KNIFE COLLECTOR FROM THE NORTHWOODS

 Now that I've gotten bit more serious about collecting knives, I decided to see what others consider to be the most 'collectible', outside of the custom made market (i.e. mass produced).   One list is at: https://nobliecustomknives.com/world-most-collectible-knives/ Another list from Popular Mechanics:  https://www.popularmechanics.com/adventure/outdoor-gear/g2975/best-pocket-knives/ And yet another: https://knife-depot.com/pages/20-iconic-knives-every-knife-enthusiast-should-own/

 I've had one on my key chain for a while; usually I forget it's there, which is part of the point.  I believe I bought it from Harbor Freight , which appears to sell them now for $1.99.  If you Google similar knives you will find several varieties for as much as $20 or $30, not much different than mine, although that could be, in part, due to a few having a brass handle. Mine is a heavily tarnished one intended to appear like brass.  SOG has one for $11.95.  Harbor Freight advertises theirs as a savings of 85% over the SOG one which they place at $13.40. I don't think the two are really all that different, except in price.  I suppose its the same with knives when it comes to brand names on other items.  Sometimes.  More than a mere novelty item, however, they do provide a handy blade when you somehow have none on you.  We always have our keys.  The blade is of course very short at 1 and 5/8 inches, the entire knife coming in at 2 and 11...

 They go by various names: utility knife, box cutter, Stanley knife (after the popular brand), blade knife, carpet knife, etc.  They are, as the primary name indicates, utilitarian.  Unlike other knives that specialize in woodwork and bushcraft work, or military and first responder needs, among other demands, this knife is the simple workhorse of the carpenter, carpet layer, and factory and warehouse employee.  Nothing fancy, just a razor blade with a sturdy handle, usually purchased at cut rates compared to other well-known fixed blades and folders that often feature high-end metals and decorative exteriors.  Today I decided to stop in my local Ace Hardware store to see what knives they offered, and found not only the familiar utility knife, but what I would call an upgraded utility knife.  Most of us are probably familiar with the usual retractable-blade-in-the-nondescript-metal-handle like the one below, where you often had the added feature of being ab...

 I finally broke down and bought a CASE knife.  It is, as most will admit, an iconic American made knife.  Originally I planned to buy the Sodbuster model , but once I got to the store I couldn't find the model I planned to buy and instead saw this Peanut model marked as "clearance".  It normally retailed for over $50 at Fleet Farm, marked down to $36 and with further discounts down to $33 plus tax.  This model with the brown synthetic handle lists on the CASE site for $64, so I'm very pleased with my buy.   It is now my EDC, especially when I am dressed up and not carrying my larger ensemble (see previous post).  I may still use my US Military Utility knife as an occasional EDC, but I like this as an alternative, since I don't have to wear it on my belt (the utility knife is all stainless and a bit heavy for pocket carry in dress pants). The peanut shape appears to date back to the late 19th century and became a model for CASE sometime before 19...

 Some years ago I picked this up at a local gun show.  Gun shows are great places to find knives, along with flea markets.  I knew nothing of knife brands and quality; it simply looked cool to carry as a firefighter.  It has gone with me to numerous incidents, safely stashed in the pocket of my turnout coat.  I think I've used it once (to cut a trashed gasket from a hose).   TAC-FORCE specializes exclusively in folding knives with the rapid deployment technology geared towward EMT’s, Fire, Rescue, and first responders and for those looking for self-defense knives.  The Speedster model is a subcategory of tactical folding pocket knives. TAC-FORCE pocket knives are called Speedster model knives as they  feature a liner lock assisted opening mechanism, permitting easy and smooth opening functionality.  My knife does indeed open rapidly, although even after some lubrication practically requires two hands as it is not an easy open, at least c...

 Recently a number of Amish have moved into the rural county where I live here in Northern Wisconsin. They have always fascinated me, but I started to study and read up on them much more in the past year.  Now that I am into knife collecting I was interested in what kind of knives they prefer and use, especially since they are heavily into trade and farm work where knives are frequently used. Given that they would be serious about quality and durability, I thought this was an area to explore.  You can find a lot of information on this narrow topic, surprisingly.  One of the first places I checked was a major knife forum, BladeForums ( https://www.bladeforums.com/threads/knives-of-the-amish.999010 /).  The first ones mentioned were Case and Leatherman , two brands I have yet to acquire, although Case is next on my list, as it is a quality brand easily found locally.  The Amish like to shop locally at feed and hardware stores where they pick up many of thei...

 The other day, while at Barnes and Noble bookstore, I picked up my first knife collecting magazine: BLADE , which advertises itself as the "world's #1 knife publication".  Well, I'll have to trust them on that one; it was the only one available at the bookstore.  In fact, there was a dearth of publications on knives, books or magazines in the store, which kind of surprised me. Perhaps in a larger metro area the choices are more numerous.  This magazine was informative, and I'm intrigued by the next issue that focuses on folding knives.  I also found interesting an article on the challenges facing US knife manufacturing.  Knife manufacturing is a global business and that involves a lot of complicated issues, some of which have been in the news of late, like tariffs, and the challenge of competing with China, which often produces goods at levels far lower than we do.  

 Ask anyone about buying a multi-tool and I'm sure the first brand to be mentioned is the iconic Leatherman .  Other popular quality multi-tools include those made by Gerber and Victorinox . My collection does not yet have such a tool, but maybe one day.  I picked these two up over the years unaware of what was good and what was not so good.  They just looked useful.  

 I have not hung on to a lot of my boyhood things, but somehow this axe has remained with me for over 50 years.  As the photos below will show, it's had some use on camp-outs.  Equipped with an embossed leather sheath, the axe still has the original sticker which notes that it is an "Official Scout Axe" by True Temper .  I did a cursory look on the internet and there are some similar axes, but they usually claim little more than $30, so I don't think I have a great collector's item, although I did notice one going for $89.99. One that looks like mine is trying to claim $1,000!  I wonder if they have any takers....

 I realize that Ozark Trail is anything but the king of knives, more like its dirt poor cousin.  In another time they probably were considered the cheapest of the cheap, a kin to buying a knife at K-Mart.  Add to that the fact it is manufactured in China (which BTW, is not considered as bad these days!), and one would wonder why anyone would pay a passing notice.  But after the Ozark Trail 7.5 inch folder with D2 steel which 'broke the internet' with interest), folks might be paying a little more notice to this brand. 

 Admittedly, I wasn't initially drawn to the idea of the neck knife .  After some research I warmed up to the idea, in part realizing the convenience of having a knife accessible, especially when wearing wildland fire gear.  In our department we wear a one-piece coverall (as seen below) that zips up the front.  Although a belt knife would technically be accessible, it seemed more awkward to go fishing for it through a pocket slot vs. simply zipping down the front and pulling the knife out.  

 I was tempted to title this post beginning with "Military Knife" at the beginning, since although it is commercially sold (I bought mine in Fleet Farm) it is a standard issue to Navy SEALS for their B.U.D.S. training (although I ended up adding it at the end!).  According to the packaging it is "embraced by the Military and Special Forces community," although it would be privately purchased, possibly at the PX on a military base or installation.  I have an affinity for military-style knives, and those preferred by military and law enforcement, since they subject their knives to very demanding situations.  I believe I read somewhere that some members of the CIA may also use this knife.  The SRK stands for "Search Rescue Knife".  Although I am not military, I am an active volunteer firefighter who has participated in some search and rescue operations with one of our mutual aid departments.  I would be tempted to strap it on my belt this summer if call...

 I probably picked this up at a gun show years ago.  The price on the box reads $6, and there is no stated brand.  The only information about the knife is that it is stamped "Pakistan" on the blade and "Made in Pakistan" on the box, along with 8.5" and "All Stainless Steel".  The 'model number" on the end is listed as 203102-SL. I looked it up online and it appears with some vendors.  One site listed it as $14.95, although another site has it marked down to $5.56 from $9. It is possible that it was distributed by Szco Supplies, Inc. that appears to sell a variety of knives and other items. I'm not sure I've ever thrown it.  Obviously not a collector's item, as such.  But it is a specialty knife, and I thought it was worthy of comment.  There is a 'how to' guide here: https://www.knifethrowing.info/throwing-knives.htm l. It appears that the art or sport of throwing knives has roots in Africa. Apparently balance in the knif...

 In reviewing the lists of knives all collectors should have, this model surfaced repeatedly.  I have a 'knock off' version of the Buck 110 from China (it is a highly copied knife), but knew that I needed to finally invest in the genuine article.  It is a heavy knife, to be sure, especially for a folder (probably twice the weight of typical folders today with synthetic handles).  But the weight betrays its quality.  As the photos demonstrate, this knife is constructed with brass, both on the end caps, but also in the liner.  The blade is constructed of 420HC steel, which, as some will observed, is not necessarily impressive in itself, but it is the heat treatment of the steel that makes the difference.  The handle is constructed of genuine ebony with brass bolsters. All around an impressive piece of workmanship that shines brightly in the world of knives. Although large, by comparison, it also comes up in lists of "gentleman's knives" (which are usuall...

 NOTE: The following is being moved from my other blog Northwoods Seelsorger , my original blog devoted more to matters of faith and church.  Now that I have a dedicated blog to knife collecting, it seemed more appropriate here. It was originally published on August 17, 2024 after I returned from the annual military show in my area. 

 After doing a little research as to the recommended knives to include in a collection, two stood out that were fairly easy to find locally: The Swiss Army Knife and the Buck 110 (which I will write about separately).  The Swiss Army Knife, however, required a choice as there are so many versions of this iconic knife.  I settled on the Tinker model , as this not only resembled my US Military Utility Knife , but it also included the kinds of tools I thought I was most likely to use as my EDC.  It boasts 12 functions: two blades (one large, one small), can opener, three screwdrivers (Philips and regular in two sizes), a reamer/punch/sewing awl, key ring, tweezers, toothpick and bottle opener.  

While this site is dedicated primarily to my knife collecting, this post represents a slight exception. As noted in a previous post my EDC pouch includes an inexpensive multi-tool. The NexTool Mini Sailor Lite Multi-tool , however, is a 'blade-less' version of their multi-tool. It appealed to me primarily because it is TSA compliant .  I still remember having to turn over a small pocket knife at security some years back (it was a cheap K-Mart knife, not a loss), and the hassle in the years since of having all kinds of things from keys to other items flagged by the screening system.  I just purchased this, so it hasn't been tested, but others have and it seems okay. It feels solid for its size; not cheaply constructed at all.  It is a 9-in-1 multi-tool which includes: 1.) needle-nosed pliers, 2.) regular pliers, 3.) Philips screwdriver, 4.) regular screwdriver, 5.) key chain ring, 6.) scissors, 7.) wire cutter, 8.) SIM card remover, and 9.) a bottle opener.  I doubt...

 According to the AI Overview:   Ruko is the exclusive North American importer of Muela knives , a Spanish manufacturer known for high-quality hunting, tactical, and collectible knives.  They also note that: RUKO LLC and RUKO of Canada have a combined 79 years of experience importing, distributing, and servicing the hunting, camping, and sporting goods trades in the U.S. and Canada. They are the exclusive North American importer for MUELA knives. MUELA has been manufacturing fixed-blade and folding knives from its factory in Argamasilla de Calatrava, Spain, since 1955. They are known for their exceptional craftsmanship and durability, particularly their genuine stag (red deer) antler handle knives.     Admittedly, RUKO is not among the very expensive, high end knives.  I would consider them mid-priced, but quality knives.  

This knife came into my possession via my wife's uncle.  His wife owned it and typically used it as an EDC on trips, usually to cut apples.  It is a rather substantial knife some some weight, for a folding knife.  Folded it measures around 5.25 inches.  The blade, itself, is 4.25 inches.  Constructed of 440A stainless steel it features an inlaid 'bullet' on the handle, possibly made of silver.  The handle is possibly made of jigged Dalrin.  It appears to have been made in 1992, although the model, itself, was made from 1984 to 1999.  Many companies that specialized in other things besides knives (like firearms) often featured their own knives, such as Smith and Wesson, for example.  According to my research this knife may have been made by Camillus before their bankruptcy, although at one time Remington was in the knife manufacturing business.  See my other post for additional information on this company.  The symbol on the blade, w...

 I originally bought this little knife because the sheath was MOLLE compatible.  So, up until now, it has been attached to my WFS Tactical Sling Pack.  Unfortunately I long ago misplaced the metal belt clip that comes with it.  I wrote to the company and am hoping to get a replacement.  One reviewer referred to this knife as a "survival knife" as opposed to a "bush craft knife".  In other words, this is not a knife you would typically take with you out 'in the bush'.  It has a relatively short blade and would not be as much use for larger chores. It also features a glass breaker and bottle opener, items we might not associate with bush craft, as such.

 Besides the Camillus folding utility knives, Ka-Bar is the other brand often associated with quality military knives.  I own two Ka-Bar knives, one military, one domestic.  In 1942 the United States Marine Corp chose the Ka-Bar as its official knife.  My knife is the 1211 Fighting/Utility Knife with a 7 inch blade. It boasts a black epoxy coated 1095 Cro-Van high carbon steel blade, guard and buttcap, and  contoured black Kraton G handle.  Given that this knife can easily retail for over $100, I felt very fortunate to secure one for $20 at a military show.  Camillus Cutlery Co. was the first and largest manufacturer to produce the knife. The steel is 1095 Cro-Van, a high carbon steel that is easy to sharpen and has good edge retention, but it will rust unlike stainless.  It came with a Kydex sheath, although the same model also comes with a leather sheath.

  The Camillus Cutlery Company is one of the oldest knife manufacturers in the US.  Founded in 1876 it went bankrupt in 2007 .  The Camillus brand name and intellectual property rights were then bought by Acme United Corporation, which in turn relaunched the brand in May 2009.  My knife collection includes knives representing the old company and the newer one.  My older knives are the ones they manufactured for the military, the US Military Utility Knife also known as the "Demo Knife."  They are the all stainless steel Model 1760 , made from 1949 - 2006. These checkered stainless steel models were issued to the Army, Marines and Navy along with hospital corpsmen starting in 1958 . The date of manufacture is stamped on the blade.  One of my knives is dated from 1961 and belonged to my father who was in the US Army, retiring in the early 1960s.  The other was picked up at a military show and is dated 1973.  I carry this as my EDC, and as som...

 As I write this it is St. Patrick's Day, and besides wearing green I am also wearing a small Celtic knife on my belt.  Hand forged by Toferner ( https://toferner.shop/ ), a knife company from the Czech Republic, this little knife is reminiscent of the small knives once carried as far back as the Middle Ages by the Celts and Vikings.  I bought it on Amazon as a connection with history and my own ethnic past, much like the Sgian Dubh I also wrote about in a separate post.  This little knife could easily be used as EDC, although its size limits the work it can accomplish.  

 Being proud of my Scottish heritage I was looking for something to wear or carry to show off my ethnic pride.  Add to that my interest of knives and it became natural that I would invest in the Sgian Dubh , a Scottish knife usually used for ceremonial purposes and worn with a kilt, from the Gaelic word for "black knife".  The knife I purchased involves a leather sheath with a belt holder, so I don't have to put it in my sock.  Although not usually thought of as EDC, this knife from Jayger Knives in the UK is a sturdy knife with a nice olive wood handle and a very sharp Damascus blade.  These knives began undoubtedly with practical purposes in mind, probably as a small utilitarian blade for simple jobs (e.g. cutting food).  It eventually became a more ceremonial knife in the last could of centuries.  For me it is a sign of my heritage.  

 I am a bit late getting in on the Ozark Trail knife craze.  You can find all kinds of posts covering it, including in depth analysis and so forth.  I am not going to do that, nor am I qualified.  About a year or so ago Walmart's Ozark Trail 7.5 inch folding knife (yes, that's it; no fancy label!) became an internet sensation among the knife collecting crowd. It even caused buyouts in several locations. Given the positive reviews I went ahead and bought one, realizing I couldn't lose too much purchasing a knife for just under $10.  Although I wouldn't have chosen the orange handle, that wasn't a deal breaker.  After playing with it (opening and closing), I was impressed by the 'feel' of the knife.  It seems more substantial than you would expect with such a cheap tool.  The opening and closing can be easily done with one hand, and the action is very smooth.  I did not experience the problems others reported.  The blade was secure and fir...

 I have only recently entered into the EDC (Every Day Carry) arena.  I began by simply carrying a knife (which is my standard carry most of the time), but realized that many add to this other helpful tools for everyday use.  My 'kit' is evolving, but currently contains three items, as pictured below.  The small canvas belt pack (purchased through Amazon) contains a small flashlight (LizeAll, 120 lumens), a US Army Utility Knife (Camillus, 1973), and a small multitool (Ridgeline).  I'll admit that the tools are not 'high end'.  That said, they all seem of sufficient quality to handle the kind of tasks I anticipate encountering.  The last item I am going to add is a small pry bar.  This 'ensemble' is small enough as to not be cumbersome, which was a consideration.  The flashlight is also intended as a potential self-defense tool, thus the stated amount of lumens.  The knife was originally purchased at a military show.  It...