James Barber ERA questions

[trutemper]

Hi, I was wondering if anyone can give me any information on the knife in the photos, and the company in general. The knife is 3.5 inches long closed with great snap and the stamps are easily visible in the photos. Odd that the front handle appears to be possibly horn and the rear is old steel with the name J Thompson stamped onto it(maybe replaced or the pins tighted down?) Wondering how old it may be and if there are any Catalogs or lists of their knives from over the years. Any info regarding this company/knife is most welcome Thanks again.

Bob

[slimpickins]

Bob looking in Tweedales' book this company started in the 1820's as I. & J. Barber. The trademark ERA possibly from 1835.Joseph Elliot acquired the marks in 1928. Where are you finding these nice old Sheffield knives? Slim

[trutemper]

Hi Slim, thanks for the info. I just happened across both of these knives as is ususally the case when I get lucky(which isnt often ). I sure do like them both and cant believe how heavy and awesome the feel in the hand.....and the steel is incredible.....I`m sure I could shave with them!!Going to do some more reading!

Bob

[knife7knut]

I'm not familiar with the stamping or the name but I think the metal scale may have been a replacement.I base this on the fact that the pivot pins have been center punched on that side in order to swell the ends and hold the scale.
If that is indeed horn it is the strangest looking horn I have ever seen.It may possibly be sheep horn but I have never seen it used on such a small knife. Whatever the case it is a great find and I bet it could tell some stories!

[trutemper]

I`d love to know it`s provenance for sure!! Anther member Ive been talking with about these knives mentioned that maybe it was tortoise shell? What do you think?

Bob