I recently came across a Ruana 39C 'M' knife that was salvaged from a house fire. As shown in the attached photos the knife is in fair condition. The worst part is the handle which is really bad on one side.

The knife is 14-5/8" overall and the blade lenght is 9-1/4"

Can anyone tell me anything about the age of the knife, the number that were made and an estimated value? Would it be worth the cost to have it refurbished by Ruana?

Thanks

Is there a sheath? From the looks, I'd say anywhere from 1960-1980. More than likely in the mid-1970's. Even in that condition, it's a nice one. If you don't have the sheath, the Ruana shop will make you one if you call them and send them the knife for measurements. Value is around $650 as is without the original sheath. Is that a crack I see on one side of the elk stag handle? Keep us informed.

Pap

Pap,

Thanks for the quick response.

I don't have the sheath but may consider having one made.

The damage to the right side of the handle is worse than it appears in the photo that I attached with the original post. It does not have a crack but is missing a portion approximately 3/16" thick over most of the right side caused by fire damage. I'm attaching a close up photo showing this damage.

Thanks again for the info.

The shop may be able to repair some of that damage. I would send them your pictures and ask the question.

Pap

Hi,Ruana 39C M, printed on the blade is from 1965 to 1966, then it was signed Ruana from 1967 to 1970, then it was signed R.H. Ruana tell 1984.

Frank

Thanks for all the info on the knife. I have decided to sell it and currently have it listed on eBay.

Check it out!

Racer881

Here's some info on the knife provided by Mike Hungas @ Ruana:

It’s tough to even put an estimate on refinishing the handle and rest of the knife. It may be around $ 150 or so to do that.

The 39 C was a catalog Bowie up until about the year 2000, however yours was made some time from 1962 – 1983 as indicated by the “M” stamp. We’re not sure how many have been made and it could still be made as a custom order.

Hope this info helps.

Thanks,

Mike