All About Pocket Knives

I've recently noticed that some of the folding hunter style knives I have share a curious quality, i.e. that knives of the same make but different ages differ in a similar way, i.e. the thickness of the blade and back spring.

Specifically, I have a Browning USA large lockback hunter from about 1973, and another of the very same make (4018 Stalker) which I'm almost certain is newer. The other instance is a Case Mako Shark from about 1980 and another from 1995.

In both cases the older knife is significantly thicker in the spine, i.e. the blade back and spring. Obviously, this gives the older knifes a much more substantial, and aesthetically pleasing quality. I'm pretty sure they would also have better performance and durability.

Does anyone know why this is? Is it just the decline of western civilization or something? I can't figure out why else this would be a common trait.

Any insight would be most appreciated.

Regards to all,

Jim

Is the steel the same in both of the Case knives?

Maybe CV (high carbon content) in the older knife.....and Stainless (blanked 420HC) in the newer one. Method of construction and materials MIGHT, MIGHT, play a part.

I don't REALLY have an answer.. .. just working on a guess..


Bill

Here is my guess...

I think it is just another example of cost controll.
Less material = lower production costs.

Bryan