All About Pocket Knives

Hello my name is Curt and I acquired a really old knife made by Helle. I think it has the original leather case. I had some questions on the worth and should I clean it up or not even mess with it? I did a little bit of research and I think the handle is deer antler. I also think it is from Norway. Any info would help thanks.

Definitely not deer antler. It looks to be leather wrapped. I don't know anything about Helle though.

What does the mark at the base of the blade say? I cannot make out the imprint.

S&S
Holmedal
Norge

Yes, Norge means Norway. Holmedal is referred to as a subprovince. If you type into Google "Holmedal Norge Knives" you will find many sites that will assist you. In fact there are photos of knives nearly identical to yours. I also found some on ebay which are about $125. Condition of course determines the price.

to AAPK!

I have a few Helle knives given to me by a Norwegian friend.
They are SUPERB quality, and not inexpensive.

Holmedal is the village where the Helle knives are made.
Norge is Norwegian for Norway.

Beyond that I don't know a great deal...
Check out their website: http://www.helle.no/

Maybe Vikingdog will jump in. He's the guy in the know on this one.

Hi Curt and welcome. The Scandinavian grind is great for field dressing deer and jobs like that. It's unreal how they cut and the steel is second to none. I have a few of them and love them.___Dave

I collect Norwegian, Swedish & Finnish knives. I have a few new in tube Helle knives and some vintage ones. I have acquired them on ebay. Prices for vintage Helle are not that high (rarely over $100) because there are fewer collectors than for USA or even German knives.
Likely some old Helle knives are more valuable to a knowledgeable Helle collector but info on these knives is hard/impossible ? to find.
Sheath is the original and handle looks like stacked leather with reindeer antler pommel & bolster, a traditional handle.
On ebay now most likely this would sell $50-$75 although it could go higher if there are 2 stubborn bidders going at it.
I cannot see it on yours but often there is a rounded pin that projects from the pommel that engages with a hole in a leather retention strap on the sheath. Sometimes this strap has broken off.
You have a good basic older Helle. I say 'basic' because there are some fancier ones; e.g. polished antler handle with scrimshaw art engraved.
kj

Here is an older Helle knife & sheath, both of which are similar to OP example.
kj

Awesome thank you for all the info. The leather strap is in working condition just like that one. I picked mine up at a flea market for $30. I knew it was old but didn't know anything else about it.

$30 is a good deal. You have a very good knife, to collect or to use. If you are good at sharpening the blade will take a super sharp edge and hold it well, making it a delight to use.
But if you are not good at sharpening don't try with this one. You would end up removing more steel than necessary and spoil the blade to some degree.
And, Welcome to AAPK. If you like knives there's lots to read & see & learn here & friendly helpful people too.
kj

High I own retro helle knive in mint condition it’s from the 60’ - 70’s I think . It has an exposed full tang and rosewood scales . Maybe you could price it for me . A Norwegian friend told me it’s quite an unusual design and rare .

Hi Day. Can you post a picture ? I am not familiar with the model you are describing but i might recognize it with the help of a picture.
kj