Shapleigh Diamond Edge Hunter switchblade Marine Pearl

This is a Shapleigh Hardware Hunter switchblade with Marine Pearl celluloid scales (handles). This knife was made under contract by Schrade Cut Co for the hardware giant in the early 1900s through about 1945. This is the largest model and was designated the model A8 measuring 4 7/8" closed and 8 3/4 inches open. The tang is stamped SHAPLEIGH HDW CO and the letters DE inside of a diamond. The backside has three patent dates of '09, '10 & '16. The blade was originally etched DIAMOND EDGE with a diamond between the words and the letters DE inside. Although this blade has some pitting and scratches, you can still see the diamond and some of the letters. The blade is full. The Marine Pearl scales are in very good condition with a small crack between top pins on the back scale. The knife works well with the blade tip seating deep, strong snap and locks up with a little extra up and down (approx 1/4 inch). Overall a good example of a "top of the line" American hardware co switchblade from the 1930s with a bit of original etch! Safety works.