- 1). Select a style or brand of knife to collect, and concentrate your study. This allows you to become familair with the characteristics expected when you pick up the real thing.
- 2). Establish a routine when you examine a knife, remembering to look at each knife in the same way so you are not distracted or interrupted and overlook the obvious.
- 3). Inspect the handles, backsprings, liners, pins, blades and frames inside and out.
- 4). Expect to find uniformity in patina, wear and aging on all parts of the knife.
- 5). Carry a reference guide and use it. Check pattern numbers and tang stamps to identify correct handle materials, liners and blade types.
- 6). Remember that tang stamps can be changed, but are difficult to duplicate exactly and that a new or cold stamp will look different from a stamp made when the metal is heated.
- 7). Use a magnification lens or loupe - in good light - so you can clearly identify variations in materials and evidence of replacement parts or disassembly.
- 8). Learn to identify crests and shields of different manufacturers, and look closely to be certain they have been installed properly.
- 9). Open each blade separately looking for evidence of grinding, polishing or welding.
- 10
Know that some types of celluloid handle material and some natural materials like tortoise shell and ivory are no longer available and are often replaced by reproductions. - 11
Look carefully at a bone handle and know if it should be bone or stag and if the jigging pattern and color are correct. - 12
Consult an expert or experienced collector before you commit to a purchase. No reputable dealer will object to having someone else examine his goods.
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