"First Production Run" question

[P_D]

I received a new Case Longhouse as a gift. I know it’s a controversial design and I’m not too interested in discussing whether it’s a good knife or not.

I asked for this knife to add to my EDC stable. The knife I got has "First Production Run" written on the blade. I planned on carrying this knife and using it and sharpening it when it gets dull. I understand this will reduce its value as a collector’s item.

I have a modest collection of Case knives, but I’m not a "collector". Most of them just sit in a display case. I’ll never sell them. When I’m dead, my sons will squabble over who gets which knives

Having said that, I hate to ‘ruin" a collector’s edition of a knife. If the "First Production Run" is not a big deal, and will never be a big deal, then I’ll carry it and use it without worrying. If it might be a big deal someday, maybe I’ll return it and let a real collector enjoy it and I’ll buy one that doesn’t have any special markings.

So… is “First Production Run" a big deal?

[Mumbleypeg]

It is to some people who collect such “made to be collectable” knives. There are some who do, and will pay a premium for them. (I’m not one of them.)

Ken

[QTCut5]

So… is “First Production Run" a big deal?

Nope. Carry, use and enjoy the knife you were given. Sharpen it when necessary, oil the joint occasionally. The writing on the blade will likely wear off with use over time and it won't make one bit of difference to any future collector. That's my advice. Nice gift, by the way.

[rea1eye]

If you got it as a gift, then keep it Someone was thinking of you.
If you use all your knives ( as I do), enjoy it. Life is short.

It sounds as though you take good care of your knives.

Bob

[Modern Slip Joints]

Mumbleypeg's knowledge of older Case knives deserves great respect but he doesn't focus on Case's often colorful newer knives and admits the etch would not add value were he buying something similar. Since 1970 Case has etched this knife is a collectors' treasue, worded different ways, on a zillion knives. While I'd rather not have the obvious advertising pitch on a Case very few buyers, if any, would pay more or less because it's there. Show gratitude for a great gift and use it where whoever gave it to you sees it being enjoyed. You're more likely to receive additional knives as gifts if you do and if it's all about dollars and cents thats the wiser business decision.

To help preserve etchs on the sides of blades only use soft dish washing pads and keep the sides up out of contact with sharpening stones.

[P_D]

Thanks y’all. I’m keeping it. It’s gonna be riding in my pocket tomorrow.

I do appreciate the sage advice.

PD