Wedding Gift for my son

[KudzuWilbur]

So, just as the title says, I’m looking for a wedding gift for my son. I’m of the opinion that some of you in here may be able to help me.
First of all, I’d like to get my son a really nice vintage “pocket” knife. I’d probably be called a “fudd” by many because I’m from the old school, especially when it comes to what I consider as a truly good pocket knife. I’ve always carried a small folding knife in my front pocket, typically it would be a 2 or 3 blade, occasionally a 4 blade. If I have pants on, I generally have a knife in my pocket.
Just to give you an idea of some of the good (IMO) knives I have carried as my EDC: Case XX, Boker Tree Brand (one of my favorites), Uncle Henry (another favorite), Old Timer, Kershaw and my current EDC - Victorinox. Most of these are/were knives purchased 20-30 years go or more. In other words, they are/were made well, not like most of the junk you get today. I’ve always wanted a Bertram Hen and Rooster but never owned one.
My son is very special to me, just like most men feel about their son. I’m looking for a knife that is as special as he is. While I am a hunter, my son is not, so not looking for any kind of hunting knife.
My question to you is, what knife would you recommend for me to get for my son for his wedding? Ideally, I’d like to get him something that he can pass long to his son some day. I’m not necessarily looking for a knife that stays in a box and is never carried, not looking for something in a glass case that you hang on the wall or put on a desk. But I do want something that people will look at in 50 - 100 years and say “WOW” that’s a real knife. That is how a good knife USED to be made. Something that has stood the test of time and will still be "standing" long after I am not.
I am willing to spend up to several hundred dollars if I find the “right” knife. I would prefer a vintage knife but I’ll consider a new/newer one if that’s the best choice. FWIW, I'm not looking to start a debate on the "best pocket knife ever made. Really curious to see what some of you would recommend?

[Ripster]

Interesting topic , very cool that you’re doing something like this for your Son!
For us here the oldest Son and Younger are into different things . The oldest got a Cheetah like the one in pic ,engraving on bolsters , swing guard , Case ,and his favorite color . The younger of the 2 , totally different ,old school like me , loves old bones ,American made , EOs, Campers ,Utility, Military folders . So when he gets Married, he will get the Craftsman w Belt loop bail and the Ulster with faint Kingston etch on the main blade.
That’s my spin on your post , best of wishes for the upcoming Wedding. And also with your choice, whatever you choose ,it will mean the World to him!

[Ripster]

So, just as the title says, I’m looking for a wedding gift for my son. I’m of the opinion that some of you in here may be able to help me.
First of all, I’d like to get my son a really nice vintage “pocket” knife. I’d probably be called a “fudd” by many because I’m from the old school, especially when it comes to what I consider as a truly good pocket knife. I’ve always carried a small folding knife in my front pocket, typically it would be a 2 or 3 blade, occasionally a 4 blade. If I have pants on, I generally have a knife in my pocket.
Just to give you an idea of some of the good (IMO) knives I have carried as my EDC: Case XX, Boker Tree Brand (one of my favorites), Uncle Henry (another favorite), Old Timer, Kershaw and my current EDC - Victorinox. Most of these are/were knives purchased 20-30 years go or more. In other words, they are/were made well, not like most of the junk you get today. I’ve always wanted a Bertram Hen and Rooster but never owned one.
My son is very special to me, just like most men feel about their son. I’m looking for a knife that is as special as he is. While I am a hunter, my son is not, so not looking for any kind of hunting knife.
My question to you is, what knife would you recommend for me to get for my son for his wedding? Ideally, I’d like to get him something that he can pass long to his son some day. I’m not necessarily looking for a knife that stays in a box and is never carried, not looking for something in a glass case that you hang on the wall or put on a desk. But I do want something that people will look at in 50 - 100 years and say “WOW” that’s a real knife. That is how a good knife USED to be made. Something that has stood the test of time and will still be "standing" long after I am not.
I am willing to spend up to several hundred dollars if I find the “right” knife. I would prefer a vintage knife but I’ll consider a new/newer one if that’s the best choice. FWIW, I'm not looking to start a debate on the "best pocket knife ever made. Really curious to see what some of you would recommend?

Welcome to AAPK ! Didn’t realize that you had just come aboard until after replying to you post.
Best of luck ,stick around , enjoy ,great place ,lot of Cutlery and knowledgeable friendly folks.

[jmh58]

SAK. Have his name and date engraved on the blade.
John

[Madmarco]

So, just as the title says, I’m looking for a wedding gift for my son. I’m of the opinion that some of you in here may be able to help me.
First of all, I’d like to get my son a really nice vintage “pocket” knife. I’d probably be called a “fudd” by many because I’m from the old school, especially when it comes to what I consider as a truly good pocket knife. I’ve always carried a small folding knife in my front pocket, typically it would be a 2 or 3 blade, occasionally a 4 blade. If I have pants on, I generally have a knife in my pocket.
Just to give you an idea of some of the good (IMO) knives I have carried as my EDC: Case XX, Boker Tree Brand (one of my favorites), Uncle Henry (another favorite), Old Timer, Kershaw and my current EDC - Victorinox. Most of these are/were knives purchased 20-30 years go or more. In other words, they are/were made well, not like most of the junk you get today. I’ve always wanted a Bertram Hen and Rooster but never owned one.
My son is very special to me, just like most men feel about their son. I’m looking for a knife that is as special as he is. While I am a hunter, my son is not, so not looking for any kind of hunting knife.
My question to you is, what knife would you recommend for me to get for my son for his wedding? Ideally, I’d like to get him something that he can pass long to his son some day. I’m not necessarily looking for a knife that stays in a box and is never carried, not looking for something in a glass case that you hang on the wall or put on a desk. But I do want something that people will look at in 50 - 100 years and say “WOW” that’s a real knife. That is how a good knife USED to be made. Something that has stood the test of time and will still be "standing" long after I am not.
I am willing to spend up to several hundred dollars if I find the “right” knife. I would prefer a vintage knife but I’ll consider a new/newer one if that’s the best choice. FWIW, I'm not looking to start a debate on the "best pocket knife ever made. Really curious to see what some of you would recommend?

to AAPK K.W.! I'm a fiend for automatics, so if it's legal for him to own and carry, I'd suggest a Pro-Tech "Don", or, "Godfather". Bare-bones models of both are about US$200.-$300., and steadily higher depending on embellishments. Believe me, he'll love one! Mark!

[rea1eye]

How about taking one for your best and treasured knife you carry and
have it cleaned and sharpened by one of the knife mechanics here.
Then get a moderately priced sharpening stone/system for him to
keep it sharp. We probably are not talking tons of money here but
I bet you he will always think highly of this Wedding Gift.....and of
course you.

My dad did not get me a gift ( I don’t remember what the traditions were in
1976) but I would certainly think it be cool to have one........Actually
I have 2 of his knives. Both were always in his tool box (which
I also have). Both are in great shape and sharp. Not perfect new but
have character because he used to own and use it.

Bob

[Rossr]

What a great idea and very thoughtful too.

It's a very personal thing and so much depends on your sons likes. Does he do any carving? If so perhaps a Whiitler of some type. I have several different knives I carry at times. Attached photo is an older easy open I'm fond of currently. It's not expensive but I like it. I even have a case single blade toothpick that I made a fancy knife slip up for that I carrying dressed up(suit tie) not often but a joy to carry.

You mentioned he doesnt hunt, does he fish perhaps a custom filet knife

What about cooking? A high end kitchen knife could be used daily and loved.

There are custom folder makers that run the gamit from damascus blades to fancy engravings.

Regardless of knife you could have a wood box made for it with the date initials etc engraved on it.


I think I'd focus on his likes handle material number of blades and then looknfeon there. Maybe add a personal touch puch with engraving on knife or box etc...just my random thoughts

Ross

[eveled]

I’d stay away from horn antler or bone handles. The newer generation is skeeved out by them. Even if your son is ok with them I doubt the next generations will be.

I’d look for a nice LoomFixer for him.

[Sharpnshinyknives]

So many to recommend. You mentioned Hen and Rooster, I have a couple in my store you might be interested in. The first and last photos are two older H&R stag knives that still have most of their bark and not hafted away.
The black one is a true “legacy” knife. Made for A.G. Russell in Seki Japan. This “Strike Force” knife is one that will last for more than one generation. It’s as solid a knife as you will find anywhere.
Next is a Kershaw Double Cross. I have carried one of these for nearly 20 years. You can open both blades with the thumb studs on each blade. Liner lock that prevents it from closing on your fingers. AUS-8 Stainless steel. Also made in Japan.
Last is a view of some of my Mcusta’s. I just can’t say enough good about these. Smooth opening and solid lock up. VG-10 stainless, mostly Damascus stainless steel. Built to last a lifetime and then some.
All of these except the Mcusta’s are in my store if you want more details and photo’s of them.

[Railsplitter]

Here's another Bertram Hen & Rooster that Mark has in his store. I think it's very nice.
https://www.allaboutpocketknives.com/ca ... order=DESC

[Lansky1]

For an occasion like this, custom made knives aside, I would get the best factory made, USA made knife available today - most would agree that would be Great Eastern Cutlery, GEC. They have a devoted following - will cost 2-3X what a Case knife would, but they offer old school patterns that aren't available elsewhere. Do a search for GEC and I'm sure you'll find something appropriate ...

[Rotten]

For a gift like this I will agree with Lansky1 and recommend a GEC of some variety. My personal pattern recommendation would be one of the GEC Calf Roper 66 pattern knives. There are currently two beautiful wood handled ones up for grabs on ebay, one is ebony and the other ironwood. Either one would make an exquisite heirloom type gift that will be able to be passed on to future generations with basic care over time. I would as some have recommended also include a quality simple sharpener such as one of the V type rod setups made by Idahone or Lansky.

[RevolverGuy]

I like rea1eye’s suggestion about gifting your son one of your own. It would hold a lot more meaning. I will also add to that suggestion that it be gifted with a new pocket sheath, preferably one for slip joints. A sheath helps to make sure it is carried more and not just sits in a drawer.

If you’re intent on a new knife, Boker still makes great quality. Just make sure they are stamped “Solingen” on the tang and shield as those are the one’s made in Germany.

[1967redrider]

How about a Case Calendar knife with his wedding date on it? Two patterns in Caribbean Blue bone to choose from.

https://www.casexx.com/Calendar/CaseKni ... ndar21.asp

Or a nice vintage Cattaraugus pocket knife?

to AAPK!

[Mumbleypeg]

There are some great old vintage knives available in the AAPK stores. You will search far and long to find a better quality knife than those made in the first half of the 20th century by Remington, Case, Robeson, Cattaraugus, Camillus or several others. Just select one in excellent condition.

Should you prefer a newer knife and don’t see what you like in the AAPK stores, if there is a cutlery store or dealer anywhere reasonably close to you, I’d go there and shop. I won’t disagree with those who tout the qualities of GEC knives, however Case still makes great knives, and you can go to a dealer to hand-select one. If money isn’t a constraint and you prefer a traditional style knife but made with modern higher-end stainless steel, one of the Tony Bose patterns made by Case would be an outstanding and memorable choice IMHO. The higher end case dealers will likely have some in stock. If you don’t have a Case dealer near you, try www.casexx.com.

Ken