Matty, welcome to Blade Forums and to the custom knife community.
I've supplied a portion of the notes used for my custom knife collecting seminars I do at various knife shows and hammer-ins. This should give you something to think about.
I would also suggest you research the CKCA (Custom Knife Collectors Association) by selecting the link in my signature line. We offer the new custom knife collector everything from education, discounts on knife related products and services, access to other collectors and knifemakers, access to special knives, VIP status at many shows and everything in between.
"My best advice in a single word to the newer collector is “Patience”. Be patient in selecting what knives to add to your collection rather than buying on impulse.
Many new collectors initially buy knives on impulse resulting in accumulating a hodge podge of knives before realizing the types of knives and which makers they want represented in their collection. The risk is that these collectors will get frustrated and leave the collectible knife community.
I suggest investing time rather than money in getting started in custom knife collecting. Become familiar with makers and the types and styles of knives they make and are known for. Learn about knife construction and what elements, material and design make up a great knife. Learn what to look for in determining good fit/finish and execution of a custom knife.
The more knowledge you have of the particular type knife you are interested in the easier it will be to build your ultimate collection.
So initially, I suggest you focus on your preferred style as it can take years to educate yourself on the many types of custom knives.
Your obvious question is how do I learn about custom knives? There’s lots of ways.
BY going to shows, hammer-ins and even visiting maker’s shops in your area.
Shows: There is no other place where you will find as many knives by so many makers in one place. Makers will invite you to handle their knives talk about them and answer questions.
Hammer-ins: Mainly put on by and for makers, however collectors are always welcomed and hammer-ins are an excellent place to learn about knife construction, fit, finish and materials.
Shop visits: Most makers will gladly schedule a shop visit for an interested collector. Even the most well known makers are very approachable and enjoy interacting and discussing knives with both new and experienced collectors.
BY, monitoring and examining dealer websites.
I know of no other single place a collector can consistently learn more about custom knives without leaving their home.
They contain an abundance of custom knife information from photos and descriptions on all types and styles of knives, to bios on the makers. These sites can give you a good idea as to what’s selling and at what price.
BY, reading and participating on the better custom knife forums where collectors can benefit from the vast and diverse knowledge of experience makers and collectors. There’s good information on knife styles, design and collecting philosophies.
BY, studying the knife publications.
The "Knives Annuals" contain over 1000 photos of all types of customs knives. This is a great place to familiarize yourself with the different maker’s styles and to develop an appreciation for what knives you want to collect.
Subscribe to Blade, Knives Illustrated and Knife World as these publications will help to keep you up to date on knives, makers, trends and basically what’s happening in the knife industry.
BY, joining and participation in knife organizations such the ABS, the Knifemaker’s Guild and knife collecting associations such as the CKCA. These groups have a lot to offer collectors in the form of education, contacts, knife acquisitions, literature and finding other individuals who share your knife interest."
Hope this helps
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