This gift tin option is a very nice little package. For a modest price, a collector can enjoy two classic designs from Schrade. Yes, if I had had any inkling that I would in later years develop an interest in collecting, then I would have scraped together my youthful savings, and little by little acquired the USA original versions, which of course are now considered to be vintage, and are priced as such. However, these current editions are perfectly valid versions of the original vintage counterparts, for a reasonable price. The tin itself is fairly compact, with a charming rustic scene on the lid. Presentation of the two pieces inside the tin is well done. A plastic - lined black nylon sheath is included for the Sharpfinger fixed blade knife, embroidered in capital letters with the words OLD TIMER in vividly contrasting white stitching. As the Sharpfinger will in all likelihood not be leaving the house, this none too subtle advertising really is fine by me. Some may choose to lessen the impact of the white on black text that is sewn into the sturdy fabric sheath, with a permanent black marker pen, and that would understandably be their choice. Or, one could look around for a replacement leather sheath. I also recently bought the slightly larger version of the Sharpfinger, with a four inch blade, which came with a nicely made and polished leather sheath. The retaining strap was hard to snap closed at first. A little perseverance paid off, and now the large Sharpfinger is safely secured in its handsome leather sheath, an interesting comparison to the original three inch Sharpfinger that is the subject of this review. The large Sharpfinger is scaled up approximately one third again from the original model, yet with very similar proportions. It has a bigger and thicker blade, bigger and thicker scales, and correspondingly larger leather sheath. The nylon sheath for this original size Sharpfinger is a good fit for this somewhat small yet wonderfully ergonomic fixed blade design; but it also needed some coaxing before the snap would close properly, with some firm effort to stretch the nylon strap, and appropriate exasperated grunts and puffs. But it’s fine now. The Sharpfinger is a beautiful little design, well regarded back in the day, with a very user friendly heft and feel. The balance is excellent. Blade geometry is exemplary, with sleek symmetrical curves and contours. The edge is very well done. Overall, I’m well pleased to finally own a Schrade Sharpfinger. Many would decry the Far Eastern manufacturing, but dimensionally the piece is correct, so I am completely satisfied. The Schrade Pal was not quite as well finished, with bolsters that had sharp corners, and a slightly proud back spring, by about 0.25mm. Some careful work with a water stone, then cardboard with buffing compound, all by hand, after about 20 minutes or so, tamed the little Pal’s personality, and it’s just great now. At 27 grams, the Pal is ideal for unobtrusive daily carry of a convenient and useful small non - locking folder. The Sharpfinger and Pal, together with the lovely and picturesque gift tin make for a stellar bargain, in my humble little opinion. I’m very happy with this purchase, and I continue to recommend HH without any hesitation.
