Don't worry about whether or not you have an Accumulation or a Collection. Most people have a little of both, but it really just depends on what you call it. One guy might have a thousand knives and still consider himself an Accumulator. Another guy might have two knives and proudly call himself a Collector. It's dependent on how serious you were when buying.
And I want knives I can carry and use without destroying their resale value.
That's contradictory. Any time you use a knife you've negatively affected it's resale value and collector interest.
Unless your name is Jim Bowie, of course.
Keeping the original box, paperwork, sheath, and other accessories in good condition is important also.
Anyway, it seems you're coming right along in your search for collectible fixed blades and other knives.
One bit of advice I'd like to pass along if you're interested in maintaining value - it's easier to do if you don't pay too much to begin with. Look for closeouts, discontinued models, seasonal sales, and young unknown or new makers.
Still an aggregation rather than a collection....
Nothing wrong with that, of course. My own knives (hundreds of them) are a giant Accumulation with specific mini-collections within. I suggest you keep throwing a wide net until you come across a brand/pattern/style/material/age/country of origin/whatever that you want to focus on in depth and seriously Collect.
Welcome to the hobby!
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Awesome knives! Horrible photos!
P.S. You might want to invest in a camera with a focus ring, or a flatbed scanner.
