To Use Or Not To Use That Is The Question

[sitflyer]

These threads always get me to thinking. If it was never used by your Grandpa, then why was it never used? Was it a sentimental thing like a gift that he received, but also, was it maybe just not his taste? Also, does it seem like a knife you would choose to carry and use if it didn't have any sentimental connection? If it were me, it would weigh more heavily if it was a knife that I felt a strong liking to, for it's design, blade choices, aesthetics...whatever about the knife that drew me to it's functionality and purpose that fit my needs / desires. If it was something that did not fulfill those parameters and the only reason I wanted to carry it was for sentimental reasons, it would probably be best kept as is. If it was a knife I felt a strong desire to carry and use it because it fit my criteria, then yes, I would toss it into my pocket or belt pouch and carry and use it as I would any other knife. It's just some pieces of steel and other materials assembled into a useful object. And that one you have, yes, I would carry and use it because it is a very cool knife, it would probably be a camping / travel knife for me. And if you are thinking of future generations, a well used and cared for knife would speak more about how much it meant to you than an unused pristine thing packed away in its box, never seeing the light of day...

 

[RBB2]

That's a tough one, but I think it comes down to you more than your grandpa. What would you enjoy more, seeing the knife in a display and remembering him when you look at it, or using it and remembering him when you do. The romantic on me says display, but really, after a while you don't even see it anymore if you're like me. Using it, though, you can be reminded each time of him.

 

[neo71665]

I daily carry the knife and a pistol my grandpa did so I say use it.

 

[dsutton24]

The advertising knife would be easy to break or damage, I wouldn't carry it. As for the scout knife, it's not particularly valuable, so it would depend on its sentimental value.

I've got knives from my dad and grandpa, I don't carry them. For me it's not a case of breaking or damaging them, but a worry I'd lose them.

 

[oldtymer]

I say use it. I would gladly give up every knife that I have for the one my Grandfather had & used every day.

 

[TheJon]

You all gave me a lot to think about, thanks for the advice. I pulled it out and gave it a cleaning, kinda funny cleaning the polishing compound and grit out of a "new" knife from 40+ years ago. Anyway I cleaned it, and oiled it up so it won't rust anymore, and for know it's back in the safe, I figure this isn't something I have to decide right away. I still have all of his tools to go through and restore, once I'm done with that I figure I can go back and revisit the pocket knife. As for the little advertisement knife that one won't be getting used, although it is a beautiful knife, but one scale is already crack and it would be a shame to damage it any more. And for anyone curious it is a Robeson Shuredge, can't remember if there are any other markers, I'll have to go take a look.