Master the Art of Portable Cutting with These Top 13 Barlow Pocket Knives

Welcome to our roundup of the Barlow Pocket Knife - a classic piece of craftsmanship with a rich history. Whether you’re a seasoned knifemaker or a curious collector, our article delves into the unique features, design, and practicality of this iconic pocket knife. So, let’s dive in and uncover the charm and allure of the Barlow Pocket Knife.

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Reviews

Classic Barlow Pocket Knife with Jigged Bone Handle

The Boker Plus Barlow Knife stands out for its striking design, combining classic elements with functional performance. This American Barlow pocket knife features an overlong bolster and a spacious handle, allowing for a secure and comfy grip. The wide primary blade handles rough tasks with ease, while the small accessory blade comes in handy for finer cutting jobs. Jigged bone, a traditional handle material, adds an elegant touch that matches well with the stainless steel bolsters and liners.

The 440C stainless steel blades deliver top-notch performance and durability, and the satin finish adds a touch of sophistication. Weighing just 2.8 ounces, this Boker Plus knife is portable and easy to take with you wherever you go. With a long-standing tradition of crafting exceptional knives by hand, this particular Barlow knife from Boker continues to deliver on quality, style, and functionality.

Barlow Pocket Knife: Winterbottom 22WB

As someone who treasures quality and heritage, I was drawn to the Queen 22WB Barlow Winterbottom knife. I had high hopes for this pocket knife, given the renowned reputation of the Queen City Knives brand. Upon close inspection, I noticed the good quality of the Winterbottom bone material used in the handle, and the overall build of the knife seemed promising.

However, there were a couple of drawbacks that I couldn’t overlook. Firstly, there was an apparent play in both blades, which was concerning for such a reputable brand. Secondly, the fit and finish did not match the standards of other pocket knives I have used in the past or compare to that of the older, American-made Queen knives.

Despite these cons, the Queen 22WB Barlow Winterbottom shines when it comes to value. It is an excellent choice for those who appreciate the classic design and want to carry a stylish pocket knife at an affordable price. If you’re in the market for a budget-friendly knife with good aesthetics, you might find this pocket knife worth your consideration.

Limited Edition XXXVII Old R-BONE Barlow Case by Case

I recently got my hands on this old-school Case Barlow. It’s an amazing piece of history, with its true-sharp stainless steel and colorful bone handle. Holding it in my hand, I could feel the craftsmanship - it’s truly a masterpiece. The knife’s versatility is a bonus - it’s perfect for both everyday tasks and those special moments.

The 2.45” and 2.1” blade lengths are just the right size for most jobs, and the old red bone handle provides a stunning contrast in colors. I was particularly impressed with how well the Tru-Sharp stainless steel holds its edge - it’s an essential feature for any serious knife enthusiast. And let’s not forget the Barnboard jig pattern and the Barlow pattern stamp - such distinctive features add a unique touch to this limited edition.

As a US-made product, I take pride in its craftsmanship and the fact that it’s made from both domestic and imported materials. It may be a bit on the heavy side at 3 3/8 inches, but the weight only adds to its solid construction and durability.

However, I do wish the knife came with a sheath - that would have made it even more convenient to carry around. All in all, it’s a worthwhile investment for anyone looking to own a classic and well-made knife. The Case Barlow is a true testament to American craftsmanship and a reliable companion in the kitchen or in the great outdoors.

Rough Rider R2403 Barlow Pocket Knife

Delight in the unique charm of the Rough Rider 2403 Barlow Pocket Knife, a true masterpiece of artisanal craftsmanship. This exquisite blade boasts a 3.25-inch closed length, making it a perfect fit for everyday use. Featuring a mirror finish stainless clip and pen blades, the knife exudes a sleek, refined aesthetic.

The nickel silver bolster adds an elegant touch, while the handle showcases a stunning array of textures, from red stone and Abalone to Mother of Pearl and green malachite, along with a hint of turquoise. Each piece is meticulously crafted to be one-of-a-kind, bringing a touch of individuality to every ownership experience. This pocket knife is proudly boxed and made in China, offering a blend of quality and style.

Old Timer Barlow Pocket Knife: Classical Design and Durable Performance

This classic Barlow Pocket Knife from Old Timer is a finely crafted piece that boasts of quality down to the last detail. The 7Cr17 High Carbon Stainless Steel blades are sharp and durable, perfect for tackling daily tasks.

The knife features a clip point blade and a pen blade with nail pulls for added versatility. The sawcut handles with nickel silver bolsters, brass pins, and heat-treated back springs exude a vintage charm and add to the overall build’s sturdiness. The satin finish on the blades gives it an elegant look, while the non-locking slip joint mechanism ensures easy opening and closing.

With a closed length of 3.4 inches and an overall length of 5.7 inches, it is compact and convenient to carry around. Old Timer offers a wide range of colors and materials for the handle, providing options for personalization.

This pocket knife may be made in China, but it stays true to its roots by providing top-notch performance and affordable pricing.

Bombshell Barlow Risque Pocket Knife - Stainless Steel Blades and Acrylic Handles

Introducing the Novelty Cutlery Bombshell Risque Pocket Knife, a statement piece that’s sure to catch anyone’s eye. This unique pocket knife features stainless steel blades, with clear acrylic handles that showcase full-color inserts, both on the front and back. The design is matched by steel pins, liners, and stamped bolsters, giving this knife a sleek and sophisticated look that’s bound to turn heads.

With a blade length of 2-5/8”, you’ll be able to take on any task with ease. The pen blade measures 2”, making it perfect for smaller jobs, while the blade thicknesses come in at 1/16”. This knife measures 3-1/2” closed and is designed entirely in China. Whether you’re looking for a conversation starter or a practical addition to your everyday carry, the Novelty Cutlery Bombshell Risque Pocket Knife is sure to impress.

Rough Rider Stag Bone Barlow Pocket Knife

The Rough Rider Brown Stag Bone series is an excellent choice for everyday carry pocket knives, thanks to its sturdy construction and attractive design. The 440A stainless steel blades, along with the nickel silver Slant R, ensure maximum durability and edge retention. In my experience with this product, I found it easy to use and comfortable to handle due to its design comfort.

One of the highlights, however, is its portability, making it a convenient addition to any collection. The knife boasts a snap solidly in place when opening and closing, ensuring proper blade alignment and prevention of wobbling. The knife’s edge retention is quite commendable, and it cuts through various materials with ease.

While the knife is a bit lightweight, it is well balanced, and the ease of opening and closing further adds to its convenience when on the go. Overall, the Rough Rider Brown Stag Bone series is an affordable and reliable choice for those looking for a high-quality pocket knife.

DM1206 Damascus Steel Barlow Pocket Knife

As a user of the Damascus Steel Barlow Pocket Knife, I must say that it has proven to be a reliable companion for my everyday life. The beautiful white bone handle adds a touch of elegance to this practical tool, and the brass bolster provides a comfortable and secure grip. I particularly appreciate the Damascus steel clip and pen blades, making this knife not only functional but also versatile for various activities like hunting, camping, or hiking.

One element to note is that this pocket knife may require some maintenance to keep its luster intact. The hand wash only instructions are worth following to ensure longevity of the handle material. Despite this minor point, the DM1206 has proven to be an excellent addition to my collection of outdoor essentials.

Vintage Bombshell Barlow Pocket Knife

I’ve been carrying the Novelty Knife Co Bombshell Barlow Pinup Girl - let’s call her Bombshell - as my daily pocket knife for the past couple of weeks. At first glance, her pinup girl artwork on the acrylic handle grabbed my attention, and it’s a welcome change from the usual plain handles. However, what really stood out for me, and I believe it’s one of the features that make this knife truly unique, is her stainless clip and pen blades.

When you close her, she measures 3.25 inches, which makes her small enough to fit in my purse or pocket. I love how the mirror finish gives her a sleek and elegant look. The nickel silver bolster adds an extra touch of class and durability.

Overall, I’m really happy with my Bombshell. She’s not just a functional pocket knife but also a piece of art that adds a touch of personality to my daily life. However, I do find that the 3.25 inch length can sometimes be a bit too short for certain cutting tasks, but that’s a minor drawback considering her unique design and functionality.

Bear & Son 3 1/2 inch Rosewood Barlow Pocket Knife

The Bear & Son 2281R Rosewood Barlow is a classic American-made pocket knife that exudes quality and pride in its craftsmanship. My husband, an avid outdoorsman, recently gifted me one, and I’ve been pleasantly surprised. The high-carbon stainless steel 2.5-inch blade is both sturdy and sharp - it’s perfect for everyday cutting tasks and camping trips.

The closed length of 3.5 inches fits comfortably in my purse or backpack, while the 6-inch open length allows me to use it with ease. Weighing just 2.6 ounces, it’s lightweight yet substantial, striking the perfect balance.

The rosewood handles give it a lovely tactile feel and a classic look that I can’t get enough of. This pocket knife truly feels like a well-made tool, with excellent edge retention and a smooth opening mechanism. Although it’s not the cheapest option out there, the quality and craftsmanship make it a worthwhile investment.

Schrade Barlow Knife: A Versatile Pocket Option

I recently had the opportunity to try out the Schrade 278 Barlow Knife, and I must say, it was quite the experience. It’s a simple, yet sturdy tool that seems perfect for daily life tasks and outdoor adventures.

One of the main things that stood out to me was the knife’s durability. The 3Cr13MoV Stainless Steel clip point blade and pen blade both felt robust and capable of handling various tasks. While the blade length might seem short, the overall length of 5.7 inches ensured that it wasn’t too small for my needs.

The handle, made of brown celluloid with stainless steel bolsters, looked and felt nice in my hand. The brass pins and heat-treated back springs provided a reassuring click when the blades were closed, adding to the knife’s overall sturdiness.

However, there were a couple of things that didn’t quite meet my expectations. The opening method, which relies on a nail nick, felt somewhat cumbersome at times. And despite the knife’s overall strength, the locking mechanism seemed a bit weak, causing some concern about accidental blade movement.

In summary, the Schrade 278 Barlow Knife turned out to be a handy and durable tool perfect for everyday casual use. Its sturdiness and quality make it a worthwhile investment, but I wish it had a more reliable locking mechanism and a smoother opening process.

Stainless Steel Rough Rider Tuff Stag Barlow Knife

The Rough Rider Tuff Stag Barlow Knife is a unique, versatile, and stylish addition to any tool bag. Featuring 440A stainless steel blades, this knife provides sharp and accurate cuts. The handle, made of Staglon with brass liners and nickel silver pins, offers a comfortable grip.

Weighing 2.9oz, this lightweight knife won’t weigh you down. Handcrafted by skilled artisans, the Rough Rider Tuff Stag Barlow Knife is built with care and is backed for life. This durable, all-purpose knife is suitable for use by both right-handed and left-handed users, making it an excellent companion for various tasks.

Boker Barlow Prime Pocket Knife - Classic Sheepsfoot Design with Micarta Handles

The Boker Prime Barlow EDC boasts a chic and cutting-edge design, inspired by the classic teardrop-shaped Barlow knife from 17th century English utensils. The sleek pocket knife sports a sharp, satin-finished blade crafted from ice-hardened N690 steel, showcasing a sheepsfoot blade style with a refined plain edge.

Its handle, adorned with black Canvas Micarta scales, offers a comfortable grip and lightweight construction, sans any additional metal liners. With its modern elongated ricaso and 90-degree arrestor mechanism, opening and closing the Boker knife is a smooth and effortless process.

This exquisite pocket knife is enhanced with decorative stainless steel rivets and comes alongside a high-quality felt case, perfect for safe storage. Handcrafted in the renowned Boker Knife Manufactory in Solingen, Germany, this Boker EDC delivers the precision and unparalleled craftsmanship synonymous with the brand.

Buyer’s Guide

A Barlow pocket knife is a classic and versatile pocket knife, suitable for various tasks ranging from everyday use to survival situations. In this buyer’s guide, we will highlight important features, considerations, and general advice for choosing a Barlow pocket knife that meets your needs.

Design and Construction

One of the key features to consider when purchasing a Barlow pocket knife is its design and construction. Look for a knife with a sturdy frame made from durable materials like brass or steel. The blade should be made of high-quality steel, such as carbon or stainless steel, to ensure its longevity. Additionally, consider whether you prefer a lockback mechanism or a slip-joint mechanism, as each has its pros and cons in terms of safety and ease of use.

Size and Portability

As a pocket knife, portability is essential. Consider the overall size of the knife, including its blade length and handle thickness. It should be compact enough to fit comfortably in your pocket while still offering enough blade length for practical use. Lightweight materials like bronze or aluminum can also contribute to the knife’s portability without compromising its durability.

Blade Shape and Style

Different Barlow pocket knives may come with various blade shapes and styles, catering to different user preferences and tasks. Some common blade styles include clip point, spear point, drop point, and sheepsfoot. Clip point blades offer a fine tip and are ideal for piercing, while spear point blades provide a strong, pointy tip. Drop point blades offer a versatile blend of both, making them a popular choice for many users. Sheepsfoot blades, on the other hand, have a straight edge and a rounded tip, making them suitable for general cutting tasks.

Maintenance and Care

Proper maintenance and care are crucial in ensuring your Barlow pocket knife’s longevity and performance. Regularly clean the blade after use and lubricate the locking mechanism to prevent rust and smooth the operation. Store your knife in a protective pouch or case when not in use, and avoid exposing the blade to excess moisture or extreme temperatures. Additionally, consider sharpening your knife periodically using a high-quality sharpening stone to maintain its cutting edge.

FAQ

What is a Barlow Pocket Knife?

A Barlow Pocket Knife is a traditional type of pocket knife that dates back to the mid-19th century. It is characterized by its spring-loaded mechanism, allowing the blade to fold in when not in use. The Barlow Pocket Knife is known for its slim profile, making it convenient to carry and use in everyday life.

These pocket knives are typically made from materials like steel and brass, giving them excellent durability and a timeless appeal. They are suitable for various tasks such as cutting strings, opening packages, and even whittling wood. Today, Barlow Pocket Knives continue to be popular among knife enthusiasts and collectors alike due to their historical significance and practicality.

What makes a Barlow Pocket Knife different from other pocket knives?

One of the defining features of a Barlow Pocket Knife is its spring-loaded mechanism, which allows the blade to fold in when not in use. This feature sets it apart from other pocket knives, which may require a flip mechanism or latch to close the blade. The design of a Barlow Pocket Knife makes it compact and slim, making it more convenient to carry and use in tight spaces.

Additionally, Barlow Pocket Knives are often made using traditional manufacturing techniques and materials, such as brass or stainless steel. This gives them a classic appearance and a high level of craftsmanship. Many of these knives also feature intricate engravings or decorative elements, which adds to their overall appeal and character.

Can I still find Barlow Pocket Knives today?

Barlow Pocket Knives can still be found today, with both vintage and new models available for purchase. Vintage Barlow Pocket Knives can be found at antique stores, online marketplaces, or through specialized collectors, while modern, replica Barlow Pocket Knives can be purchased from various knife shops, online retailers, or direct from the manufacturer.

Some well-known modern knife manufacturers that produce Barlow Pocket Knife replicas include Boker, Schrade, and Camillus. However, these replicas may not adhere strictly to the original 19th-century design specifications, potentially making them less authentic or desirable to some collectors or buyers.

What should I consider when purchasing a Barlow Pocket Knife?

When purchasing a Barlow Pocket Knife, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, determine your primary use for the knife – is it mainly for everyday use, or for more demanding tasks like hunting or camping? The blade material and size will have an impact on the knife’s durability and performance in these scenarios.

Next, consider the knife’s overall dimensions and weight. Since Barlow Pocket Knives are known for their slim profile, you should be comfortable with the size and weight before making a purchase. It’s also important to check the locking mechanism to ensure that the knife remains secure while in use.

How do I clean and maintain my Barlow Pocket Knife?

To clean and maintain your Barlow Pocket Knife, start by disassembling the knife if possible – this will allow you to access all of its parts more easily. Remove any debris or dirt from the blade and any grooves using a soft-bristled toothbrush or a small, soft-bristled brush specifically designed for cleaning knives. If needed, use a mild detergent solution to remove stubborn dirt or grime.

After cleaning the knife, dry all the components thoroughly – particularly around the locking mechanism, as excess moisture can cause the knife to malfunction. It’s also a good idea to periodically apply a small amount of oil, such as gun oil or 3-in-1 oil, to the locking mechanism and any moving parts to keep them smooth and functioning well.

How should I store my Barlow Pocket Knife?

To ensure the longevity and condition of your Barlow Pocket Knife, it is essential to store it properly. Always keep the knife in a dry environment and avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures, as this can cause the materials to warp or crack over time. Store the knife in a case or a pouch specifically designed for pocket knives to protect it from dust and fingerprints.

If you decide to disassemble your Barlow Pocket Knife for cleaning or maintenance purposes, always store the parts together in a separate compartment within the case or pouch – this will help prevent any loss or damage of individual components. Finally, be mindful of where you store your knife, as it may attract unwanted attention or be mistaken for a weapon if left in plain sight.

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