Knife Displays

..Old knives have never been of interest to me particularly as I like the knife as a piece of sculpture not simply as a tool.

Old knives are not simply tools. And i know you werent implying this..
The craftsmen of old had equal gifts of artistic ability to anyone alive today. We have more exotic materials, and techniques. But no greater artistry. My opinion on it..
David
 
My favorite displays are either rustic type, or antique showcase cabinets. There is usually much better attention to tasteful stylistic details in the old stuff. Also, lends a bit of classic elegance.
David

I like to utilize artifacts or rustic material in my knife displays as well.
Here's an ancient Walrus tusk with which Eskimos crafted a sled runner.
I will use it in creating a Bowie display stand.

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Here's a couple belt knife display stands that Daniel Winkler created which are rustic in nature.
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And one of mine that I would call semi-rustic considering the use of antler.
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Thanks Kevin, very nice examples. Please dont take offense, but i
find the plexiglass box-types display has an "aquarium" look about it. I prefer wood sides, edges. Just me..
David
 
Thanks Kevin, very nice examples. Please dont take offense, but i find the plexiglass box-types display has an "aquarium" look about it. I prefer wood sides, edges. Just me..
David

In a visual sense, I prefer the displays without the plexiglass cubes as well. However the cubes guard against dust/dirt settling on the knives which can result in spots (especially on carbon steel blades), greatly reduces exposure to the sun's ultraviolet rays which can fade color in handle material, helps to keep handle material hydrated and adds a fixture for security devices.

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I like something more formal, like a Winchester display. I've had some health challenges that have prevented me from the 3 hr drive to get them designed, but hope to have examples shortly.

Bob
 
Some maker's are creating substancial displays to go alone with theri knives.
I think this is great as it put's these beautiful knives "out there" for more folks to see.

Here's a Larry Feugen display:
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And two recent displays with art forgings from JR Cook:
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one of my favorite displays is the Daniel Winkler Bowie that Kevin has. Loved that the first time he showed it. certainly a nice centre piece. Now the Fuegen -- indescribable!!
 
I have limited space, so most of my knives are compressed together on my desk in one way or another. Here is what I have right now. Some wooden cases, and some cheap plastic ones that do the job fine. Not as elaborate or nice as it could be but thats something to look forward to someday. No room for sheaths at the moment.

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I love the variety. Normally this one is not visible except by lifting the top of the display box. ABS Mastersmith class of 2003 made this and it was auctioned in '04. Who (besides me) knows the names?

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^ Great Display Buddy.
I love "in box" displays.
In fact, I find a combination of "wall", "table top", "in box" and "large case" (winchester for example) displays interesting and appealing.
Can kind of create a museum atmosphere.

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Buddy,

I can get the list started on the folks who made your dagger.

Bruce Bump, Sava Damlovac, John Fitch, Heather Harvey, Michael Vagnino.

Can not remember any more. Sure do remember that dagger as well as the ones from 2003 testing. Still have both from Sava, John and Michael.
 
Buddy,
Kevin and Heather Harvey did the blade,
Sava Damolvac made and fluted the handle,
Michael Vagnino made the sheath and
Bruce Bump made the guard, clamshell and pommel

I remember it well. Nice collaboration
 
I remember it well. Nice collaboration
Bruce - I was hoping you'd see this. It was/is a nice collaboration. The wood box display with brass plaque was Heather's idea and the box was designed and made by a talented fellow there in S. Africa (details to follow). It's perfect - the dagger is well protected, box is low profile, don't have to put it away when guests come over etc. The dagger is really a beautiful piece of work by everyone involved and the whole package makes for a nice display.
 
In fact, I find a combination of "wall", "table top", "in box" and "large case" (winchester for example) displays interesting and appealing. Can kind of create a museum atmosphere.

Agreed, anyone can enjoy casually looking without feeling anxious or provoked by a more 'in your face' type display. It introduces the uninitiated to custom knives in an emotionally neutral manner, when you get right down to it.
 
Sure do remember that dagger as well as the ones from 2003 testing.

Yeah, great time. You and I had dinner together with a bunch of neat folks and I just passed that dagger around the table like it was a found nickel or something. ;)
 
Jon, that is a super sweet collection you've built up there. Nicely displayed too.
 
here is a new display addition with a change from how it was previously. this one has an addition of a knife and stand that fits with the Native American art that is also displayed in the same room and on this knife cabinet. In the background are some Pearls displayed.

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This is a recent acquisition or a knife made by Devon (Butch) Beaver and wife Judy. Phyllis has another piece by them also that fits with an Oriental display we have.

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Now what I need some assistance with is to find out how I can contact Butch. At one time he stopped knife making and also moved to, I believe, TN but then I heard he began to make again. If anyone has info, I'd like to be able to contact Butch to learn more about the carving he did on the stand and the knife handle.
 
Can anyone turn me onto a cheap source for Plexiglas boxes? The ones on eGay are expensive. I don't need a base with mine, or the UV protection, although it wouldn't hurt. Thanks
 
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