Identification and valuation guidance reviewed November 9, 2026. Historical screenshots illustrate research methods; they are not current offers or appraisals.
So, you picked up an awesome knife for $3 at a yard sale, or maybe your grandfather handed down his favorite blade, and now you’re curious about what it is — and what it’s worth.
Unfortunately, identifying a knife and determining its value can be trickier than it sounds. But if you’re looking for a good place to start, keep reading.
1. Find identifying marks or symbols
The first — and most obvious — step is to look closely at the knife itself.
Search for any symbols, initials, or maker’s marks on the blade or handle. These marks are often the calling cards of brands or individual knifemakers and can range from simple logos to scribbled signatures.
An absent or worn marking does not by itself establish that a knife is a clone. Likewise, a familiar stamp alone does not prove authenticity; compare it with construction, provenance and reliable records.
A search can suggest a maker, but confirm the result against reliable references. For example, Case’s manufacturer tang-stamp guide provides dated markings for its own knives; that system should not be applied to other brands.
For example, let’s say you stumble upon an old slipjoint that looks like an antique with this marking:
The image above is a historical research example, not a complete identification or current valuation. Match the full stamp, pattern and construction before assigning a maker or date. The earlier $20–$350 marketplace range lacked dated, condition-matched sold examples and has been removed.
2. Get a reference book
You might think the Internet has all the answers, but many antique knives aren’t well-documented online.
That’s why seasoned collectors still swear by reference books. A standout is Goins’ Encyclopedia of Cutlery Markings — a massive compilation of historic maker’s marks.
Knife Magazine remains a useful reference publisher. Its subscription page, checked November 9, 2026, describes searchable Goins access as “coming soon.” Confirm availability directly before subscribing for that feature.
Other helpful books include Randall Knives: A Reference Book and many regional guides.
3. Analyze construction and materials
If there’s no clear identifier, you can still narrow things down by studying how the knife was made.
Specific types of locks, blade shapes, handle materials, and overall craftsmanship can hint at the knife’s origin and era.
Lock design, dimensions, pattern and construction may help narrow a date range when matched to dated catalogs or other reliable records. Style alone cannot establish a country of manufacture or an exact year.
Describe observable features: materials, fit, blade wear, corrosion, repairs and signs of modification. Poor fit or resemblance to another design cannot establish where a knife was made. Country of origin alone does not establish authenticity, craftsmanship or market value.
Consider condition in context. Age-related wear or an old repair can affect value without proving that the knife is counterfeit. Avoid polishing, sharpening or restoring a potentially valuable knife before getting advice; changes can remove evidence or alter collector interest.
4. Browse through eBay
Even if you haven’t identified the knife yet, browsing eBay can help.
For instance, if you think you have a stockman knife — a traditional three-blade folding knife — try searching “vintage stockman knife bone handle.”
You may stumble upon an exact or similar match, giving you clues about its identity and value.
Use recent completed sales for the same maker, pattern and comparable condition as valuation evidence. An asking price is not a realized sale. Record the date, condition, included accessories and any buyer fees; marketplace photos and seller descriptions are clues to verify, not authentication certificates. The screenshot above is a historical illustration, not a current offer.
5. Post your picture on websites
If you’re still stuck, try tapping into the collective knowledge of knife enthusiasts online.
Forums like Blade Forums and subreddits like r/knifeclub, r/knives, r/bladesmith, and r/KnifeID can be great resources.
Tip: Always include clear, detailed photos and as much information as you can — size, weight, materials, and any visible markings.
Just keep in mind that frequent “what is this?” posts can wear thin, so be respectful of each community’s rules.
Help identify mysterious knife
byu/superbeefwithcheese inknifeclub
6. Go to a knife expert
If all else fails — and especially if you suspect the knife could be rare or valuable — it’s worth talking to a knife expert, antique dealer, or museum curator.
Sometimes truly special knives require an experienced eye to identify and appraise properly.
