Hank,

I only have one EDC a tri-athelete handled in Black Palm that I always have with me.

For Hunting it is a 25-5 stag in a waxed pouch sheath, that is razor sharp. Knife has been in many places around the world.

I display the majority of my collection for me to always see and enjoy. Value is in the eyes of the beholder.

Depends on what kind of collecting you want to do. Exotic handle materials and historical knife shapes are one of my go to's for builds.

I like all knives RMK and BMK. I also liked the work of Shaw/Liebowitz during the 70's with their blade etched Bicentennial set and the Lewis and Clark RMK issue.

RKS and RKCC Club issued knives are also great knives to collect.

Look at the work that James Behring is doing; his sources for artifact materials is extraordinary. His blued and hammered blade finishes are also an excellent addition to a knife. You will have to go looking hard to find a sharper knife than those made by James. The sheath work (artwork) that he has as resources are Roger Mudbone Jones, Amy Warlander and Rowe Sheaths. Wood checkering for handles is also available.

Classic RMK Catalog and Non-Catalog knives have set the standard for purpose designed knives. RMK also has the most knowledgeable dealer base; some with their own Dealer Special RMK knives. There are also highly qualified knife resellers like Mitchell Harrison(Tunefink)and Joe Dorsky (Crutchtip). They can also help you with Authentication and Appraisals.

Remember buy the knife not the story. Especially on the Bay- everyone has Vietnam era or some other unverifiable reference noted in their descriptions. Military knives with provenance are the tried and true collectible; usually exceed price paid on resale and are the best investment.

The greatest set of knives ever made in my opinion was the Continents Series RMK/Tom Leschorn; if you want to see excellent craftsmanship and materials along with a theme.

Good luck and buy what is right for you.

Tom Flynn