Schrade stands as one of America's most storied knife manufacturers, with roots stretching back to 1904 when George Schrade established the company in Walden, New York. George Schrade had already made his mark on the industry by patenting the first press-button switchblade in 1892, setting the stage for a legacy of innovation that would span more than a century. The brand has weathered two world wars, economic depressions, and significant industry changes while maintaining its commitment to producing reliable cutting tools.
The company specializes in a diverse range of products including folding knives, fixed blade knives, automatic knives, survival tools, hunting knives, and multi-tools. This broad portfolio allows Schrade to serve everyone from outdoor enthusiasts and hunters to everyday carry users seeking dependable pocket knives. The brand also owns two other legacy names in the American knife industry: Old Timer and Uncle Henry, further cementing its position in the traditional knife market.
After periods of ownership changes and manufacturing shifts, Schrade relaunched in 2022 with Alpha/Beta Class knives featuring premium materials and USA manufacturing, signaling a renewed commitment to quality. This relaunch represents the company's effort to honor its heritage while adapting to modern knife enthusiast expectations.
The brand's history reflects the evolution of American knife manufacturing itself, from its innovative beginnings through various ownership transitions. Today's Schrade offers products backed by a lifetime warranty, demonstrating confidence in their construction and materials.
Whether you're seeking a traditional pocket knife, a robust hunting blade, or a tactical tool, Schrade's current lineup aims to balance affordability with functionality. While the brand has evolved considerably from its original incarnation, it continues to trade on its historic reputation while working to establish credibility with contemporary knife users.
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