Vintage 1984 Ka-Bar Dog Head Whittler – Three-Blade Pocket Knife – Jigged Bone Handles – 3.5" Closed

This vintage 1984 Ka-Bar Dog Head Whittler is a standout example of Ka-Bar’s mid-1980s craftsmanship, dressed in richly jigged bone handles with warm brown tones and deep texture. The famous nickel silver dog head shield is proudly set in the mark side scale—a beloved hallmark of Ka-Bar’s tradition that collectors continue to prize.

The whittler pattern features three versatile blades: a master clip point, a pen blade, and a coping blade, all tang-stamped Ka-Bar Olean, N.Y.. Measuring 3.5" closed, this knife offers a compact yet capable form—equally at home in a working pocket or a collector’s display.

🔧 Specs:

Maker: Ka-Bar – Olean, New York, USA

Pattern: Dog Head Whittler

Year: 1984

Blades: 3 (Clip Point, Pen, Coping)

Handle: Jigged bone with Dog Head shield

Bolsters: Nickel silver

Liners: Brass

Closed Length: 3.5"

🔎 Condition Note:
This knife is in excellent condition. All three blades are tight and function smoothly with strong snap. Light signs of handling and storage may be visible on bolsters or blades, but the jigged bone handles are solid with no cracks. The knife comes with its original Ka-Bar box and original bill of sale. Ships wrapped in acid-free archival tissue to help preserve both the blade and handle during transit and storage.

📜 Historical Note:
Ka-Bar introduced the Dog Head shield in the early 20th century, and it quickly became one of the brand’s most recognizable emblems. By the 1980s, Ka-Bar was still producing traditional American pocketknife patterns like this whittler in Olean, New York, even as many cutlers began outsourcing. Bone-handled Dog Head knives from this era are less common than their Delrin-handled counterparts, making them especially sought-after today.

🧲 Collector’s Note:
The Dog Head Whittler combines Ka-Bar’s iconic branding with the practical versatility of the whittler pattern. Bone-handled versions from the 1980s are scarcer and more desirable, particularly when paired with the original box. For Ka-Bar enthusiasts or anyone building a collection of American whittlers, this knife offers both utility and collectible value.

⚠️ 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.

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.