php?t=4446

[zzyzzogeton]

There are SOME rules of thumb one can use with Kabar stamps.

If the knife in question has KABAR in any variation, it is AFTER 1923.

If the knife has Kabar it is AFTER 1952. (Upper case "K", lower case "abar", italicized, with or without a "-")

If the knife has a model number on the guard - is it 1930s. Maybe late 1920s

If the knife has model numbers on the mark side ricasso, it is AFTER 1966/1967.

Other than that, it seems to be a crap shoot and you have to see what the model number is (for those w/ model numbers) or you need to look at the pommel assembly construction style (split nut, lead seal, pinned), spacer patterns, etc/

[terryl308]

Thanks, I'm going with after 52. Goins says 200 different stamps used! I think I'll stick with Case or Westerns! LOL Terry

[Gunsil]

I think the 200 includes all the stamps for the other brands they supplied over the years. KA-BAR was an early contract knife maker for many companies Including Western States and Utica Knife and Razor. They also made knives for retailers with their name on them.

[terryl308]

thanks gunsil and zz, one more question, do you happen to know when they quit using the dog head shield?

[knife7knut]

thanks gunsil and zz, one more question, do you happen to know when they quit using the dog head shield?

I believe they are still using the dog's head emblem on special editions such as the Collector's Club knives.