International Knife Collectors Association

Knives have been a constant companion to mankind, starting from the stone age where they were one of the oldest tools utilized. Unlike our ancestors who used flint and obsidian to make knives, the knives of today are made of over 50 types of steel and countless handle materials and designs. Knives are now viewed as a form of art - exquisite layered Damascus steel and precious metals create art within a knife. The fascination that our ancestors had has never died, and knives continue to be a primary tool that is handy to use even in today's dynamic environment.

There are so many brands, knife types, prices and so on. Where does one go when starting a knife collection? Most people start with a certain brand or design first and then diversify to other types. To see which type suits you best, see the pages at the bottom of the page.

• Buy what you like. Don't buy a knife simply because many people like that brand or style. Ultimately if you buy a knife based on other people's opinions you won't be happy with your collection if you don't really like the knife. You will always be happy with the knives you have if you buy what you like. Don't ever buy knives to sell them off at a profit.
  
• Do your research! Nothing is more damning than to spend $500 on a bunch of "rare" knives that are fake or later regret buying in a few years time. Bargain hunt and keep a watch on knife forums and auction sites. Know your knives well before buying anything.
  
• Know your prices. It is useful to keep a price list on how much a certain knife sold at what year. So at least you can track how much that knife goes for and whether you should buy it now (or wait a while for the price to lower). If you know your knife values then you can buy knives more easily with confidence.
  
• Have a little patience. Too often people see a rare knife and immediately jump on it. Little do they know that in a few days later the same model goes on sale again but in a better condition and a lower price. Sometimes when you look at a knife it may have defects or things that you don't like. If there is even the slightest hint of such a doubt, consider holding on first.
  
• Plan your budget. Some people get too into the buying spree that they end up buying too many knives at one go and sacrificing other rarer knives. Buy a few at a time, the fewer the better. Grow your collection slowly and prudently.
  
• Good things come in pairs. Most people like to use one knife and keep one as "shelf queens", or one that is stored in its original packaging (with box, papers, etc.) so as to ensure collectibility.
• Don't give up! If it seems like your collection is losing value, fret not! Most likely is because there are too many knives for sale on the market. Wait and you'll see the prices rising. Don't be quick to sell off your knives.
  
• When in doubt, always remember point number one.

See our "Knife Maintainance & Care" guide for keeping your collection in pristine condition.