Belknap Hardware began in 1840 as a hardware manufacturer in Louisville, Kentucky and at one time was a major competitor or Sears, Roebuck & Co. and Montgomery Ward. Among their products, Belknap Hardware carried popular pocket knife brands such as J. Russell, George Wostenholm and L.F. & C. Eventually, Belknap Hardware introduced its own brand of knives called John Primble by Camillus, Utica, Shcrade-Walden and Boker. An early stamp to look out for is the John Primble India Steel Works mark.
Since 1985, high quality John Primble pocket knives have been made by the same company that produces Blue Grass Cutlery in Manchester, Ohio. Check out my Rare Vintage Knives page as well. I appreciate any traffic from these links as I earn a commission when an item is purchased, at no extra cost to you. THANK YOU!!! – Jesse, oldpocketknives.com