All About Pocket Knives

I bought these today. The guy told me that the queen was old but after some research, I found that you can buy them new. I don't know how long they have been making this pattern. Does anyone know?


He said this one was a 4 line Camillus, whatever that means. He said this one was old also. I've never seen one with a watch chain.



I also bought some more, one of them a Shapleigh Hardware Co St Louis MO but I don't want to be a bore with too many pics.
Thanks,
Carl

Ok, the Queen "Big Chief" pattern has been in production since the 1950's and is still in production today. Yours may actually be an older one sine the tang stamp has the patent number. Although its not a pattern with a lot of collector interest since its a "plain jane" type knife.

The Camillus 4-line stamping CAMILLUS/CUTLERY CO/CAMILLUS NY/USA was in use roughly from the WWI era through WWII. Yours appears to be maybe a 1930's era knife since it is of less expensive construction. The chain is set up so that you could hook the fastener over a button on your overalls and kee the knife in an overall pocket thus to avoid losing it. Often referred to as a "Boy's Knife".

Actually looking at the pics of your Big Chilef again, it probably is later...maybe from the late 70's or early 80's....I say this because of the etch "440 Stainless"....they only did that for a few years.

I appreciate the information. You guys are great.
Carl