My new to me knife and knife collection and care questions

[honestlyinsane]

My latest purchase.
My question would be for the collector's out there. How important is having the original box to you when collecting a knife.
Reason I ask is the seller did not disclose that he had the box but it reeked like mildew .It Has signs of water damage but not bad. He did say it had a tear in the box though.
Also sheath and knife had slight smell . So I am looking for input on how you care for you knifes and sheaths. I cleaned the sheath with a leather conditioner. The knife with rubbing alcohol.( I cleaned the box also ) I don't know what oils or polish to use.
Otherwise I am happy with the purchase but honestly if I was the seller I would have thrown the box out or disclosed the issue with it.

 

[Plumberdv]

My two cents worth. If the knife is to be a user as opposed to a collectable, I'm not that concerned with the box. In the case of your knife, I'd have to classify it as a "collectable" and would want the box, even if damaged.

One reason is that down the road, many of the collectable LE's, Special Projects and Buildouts can be hard to identify with out something to go by and the box provides that info. I'm willing to pay more for a knife that comes with the original box and I know that I'm not alone in that mindset.

I keep all my knives except the ones I have in display cases in their original boxes (if I have them) and keep them stored either in cardboard file boxes or cabinets in the house. Do keep them out of direct sunlight, even that coming through a window. I've learned the hard way that direct sun hitting the boxes will fade them badly.

I don't do anything special to the knives (collectables) except to wipe them down with a microfiber cloth after handling to get rid of any finger prints. I'd also advise against storing them in their leather sheath, especially the ones with brass bolsters.

Oh yeah, another thing, keep them dry!

 

[jb4570]

You did fine add a fine coat of light oil to the knife, no polish needed for this knife. You have a very nice knife it will last you a lifetime.

Here a a few I have, they have been in a display case now for years and I have not done anything more than listed above.

jb4570

 

[Plumberdv]

This is a bit off topic, but looking at your knife brought this one to mind. If you are inclined to want more of the Alpha's be aware that this one is a fake through and through in case you're tempted to buy one. It's one of the best I've encountered but still a counterfeit.

 

[honestlyinsane]

This is a bit off topic, but looking at your knife brought this one to mind. If you are inclined to want more of the Alpha's be aware that this one is a fake through and through in case you're tempted to buy one. It's one of the best I've encountered but still a counterfeit.

I have seen that one before and thought it as fake . I also saw that you mentioned that in another thread. I appreciate the help guys. I usually research what I am buying through several sites before I purchase and I have gained alot of knowledge through Bladeforums.
Right now I am sticking mainly alpha's ,I did buy a 110 and stockman Boone and Crockett. I ordered a Alpha Hunter from the Buck Custom Shop I think after that one shows up I am going to have to stop buying for awhile to let my bank account catchup.
I have been saving all my boxes. I store the sheaths in them and I bought a display case that hangs on the wall. Which is now full. about 12 knives in about a month and a half . I guess I have the bug. I also sent my check into bcci to join. Thanks again.

 

[David Martin]

I would not use the knives with a cut out in it's blade. DM

 

[imafritz]

Thats a good fake-scary

 

[Skelator88]

I also try to have the original boxes with my collection.
I will on most cases turn my nose up at a collectible knife if it has no box. Unless its something really special.
My knife boxes are inside freezer bags or food bags. Then in a large cardboard box and under the bed