In spite of (or perhaps because of) its seemingly endless number of permutations, this Benchmade knife certainly deserves consideration as one of the most iconic pocket knives ever. These collectible knives are often purchased to commemorate a hobby or interest, such as collecting army knives or antique Pocket knives. If you ask a layman for a list of the best knives of all time, the Sebenza probably wouldn't be on the list, but any knife enthusiast would put the Sebenza at the top. These knives have stood the test of time (yes, even the more modern ones), theyre recognizable, theyre reliable, and people keep turning to them time and time again. Check, and the same goes for black. This iconic knife is truly a piece of history. #22 Benchmade Adamas 20/404. 10. And while theres an enormous number of SAKs currently on the market, most enthusiasts and collectors tend to gravitate toward tried-and-true models like the Filedmaster. Handle: Micarta A Brief History Of Pocket Knives. . Blade Length: 1.94 $10.00 shipping. Most collectors think of specific knives that come in a set or are purchased in large quantities. It goes without saying that this Victorinox pocket knife is worth the investment if you need an all-in-one tool. Blade: Sandvik 12C27 Collectible Folding Knives; Collectibles; Knives, Swords & Blades; We use cookies to optimize our website and our service. So the saying goes: if it aint broke, dont fix it. 1. Best Minimalist Choice: Kershaw Chive Pocket & Folding Knife. Best Pocket Knife For Hunting And Fishing: Civivi Elementum Flipper. The 10 Most Valuable Case Knives. As Leatherman's most popular model, the Wave has set itself apart from the pack by offering 17 different tools made of durable 420HC stainless steel. But what truly makes this knife iconic and transcendent is the Carson Flipper. The attractive simulated bone handle includes an . Thanks for stopping in! Later, sometime in the 1600s, these folding blades would see their first evolution into slipjoint knives non-locking blades that were a bit easier to use and more secure than the friction folders that came before them. Still, despite all the variety, there are a few out there that remain at the forefront of the community ever-present in our collective consciousness. Price Range: ~$350+. All rights reserved. Although pocket knives were initially intended to be carried in a pocket, they quickly changed to be used in any situation where a small, compact blade wouldnt fit into the lock or on the handle. 1. The three most common categories for pocket knives are carbon, stainless, and tool steel. What are the most collectible pocket knives? CRKT Snap Lock Folding Pocket Knife. As perhaps the biggest added benefit, theyre still made in the USA. The success of the knife has led to numerous versions of the Military, including the smaller Para Military. Stockman - The Stockman includes a clip, pen, and sheepfoot blades. We could have easily picked any of Victorinox's Swiss Army knives, but the Classic SD rightfully earns its place on the list for being the most popular model around the world. Cute for boys, youth, mother, boyfriend who are blade lover and spends Lightweight, Classic fit, Double-needle sleeve and bottom hem. Blade Length: 3.75 Shop Collectible Knives. And they apparently functioned well enough to hold up over time, as archaeologists from across the ancient world found other, similar examples of friction folders used later by farmers, Vikings, craftsmen, etc. The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for statistical purposes. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. This is another one of those knives not extremely common in the United States, but its low price and high quality makes it widespread throughout Europe. With nothing more than a handle, a blade, a simple bail attachment, and a pivot, the douk-douk will go down in history as one of the most significant and iconic folding knives ever. These collectible knives are typically some form of exclusive knives, limited edition knives, limited run knives, scrimshawed knives, and knife series. Total Length: 8.50 Best Compact: Buck 759 Metro. In the Pocket Knife Trader's Price Guide, this model is valued at $5,500. He finally succeeded with the original Leatherman tool (now retired), but continually improved upon the design until the Wave. Case pocket knives, fixed blade knives, and other premium cutlery have . When it comes to footwear, Oliver Cabell has you covered for all your sneaker, loafer and boot needs. The newer models feature a sand-blasted titanium handle with a premium quality CPM S30V steel blade. Along with the KA-BAR, the Mark II was heavily relied upon during the war and it likely saved many lives. This family-owned knife-making brand and their entire suite of offerings certainly rank amongst the most significant of all time. Check Price on Amazon. 3. Lock Type: Compression Lock. Designed by legendary knifemaker Ken Onion, the Leek transformed the factory knife market by sparking the assisted opening craze still present in folders. For large collections, we can come to you. Although Case has had some stumbles near the end of the century, they are still the most collected knife brand in traditional pocket . Penned by legendary knife designer Rick Hinderer, Zero Tolerances 0562 is a high-end folding knife that has played a pivotal role in popularizing the use of flipper tabs on EDC blades. When it was released in 1990, the Endura was mocked for its weird and unconventional appearance, but it became highly regarded and frequently copied. Today, the base model is a minimalist and, frankly, gorgeously simple cutting took which is renowned and revered around the world for its reliability (especially in regards to the ever-sturdy proprietary Reeve Integral Lock) and extreme ease of maintenance. So here's another vote for the Case 54 as the most collectible. Similar to what happened with the Buck 110, the Sharpfinger essentially became a generic term used for knives in this style, but the Old Timer version was the original. - 21%. Case Tested XX 6394 Cigar Stockman Greenbone Handles - $1,200. The dagger-like knife was specifically designed for the First Special Service Force for use in combat. $19.99. Nesmuk Jahrhundert Messer is the sixth most expensive pocket knife on our list. [Complete Guide]. SPONSORED. The last thing you want to do is buy an antique knife that is unsafe to use, so be sure to ask questions before purchasing one of these items. Benchmade is known for making some of the most respected knives, but the Griptilian hit all the right spots with consumers. FREE SHIPPING ON ORDERS OVER $99* & 60-DAY RETURNS, In some form or another, knives have been around for millions of years. After Emperor Meijis reform put an end to this system, a great many sword-makers were forced to find a new line of work, however, some managed to apply their existing skills and resources to the creation of products that could be still be sold in Japan. . Lock Type: Framelock. 4 inches long L.P. Case XX Cigar Stockman 6394 is amongst the most sought-after vintage case knives. In fact, most of the knives they presently manufacture have a similar makeup, as well a simple, natural wood handle and a stainless steel blade. A needle point blade is rarely found in pocket knives as it does not have a great deal of utilitarian use. Zero Tolerance 0350TSST. Learn everything you need to know about preserving your favorite EDC tool on our complete guide on how to clean your pocket knife. Handle: Anodized Aluminum SEE IT. As simple as it is, however, the douk-douk still has a flourish all its own in the form of stylistic engravings on the blade, handle, or both. Copyright 2023 StansTips.com. The Shah Jahan Dagger - $3.3 Million. In their purest forms, they are solely pocket knives, however, there are some with added embellishments like folding corkscrews for wine enthusiasts or stylistic elements to individualize certain knives. HICONSUMPTION is reader-supported. As some folks know, many of these blacksmiths turned their attention to crafting chef knives. Blade: Blue Steel A follow-up to the original Paramilitary knife, the second version does everything right and then some. All rights reserved. BARRY WOODS COLT BROWN MICARTA FOLDER. 8. It took Warenski 10 full years to finish The Gem Of The Orient and it sold for $2.1 million making it the most expensive knife set to ever be sold in the world!Feb 7, 2017. . William Henry's exclusive collection of folding knives elevates the archetype of all human instruments to a superb personality statement. Still, over 30 years of operation is definitely nothing at which to scoff. If youve spent any time at all looking at knives or collecting pocket knives, then you know that there are hundreds of different types of knives and tools. The one thing that you need to know about this knife is that the beautiful wave pattern on its blade signifies Mt. Total Length: 5.35 No one "needs" a $500 pocket knife. The knife pioneered the modern tactical folder and introduced the thumb hole, making one-handed opening on an everyday carry a must. Lock Type: XR Lock. CRKT. As the best-selling fixed blade at Buck, the 119 showcases the excellent craftsmanship at the company with a powerful and versatile knife. Usually, the artwork is representative of the spirits from which the blade derives its name, but it is also easy to find modern examples with alternative art or even no art at all if a more spartan design is your preference. The term pocket knife is a fairly ubiquitous one around the world. The M16, based off Carson's custom design, has been one of CRKT's best-received and best-selling series. Although it was designed to act as a large folding knife used for butchering and skinning game, the knife quickly gained popularity among casual knife users. The CQC-6 (which is named after Close Quarters Combat and SEAL Team Six) became a status symbol among members of elite military units for its nearly flawless design. Not available. The Laguiole is a style of knife not a brand but it is still worth listing as one of the most iconic knives in the world. Add to Cart. Here are the best knives of 2023 for for folks like you and me. Back in the 1970s, Timothy Leatherman set out to design a scout knife with pliers when he found a typical multi-tool too limiting. The Microtech Ultratech is its benchmark OTF knife, and it comes with an excellent build and beautiful appearance. Spyderco Paysan. $495.00. Its also just the right size and weight (a handle that swaps metal for durable carbon fiber helps here) that you know you have it on you without feeling weighed down by sagging pockets. Workers and casual knife users adopted this knife as an everyday carry, despite the fact that it was originally made for hunters. Having been produced for nearly 100 years, it's no surprise the Trapper is not only among Case's most collected pattern but also one of the most iconic. Large GEORGE WOSTENHOLM IXL Celebrated Lockback Pocket Knife 1850-60s Stag Parts. There are are some custom knives that have sold for much more. And sure, you can get the same utility with a cheaper handle, but the handcrafted natural BoneStag (bone cut to look like antler) adds a classic look. Lock Type: AXIS Lock. Considered by most discerning collectors as the top of the EDC knife food-chain, integral knives are unique in that their handle rather than being comprised of two handle scales mated together with a back-spacer is crafted from a solid piece of billet thats machined down to a single, ultra-sturdy piece. Gerber still sells the Mark II, but it's marketed more as a survival knife. Owen's knives feature an integrated balance between the materials of the blade, handle, and integral symbiotic designs. Add to Cart. Its no wonder why, considering they can help out in a wide swath of situations. Hugely popular worldwide, the unique Opinel has a simple design that's been selected for many of the most prestigious awards. That includes an ergonomic G10 handle, a stout 3.44 blade (with both the leaf shape and thumb hole), and what might just be the sturdiest pocket knife locking mechanism of all time a compression lock. Originally built as a standard-issue piece of military gear for Switzerlands infantry, the Swiss Army Knife was quickly adopted by militaries around the world, has been an included tool for NASAs manned missions, and is available in just about every permutation you can imagine including SAKs designed for bartenders, computer engineers, first responders, and more. The 6-inch 420HC stainless steel blade makes the knife a sort of smaller Bowie knife while the phenolic handle with guard gives it a classic feel. Designs are usually made of Damascus steel. As previously demonstrated by the addition of the KA-BAR and the V-42, war knives are common candidates for iconic knives because of their notoriety and widespread use. Engineered from the ground up as a high-performance auto folder intended for hard, everyday use and self-defense applications, the SOG-TAC AU is crafted around a textured aluminum handle that incorporates the brands XR lock into its opening mechanism, allowing its stubby 3.43 tanto blade which is composed of a cryogenically heat-treated, tool-grade D2 steel to be deployed with one finger at the touch of a button. Blade: Cryo D2 Dont take that in a negative way, though. $1,650.00. Whether youre the type of guy who actually puts his EDC pocket knife to good use every day or youre more of a weekend warrior, its easy to appreciate the long edge life and low maintenance. Pocket knives are one of the oldest styles of knives ever designed for what are the most collectible pocket knives. But Case XX is probably one of the more collectible for a few reasons: 1. Of course, most blades are not made from the age of history but instead are produced from a standard steel alloy commonly used in many knives today. The Case brand dates back to the four Case brothers who started handmaking knives in upstate New York in 1889. What Is The Fastest Way To Recover From Bunion Surgery? Used by Roman soldiers who were far from home, the earliest examples of folding knives (friction folders consisting of a blade, a handle, and a simple pivot at their meeting point) were not made for war, but rather simple utility looking and functioning a bit like the Swiss Army Knives we know and love today. TJB also offers The Carter in a wide range of different variants, including a larger XL version, options for straight or partially-serrated blades, a slew of different Micarta and G-10 handle color choices, and even a top-shelf Damascus steel version. Benchmade Knives wanted to make Ernest Emerson's custom folder available to the masses, so Emerson created the CQC-7. The Work Champ XL wont let you down unless youre the type of guy who thinks maybe your pricey pocket knife has too much utility. This isnt the knife that you bring on your camping trip. We rank the Benchmade TI Monoblock Family as the 10th most costly pocket knife on our list. A Limited Edition model goes for $250. In 1960, the 8OT was only the second Old Timer ever produced (the 2OT was the first but is no longer in production). 2.Marine Corps Fighting Knife: The Marine Corps issued a fighting knife to its members in 1943. $59.99. The Swiss Army knife was the first iconic multi-tool, but Leatherman is quickly making an argument that it's on par with, if not better than, the Victorinox knives. Often these come from the most well-known pocket knife makers out there, though there are a number of quality independent pocket knife brands. Five generations later and the now legendary Nagao Higonokami friction folder remains one of the most important collectors knives of all time, being made today very similarly to how it was upon its debut in 1894. In 2018, Spyderco discontinued its then-most expensive knife the Nirvana with an MSRP of $739.55. Buck Knives is credited with inventing the folding lockback knife. Hence, if youre looking to pick up one of these blades, make sure you get it straight from the source. Total Length: 6.75 Button Open/Button Close Release design with traditional sliding safety. A modern everyday carry knife in every sense of the term, this pocketable blade features tactical toughness in a format that can slip discreetly away. It doesnt take a knife expert to know that the 0308BLKTS is one slick pocket knife. Introduced in the 1920's it combines two blades in one body and includes clip and Spey blades, making it perfect for skinning or whittling. Carried by gear enthusiasts and outdoorsmen for generations, there are certain pocket knives that are so trusted and widely used, that no collection is considered complete without them. In fact, this is the most widely customizable knife that Benchmade has to offer. Built around a diminutive yet durable aluminum handle with a double-action thumb slide, Microtechs Exocet is a compact auto OTF that packs a sub-2, California-legal blade thats available in a number of different blade shapes. Laguiole Knife. Sale price $27.99 $27.99 Regular price $53.13 $53.13 You Save $25.14. The HT Trappers clip blade is perfect for those small tasks that make pocket knives so handy to have around at all times. Upgrade Your Entire Footwear Collection With Oliver Cabell, Everything You Need To Know Before Buying a Vintage Motorcycle, Classic 90s Airport Style To Have You Looking (and Feeling) Your Best While Flying, This Company Sells Remotely Fitted, Custom-Tailored Suits For as Low as $500, Waterfords Organic Irish Whiskey Shares More About How Its Made Than You Ever Thought To Know, The 7 Best Spring Jackets Perfect For Layering, The One Pair of Sunglasses That Work For Just About Every Guy, Video Games That Are as Fun to Watch as They Are to Play, If You Enjoy The Last of Us Then You Need To Play This Other Post-Apocalypse Game, Oversized Pants are In. The Buck 119 Special is a fixed blade hunting knife with an instantly recognizable look and a rich history. However, its not until the blade is combined with this Hinderer-designed knifes buttery-smooth action that the 0562 really earns its spot on this list. What helped the Sharpfinger become the iconic knife it is today was its versatility. Manufacturer: William Henry. The older a folding pocket knife is, the rarer it will be. Blade length, the brand name, the cost of the knife verse what you are actually paying for and the comfort of the knife all need . Spyderco has been a brand with innovation after innovation, but the Spyderco Endura 4 first exposed the brand to the world. Blade Length: 3.40 9. There are a few different sizes and finishes of this particular knife, but were partial to the original which has an 8Cr13MoV steel blade that measures up at just 2.75 in length, making it a perfect compact pocket knife. The blade is forged in the United States from martensitic stainless steel (the kind used in turbines and surgical equipment), and has a notch for when you need to crack a beer or lift a hot pot. Decorated in a sandblasted finish, the handle is mated to a CPM S35VN drop point blade thats rated at 60 for hardness on the Rockwell scale, and, more importantly, packs one of the smoothest actions weve ever had the pleasure of using. There is one small, painful issue faced by the French craftsmen who make these popular, iconic blades: the Laguiole name is public domain and is not protected by the French government, the EU, or any other governing body. This is due, in part, to their iconic styling cues namely, their oversized thumb hole and signature leaf-shaped blades, amongst others. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. In any case, this knife has remained virtually unchanged for nearly 100 years. Damascus, pearl, rare woods, mammoth tooth and ivory, spiny oyster, jasper, turquoise, and carbon fiber can . These are the best investment pocket knives to keep on your radar for when the time is right for an upgrade. Knifemaker Kit Carson was truly a master at innovation and put tons of thought into his knives, but the CRKT M16 is by far the most iconic of his creations. One of the best-value EDC knives in existence, Opinels No. $89.99. ), most antique knives that are considered to be collectible were made between the 1600s and 1900s. Number of pieces made: 50. WANTED: Shapleigh Diamond Edge branded schrades and Schrade Cut Co cattle and stockman knives, in good condition. The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for statistical purposes. The next iconic knife came from Scandinavia, before becoming a highly respected knife around the world: the Fallkniven F1. Kershaw Tension Linerlock Pocket Folding Knife Black Textured G10 Handle | Collectibles, Knives, Swords & Blades, Collectible Folding Knives | eBay! Knife featured in image: Case Yellow Trapper. This is a very personal question and it's impossible for me to divine whether an expensive knife like this is worth it to you. When it comes to sturdy construction and meticulous craftsmanship, you'll be hard pressed to find a more dedicated brand than Benchmade.Even though the Benchmade Infidel is something of a newcomer to the OTF community, making its first appearance in 2006, it quickly stood out as one of the best. The Kershaw Leek is one of the newest knives to make the list, but its inclusion is no accident. Designed to stand up to hard daily use, the 0562 is crafted from some of the finest materials available, with a framelocking titanium handle thats adorned in a carbon fiber handle scale and fitted with a tip-up deep carry pocket clip. Collectible knives are generally manufactured from age or period of history that is now considered very rare. One such individual was Komataro Nagao, who first began handcrafting Samurai sword-inspired pocket knives. The most collectible knives are made by craftsmen or well-known brands and have special qualities. Starting around the time that brands like Victorinox and Opinel were first launched, the modern period of pocket knives has evolved exponentially into the vast landscape we know today. As many companies continue to mimic the Leatherman design, these knives will only become more iconic. And dont let the price deter you from doing so, because Benchmade knives are so expensive for good reason: the brands SELECTEDGE process gets the perfect bevel angle on the powdered steel, and Benchmade will resharpen your knife to the factory edge at anytime for free. Its attractive yet minimalistic design features a milled, ergonomic handle thats equipped with an ultra-sturdy slide locking mechanism, and mated to a 2.80 VG-10 drop point blade thats deployed via an ambidextrous anodized thumb-disc and effortlessly guided by a set of phosphor bronze washers. DPx Gear certifies its Urban pocket knife for life, no questions asked as well as the next life the knife has when you pass it down to the next person who will appreciate it. First of all, its the wallet-draining price. . Rare Vintage "Berlin Boker" 7" Overall Open Italian Style Switchblade w/ Genuine Stag Handles Italian Design by Boker-Solingen, Germany; this vintage classic Features Genuine Stag Handles accented with a Nickel Silver Top Bolsters. Case Xx Cutlery Co Pocket Knives Knife Collector Collectible Western Hunter Hunting Lover Gift Cowboy 1990s Nos Vintage Belt Buckle Ad vertisement by VintageBeltBuckle. Some people collect knives to have different types of knives or what are the most collectible pocket knives. The Trapper has a basic trapping and skinning blade (a clip and spey blade) that was directly inspired by the jack-knife. Designed by Ed Van Hoy in Abingdon, Virginia. What were once simple handles with swinging blades attached have become something more entirely individualized tools used for an expansive number of tasks that have as much personality as the people who use them. White on white on white sneakers? When most of us hear the word pocket knife, we tend to think of the traditional slip joint and lockback folders of yesteryear, and while there are admittedly hundreds of knives that meet these criteria, few if any boast as iconic a status as the Buck 110. W.R. Case and Sons Cutlery Company is an American company with one of the best-handcrafted pocket knives. . And when it comes to quality OTF models, it really doesnt get much better than the spring-loaded blades from the experts at Microtech the makers of John Wicks knife of choice. Lock Type: Framelock. Youll also find supple brown dress boots, black or navy driving loafers and all the other colors under the sun. Then be sure to check out our guide to the 75 terms every knife owner should know for a robust explanation of the most commonly-used pieces of knife terminology. Amazingly, after more than 70 years, the KA-BAR continues to be one of the first choices for men and women in the military. 5 out of 5 stars (1,768) Sale Price $27.90 $ 27.90 $ 31.00 Original Price $31.00 . Best for: If Japanese knives are your thing, then you will love this pocket knife from Katsu.. They produce a limited series of knives for more than 20 years. Old company, lots of history. This is one of the most expensive and sharpest Case Knives and has been made out of durable Honyaki Steel. The Leatherman pushed its way onto the list by quietly slipping into the pockets of people around the world. Although pocket knives were initially intended to be carried in a pocket, they quickly changed to be used in any situation where a small, compact blade wouldn't fit into the lock or on the handle. [Buying Guide], Toro 51496 Cordless Hedge Trimmer Review [DEALs Inside], Black Decker Hh2455 Hedgehog Hedge Trimmer Review, Best Toothpaste Manufacturers [Indepth Guides], How to Decorate Wedding Car? Introduced by Case in the 1920s, the Trapper remains Case's most popular model. There are currently five Sebenza models, including two classic versions, two regular versions, and the Sebenza 25. Handle: Titanium Billet The name comes from Damascus, Syria, which was a trading hub for knives in the Middle Ages. Debuting in 2010, the second-generation Paramilitary 2 also known simply as the PM2 features all of the main hallmarks associated with the Colorado-based company, from its signature compression locking mechanism to its uniquely-shaped clip point blade to its instantly-recognizable round thumbhole opening. All About Pocket Knives. The design was developed in 1829 for cattle herders along the French-Spanish border. This model is perfect for on-the-go needs. Built for close quarters combat, the V-42 features a 7-inch SK-5 carbon steel blade with a black coating and a handle made of compressed leather discs. 10. In fact, the only other brand with a license to make this knife, Wenger, was absorbed into Victorinox in 2005. Best Tactical Choice: Grand Way Military Style Pocket & Folding Knife. Handle: Aluminum. Of course, this knife was not ever intended to be used for combat, but rather as a simple utility tool. Zero Tolerance is relatively new compared to some of the historic brands on this list. Like many of the knives on this list, the Leatherman has essentially become a generic term for a multi-tool with pliers. While their catalog has expanded in regards to materials (with more modern options than ever before), the spirit of the brand is still intact and their remarkably-useful and relatively inexpensive cutting tools continue to be some of the best ever constructed. 1. Only 1 left! Pros. Another absolutely legendary model thats also widely viewed as one of the greatest EDC knives of all time, Benchmades 940 Osborne is a perfectly balanced and highly-calculated folder that affords a remarkable amount of utility and an equally-impressive degree of durability and top-shelf craftsmanship. From one of the oldest pocket knives around we move on to one of the newest on the list: the Benchmade Griptilian. Devoid of the aforementioned pocket knife's bells and whistles, the Buck 110 is a modest yet effective folding knife. . The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for anonymous statistical purposes. About 45 years ago Tony Bose was inspired by a large, two-bladed field knife. Each comes with a certificate of authenticity and a serial number. Made by German cutlery-makers Nesmuk, the Jahrhundert Messer is claimed to be the most expensive kitchen knife in the world we found something even more ridiculously expensive. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. If there was a people's choice award for most iconic knife, the Mora would be near the top.