Vintage Utica Girl Scout Featherweight Pocket Knife – 2 Blade – Bail – Circa 1940s–1950s

This vintage Girl Scout pocket knife made by Utica Cutlery is a wonderful example of mid-century American scouting memorabilia. Compact, practical, and built for everyday utility, knives like this were commonly carried by young scouts for camp chores, crafts, and outdoor adventures.

The knife features the Utica “Featherweight” design, a streamlined two-blade configuration intended to provide useful cutting tools while keeping the knife lightweight and easy to carry. The blades include a classic clip blade and pen blade, giving the user versatile cutting options for small tasks.

The handles are fitted with black jigged synthetic scales with a distinctive Girl Scout shield, while a steel bail ring at the end allows the knife to be attached to a keychain, lanyard, or scout uniform cord. This practical feature was common on scout knives of the era and made the knife easy to carry during outdoor activities.

The tang stamp reads “UTICA FEATHERWEIGHT PAT. APL.”, identifying it as part of Utica’s Featherweight line of lightweight pocket knives produced during the mid-20th century.

Measuring 3 3/8 inches closed, this knife is a compact and historically interesting piece tied directly to the tradition of American scouting.

🔧 Specs

Maker: Utica Cutlery Co.
Pattern: Featherweight Girl Scout Knife
Blades: 2 (Clip Blade and Pen Blade)
Blade Steel: Steel
Handle Material: Black jigged synthetic
Shield: Girl Scout emblem
Bolsters: Steel
Bail: Steel keyring/bail attachment
Closed Length: Approx. 3 3/8"
Locking Mechanism: Slipjoint
Country of Manufacture: USA

🔎 Condition Note

This knife presents in good vintage condition.

Both blades open and close smoothly with good snap. There is a small amount of blade wobble present on both blades, which is not uncommon for knives of this age and construction.

The blades show light patina and surface wear consistent with normal age and use. The handles remain intact with no visible cracks and retain their original texture and Girl Scout shield.

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

📜 Historical Note

Utica Cutlery Company of Utica, New York produced knives for numerous scouting organizations throughout the 20th century. During the 1940s and 1950s, Utica introduced their “Featherweight” line, designed to offer practical utility while keeping knives lighter and easier to carry for everyday users.

Knives like this were commonly carried by Girl Scouts during camping trips and outdoor activities, making them both useful tools and meaningful keepsakes tied to the history of American scouting.

🧲 Collector’s Note

Vintage Girl Scout knives remain popular among collectors of scouting memorabilia and traditional pocket knives. Utica-made examples are especially desirable due to their solid construction and clear historical connection to mid-century American scouting culture. With its original shield, bail, and classic Featherweight design, this knife represents a charming piece of that history.

⚠️ 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.