How to Collect Bowie Knives
The hunting knife has been part of civilization for centuries and is still an indispensable tool in the field. One of the most famous types of knives, the Bowie knife, is an American invention. Collect large, fixed-blade Bowie knives as a hobby. Some knives may even increase in value over the years.
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Instructions
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Educate yourself about Bowie knives. Purchase a knife collector's price guide like "The Official Price Guide to Collector Knives" written by C. Houston Price. Use the book to determine the authenticity, age, fair price and market value for the knives.
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Determine the focus of your Bowie knife collection. This helps you locate the knives you are interested in. Some styles of Bowie knives are: Hunter, New Orleans, Chevalier, Vicksburg, Horse and Gator, Bell, Arkansas Toothpick and Winchester. Original knives are very rare and date back to the early 1800s.
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Consider the manufacturer and size of the knife. More modern Bowie knives are made by Bark River Knife & Tool, Schrade X-Timer and Cas Iberia. Some older manufacturers include Winchester, Boker, Collins & Company and Rose. The blade length ranges anywhere from 1/2 inch to more than 12 inches.
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Attend knife shows to search for knives that fall into your bowie knife collecting category. Locate a show on the National Knife Collectors Association's website. Show are held year-round from Georgia to Oregon.
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Frequent online auction sites like eBay, sporting goods retailers, antique shops, collectibles stores, knife stores, flea markets and garage sales. It is easier to find specific knives on eBay, in collectibles stores or in knife stores.
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Join a local or online knife collectors organization. Share your experiences, interests and sources with other Bowie knife enthusiasts. Check out the Antique Bowie Knife Association or join your local chapter of the National Knife Collectors Association.
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Tips & Warnings
Avoid buying knives from disreputable dealers. When purchasing an expensive knife, examine the piece in person. Ask as many questions as possible before you buy and check out the seller's return policy.
