Gerber Applegate History- where can I learn?

Turbo4x4

Turbo4x4

Joined
Jun 4, 2011
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Hello from Russia ))
I collect Gerber Applegate, now they have me for 12, all three dimensions (mini covert, covert and combat folder).
Where can I find a complete history of these knives, how many were produced, production numbers and descriptions?
Many thanks for any help!
George :)
 
Not sure about the production numbers for them, but if you like the Gerber Applegate-Fairbairns, you might want to look at the Böker ones.
 
George: did you get any info on history of this blade? I also am looking for history to identify the model that I have.
 
Here is the info that I found:
Mini coverts (small size):
1537 (manual, green handle, black blade)
0244 (auto, black handle, black blade S30V)
1967 (FAST, black handle, black blade)
7177 (manual, black handle, black blade teflon coated)
6924 (manual, black handle, satin blade)

Coverts (middle size):
0137 (auto, black handle, black blade S30V)
1966 (FAST, black handle, black blade)
1611 (manual, green handle, black blade 154CM)
5786 (manual, black handle, black blade 154CM)
9165 (manual, green handle, black blade)
5785 (manual, black handle, satin blade ATS-34)
5758 (manual, black handle, satin blade 154CM)
5795 (manual, black handle, satin single blade)

Combat folder (big size):
5780 (manual, black handle, satin blade)
1608 (manual, green handle, satin blade)
0363 (manual, green micarta handle, stonewash blade S30V)

May be errors, so I did not specify the brand steel where I do not know.
On the cheaper models is 440C
 
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For Turbo4X4 or anyone else. The Gerber Applegate Covert Folder I have is described as follows: nearly a 41/2 in blade, typical 1 1/2 in serrations. It's either satin finish or teflon coated and on the front side, in addition to Applegate & Fairbains signatures, is stamped "COMBAT FOLDER". On the back side is stamped "GERBER U.S.A.". no other markings on blade or handle. The handle measures about 5 5/8". The holder, appears to be black codura(canvas like) with a reinforced over-the-top snap. It can be belted either vertical or horizonal via the rubberized backing. The mfg patch on the front of the holder, reads, in yellow and white lettering on black, Gerber Legendary Blades, Applegate, Made in U.S.A. The knife was purchased in 1997-8. What model is this and an estimate on the value please.
 
No accurate data, when they started producing Combat Folder 5780, but most likely he is ... or his predecessor.
And you can picture?
 
I purchased the first model Combat Folder in the mid 90"s. Sounds the same as Digger"s with the pistolstyle sheath, the steel is 425M.
 
FYI, the 0363 15th Anniversary "Combat Folder" says on the blade "1996-2011" so that gives the original date of manufacture, at least for the Gerber.

If I remember correctly, there was a limited edition in '97 that had the back of the blade sharpened, as well. None of the later versions had that.
 
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Were the early versions lacking a roto lock? I just got a used full size combat knife today and it is slightly different from the ones I see online. The linerlock has more of a plate on the part where you disengage the lock rather than just jimping, and there is no roto lock on the back of the knife. It also lacks a pocket clip, but I know some of them came that way. It feels well-built so I think its the real deal I'm just wondering what model it is exactly.
 
I seem to remember the very first versions (besides no secondary lock) also came with a sheath that could be used with the knife either open or closed. I think it had a sleeve behind the pouch and a retaining strap. May be my memory though. That was a long time ago.
 
ninjarabbi said:
Were the early versions lacking a roto lock? I just got a used full size combat knife today and it is slightly different from the ones I see online. The linerlock has more of a plate on the part where you disengage the lock rather than just jimping, and there is no roto lock on the back of the knife. It also lacks a pocket clip, but I know some of them came that way. It feels well-built so I think its the real deal I'm just wondering what model it is exactly.
Click to expand...

Thats the same model I have and its genuine. I called Gerber about it and they wanted me to bring it in for an upgrade to the rotolock but I declined. No pocket clip and has the sheath.
 
I purchased a full-sized combat folder back in 96-97 in MN for 90?
Mine does not have the roto-lock, and if Gerber is so eager to make the changes, that political correctness & legal liability.
I suspect the roto-look was intended to not make it as easy to flick open, to tame it down a little bit. My only complaint is that the plastic snap assembly broke completely away from its sheath several years ago.
 
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