Resources for determining authenticity

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tcotten

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Dec 28, 2022
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As a newbie to the blade world, what are the best resources for determining the authenticity of old knives/swords?

I've recently inherited a large collection, including some very old-looking bowie knives, bayonets (WWI vintage?), and swords.
But I'm not sure where to start determining if they are truly vintage.
Aside from posting here (and carefully avoiding any request to evaluate value), are there specific sites or YouTube channels I need to explore?
(Bonus points if you can point me towards a NE Atlanta-area expert who might be able to help.)
 
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tcotten said:
As a newbie to the blade world, what are the best resources for determining the authenticity of old knives/swords?

I've recently inherited a large collection, including some very old-looking bowie knives, bayonets (WWI vintage?), and swords.
But I'm not sure where to start determining if they are truly vintage.
Aside from posting here (and carefully avoiding any request to evaluate value), are there specific sites or YouTube channels I need to explore?
(Bonus points if you can point me towards a NE Atlanta-area expert who might be able to help.)
Click to expand...
Can try the Bernard Levine subforum right here.
 
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tcotten said:
As a newbie to the blade world, what are the best resources for determining the authenticity of old knives/swords?

I've recently inherited a large collection, including some very old-looking bowie knives, bayonets (WWI vintage?), and swords.
But I'm not sure where to start determining if they are truly vintage.
Aside from posting here (and carefully avoiding any request to evaluate value), are there specific sites or YouTube channels I need to explore?
(Bonus points if you can point me towards a NE Atlanta-area expert who might be able to help.)
Click to expand...
The happy challenge will be to go down each rabbit hole as it presents itself. You will have to look at each knife individually and find the authors who address that particular knife or genre of knife as it comes up. Few sources will cover the entire range of knives and bayonets that you have there. And anyway, each author will be looking at his or her specific interest. Not likely antiques in general.

One exception to my general point will be edged weapons of the Third Reich. I am certain there will be books on these.

Zieg
 
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I'm particularly interested in the stacked leather handle knife you have. If you can provide some closer pics I might be able to help come up with sources for study.

Zieg
 
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The first knife is a Helle Stoa Super No 10. It's real. It appears in a catalog photo on the Helle Knives Facebook page (picture below, top row, second from the left)


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The Kabar is what is commonly referred to as a "theater" knife. Someone put a new, custom handle on it. "Theater" refers to knives made or modified in a warzone. But of course people can re-handle a knife anywhere at any time.

The large bowie with the brass guard is a W49 type of knife. If it has any markings on the blade or guard those might help date and authenticate the knife.
 
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