Aerial Auto

[MruelH]

I wonder if anyone can help me with info on this Aerial Cutlery automatic knife.
In my research, I can find no knife of this model with this type of handle. A knifesmith friend of mine thinks it could be a prototype. Possibly made in the 1920's

Thanks, MH

[Madmarco]

I can't help with id'ing your knife MH, although it appears similar to the Schatt & Morgan Express models, but someone with more knowledge will surely be along to supply you with the info! And, to AAPK!

[wiseguy]

Cool knife, from what I see it looks a modification to one of the parts knives that were reproduced post 60s from leftover parts found and put together, most were stag ..the lever is not original. This is just my opinion from what I see , I may be wrong. Posting this in the switchblade forum may get more accurate information.

[shursnap]

I can tell you for sure that it is not an original Aerial. I've been studying these knives for Many years and I have personally owned more than 25 of the reproductions and 5 original Aerial knives. I've been in contact with Jaeger family members, the family that owned Aerial Cutlery in the course of my research. There are 10 things that are different between the original knives and the later reproductions. I can see at least three things in your pics that tell me this is one of the 1980s reproduction knives for sure. Many of these knives were customized in the 80s and 90s because they were very affordable and with a few modifications could be resold for a nice profit. Looks to me like this is one of those customizations gone wrong. It's not worth much as it is, but a talented knife repairman could make a new lever and replace the scales. Then it would be worth $300, or more. If you want learn more about Aerial Cutlery Corp you can read about it in my book Antique American Switchblades.

[npeters3]

and that is exactly why I love this site. Lots of different individuals with lots of individual knowledge about different knives. Thank you for teaching us all on this rather obscure knife and question.