Knife History

For more than a century, Schrade has been a household name in the world of knives, known for its innovation, durability, and craftsmanship. From its humble beginnings in the late 19th century to its evolution into a globally recognized brand, Schrade has played a significant role in shaping the knife industry. This article takes an in-depth look at the history of Schrade, its key innovations, and its enduring impact on knife enthusiasts worldwide.

The Founding of Schrade: A Legacy Begins

Schrade’s origins trace back to 1892, when George Schrade, a talented cutler, founded the Schrade Cutlery Company in Walden, New York. With a passion for innovation, Schrade revolutionized the knife industry by inventing the push-button switchblade, a mechanism that allowed knives to be opened quickly and easily with one hand. This invention set the stage for Schrade’s reputation as a leader in knife design and functionality.

By 1904, George Schrade had secured multiple patents for his automatic knife designs, and in 1907, he sold the company to a group of investors. However, Schrade’s commitment to innovation was far from over, as he went on to establish the George Schrade Knife Company in 1910, further refining and expanding his contributions to the knife industry.

The Merger: Schrade-Walden Cutlery Company

In 1917, Schrade underwent a significant transformation when it was acquired by the Walden Knife Company, leading to the formation of the Schrade-Walden Cutlery Corporation. This partnership allowed the company to expand its production capabilities while maintaining its commitment to high-quality knife manufacturing.

Throughout the early to mid-20th century, Schrade-Walden continued to develop and produce innovative knife designs, including traditional pocket knives, switchblades, and hunting knives. The company’s products became widely popular among outdoorsmen, tradespeople, and military personnel, further solidifying Schrade’s reputation as a top-tier knife brand.

Schrade’s Role in World War II

Like many American knife manufacturers, Schrade played a crucial role during World War II by supplying knives to the U.S. military. The company produced a variety of knives, including combat knives, utility knives, and trench knives, which were used by soldiers in the field.

Schrade’s wartime production not only demonstrated its ability to manufacture rugged and dependable knives but also reinforced its status as a trusted American brand.

The Birth of Schrade Old Timer and Uncle Henry Knives

In the 1950s and 1960s, Schrade introduced two of its most iconic knife lines: Old Timer and Uncle Henry. These knives quickly became favorites among outdoorsmen, hunters, and everyday users due to their reliability, classic designs, and high-quality craftsmanship.

• Old Timer Series – Designed for traditionalists who valued timeless knife patterns and rugged dependability, Old Timer knives featured carbon steel blades and durable handle materials such as Delrin and Staglon.
• Uncle Henry Series – Created as a premium alternative to Old Timer knives, the Uncle Henry line offered elegant designs with nickel silver bolsters, polished stainless-steel blades, and high-end handle materials.

Both lines cemented Schrade’s place in the industry, with their popularity enduring for decades.

The Imperial Schrade Era

In 1946, Schrade merged with the Imperial Knife Company, forming Imperial Schrade Corporation. This merger allowed Schrade to expand its reach even further, becoming one of the largest knife manufacturers in the United States. Under the Imperial Schrade name, the company continued to produce a wide range of knives, including pocket knives, multi-tools, and fixed-blade knives.

During this era, Schrade introduced several successful innovations, including:

• The Sharpfinger – A small, fixed-blade hunting knife with a distinctive upswept blade design that became a favorite among hunters and trappers.
• The Schrade Tough Tool – A multi-tool designed to compete with the rising popularity of Leatherman and Gerber multitools.
• The Schrade X-Timer Series – A modern take on traditional Schrade designs, featuring ergonomic handles and enhanced blade steels.

The Closure of Imperial Schrade (2004)

Despite its long history of success, Imperial Schrade Corporation faced increasing financial challenges in the early 2000s. Rising production costs, competition from overseas manufacturers, and shifting market demands led to the company’s closure in 2004. The factory in Ellenville, New York, was shut down, and Schrade ceased U.S. production, marking the end of an era for American-made Schrade knives.

The Revival: Schrade Under Taylor Brands and Beyond

Following the closure of Imperial Schrade, the Schrade brand was acquired by Taylor Brands LLC, which moved production overseas while maintaining the brand’s signature designs. Under Taylor Brands, Schrade continued to produce Old Timer, Uncle Henry, and other classic knife models, making them accessible to a new generation of knife users.

In 2016, Taylor Brands was acquired by Battenfeld Technologies, a subsidiary of Smith & Wesson. This acquisition further revitalized the Schrade brand, leading to new product innovations, enhanced materials, and a focus on both classic and modern knife designs.

The Modern Schrade: Tradition Meets Innovation

Today, Schrade continues to evolve while staying true to its legacy of craftsmanship. Modern Schrade knives incorporate advanced materials such as D2 steel, carbon fiber, and G-10 handle scales, blending traditional aesthetics with contemporary performance features. Some key developments in recent years include:

• Schrade Delta Class Knives – A line of high-performance knives designed for rugged outdoor use and tactical applications.
• Schrade Alpha and Beta Series – New premium knife lines that emphasize precision engineering and superior materials.
• The Return of Classic Designs – Reintroductions of beloved Old Timer and Uncle Henry models with improved materials and craftsmanship.

Why Schrade Knives Stand the Test of Time

Schrade’s enduring popularity can be attributed to several factors:

• Heritage and Tradition – Over 130 years of knife-making excellence.
• Iconic Designs – Timeless knife models like the Old Timer, Uncle Henry, and Sharpfinger.
• Innovation – Pioneering advancements in switchblades, hunting knives, and multi-tools.
• Affordability and Accessibility – Quality knives at competitive prices, making them accessible to a wide range of users.
• Collectibility – Vintage Schrade knives remain highly sought-after among collectors.

The Future of Schrade

As Schrade continues to embrace new technologies and materials, the brand remains dedicated to delivering high-quality knives for enthusiasts, hunters, and everyday users. Whether through reintroducing classic models or developing cutting-edge designs, Schrade’s commitment to craftsmanship ensures that its knives will remain a trusted choice for generations to come.

For those who appreciate a rich legacy combined with modern performance, Schrade knives represent the perfect blend of tradition and innovation—a brand that has stood the test of time and continues to thrive in the ever-evolving knife industry.