501 vs. 503

[utzman]

Could anyone tell me the relative difference in overall thickness between the 501 and 503? I EDC a 503, and I'm wanting just a little larger knife. The 503 is so comfortable in the pocket I forget it's there sometimes. Most of the retailers in my town carry the 503 (including Academy and Wal-Mart) but no one sells the 501. I'd really like to see and handle one before I order online, but that doesn't look possible. Thanks in advance for the help!

 

[T Schloz]

utzman,

I have older models of the 501 and 503 and a quick measurement shows the 501 to be a little less than 1/16" thicker than the 503.

Actual measurements at the bolsters are: 503 - .323"

501 - .378"

These measurements were taken at the thickest spots. Hope this helps.

Tom

 

[utzman]

Tom,

Thanks so much. That's exactly what I needed to know. I'm assuming the scales on your older models are birchwood, and flush with the bolsters, like the current versions.

Jon

 

[T Schloz]

Jon,

The 501 is micarta and the 503 is birchwood, but the scales are flush with the bolsters. Both these knives are from the 1977 - 1984 period, but I would assume they are very similar to todays models.

Tom