New Collectors

[ww2bill]

Some people use knives as tools and others have a hobby of collecting. In my early days I used as a tool then later began collecting some of this and some of that. I think as a hobby it is very important for new collectors to begin. If young people become collectors and have interest in any form of collecting this leads them in the right direction using their money for good instead bad music or drugs.

When I was younger my dad gave me a L.C. Smith Shotgun. L.C. Smith was the best shotgun. Today many of the younger people have never heard the name L.C. Smith. I don't know when they went out of business but I think it must be 40 to 50 years ago.

I only buy USA made knives. The USA knives to me is now even becoming more important as collectable. I am very glad to see the new Schrade Waldens being made in the USA. This will keep the Schrade name alive hopefully for many years. I do not want to see a collectable disappear like the L.C. Smith Shotguns for future generations.

When new collectors come in the market and gain knowledge they will also start hunting for the earlier patterns with earlier stampings. This on the long run can only be good for the hobby.

 

[kevins73cigars]

Bill,
I am one of the new collectors you're referring to and I can honestly say that it has been my experience that knife collectors' have a culture which seems to welcome the newcomer - deals with him straight and honest, has the patience to answer all of his questions (even though they've probably answered the same question many times before), and provides good tips on developing a winning strategy. It's a pretty unique community!

I'm not really buying the older stuff though. I find the history of the company interesting and I like seeing the old ads and trade catelogs, but I buy Schrade USA stuff that was produced recently. I like to see the blue boxes when I hunt for a LB7 or a 285UH.

The only bad experience I have had so far was when I dealt with a woman selling junk on eBay. My own damn fault - I didn't take the time to look at her member profile before I bid.

 

[MontanaSteelMan]

Hi Bill:

You make a good point on collectible things. You and I must be in the same age bracket, because I too remember the L.C. Smith Shotguns. Sure wish I had one now.

Also, your point about bad music and drugs is a good one too. I was fortunate that my dad let me get interested in things that kept me away from drugs. Of course when I came up, there weren't too many drugs.

I am new to knife collecting, and besides a few knives that I have put handles on myself in my shop, I inherited my Dad's Old Timer, and I still have the one he bought me at the old country store (it's beat up and banged up now).

I looked at some of the Old Timer's and Uncle Henry's the other day when I drove into town, and I have to say, they don't look like they've changed much. Nice quality work. The only reason I didn't buy last week, was I got sentimental about the the one's I have now, but it is time to get a new one.

Thanks for allowing me to post this message

 

[lrv]

MontanaSteelMan,
Just be sure to check the tangs for that USA stamp if your looking for an original.
Welcome to the group.
TTYL
Larry

 

[MontanaSteelMan]

MontanaSteelMan,
Just be sure to check the tangs for that USA stamp if your looking for an original.
Welcome to the group.
TTYL
Larry

Larry:

Thanks for the advice and the welcome. I did buy the new Old Timer today, and according to the guy at the mom and pop hardware store where I bought it is a newer one, and made in China. I looked at it closely, and I could tell no difference in the quality between it and the old one I've carried for so many years.

I'm sure it is good for a day to day working knife.

 

[kevins73cigars]

Montanasteelman,
I've found that it's possible to find most patterns of "lightly used" Schrade old timer or uncle henry folders on eBay for $5-$10. These usually make excellent day-to-day beaters. I bought an 885UH Senior Rancher for $5 + shipping and it's my carry knife. It's a great knife! Full blades, strong springs, tight as a drum. Sharpen'em, clean'em up and use 'em!
Kevin