Multitool.org Forum
Tool Talk => Swiss Army Knights Forum => Topic started by: SAK42 on September 13, 2023, 04:52:50 PM
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Hi Everyone,
I'm a keen SAK enthusiast, obviously. :cheers:
I've had a SAK of some kind or another since I was a boy (30+yrs ago), and the past year I have curated them all together, bought some new/old ones and given them all a good clean/service.
I have done as much research as I can on dating all the models by using the helpful links in here and the WIKI mainly by using the Tang Stamps, but would love to share the photos I have taken to see if anyone can further clarify or correct me. All the photos I have include Front / Back Tang and all tools out Front / Back.
Am I ok to post them for you to see and evaluate? There are 8 models or so I need help with, so maybe I'll keep to this 1 thread to keep the forum tidy?
Thanks in advance.
:)
(https://i.imgur.com/Q7HlqYc.jpg)
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Welcome to :MTO:, SAK42!
Show us your pics, please, and you'll get some informed comments. That's part & parcel of the SAK forum.
:climber:
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Welcome to :MTO:, SAK42!
Sow us your pics, please, and you'll get some informed comments. That's part & parcel of the SAK forum.
:climber:
Thanks Tinker Gnome, that's what I like to hear! :tu:
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Modeler
1976 - 1986
(https://i.imgur.com/nGDzihn.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/XmL7PML.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/SPOgLEC.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/JNYAM1C.jpg)
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Climber
1986-1991
(https://i.imgur.com/MSGBOH1.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/umvxsGC.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/o8QM9WH.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/LxeS5Rw.jpg)
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Economy Climber
1986-1992
(https://i.imgur.com/ti6s4yu.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Au4B0G6.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/I7LnXKY.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/cwjDPH6.jpg)
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Field Master
1992-2005
(https://i.imgur.com/GewCsx8.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/92S0FGo.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/J21iJ3w.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/0RJrLFs.jpg)
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Classic SD
Date = ?
(https://i.imgur.com/6BJkzmD.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/gaLbwQ2.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Njlb9Cl.jpg)
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Sportsman (1 of 2)
Date = ?
I have 2 Sportsman - with different Tang Stamps
This one appears newer.
Has a Half Stop on the Bottle Opener.
(https://i.imgur.com/WptxXt0.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/nYEIKjv.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/cPEWxk5.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/oI69Hvs.jpg)
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Sportsman (2 of 2)
Date = ?
Older one
No Half Stop on Bottle Opener.
(https://i.imgur.com/S6Usnes.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/vLD0Eqp.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/gRWR38F.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/pee8iGp.jpg)
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A fine collection you have there :like:
Don’t think I can add any further info as I’d be using the same sources as you :think:
Always nice seeing pics, there’s something often said around here
:worthless:
;) :cheers:
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Very nice photos. There isn't any warning on the boxes for these things, but perhaps it should be pointed out that they are extremely addictive. Also, you should know that this isn't a support group, but rather a nest infested with highly contagious and dangerous people. Rather like an old-time opium den, but without the nice dreams. I am afraid that at this stage you could fit right in. It doesn't appear that you have been exposed to more than the Victorinox plague, but be careful. Best wishes. Gary :(
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A fine collection you have there :like:
Don’t think I can add any further info as I’d be using the same sources as you :think:
Always nice seeing pics, there’s something often said around here
:worthless:
;) :cheers:
Thanks! :salute:
Re: Dates - I've just gone by the tangs on them, but have seen experts on reddit point out the tiniest details on tools etc that might hone in my broad predictions. Will see if someone comes along and adds anything.
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Very nice photos. There isn't any warning on the boxes for these things, but perhaps it should be pointed out that they are extremely addictive. Also, you should know that this isn't a support group, but rather a nest infested with highly contagious and dangerous people. Rather like an old-time opium den, but without the nice dreams. I am afraid that at this stage you could fit right in. It doesn't appear that you have been exposed to more than the Victorinox plague, but be careful. Best wishes. Gary :(
:D
I also have a Spyderco disease, which is much worse on the wallet.
SAK's are worth it. Half of the collection up there all have sentimental value, including one from each of my passed Grandads.
Keeping an eye open at Junk Shops for bargains is something I enjoy already.
3 (Champ, Pioneer X, Rambler) have been from Amazon (no soul) - but fully intend to create my own scratches on them for someone to find in years to come :D
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Alox Pioneer X
(Purchased August '23)
(https://i.imgur.com/mgv9qVy.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/lmrTtb8.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/HOojOrG.jpg)
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Fisherman
Purchased 2016
30th Birthday gift, name has been blurred.
(https://i.imgur.com/f62Ths4.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/GiKN3BQ.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/PfHDbsF.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/UfL0LfN.jpg)
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Let's see if this spreadsheet from the SAK thingy will show up. 91mm evolution. You can find it on the Wiki here, I think. Best wishes. Gary
[ This attachment cannot be displayed inline in 'Print Page' view ]
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Rambler
(Purchased April '23)
(https://i.imgur.com/E5CeRWh.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/HW8Wv0o.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/zISywJf.jpg)
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Swiss Champ
(Purchased 2021)
(https://i.imgur.com/46CXZ6M.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/RVbg0Ni.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/hVG7CYb.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/r8qfdcN.jpg)
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Let's see if this spreadsheet from the SAK thingy will show up. 91mm evolution. You can find it on the Wiki here, I think. Best wishes. Gary
[ This attachment cannot be displayed inline in 'Print Page' view ]
Cheers Gary, will have a look over it.
:cheers:
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My wishlist:
Angler
Ranger
Spartan
Bantam
"Roche" pharmaceutical branded one - any model.
The mission is to find vintage, and not buy new.
I'll update this thread with anything I find, hope you all enjoy!
:tu:
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There's a nice Roche Tourist here, but it's in a 3-knife lot:
https://www.ebay.com/itm/295887245289?hash=item44e4410fe9:g:s~4AAOSwUCRklPh4&amdata=enc%3AAQAIAAAA8Ora5np5cMmYkzCHgXfWNC79KLO%2F8fwahpYHYHhujr20vOBRT12dJ%2FpAOGt15Q7IfuM44h2Mr0rzhMIRNlv%2BV7IR59slPmrn4VUJAvnS5WMJMDOP7oFeHy47tv2VTSLwfM3QTxcz9cEDxtzHzn3qn3boCzRgnyKNvefAOn732USuVG0C8IwOyNndrl1chXqU%2Bomm%2Bt3gM2a5PheTzMClK5z6WbKyEvSPm4853NsrVlaJfViamZUBkBuV5ssxwCOC9bZEKoePijtx1kncWc84aVHd5Ni9gSVfWVD1nimu2qdqp7XWB3jF5P5cPWUiJAi5QA%3D%3D%7Ctkp%3ABk9SR57T787SYg
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There's a nice Roche Tourist here, but it's in a 3-knife lot:
https://www.ebay.com/itm/295887245289?hash=item44e4410fe9:g:s~4AAOSwUCRklPh4&amdata=enc%3AAQAIAAAA8Ora5np5cMmYkzCHgXfWNC79KLO%2F8fwahpYHYHhujr20vOBRT12dJ%2FpAOGt15Q7IfuM44h2Mr0rzhMIRNlv%2BV7IR59slPmrn4VUJAvnS5WMJMDOP7oFeHy47tv2VTSLwfM3QTxcz9cEDxtzHzn3qn3boCzRgnyKNvefAOn732USuVG0C8IwOyNndrl1chXqU%2Bomm%2Bt3gM2a5PheTzMClK5z6WbKyEvSPm4853NsrVlaJfViamZUBkBuV5ssxwCOC9bZEKoePijtx1kncWc84aVHd5Ni9gSVfWVD1nimu2qdqp7XWB3jF5P5cPWUiJAi5QA%3D%3D%7Ctkp%3ABk9SR57T787SYg
That’s the one!
Unfortunately they won't post to the UK :(
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Well blast it, I didn't bother to look at your location when I posted the link.
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Economy Climber
1986-1992
As can be seen in the spreadsheet that Gary posted, the Economy Climber is most likely 1991 or 1992. Victorinox (like most every cutler) is loath to waste anything, so ths scissors with screws may have continued another year or two after the riveted type were introduced.
A nice little collection you have there, and I highly recommend you add a Bantam! :tu:
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Nice collection and pics, SAK42! :cheers:
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As can be seen in the spreadsheet that Gary posted, the Economy Climber is most likely 1991 or 1992. Victorinox (like most every cutler) is loath to waste anything, so ths scissors with screws may have continued another year or two after the riveted type were introduced.
A nice little collection you have there, and I highly recommend you add a Bantam! :tu:
Ah nice one, I'll amend the post date. Thanks!
<edit> just realised I can't go back and modify the post. :dunno:
Nice collection and pics, SAK42! :cheers:
Thanks Rizio :tu:
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A fine collection you have there :like:
Don’t think I can add any further info as I’d be using the same sources as you :think:
Always nice seeing pics, there’s something often said around here
:worthless:
;) :cheers:
+1
Thanks for sharing!
:cheers: :tu:
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+1
Thanks for sharing!
:cheers: :tu:
:tu:
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Some new additions arrived yesterday, pics incoming.
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:popcorn:
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Alox Bantam
Date ?
(https://i.imgur.com/OyaizIX.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/12EIkSB.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/RyfkCr4.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/mbLCgyB.jpg)
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I have to say, these are some beautiful pictures. You are quite the photographer!
I was particularly drooling over the 1986 - 1992 Climber. I've been on the lookout for one of that vintage for my own collection. It's very easy to find post-1992 models, of course. And it's not hard to find pre-1986 Climbers where there's no sewing eye in the reamer. But those few transitional years? It's not so easy!
Looking forward to more pics!
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Spartan
1992 - 2005
(https://i.imgur.com/cXgrakK.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/fCDfaEl.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/B5x2xHc.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/m13j2sn.jpg)
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Executive 81
Date ?
(https://i.imgur.com/sPtb9P6.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/em8Caql.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/2e9HKGQ.jpg)
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Ranger
1986 - 1992
Metal Inlay
(https://i.imgur.com/tM7Ofqw.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/XXB8ANA.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/p0eZ315.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/9YveSQq.jpg)
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I have to say, these are some beautiful pictures. You are quite the photographer!
I was particularly drooling over the 1986 - 1992 Climber. I've been on the lookout for one of that vintage for my own collection. It's very easy to find post-1992 models, of course. And it's not hard to find pre-1986 Climbers where there's no sewing eye in the reamer. But those few transitional years? It's not so easy!
Looking forward to more pics!
Thank you, I'm glad you like my collection. :salute:
Always great to know information like this, I was unaware of it's scarcity. That one was inherited.
If you see any other details that hone in the dates I've put on any of my models please let me know. It's one of the main reasons i'm sharing them all.
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Nice. Do you carry a SAK? I think that's my favorite part of these shiny red things. Best wishes. Gary
:tu:
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Nice. Do you carry a SAK? I think that's my favorite part of these shiny red things. Best wishes. Gary
:tu:
Alox Pioneer X if I have one in my pocket.
Rambler always on keys.
Swiss Champ for random tasks in the house, lives in a leather case on a shelf.
The rest of my collection is stored in a Vault Case. Sometimes open a beer with a random one, but don't use any of the other tools for preservation. :D
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The new additions (besides the Bantam) were all full of grime and some tools wouldn't deploy etc.
After a bit of restoration, they're good to go. :tu:
Simply put, my process is:
Soak in hot water with dish soap for an hour.
Scrub with toothbrush.
Once dry, I Polish each tool and scales with Auto Sol.
Clean again with hot soapy water, using toothbrush to get rid of all compound.
Soak tool in WD-40 for 30mins or so
Clean again for a final time.
Once dry all pivots are treated with Victorinox oil, and moved about a bit.
(https://i.imgur.com/1MRKdhz.jpg)
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Nice additions to the collection,SAK42! :cheers:
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:iagree: :like:
Great photos SAK42 :cheers:
I was dating my collection but my wife found out and put a stop to it
:rofl:
:facepalm:
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I've been waiting for this pun since this thread was started...
:ahhh
:twak:
:cheers:
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:iagree: :like:
Great photos SAK42 :cheers:
I was dating my collection but my wife found out and put a stop to it
:rofl:
:facepalm:
:rofl:
:facepalm:
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:iagree: :like:
Great photos SAK42 :cheers:
I was dating my collection but my wife found out and put a stop to it
:rofl:
:facepalm:
Well, SAK42 seems to have gotten away with it so far. Just make sure to keep it casual and whatever you do, don't fall in love with the Executive! ;)
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: :like:
:iagree: :like:
Great photos SAK42 :cheers:
I was dating my collection but my wife found out and put a stop to it
:rofl:
:facepalm:
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Great thread and pictures Sir SAK42
I know the spreadsheet above that IMR4198 posted is mainly for 91mm SAKs - But I tend to use it for all SAK sizes - assuming that tool changes happened at the same time across the range - Not true in a few cases (eg SD half-stop) - but probably true for most changes
Same for the tang stamps.
So I would put your Classic at 92 (scissor rivet) to 2005 VSSR tand stamp - not very precise, for sure - but probably correct :o
EDIT PS. Your Executive 81 - Must be post 2014 - As that is when Vic started making the Delémonts - But also not a very narrow date range :(
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Late 70’s to mid 80’s Electrician. They don’t make them like this anymore
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Lovely alox, Swisster! :like: :like: :cheers:
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A couple of Christmas gifts just arrived from Germany.
Red and Black Alox Pioneer X, sitting next to my EDC regular silver.
(https://i.imgur.com/RYXxCzO.jpg)
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Nice :like: :tu:
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Swisschamp
Officer Knife 100 year Anniversary
1997
Love the metal inlay on this :)
(https://i.imgur.com/PWEdLtZ.jpeg)
(https://i.imgur.com/W11G7Kd.jpeg)
(https://i.imgur.com/i5q1Yho.jpeg)
(https://i.imgur.com/WIsVz6a.jpeg)
(https://i.imgur.com/fHYKFQf.jpeg)
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Congrats on the new addition. That's a "sharp" looking knife. :D
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That tin looks rather oversized for just one SAK. Was there something else in there besides the pretty SwissChamp? Best wishes. G
:gimme:
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Swisschamp
Officer Knife 100 year Anniversary
1997
Love the metal inlay on this :)
Lovely SAK - Very collectible
But is it really an inlay? It looks like a print ? ??? :think:
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Congrats on the new addition. That's a "sharp" looking knife. :D
Thanks! Really pleased with it, the tin is slightly tarnished but the knife is brand new.
That tin looks rather oversized for just one SAK. Was there something else in there besides the pretty SwissChamp? Best wishes. G
:gimme:
The tin holds the knife in a cutout hole and it comes with some paperwork, and a paper sheath that goes over it - I'll try post up some photos for you when I get a chance.
Lovely SAK - Very collectible
But is it really an inlay? It looks like a print ? ??? :think:
Thanks, definitely one of my favourites.
I think it is a metal inlay, due to it's reflectiveness and you can feel the edges of it ever so slightly. Just had a compare with my printed Fisherman and it definitely looks different, less sparkly and more mirror.
This video has a better view of the design (spartan issue) if you want to check it out and see.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f3M9VODcNDM
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Waiter
1986 - 1991
Found an old Waiter at a junk shop, tools were polished, cleaned, oiled, sharpened - and scales replaced. :D
I like to keep original scales where possible, but this one was... beyond saving. Never replaced any scales before and went smoother than expected. Really pleased with the outcome.
Before
(https://i.imgur.com/HvVt0KR.jpeg)
(https://i.imgur.com/mAlPzFH.jpeg)
(https://i.imgur.com/xBLY1Na.jpeg)
After
(https://i.imgur.com/SEQkrjH.jpeg)
(https://i.imgur.com/OpQgeEl.jpeg)
(https://i.imgur.com/y9Frsnq.jpeg)
(https://i.imgur.com/HlhrTAr.jpeg)
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Nice work :tu:
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Ranger
1986 - 1992
Metal Inlay
(https://i.imgur.com/tM7Ofqw.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/XXB8ANA.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/p0eZ315.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/9YveSQq.jpg)
Respectfully, I am curious why you date this Ranger 1986 to 1992? I may be misinformed, I've not been on here in a while. But the scissors pivot and the package hook "all purpose" hook started in or about '91, 92' as I understand it.
The reason I ask is that I bought my Vic Super Tinker in '88 or '89 and it has the scissors screw pivot and no multi hook
Am I all wet on this?
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^^^ Hmmm - Gotta agree TB
I'd say 92 (hook present) to 99 (locking nub on sd not present ..... I think)
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Nice collection, by the way. Like you, some of the most interesting stuff I have is from flea markets or something I've been to hell and back with.
The tang stamps are helpful in date coding but are definitely not the only thing to look at. Aside from the tangs, check:
.Scissors pivot pressed or screw (screw prior to 91/92)
.Corkscrew flouted or not (stopped in 70's or early 80's. Forget off top of my head)
.Large screwdriver /Bottle opener slip lock at 90° or not
.Whether or not the multi hook exists (91 or 92 and newer)
.Keyring - is attachment a shim, or does it fill a layer? Obviously a bail is even older.
.Height of layer division shims
.Backside Philips: does it have a can key slot or not? (80's to 92?)
.Bottle opener or Can opener metal finish in the craw area. (Older ones sometimes not so smooth, usually pre-1980's
.Cellidor scales, when removed, are more solid on older ones
.Tweezers handle material, metal or plastic. I dont tend to use that as the tweezers can be easily moved from one knife to another. But if everything else adds up old and the tweezer handle it metal, it's more of a confirmation
Metal inlays: Many are now hot stamped like more recent L.L. Bean offerings. Someone else can tell my the TYPE of metal but not me.
For what its worth. And please correct me if I am wrong
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^^^ Hmmm - Gotta agree TB
I'd say 92 (hook present) to 99 (locking nub on sd not present ..... I think)
Thank you sir. I try to get something right, now and then
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Respectfully, I am curious why you date this Ranger 1986 to 1992? I may be misinformed, I've not been on here in a while. But the scissors pivot and the package hook "all purpose" hook started in or about '91, 92' as I understand it.
Nice collection, by the way. Like you, some of the most interesting stuff I have is from flea markets or something I've been to hell and back with.
The tang stamps are helpful in date coding but are definitely not the only thing to look at. Aside from the tangs, check:
.Scissors pivot pressed or screw (screw prior to 91/92)
.Corkscrew flouted or not (stopped in 70's or early 80's. Forget off top of my head)
.Large screwdriver /Bottle opener slip lock at 90° or not
.Whether or not the multi hook exists (91 or 92 and newer)
.Keyring - is attachment a shim, or does it fill a layer? Obviously a bail is even older.
.Height of layer division shims
.Backside Philips: does it have a can key slot or not? (80's to 92?)
.Bottle opener or Can opener metal finish in the craw area. (Older ones sometimes not so smooth, usually pre-1980's
.Cellidor scales, when removed, are more solid on older ones
.Tweezers handle material, metal or plastic. I dont tend to use that as the tweezers can be easily moved from one knife to another. But if everything else adds up old and the tweezer handle it metal, it's more of a confirmation
Metal inlays: Many are now hot stamped like more recent L.L. Bean offerings. Someone else can tell my the TYPE of metal but not me.
For what its worth. And please correct me if I am wrong
All great information, Thanks! No reason to worry about ruffling feathers, I don't really know what I'm doing regarding the dating - which is why I created this very thread :D
Annoyingly I can't work out how to edit an old post and change the dates on that post.
^^^ Hmmm - Gotta agree TB
I'd say 92 (hook present) to 99 (locking nub on sd not present ..... I think)
:tu: Thanks for the insight mate.
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Re: Dates - I've just gone by the tangs on them, but have seen experts on reddit point out the tiniest details on tools etc that might hone in my broad predictions. Will see if someone comes along and adds anything.
Modeler: c. ‘83
Climber: ‘87 or ‘88
EcoLine Climber: c.’94
Fieldmaster: ‘00 or ‘01
Spartan: ‘02
Ranger: ‘92 maybe ‘93
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Waiter
1986 - 1991
‘90 or ‘91.
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Thanks Black Sunshine, really honed in on some dates there.
I'd be really interested in what you see in them that helps you be so specific.
Some more SAKs have been added to the hoard, pics incoming!
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Tourist
UBS Metal Inlay
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Fluted Corkscrew
No eye in awl
(https://i.imgur.com/xxIStm2.jpeg)
(https://i.imgur.com/eFes656.jpeg)
(https://i.imgur.com/tIVoGWK.jpeg)
(https://i.imgur.com/JKcyQfu.jpeg)
(https://i.imgur.com/JpwNUym.jpeg)