Why the variation in pricing?

[jw0312]

I have always been more of a gun guy than a knife guy, but I recently inherited a Schrade Imperial HK-3550 "kombo" in really good shape. My FIL would pull his knives out every few months and clean / re-oil them. I'm trying to get an idea of what it's worth, but the dang numbers are all over the place. I've seen crappy ones going for over 100 bucks and I've seen nicer ones going for much less. My FIL, the previous owner, bought this thing back in the 60's. Any help on trying to figure out its value. I don't think I want to sell it, but I hate having something and not knowing what it's worth. Thanks!

 

[Larry303]

Its in fantastic condition JW as they were not a high end production by Imperial and they tend to be found tarnished. <so the oiling and wiping obviously helped> Your Kamp King folder is likewise in great shape. I'm holding identical set right now as I write. The fixed blade is quite light to hold as you would already know and were made more of a novelty item rather than a user...except perhaps by Scouts of old.....I've got 4 of the knives with different handle colors so feel I can give some indication....and they're reasonably scarce to find but not rare....
If you inherited it I would definately be keeping and cherishing it for what it represents to you.
Value?..always difficult depending on how many looking for one at this particular time as it takes two to tango.....I personally paid about US$30 for my set some years ago and its likely to fetch realistically by a not over anxious buyer about US$50-$75+on a good day..they get two knives in one combo deal without fries....
Larry Vickery has original flyers <adverts> for this combo on his site Schrades R Us <Under Imperial Flyers>..do what I do print one off and keep with each knife I have...Trust this helps...

 

[jw0312]

That was very helpful Larry. Thank you very much!