Knife Evaluation

What to look for in a knife

A knife is a tool. But it is also a piece of craftsmanship and a work of art. Furthermore, a knife can be a collector's piece, and as such can perhaps (or not) be considered to be an investment. We need to set up some points, based on these criteria, as a standard for evaluation.

  1. Craftsmanship

    • The Blade
    • Bolsters, mechanism and action
    • Handle
    • General fit and finish

  2. Artistic Qualities

    • Intrinsic qualities of the materials
    • Engraving and embellishments

  3. A Knife As a Tool

    • The purpose of the knife
    • Fitness for the purpose
    • Will it take and hold a good edge?

  4. Collectibility and Investment

    • Cost and Value
    • Investment potential

Craftsmanship

The Blade

  • Type of steel
  • Forged, stamped or milled
  • Grinding
  • The Edge

Bolsters, mechanism and action

  • Bolster material

  • Frame and Liners

  • Springs and opening/closing action

  • Locking mechanism

Handle

  • Handle material
  • Handle shape
  • The fit of the handle
  • The feel of the handle

General fit and finish

  • Does it all work together?


A black-lipped pearl slipjoint by Jack Busfield. Wonderful craftsmanship in every way.
(Photographed before I had the bolsters engraved by Simon Lytton)

Artistic Qualities

Intrinsic qualities of the materials

A knife is very often more than just a tool. It can be a joy to look at too. Some materials, particularly the handle materials, can make a knife stand out from the others. A knife maker (or designer) is also often an artist. He or she selects the materials, and then works with them, and the selection of the materials is just as much a part of the artistry as what is done with them

Materials

From top to bottom:

  • Gold Lipped Pearl
  • Dyed and jigged bone
  • Ivory Micarta
  • Stag

Colour

Some people like them plain and traditional, some people like bright colours. There's plenty of choice.

Shape

Knives, and their handles, come in all sorts of shapes and sizes. From the traditional designs to the out and out fantasy knives.

Engraving and embellishments

Some knives have additional embellishments, either to the handles, bolsters or blade.

  • Engraving
  • Etching
  • Printing
  • Scrimshaw


Engraving on a Ray Cover Sr. knife by Jere Davidson. The top engravers will never do two the same.

A Knife as a Tool

The purpose of the knife

  • What is the primary use of the knife?
  • Is it versatile?

Fitness for the purpose

Is the knife going to be used, or is it capable of being used. Or is it just a display item? If it is a user knife, then:

  • How fit is it for the purpose for which it is intended?
  • Will it take and hold a good edge?


A pair of Case Trappers with CV (carbon steel) blades. Simple, basic, and inexpensive.
But still pretty nice knives too.

Collectiblity and Investment

Cost and Value

  • Purchase cost
  • A good deal?

Investment potential

  • Will it increase in value?

Copyright ©2005 Rod Neep All Rights Reserved
Photographs by Rod Neep