Things You'll Need:
- Money Belts
- Pen Lights
- Money Clips
- Duffel Bags
- Pocket Knives
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Step 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.
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Step 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.
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Step 3
Inspect the handles, backsprings, liners, pins, blades and frames inside and out.
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Step 4
Expect to find uniformity in patina, wear and aging on all parts of the knife.
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Step 5
Carry a reference guide and use it. Check pattern numbers and tang stamps to identify correct handle materials, liners and blade types.
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Step 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.
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Step 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.
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Step 8
Learn to identify crests and shields of different manufacturers, and look closely to be certain they have been installed properly.
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Step 9
Open each blade separately looking for evidence of grinding, polishing or welding.
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Step 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.
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Step 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.
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Step 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.








