Vintage W.R. Case & Sons 1905–1914 Two-Blade Jack Knife – Tested XX – Clip Point and Sheepsfoot – 3 5/8" Early Case Pocket Knife

This early W.R. Case & Sons jack knife, dating approximately 1905–1914, is a rare and beautifully preserved example from Case’s pre-WWI Bradford era. Both blades carry the historic W.R. CASE & SONS BRADFORD, PA tang stamp used only during this period, with the reverse of the clip blade marked TESTED XX, Case’s earliest hallmark of quality steel and double-testing.

This knife features an uncommon blade pairing for the era: a long clip point main blade and a secondary sheepsfoot blade, rather than the more typical pen blade found on jack knives of the time. The clip blade shows only minor wobble, while both blades maintain strong, confident snap. The creamy jigged bone handles display beautiful early jigging and color, pinned with brass to brass liners and framed in nickel silver bolsters. Measuring 3 5/8" closed, it embodies the craftsmanship and hand-worked character of Case’s earliest years.

🔧 Specs:

Maker: W.R. Case & Sons – Bradford, Pennsylvania
Era: 1905–1914 (Pre-WWI Stamp)
Pattern: Two-Blade Jack Knife
Blades: Clip Point (main) and Sheepsfoot (secondary)
Handle: Jigged bone, creamy/ivory tone
Bolsters: Nickel silver
Liners: Brass
Closed Length: Approx. 3 5/8"
Blade Action: Strong snap open and closed on both blades; minor play on clip blade

🔎 Condition Note:

This knife is in remarkable condition for a piece more than a century old. Both blades remain clean with little more than faint storage wear and age-appropriate carbon spotting. The handles are solid, tight, and well-preserved. Bolsters show mild, honest tarnish, and the backspring exhibits a small amount of carbon spotting (see photos). Both blades have crisp and strong snap opening and closing. The clip point has minor wobble, but the function on this knife is impressive.

This knife ships wrapped in acid-free archival tissue to help preserve both the blade and handle during transit and storage.

📜 Historical Note:

The 1905–1914 era marks a foundational chapter in Case cutlery history. This was the period when the “Tested XX” heat-treat designation first emerged, forming the backbone of Case’s reputation for superior steel. Knives from this era were completely hand-fitted, and production variations were common — including less typical blade pairings such as the clip/sheepsfoot configuration seen here.

Because the W.R. CASE & SONS BRADFORD, PA stamp was used for only a narrow window, surviving examples — especially in clean, tight condition — are increasingly scarce and highly sought after.

🧲 Collector’s Note:

Early Case knives from the pre-WWI era rarely surface in this condition. The unusual sheepsfoot secondary blade adds significant interest, as most jacks from this period were built with pen blades. Combined with the correct early stamps, strong action, clean blades, and beautiful bone, this piece stands as an exceptional addition for collectors of early Case history and rare blade configurations.

⚠️ 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.