CASE Knife - Peanut Model - A Classic Gentleman's Knife on the Small Side

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 I finally broke down and bought a CASE knife.  It is, as most will admit, an iconic American made knife.  Originally I planned to buy the Sodbuster model, but once I got to the store I couldn't find the model I planned to buy and instead saw this Peanut model marked as "clearance".  It normally retailed for over $50 at Fleet Farm, marked down to $36 and with further discounts down to $33 plus tax.  This model with the brown synthetic handle lists on the CASE site for $64, so I'm very pleased with my buy.  

It is now my EDC, especially when I am dressed up and not carrying my larger ensemble (see previous post).  I may still use my US Military Utility knife as an occasional EDC, but I like this as an alternative, since I don't have to wear it on my belt (the utility knife is all stainless and a bit heavy for pocket carry in dress pants).

The peanut shape appears to date back to the late 19th century and became a model for CASE sometime before 1915.  It is the perfect "gentleman's knife" as it is small, attractive, and well-built with two different blades.  I have seen two explanations for the "peanut" label, one being due to its size (the length is only 2.88 inches and weighs only 1.1 once!).  The other has to do with its shape, as it seems to resemble a peanut when closed.  

As noted, it has two blades: a master clip blade and a smaller pen blade.  One site indicated that the smaller blade was originally intended to sharpen quills.   I'm not sure what I will use the two blades for, but I'll probably find something.

I'll be honest: I was astounded by the wide variety of CASE knives (there are dozens and dozens), even within the peanut model sub-category.  From more exotic/expensive handles (such as stag horn) to simple ones using a synthetic/plastic (think here the recognizable yellow one), there are models that are personalized as well, pushing the price for this model upwards to $70 or even $90!  One peanut model boasts a Damascus carbon steel blade with a Natural Maple Burl Wood handle that retails for, get this, a whopping $187!!  Obviously I went for the cheaper model....

The blade is said to be made from what appears as a proprietary stainless which they call Tru-Sharp Stainless.   Tru-Sharp is a special high-carbon steel that helps the blades hold an edge longer than conventional steel. It is also supposed to offer extraordinary blade strength and corrosion resistance.

 


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