Top 3 Most Popular Knives Of All Time

To preface this article, I want to emphasize that this list is based on my own observations, it is not based on any scientific experiment or survey, and is in no particular order. If you disagree with this list, please let us know why on our Facebook page.

1. The Case Cutlery Trapper.

1. History of the Trapper Pattern:

   • The Trapper pattern evolved during the early 1900s, which is often referred to as the Golden Age of American cutlery.
   • It was invented by Henry Thaddeaus Trapper, who designed it for a specific purpose: preparing his favorite snack—an apple cut in half with the core removed and spread with peanut butter. Trapper discovered that the narrow clip point was ideal for splitting and coring the apple, while the long spey blade excelled at spreading peanut butter.
   • The Trapper pattern gained popularity over time, especially in the pre-WWII years. Case and Kabar produced Trappers, but early examples are relatively rare from these companies.

2. Design and Features:

   • The classic Trapper pattern typically features two blades: the master “clip” blade and the secondary “spey” blade.
   • The clip blade serves as a general all-around cutting tool, while the spey blade is specifically designed for parting flesh, gutting, and skinning animals.
   • The Trapper’s clip and spey blades are usually the same length, although there have been variations.
   • Some years back, W.R. Case produced multi-blade Trappers, including larger models like the “Beast” (54 pattern) and smaller versions.

3. Uses:

   • The Trapper pattern is versatile and practical:
     • The clip blade is great for everyday cutting tasks, such as opening packages, whittling, and general utility.
     • The spey blade excels at skinning game, making it a favorite among hunters and outdoors enthusiasts.
     • Some users appreciate having two blades of equal length—one for food prep (spey) and the other for camp chores (clip).

4. Popularity:

   • Despite its relatively minor status in the past, the Trapper pattern has become extremely popular in recent decades.
   • Collectors and users alike appreciate its timeless design, functionality, and historical significance.

2. The Buck 110

1. History of the Buck 110:

   • In 1961, Al Buck and his son Chuck officially incorporated Buck Knives in San Diego, California.
   • Two years later, in 1963, Buck authorized the development of a new hunting and utility folding knife.
   • This innovative design featured a lockback mechanism and a large, singular clip-point blade.
   • Introduced in 1964, the Buck Model 110 rapidly became one of the most popular folding knives ever made.
   • With its 3.75-inch heat-treated 440C stainless steel blade, high tension lock, and ebony wood handles with brass bolsters, the Buck 110 was groundbreaking.
   • It was one of the first lockback knives considered strong enough to accomplish tasks typically reserved for fixed-blade knives.

2. Features and Evolution:

   • The original Buck 110 featured a typical clip-point blade, but over the years, it evolved.
   • The blade shape was exaggerated to allow for delicate cutting and skinning.
   • In 1981, Buck upgraded the blade steel to 425CM stainless steel with a hollow grind.
   • Later, in 1993, they switched to the currently used 420HC stainless steel, known for its corrosion resistance.
   • Buck also introduced variations like the Buck 110 Auto (an automatic version) and the Buck 112 Auto (a smaller variation with an automatic opener).
   • The Buck 110 Slim features modern enhancements like thumb studs and a deep-carry pocket clip.

3. Popularity and Legacy:

   • The Buck 110 stands as a symbol of quality and craftsmanship in the knife world.
   • From its birth in 1964 to groundbreaking innovations over the years, it has maintained its iconic status.
   • With approximately 15 million Model 110 knives produced since 1964, it remains a top choice for knife enthusiasts and everyday users alike.

3. Kershaw Leek

1. History of Kershaw Knives:

   • Kershaw Knives was founded in 1974 by Pete Kershaw, who left Gerber Legendary Blades to create his own cutlery company based on his original designs.
   • Pete Kershaw, an outdoorsman, grew up near Medford, Oregon, where he hunted, fished, and worked on equipment. His passion for knives led him to develop a line of hunting and pocket knives.
   • In April 1974, Pete and his wife Judy established Kershaw Knives in Lake Oswego, Oregon.

2. The First Kershaw Knives:

   • Pete Kershaw personally designed the first models, which included six fixed-blade knives and four folding knives.
   • He leveraged his knowledge from working at Gerber to find the right manufacturer. By May 1974, he appointed Kai Cutlery to produce Kershaw Knives, with Hattori Knife of Seki City making the six fixed-blade knives.
3. • The Kershaw Leek is one of the prized creations of the award-winning custom knife maker Ken Onion.
   • Its popularity stems from several factors:
     • Usability: The Leek hits the sweet spot in the EDC (Everyday Carry) market. It features a 3-inch blade, a 4-inch closed length, and an overall length of 7 inches. Plus, it weighs a mere 3 ounces, making it comfortable for everyday use.
     • Materials: The Leek is crafted with quality materials, contributing to its popularity as a light-use gentleman’s EDC knife.
     • Sleek Design: Ken Onion’s design combines functionality with elegance, making the Leek visually appealing and practical.

4. Awards and Recognition:

   • The Kershaw Leek has garnered acclaim in the knife community, and its rainbow-colored variant even won the Overall Knife of the Year award in 2002.

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