custom knife value?

I

infinite727

Joined
Jan 4, 2009
Messages
23
hey all, was hoping to get some information on how custom knives are valued.

i would assume with big name makers it is much easier to determine their value since they are being bought and resold more frequently, but how does one go about determining the value of more obscure custom knives?

i searched through the bladeforum archives and the makers in question haven't popped up in the classifieds for years. the main reason for my asking is i am looking to trade some equipment for knives, a few of which i know their original sale value, and am trying to figure out a trade value. i would hate to make a trade and only be able to sell the knives for a fraction of what my stuff is worth.

that said, here are the knife makers whose knives are being considered


ted ott bowie http://img375.imageshack.us/i/dsci1151.jpg/
(ATS-34 , Blade 7 3/8", Bronze Guard Bolsters and Butt cap, Stag Handle, OAL 12 5/8")
http://cutlerscove.com/microsites/ott/index.html
https://www.arizonacustomknives.com/products/index.php?id=5251

dick atkinson dagger http://img408.imageshack.us/i/dsci1192m.jpg/
(440 C, Pre-Ban Elephant Ivory Scales, 7 1/4 in)
https://www.arizonacustomknives.com/products/index.php?id=3259

kurt meerdink dagger http://img9.imageshack.us/i/dsci1173c.jpg/
(ATS 34, blade 4 1/8", Sambar Stag handle, OAL 8 1/4")
https://www.arizonacustomknives.com/products/index.php?id=7860

arno bernard knives http://img291.imageshack.us/i/dsci1159.jpg/
(127c sandvick, warthog scales, cape buffalo sheaths, a little over 5")
http://www.arnobernard.com/servlet/StoreFront

barry dawson dagger http://img819.imageshack.us/i/dsci1174.jpg/
(damascus with a burl handle and mosaic pins)
http://www.dawsonknives.com/index.html
 
Last edited:
infinite727 said:
......the main reason for my asking is i am looking to trade some equipment for knives, a few of which i know their original sale value, and am trying to figure out a trade value. i would hate to make a trade and only be able to sell the knives for a fraction of what my stuff is worth.
Click to expand...

None of the makers you have listed is "hot".....unless you have A LOT of experience selling knives, patience and multiple outlets to move the product, realizing top dollar for the exchange of your equipment for knives is not going to happen.

Off the top, I give a valuation of between $500.00-$600.00.

Best Regards,

STeven Garsson
 
Last edited:
There's A LOT of factors which affect and determine the secondary market value of specific knifemaker's knives. Then there's also a lot of factors which affect and determine the value of specific knives made by an individual knifemakers such as knife type/style, materials, and condition just to name a few.

Short answer:

You will be more successful determining trade value on specific knives by contacting knowledgeable collectors, dealers, enthusiasts and the makers of the particular knives and supplying them with photos and descriptions.

Price originally paid is of little help in determining current value as custom knives are often worth less, same or more.
 
thanks for the information.

i added some more information (materials, size, links) on the off chance it helps someone determine their value. they are all in like new condition as far as i am aware
 
infinite727 said:
thanks for the information.

i added some more information (materials, size, links) on the off chance it helps someone determine their value. they are all in like new condition as far as i am aware
Click to expand...

I stand by why I wrote.

If you want to sell the knives on BladeForums, you can become a paying member, go Gold, and sell all you want. It's good value and helps this place keep running!

http://www.bladeforums.com/forums/payments.php

Best Regards,

STeven Garsson
 
STeven -- unless I misread, the o/p is trying to trade some equipment he has for knives he would like to have so he is a buyer rather than a seller who simply wants to get value for his items when doing the trade. were you indicating total value or for each knife to this o/p?
 
Murray White said:
STeven -- unless I misread, the o/p is trying to trade some equipment he has for knives he would like to have so he is a buyer rather than a seller who simply wants to get value for his items when doing the trade. were you indicating total value or for each knife to this o/p?
Click to expand...

Total value if I were doing the deal, read the bolded portion above.

Best Regards,

STeven Garsson
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top