This is a late 1950's Model 68 stag handle hunting knife from F. A. Bower IMP Co., Solingen, Germany.

Obtaining it in 2014, I had sympathetic restoration performed on this badly neglected piece in 2020. For this knife, a sympathetic restoration simply means a really good and thorough cleaning, some blade restoration to remove rust pitting & light surface scratches, but without removing all of its history or markings, and a new edge applied to the blade. This type of restoration brings the knife back to life and serviceability without losing its history or aged character.

The restoration work was performed by Texas blade smith Stephen Smart, who also specializes in partial and total knife restoration services.

The Bower Company imported the Model 68 along with other knives from 1950 to the mid 1980's. The Model 68 was also imported and distributed by Edge Brand through Gutmann Cutlery, of Mount Vernon New York. In its day, the Model 68 was a quality hunting knife that was affordable, durable, and dependable - qualities that make bringing it back to life worth it.

SPECIFICATIONS:
Knife: Circa 1958 Bowie
Type: Hunting Bowie
Brand: F.A. Bower IMP. Co.
Model: 68
Country of Origin: Solingen, Germany
Blade Style: Clip point bowie with Swedge
Blade Type: Carbon Steel; Hollow grind; Mirror polished (as original)
Blade Length: 8"
Handle Length: 5"; Stag Handle Scales w/Escutcheon, Nickle silver cross guard & pommel bolsters
Tang: Full tang
Overall length: 13"

MARKINGS:
Obverse Markings: "F.A. Bower IMP. Co." over "SOLINGEN" over "Made in Germany" on ricasso
Reverse Markings: "BOWIE" etched on blade, "68" stamped on ricasso
Guard / Pommel / Escutcheon: None

Sheath: Yes; Original
Material: Leather; stamped "Made In Germany"

FIT & FINISH: Excellent
Tight seamless fit between blade, cross guard, butt caps and scales. No cracks or chips in handle materials. Sympathetic restoration applied March, 2020 consisting of thorough cleaning, rust & light surface scratch removal; blade polishing and sharpened to original specs (hollow grind at 20 degrees).

On the market for 6 days -
SOLD: SEPTEMBER, 2021 - $130.00 USD