Vintage Camillus Utility Knife – Circa 1930s–40s – Jigged Bone Handles, Nickel Silver Bolsters

This vintage Camillus Cutlery Co. folding knife is a striking piece of early 20th-century American craftsmanship, likely dating between the early 1930s and mid-1940s. It features jigged bone handle scales with warm caramel and amber tones, nickel silver bolsters, brass liners, and a steel bail for pocket or lanyard carry.

The main spear blade and pen blade both show honest age patina and retain full shape. Snap is strong opening, closing, and half-stops. The construction is tight, with no wobble. The four-line tang stamp—CAMILLUS / CUTLERY CO. / CAMILLUS, N.Y. / U.S.A.—confirms the knife's early vintage origins.

Specifications:
• Maker: Camillus Cutlery Co., Camillus NY
• Era: Circa 1930s–1940s
• Blades: 2 (spear point & pen blade)
• Handle: Jigged bone
• Bolsters: Nickel silver
• Liners: Brass
• Closed length: Approx. 3 3/8 inches
• Features: Bail for keyring or lanyard

Condition:
This knife is in solid vintage condition with signs of use and age typical for the era. Both blades exhibit surface patina and light peppering but remain strong and serviceable. Bone handles show no cracks or major chips. The snap is good, and the knife opens and closes securely. This knife ships wrapped in acid-free archival tissue to help preserve both the blade and handle during transit and storage.

Historical Note:
Camillus was one of America’s most prolific cutlers, producing knives for both civilian use and military contracts, especially during WWII. This example likely predates or overlaps with wartime production, carrying the more detailed "Cutlery Co." four-line tang stamp used before the simplified post-war era marks. The jigged bone scales and full steel bail point to a utility design valued by workers, outdoorsmen, and tradesmen alike.

Collector's Note:
Knives from this early Camillus period are increasingly hard to come by—especially with jigged bone handles intact. Whether you're collecting by era, manufacturer, or pattern, this is a beautiful and useful example from one of America's cornerstone knife companies.

DISCLAIMER:
All knives in this shop are vintage or pre-owned unless stated otherwise. While many are in excellent condition, they may show normal signs of age or handling such as scuffs, blemishes, or blade wear. I try to document condition as accurately as possible in both the description and photos. Feel free to reach out with any questions!

By purchasing this knife, you are confirming that you are 18 years of age or older and are complying with all applicable laws and regulations regarding knife ownership in your area.