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Stockman Knife Pattern
Published: May 23rd, 2025
The stockman knife pattern has long held its place as one of the most iconic and lasting traditional pocket knives in American cutlery. With a design focused on utility, versatility, and reliability, the stockman quickly became a favorite among ranchers, farmers, and tradesmen throughout the United States, particularly in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. It is still going strong today, valued both by those who carry it as an everyday tool and by collectors who appreciate its history and craftsmanship.
To understand the origins of the stockman, it is important to first consider the broader history of slip joint knives. The basic slip joint mechanism, which uses a backspring to hold the blade open and closed, dates back to at least the 1660s in Europe. Early French and English folding knives often featured a single blade and were intended for general-purpose use. As cutlers experimented and responded to demand, multi-blade configurations became more common throughout the nineteenth century, offering users more edge styles within a single tool.
The stockman pattern, as it came to be known, originated in the United States sometime around the 1880s. It was developed with livestock handlers and ranchers in mind, people who needed a durable, compact knife that could handle a range of daily tasks. Its usefulness quickly became apparent in the American West and Midwest, where practical tools were essential for long days spent working with cattle and horses, repairing fences, and tackling other rugged chores.
What distinguishes the stockman from other traditional patterns is its three-blade layout. A standard stockman includes a clip point blade, a sheepsfoot blade, and a spey blade, each with a unique purpose. The clip point is generally the primary blade, favored for slicing, skinning, and general utility. The sheepsfoot blade, with its straight edge and rounded spine, is excellent for controlled cuts and is often used when safety and precision are important. The spey blade, originally designed for spaying and castrating livestock, features a blunt, curved tip that is well-suited for skinning and other delicate work where punctures must be avoided.
Interestingly, some of the earliest stockman knives featured a narrow spear point as the primary blade rather than the now-standard clip point. The overall construction generally places the main blade on its own backspring, while the two secondary blades share a second backspring. This layout ensures that the knife remains compact while offering three reliable cutting tools in one pocket-sized package.
One of the reasons the stockman pattern became so widely adopted is its practicality. In outdoor or work environments where a sharpening stone may not be immediately available, having multiple blades meant that users could switch to another when one became dull. It was, and still is, an efficient and dependable design for those who rely on their knives throughout the day.
- The stockman pattern originated in the United States around the 1880s
- The stockman has a three-blade layout, including a clip point, sheepsfoot, and spey blade
- Stockman knives generally place the main blade on its own backspring, while the secondary blades share an additional backspring
Over the years, nearly every major American cutlery company has produced its own interpretation of the Stockman. W.R. Case & Sons is perhaps the most well-known, with its medium and large Stockman knives standing out as flagship models. Camillus, Schrade, Old Timer, Buck, Queen, and Boker have all contributed to the popularity of the pattern, often making subtle adjustments to bolster shape, blade geometry, and handle materials. Whether crafted from jigged bone, wood, synthetic Delrin, or more premium materials like stag and exotic hardwoods, the Stockman pattern has remained true to its core function and look.
It is also worth clarifying that not all three-blade pocketknives are Stockmans. Similar configurations, such as the Whittler or Congress, differ in blade orientation, spring setup, and intended use. A true Stockman is defined by its specific three-blade layout and the way those blades are arranged across two backsprings, with the clip point blade usually taking center stage.
For more than 140 years, the Stockman has stood as a shining example of practical knife design. It has earned a permanent place in the pockets of working people and collectors alike. The combination of functional blades, a manageable profile, and time-tested durability has ensured the Stockman pattern remains not only relevant but essential in the world of traditional folding knives. Whether used on the ranch, in the shop, or around the campfire, the Stockman continues to represent a balance of form and function that few other patterns can match.
What to Buy
The Case XX Small Stockman in Blue Sycamore Wood features three TruSharp surgical steel blades: a 2" clip point, 1.5" sheepsfoot, and 1.49" pen blade, each designed for precision and utility. The vibrant blue sycamore wood handle showcases natural grain with polished bolsters and nickel silver pins. At 2.63" closed and just 1.1 ounces, it’s compact, lightweight, and easy to carry. TruSharp steel ensures excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance. Built to Case’s high standards and made in the USA, this knife delivers dependable performance in a refined package.
The Buck 301 Stockman Black Sawcut Composition features three satin finish 420HC stainless steel blades: a 2.75" clip point, 2" sheepsfoot, and spey, each with nail nicks for easy opening. The handle is crafted from black sawcut composition and fitted with nickel silver pins, liners, bolsters, and a hammer and anvil shield. Closed length measures 3.87" and it weighs 2.9 ounces, offering a solid and balanced feel in hand. Built in the USA with Buck’s commitment to quality, this traditional folder delivers dependable performance for daily tasks while maintaining a classic look and durable construction.
The Queen Cutlery Green Jigged Bone Stockman features three mirror-polished 1095 carbon steel blades: a clip point, sheepsfoot, and spey, each with a nail nick for easy opening and excellent edge retention. The handle is crafted from green jigged bone, offering a secure grip and classic texture with a bold, standout color. Brass liners and nickel silver pins provide durability, while polished nickel silver bolsters reinforce the frame. Built for everyday utility and timeless appeal, this Stockman blends traditional craftsmanship with rugged functionality.
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.