Traditional Knife Guide & Values

Joe58

Joe58

Joined
Nov 11, 2002
Messages
1,969
Can someone recommend to me what would be considered the "best" guide and value book for traditionals to me?

I'm starting to gather a few older knives now and it would likely be wiser on my part if I researched a bit more before buying. Instead of the other way around like I do now. :eek:

Thanks! Joe
 
Joe58 said:
Can someone recommend to me what would be considered the "best" guide and value book for traditionals to me?

I'm starting to gather a few older knives now and it would likely be wiser on my part if I researched a bit more before buying. Instead of the other way around like I do now. :eek:

Thanks! Joe
Click to expand...

They are nice to have I suppose, however, one can find out actual values by following sales on the net or going to knife shows. Most of the "values books" tend to lean toward inflated prices, at least in these parts of the USA. I used to buy some really nice old Case XX's from a fellow in a county not far from mine. He had hundreds of nice old knives with decent prices. Last year he bought one of the "Values books" and immediately his prices went through the roof. I don't even go over there anymore because the first thing he does is grab that book and give you the mint condition price on his excellent knife, no matter what.:rolleyes: (Although, after I bought that nice ole stag Cheetah I posted yesterday):D
 
Yes, you're right about that. Same with the gun blue book. Everybody's is always mint and that's the price expected.

I guess I'm going for more information on the knives themselves and just a guide to pricing. To tell if I'm paying $200 for a knife that should be around $50. Just to see if I'm way off on something. And maybe a little history on the old pieces.

Thanks guys for the help. Much appreciated! Joe
 
Levines 4+ was printed in 1997 I believe but is much much more than a price guide. Levine does give a formula for calculating value as well as the name of every pattern, lists of makers,history and on and on. The big auction site can give a very real view of current value by searching the SOLD auction list. If you watch often you can get a great deal on the 4th edition, I got a new copy for $75.00.

Best regards

Robin
 
I have LG4 and it's a great book but as you've found out pretty pricey when you can find a copy. Keep an eye out for a cheap copy but in the mean time get ahold of:

Blade's "Guide to Knives & Their Values" by Shackleford. The 7th Edition should do you. Has pretty much everything LG4 has plus newer information.

"American Premium Guide to Knives & Razors Identification and Value Guide" by Jim Sargent and again the 7th Edition.

There are many more books as recommended above.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top