Vintage George Wostenholm I·XL "Stock Knife" 3-Blade Stockman, Sheffield England

Description

A genuine piece of Sheffield cutlery history. George Wostenholm's I·XL mark was one of the most respected names in English knifemaking, and this three-blade stockman was built for the American market. The original "STOCK KNIFE" etch is still readable on the clip blade, a rare survivor, since most were sharpened or polished away decades ago. All three blades carry the full I·XL George Wostenholm Sheffield England tang stamp and walk and talk with a very strong snap. The handles are solid with no cracks. Even gray patina and light freckling show honest age without hiding the quality underneath, and the knife has never been over-cleaned or buffed out. A great addition to any traditional slip-joint collection, or a working stockman with real history behind it. • Maker: George Wostenholm & Son (I·XL) • Origin: Sheffield, England • Era: Early-to-mid 20th century ("England" stamp, before the 1971 Rodgers-Wostenholm merger) • Pattern: 3-blade stockman • Blades: Clip master with long-pull nail groove, sheepsfoot, spey • Markings: I·XL tang stamp on all three blades; original "STOCK KNIFE" etch on the clip • Handle: Smooth black scales with nickel-silver shield and pins, no cracks • Bolsters: Nickel silver • Action: Very strong snap on all blades • Condition: Pre-owned vintage; even patina and light freckling on the blades, minor handle wear consistent with age