Vintage Pocket Knives and How To Spot An Altered Knife

[jimmayor007]

This guide is meant to be a brief outline for the novice collector of vintage pocket knives. I'll try to describe some of the more common mistakes that new collectors can make and give some basic outlines for helping to spot a problem knife or an outright counterfeit.

Collecting vintage folding knives can be a fun, educational, rewarding and sometimes profitable hobby. Many times, half of the fun is in the hunt itself.......searching every sale in town, Grandpa's tackle box, or any other nook or cranny.....always in search of that undiscovered treasure to add to your collection.

Occasionally, new collectors will be so anxious to purchase an old knife for their collection, that they will overlook obvious signs of problems with a knife. Some of these problems are just general wear and tear that will greatly reduce the value of a knife. Other problems are not so noticeable to a new collector, but will greatly affect the value of the knife.

Before I go any further, please remember that I am writing this guide for the less experienced collector of vintage pocket knives. I'm aware that I am overlooking an entire book full of crucial tips on helping to spot fake knives, counterfeits, and repaired/altered knives. I'll try to touch on some of the basic rules (that apply to most brands) and describe some of the more common problems that a novice collector may find with a vintage knife. Unfortunately, many new collectors find out the hard way that they have a problem knife, after it is already purchased. Be cautious....if a knife seems too good to be true......it very well may be the case. Find out a little history on a knife, if you can, before you buy it. Ask questions.

...read the full guide with pics here