Patent types and manufacturer licensing

[rfwright614]

I am somewhat of a newbie to the knife making world. My father has been making custom knives for over 25 years. I recently worked with him and made a prototype for my knife design and sheath system. It is primarily for the Law Enforcement market. Both the overall knife design and the sheath system are truly original. From my experience with law enforcement, as well as from the feedback I have gotten from showing my prototype to other trusted LEO's, I believe I have an exceptional product. I have been researching patents and licensing but have had a hard time finding much, by way of advice, as it relates to knives. If anyone can offer advice on the types of patents to seek and how to go about contacting/negotiating with manufactures for licensing I would really appreciate it.

Also if there are other treads that have already discussed this please direct me to them. I searched and could not find anything. Additionally, if there is a better forum to post this under please let me know.

 

[Stacy E. Apelt - Bladesmith]

Use this search engine:
https://www.google.com/cse/home?cx=011197018607028182644:qfobr3dlcra


Patenting a new lock for a folder, or a sheath system with a unique retention method is possible, but difficult. Patenting a knife "feature" is possible, but may be hard to do unless it is really a new concept. Patenting a new knife "shape" is nearly impossible.

You really don't need us to tell you what to do about keeping records, dating and signing sketches, etc. What you need is to do some deep research and decide if the idea is patentable,...and most important....if it really would be of any benefit to patent it.

If you plan on selling millions of these "new" knives, then it might be worth a patent journey. If you plan on selling tens of thousands, maybe it is worth it. If you plan on selling thousands or less, it definitely isn't worth it.

With your dad's experience, why not ask him his honest feelings on the uniqueness and if it would be worthwhile to pursue a patent. But don't ask if you don't really want an answer.