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Schrade
Published: March 3rd, 2025
The Schrade story began in 1904 when George Schrade, an inventive cutler from New York, patented a series of switchblade knives. Schrade’s ingenuity revolutionized the knife industry with designs that combined functionality and reliability. His success led to the founding of the Schrade Cutlery Company in Walden, New York. Schrade’s early innovations quickly garnered attention, establishing the company as a leader in the burgeoning field of automatic knives.
George Schrade’s contributions to knife design extended beyond his patents. An inventor originally from Sheffield, England, Schrade’s earlier work included the foundation of the New York Press Button Knife Company in 1892, where he introduced practical automatic knife designs. After selling his interest in that company, he focused on building Schrade Cutlery into a pioneering brand.
- Schrade was founded by George Schrade (pictured above) in 1904
- Schrade was established in Walden,
New York
From 1904 to 1926, Schrade Cutlery thrived in Walden, New York, gaining a reputation for high-quality knives that appealed to both professionals and hobbyists. During this time, George Schrade continued to innovate, securing patents for additional knife mechanisms and expanding the company's product line to include tools tailored for outdoorsmen and tradespeople. Schrade's advancements in switchblade technology made its products highly sought after. The knives’ reliability and craftsmanship helped solidify the company’s reputation domestically and internationally.
However, as demand for Schrade’s products grew, so did the need for increased production capabilities. This growth set the stage for a merger with the Walden Knife Company, which had its own rich history of cutlery manufacturing.
In 1926, Schrade Cutlery merged with the Walden Knife Company, forming Schrade-Walden Cutlery Corporation. This merger expanded Schrade’s manufacturing capabilities and product offerings. The combined expertise of both companies allowed Schrade-Walden to introduce a diverse range of knives, including folding knives, hunting knives, and specialty tools.
The mid-20th century marked a period of significant growth and innovation for Schrade. The company expanded its product line to include knives with stainless steel blades, catering to changing consumer preferences for low-maintenance tools. Schrade’s emphasis on innovation also led to the development of safety features, such as locking mechanisms for folding knives.
- In 1946, Schrade was acquired by Imperial Knife Associated Companies
Despite its success, Schrade faced challenges in the late 20th century due to increased competition and globalization. The rise of imported knives, often sold at lower prices, pressured American manufacturers. Schrade’s commitment to maintaining quality standards resulted in higher production costs, making it difficult to compete in a price-sensitive market.
In 2004, the Imperial Schrade Corporation declared bankruptcy, ending over a century of manufacturing in the United States. Taylor Brands LLC, a Tennessee-based company, acquired the brand’s assets, including its trademarks and designs. While production moved overseas, Taylor Brands continued to produce knives under the Schrade name, maintaining the legacy of iconic lines like Old Timer and Uncle Henry.
In 2016, Smith & Wesson Holding Corporation acquired Schrade from Taylor Brands LLC, ushering the brand into a new era. Since then, Schrade has embraced modern trends in the knife industry while continuing to honor its legacy. The brand now offers a diverse portfolio that seamlessly blends traditional craftsmanship with contemporary innovation. This includes knives featuring cutting-edge materials such as titanium coatings and durable synthetic handles, designed to meet the needs of today’s consumers. While some long-time enthusiasts express regret over the shift away from U.S.-based manufacturing, Schrade has maintained its reputation as a reliable and accessible name in cutlery, catering to a global audience.
Schrade’s product lines today include modern interpretations of their classic models as well as new tactical and survival knives. The reimagining of Uncle Henry and Old Timer knives ensures that the spirit of these iconic series remains intact. Meanwhile, the use of advanced manufacturing techniques has broadened the brand’s appeal to younger, more diverse audiences.
- In 2016, Schrade was acquired by Smith & Wesson Holding Corporation
As the brand continues to evolve, it honors its roots while embracing the future of knife design. Schrade’s journey serves as a powerful example of the enduring appeal of well-crafted tools and the ingenuity of American cutlery. The brand’s rich history and innovative spirit ensure its place as a beloved name among knife enthusiasts worldwide.
What to Buy
The Schrade Stag Lockback combines traditional craftsmanship with rugged functionality. Its 3.75-inch stainless steel drop point blade offers exceptional edge retention, toughness, and versatility for everyday tasks and outdoor use. A satin finish enhances durability and adds a refined touch. The lockback mechanism ensures secure blade engagement for reliable and safe performance. The stag-jigged handle provides a comfortable, textured grip, accented by brass pins, liners, bolsters, and a lock for elegance and durability. Measuring 5 inches closed, this compact knife delivers timeless style and dependable practicality for collectors and everyday users alike.
The Schrade Frontier is a durable fixed-blade knife designed for tough environments. Its 4.5-inch drop point blade, made from 3Cr13MoV stainless steel with a black oxide coating, offers excellent durability, corrosion resistance, and a sleek tactical look. The full tang construction ensures maximum strength, while the textured tan polymer handle provides a secure grip in any condition. Measuring 8.5 inches overall and weighing 7.76 ounces, the Frontier balances size and weight for optimal maneuverability. A black nylon sheath with a belt loop adds convenient carry options, making it a dependable choice for outdoor and survival tasks.
The Schrade Sentiment Ultra Glide delivers reliability and functionality in a sleek design. Its 3.83-inch AUS-8 stainless steel drop point blade features a black oxide finish for durability and corrosion resistance. Schrade’s Ultra Glide bearing technology ensures smooth, swift blade deployment with a finger-flip mechanism. A liner lock secures the blade during use, while the textured black G-10 handle provides a strong, lightweight grip in any condition. Measuring 4.56 inches closed and 8.39 inches overall, this knife includes a stainless steel pocket clip and lanyard hole for versatile carry.
Written By
Drew Clifton
Drew is the lead writer for SMKW's Knives 101, crafting informative and engaging content for the world’s largest knife store. With expertise in knife history, design, and functionality, Drew delivers articles and product descriptions that educate and inspire knife enthusiasts at all levels.
Expert Reviewed
T.C. Barnette
T.C. Barnette is a dynamic media personality and the esteemed spokesperson for SMKW (Smoky Mountain Knife Works), where his passion for knives intersects with his captivating on-screen presence. With a magnetic charisma and deep expertise in cutlery, T.C. has become a beloved figure in the knife community.