All About Pocket Knives

I have a knife with NC Co Canton for the tang stamp. The handles appear to be leather, the previous owner said he never changed them. I have not seen handles like this in my short time in knife collecting. I thought someone could help me out with any thoughts or information on them? Thanks for any help, information, or opinions in advance.

Never seen any original handles that looked like this. The way Novelty brand knives with celluloid decomposed I would have to say not original.

I would agree with that assessment also. The blades have been cleaned, and it looks like heavy corrosion was on the blades prior, which goes along with the outgassing theory.

Okay thanks, I kinda thought that, but wasn't sure.

I agree with Glenn & Wayne, I think they nailed it.

I'm wondering if they may still be celluloid that has decomposed in some strange way.Just a thought.

knife7knut wrote:I'm wondering if they may still be celluloid that has decomposed in some strange way.Just a thought.

No, I don't think so, they feel and look like leather, it's unusual and it was inexpensive, and within my budget.

I agree that the knife has been rehandled at some time. And the scales on it now sure appear to be leather that someone has cut or stamped in the lines. It would have to have been a heavy leather (harness leather maybe 10 or 12 oz weight) to keep laying flat. Not the best choice for handle material in my opinion. Interesting whittler though. thanks for showing it. Terry