All About Pocket Knives

W.B. Belknap was an astute businessman. He was able to quickly discern the needs of his clients and community, focusing on what goods and services would best serve to make his business grow. He began his venture at a time when rivers were the transportation freeways and horsepower was real: mules and carts, horses and wagons. He built on this, providing quality, affordable tools, with brand names such as 'Belknap, King of the Bluegrass' and Thoroughbred, reflecting Kentucky's own pride in its unique topography and its love of fine horseflesh.
Some of Belknap trademarks are John Primble (1931), Cyclone (1952), Crusader (1935), Belmont, Old Kentucky Home, Pride of Kentucky and Pine Knot. Nap (1909) Blue Ribbon (1949). Spotless Town (1951) Homemaker (1958) Slumber Deep (1959) Speedmore (1962-83) Cap’N Nap (1964) Knap (1982)

Belknap while obviously a hardware and manufacturing leader is also remembered for its pocket knives. By the 1800's, pocket knives were some of its primary lines of merchandise. The company carried Russell I*XL and LF & C, then introduced its own brands; Blue Grass, Pine Knot, Jas. W. Price and most noteworthy, the John Primble. This trademark was used as early as 1890, and probably before. It is also found on cutlery. Pine Knot knives were most likely made for Belknap by Robeson. The Primble knives (not those stamped Prussia or Germany) were manufactured under contract by Camillus, Boker, Schrade, Utica and Case