CASE KNIVES
High quality, extremely collectible handmade knives since the 1800s.
SHOP CASE KNIVESRooted in traditional American craftsmanship, the New York Knife Co. 1-Bld. Barlow Folding Knife – Mastodon Ivory brings together time-tested design and rare natural materials in a piece that stands out in both performance and heritage. Built on the classic Barlow pattern, this knife reflects a legacy of durability and simplicity, refined with premium components that elevate it beyond the ordinary.
Measuring 3 1/2 inches closed, this knife carries comfortably while maintaining a solid, dependable feel in hand. The 2.5-inch spear point blade is crafted from 1095 carbon steel, a material known for its toughness, edge retention, and ease of sharpening. The satin finish gives the blade a clean, traditional look, while the spear point profile provides balanced performance for slicing, piercing, and everyday cutting tasks. A solid half stop adds an extra layer of control and safety during opening and closing, reinforcing the knife’s dependable, work-focused design.
The construction reflects attention to detail throughout. A satin finish nickel silver backspring and integral bolsters and liners provide strength and a seamless, refined appearance. Brass pins secure the build, adding both durability and a classic contrast to the overall design. Every element works together to deliver a knife that feels grounded, functional, and built to last.
What truly sets this knife apart is its handle material. The scales are crafted from genuine mastodon ivory, a fossilized material formed from the tusks of prehistoric mastodons that lived during the Ice Age. Over thousands of years, these tusks mineralized and developed unique coloration and character, resulting in handle scales that are not only durable but completely one of a kind. Each piece carries its own natural pattern and tone, giving the knife a distinct identity that can’t be replicated.
This combination of traditional Barlow design, high-carbon steel performance, and rare fossilized handle material makes the New York Knife Co. 1-Bld. Barlow Folding Knife a standout for collectors and users alike. It’s a knife that honors the past while delivering reliable function in the present, built for those who appreciate craftsmanship, history, and materials with a story behind them.
Classic Barlow design meets fossil history, available at SMKW.