Rare Camillus USMC knife

The Camillus Cutlery Company was one of the oldest knife manufacturers in the United States with roots dating back to 1876. The company manufactured Camillus branded knives and was a prolific contractor for other knife brands up until its last days in 2007 when the company filed for bankruptcy.
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Camillus
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Rare Camillus USMC knife

Post by Camillus »

I've had this knife for several years and have only seen one other like it online,
This is one of Camillus's best made knives for our Marines.
Model 894 with Tonto point.......VERY SHARP!!!!!
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Camillus USMC Knife 001.JPG
Camillus USMC Knife 002.JPG
Have a Knife Day!
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orvet
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Re: Rare Camillus USMC knife

Post by orvet »

The answer to this was posted on BladeForums:
http://www.bladeforums.com/forums/showt ... p?t=703002
Check the link for more pictures.

The answer was posted by Phil Gibbs. Phil was Camillus for many years. I forgot his title, but if Phil tells you something about Camillus, you can pretty well take it to the bank! He was there a long time and knows what went on.

This is a quote of Phil's answer:
"This is a classic "left over parts thrown in a bucket" design project.
The parts came from the "Promaster" series of single, double & triple lock backs with Kraton® handles.
Some genius in marketing figured a "Dura-Tool" version would sell better!?!
It is probably quite rare as of course they never sold worth a dang!"


Phil is a nice guy and has helped me in the past with several Camillus questions.
Tom Williams has highest praise for him. They worked together for many years at Camillus.

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Re: Rare Camillus USMC knife

Post by Camillus »

Thanks for the information on this knife Dale!

I still think it is a great knife, feels good in the hand type.

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Re: Rare Camillus USMC knife

Post by orvet »

It looks like a good one.
I wish I had found one too!

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katierenay
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Re: Rare Camillus USMC knife

Post by katierenay »

I have one with metal handles just like the above picture. i am wondering if i were to sell it, how much is it worth?
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Re: Rare Camillus USMC knife

Post by orvet »

Typically bucket projects like this, especially when they didn't sell well, ended up being sold out by a wholesaler like Smokey Mountain Knife Works.
I imagine they probably sold for $10 to $15.

It probably isn't old enough to have gained any appreciable value beyond the original price, if that.
The best way up to figure out what it's worth is to put it up for auction on eBay.
You may be disappointed at what it brings, or you may be surprised and get a good price for it.

Since it isn't a regular production item is nearly impossible to say what it would be worth.

Sorry I couldn't be more helpful,
Dale
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Re: Rare Camillus USMC knife

Post by katierenay »

thank you dale for your reply!
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