((better)) — Dexter Knives Southbridge Ma

During World War II, Dexter-Russell produced thousands of and M1910 trench knives (modified for close combat). The company received the Army-Navy “E” Award for production excellence. 5. Technological Innovation and the “Green Handle” (1950–1990) The post-war era saw Dexter focus almost exclusively on foodservice and industrial cutlery . In 1956, the company introduced its iconic green polypropylene handle (a textured, slip-resistant grip) – a design that remains in production today. Unlike wooden or bone handles, the green poly handle was dishwasher-safe, cheap to mold, and easy to identify in busy kitchens.

The 1920s brought a major shift: the adoption of . Dexter-Russell was among the first American cutlery firms to use high-carbon stainless (e.g., 420 and 440 series) for commercial knives. This allowed blades to hold an edge longer and resist corrosion – critical for fish, poultry, and fruit processing. dexter knives southbridge ma

In 1848, the firm was acquired by , a New England industrialist who renamed it the Dexter Edge Tool Company . Under Dexter’s leadership, the company shifted focus to high-quality, forged knives for leather workers, cobblers, and harness makers. Unlike many competitors who used lower-grade iron, Dexter adopted early crucible steel methods, imported in part from Sheffield, England. During World War II, Dexter-Russell produced thousands of

By 1970, Dexter-Russell had captured approximately 40% of the US commercial kitchen knife market. Competitors like and Ontario Knife focused on hunting or consumer lines, but Dexter stayed with meatpacking plants, restaurants, and institutional cafeterias. The 1920s brought a major shift: the adoption of