Vintage Bear & Son Cutlery Folding Hunter Knife
Collectible Knives and Cutlery

Vintage Bear & Son Cutlery Folding Hunter Knife

This is a classic folding lockback hunter knife, bearing the distinct hallmarks of Bear & Son Cutlery. The knife features a clip-point blade crafted from high-carbon stainless steel, showing a satin finish. An etched signature, possibly 'Bear MGC', is visible on the primary face of the blade. The handle construction is a traditional three-rivet design using genuine stag or jigged bone scales, characterized by natural creamy-white tones and deep amber-brown marrow grooves. It is braced by heavy brass bolsters at both the pivot and the pommel. The blade is approximately 3.75 inches long, fitting into a curved ergonomic handle. Regarding condition, the brass bolsters exhibit a significant, heavy darkened patina and verdigris, indicating long-term storage or age without polishing. The blade shows minor surface scratching and localized spotting, consistent with light carry and use. The bone scales appear intact without major cracking, though they have aged to a mellow ivory hue. Based on the stamping and material composition, this piece likely dates from the late 20th century, representing a rugged, American-made utilitarian tool aimed at hunters and outdoor enthusiasts. The craftsmanship is solid, with thick liners and visible pinning typical of mid-range production cutlery from the 1980s or 1990s.

Estimated Value

$45.00 - $65.00

Basic Information

Category

Collectible Knives and Cutlery

Appraised On

February 9, 2026

Estimated Value

$45.00 - $65.00

Item Description

This is a classic folding lockback hunter knife, bearing the distinct hallmarks of Bear & Son Cutlery. The knife features a clip-point blade crafted from high-carbon stainless steel, showing a satin finish. An etched signature, possibly 'Bear MGC', is visible on the primary face of the blade. The handle construction is a traditional three-rivet design using genuine stag or jigged bone scales, characterized by natural creamy-white tones and deep amber-brown marrow grooves. It is braced by heavy brass bolsters at both the pivot and the pommel. The blade is approximately 3.75 inches long, fitting into a curved ergonomic handle. Regarding condition, the brass bolsters exhibit a significant, heavy darkened patina and verdigris, indicating long-term storage or age without polishing. The blade shows minor surface scratching and localized spotting, consistent with light carry and use. The bone scales appear intact without major cracking, though they have aged to a mellow ivory hue. Based on the stamping and material composition, this piece likely dates from the late 20th century, representing a rugged, American-made utilitarian tool aimed at hunters and outdoor enthusiasts. The craftsmanship is solid, with thick liners and visible pinning typical of mid-range production cutlery from the 1980s or 1990s.

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