The cutler's art: small multi-blade knives

[knife7knut]

I've always been amazed at the skill that it took to manufacture and assemble a tiny knife that had multiple blades and have them open and close smoothly without running into each other. From tiny hand cut nail nicks to the smooth fit of blades to backsprings to the polish on the blades and springs, each one a miniature masterpiece! Here are several examples of 4 bladed models; some dating to the Civil War era.

[doglegg]

I've always been amazed at the skill that it took to manufacture and assemble a tiny knife that had multiple blades and have them open and close smoothly without running into each other. From tiny hand cut nail nicks to the smooth fit of blades to backsprings to the polish on the blades and springs, each one a miniature masterpiece! Here are several examples of 4 bladed models; some dating to the Civil War era.

Knice knives. Good questions.

[Mumbleypeg]

Good post Ray. I’m always fascinated at the skill of cutlers from long ago days. Here’s one I’ve posted before. It’s about 2-7/8 inches long, 3/4 inches wide. 10 blades/tools, including a tortoise shell toothpick and an earwax spoon, all of which work as they should including opening and closing with “snap”. Some of its blades have “pellet”-like openers, others (including the scissors) have more typical nail nicks. Even has coined liners!

Ken

[FRJ]

I have this Mfr"s Union Cutlery Congress. 3 1/2" closed
It's a piece of work.

[wlf]

Cool pieces Ray , Ken , and Joe.

I don't know the maker , but this little 2 1/2" pearl beauty has 12 tools/ implements.

[Gtrclktr-351]

Cool pieces Ray , Ken , and Joe

Agreed

[knife7knut]

Some more with mo' blades. Not in the best of shape.

[knife7knut]

Last ones for now.