Cut to the Cash
They were once strapped to belts, slicing through wilderness and field dressing game. Now? Vintage hunting knives are serious collectibles. From rare military-issue blades to hand-forged pieces by legendary makers, these knives can fetch thousands—especially if they’re in mint condition. Here are 25 vintage hunting knives that collectors are willing to pay big bucks for.
Case XX P38 Trapper Knife (1940s)
Estimated value: $400–$800
Made during WWII, this folding trapper knife has carbon steel blades and the iconic Case XX stamp. Though relatively common, versions in mint condition—especially with bone or stag handles—can command big prices among Case collectors.
Western Boulder Colo. L46-8 (1950s)
Estimated value: $500–$900
This fixed-blade knife from Western Cutlery features a stacked leather handle and carbon steel blade. Known for its reliability, the L46-8 was a favorite for hunters and soldiers alike, and today it’s a solid collectible.
1930's-1950's Western knife. Untouched never sharpened., Gary Poe
Buck 124 Frontiersman (1970s)
Estimated value: $600–$1,000
This classic fixed-blade hunting knife features a mirror-polished 6-inch blade and black Micarta handle. Older models with the original box and sheath are now highly collectible, especially among Buck fans.
Buck's 124 Frontiersman, Buck Knives
Schrade Walden 165OT Woodsman (1960s)
Estimated value: $650–$1,100
This rugged, full-tang knife with a sawcut Delrin handle was a go-to tool for outdoor survival. Early models stamped "Schrade Walden" before the company changed names are especially prized by collectors.
Found a Nice Oldy | Refurbished 53 to 55 Year Old, Schrade-Walden 165OT Woodsman, Pocket EDC
Puma White Hunter (1956–1970s)
Estimated value: $700–$1,200
Made in Germany, this hefty blade was designed for African safaris. Featuring a wide curved blade and stag handle, the early numbered versions with original sheaths are worth the most today.
62 Year Review, Puma White Hunter Knife, On The Scout
Marbles Ideal Hunting Knife (1910s–1930s)
Estimated value: $800–$1,500
One of the earliest purpose-built hunting knives, the Marbles Ideal set the standard. Older models with stacked leather handles and wide bellied blades are rare finds and are treasured by American knife historians.
Randall Model 3 Hunter (1950s)
Estimated value: $1,000–$1,800
Handmade in Florida, Randall knives are legendary. The Model 3 was built for big game hunters and soldiers. Older knives with stacked leather handles and early stamps fetch higher prices from collectors.
Model 3 Hunter - 5 Blade by Randall Knives, BladeGallery Inc
Gerber Magnum Hunter (1960s)
Estimated value: $1,100–$2,000
Before Gerber became mainstream, it was a boutique knife maker. The Magnum Hunter, with its aluminum handle and sleek blade, has a cult following today—especially mint examples with the original wood box.
Sharpening a 40 year old Gerber Knife Sharp, Sharpens Best
Ka-Bar 1209 (1940s)
Estimated value: $1,200–$2,200
Often confused with military models, the Ka-Bar 1209 was marketed as a civilian hunting knife. Vintage versions from the post-war era are beautifully crafted and command high prices in excellent shape.
kabar classic model 1209 ,sold in px,s throughout the conflict, 🇺🇸, Donavan Tew
Olsen OK Hunting Knife (1950s–60s)
Estimated value: $1,300–$2,300
Made in Howard City, Michigan, Olsen knives featured custom-quality craftsmanship in mass production. Their distinctive elk antler handles and mirror-finished blades make them hot items at knife shows.
Western W49 Bowie Knife (1960s)
Estimated value: $1,400–$2,500
A massive and intimidating knife, the W49 was Western’s answer to the Bowie craze. Stamped blades in pristine condition are rare today. Collectors love it for its size, balance, and classic Western styling.
Cold Steel Wild West Bowie Review. A Western W49 homage. Praise be., Advanced Knife Bro
Ruana 26B Drop Point (1950s–70s)
Estimated value: $1,500–$2,800
Handmade in Montana, Ruana knives are sought after for their craftsmanship. The 26B is a classic drop point hunter with a cast aluminum grip. Older models stamped “RH Ruana” are especially prized.
Most Beautiful Knife you have NEVER HEARD OF! - [ RESTORATION ], Kyle Noseworthy
Lile “No Name” Hunting Knife (1970s)
Estimated value: $1,800–$3,000
Jimmy Lile, also known as “The Arkansas Knifemaker,” crafted custom knives for serious outdoorsmen. His early hunting knives without logos—known as “No Name” knives—are rare and highly collectible.
Jimmy Lile no-dot Hunter, hickok45
Randall Model 8 Trout and Bird Knife (1950s)
Estimated value: $2,000–$3,200
Smaller than most, this knife was made for precise outdoor use. It features a narrow blade, stacked leather or stag handle, and fine finishes. Older versions are highly collectible due to rarity and build quality.
7 years from ordering to receiving my Randall made knife, Steve's Woodshop and Tool Reviews
Morseth Hunting Knife (1940s–60s)
Estimated value: $2,200–$3,500
Harry Morseth knives featured laminated steel blades and stacked leather handles. These pre-Ruana knives are prized for their toughness and handmade charm. Many were customized, adding to their collector appeal.
Knife Stories #5: Following Up on Unboxing - Morseth, friend
Loveless Dropped Hunter (1970s)
Estimated value: $2,500–$4,000
Bob Loveless is considered a legend among custom knife makers. His Dropped Hunter design set a new standard for hunting knives. Original Loveless knives, especially signed ones, are rare treasures.
Loveless Knife. Keep or Sell. Rare Short Dropped Hunter in Westinghouse Micarta, Knifetime Story
Marbles Safety Hunting Axe Combo (1920s)
Estimated value: $3,000–$4,500
This unique knife-axe hybrid was designed for hunters needing both tools in one. If found with the original sheath and stampings, it’s a top-tier collectible that brings in thousands at auction.
A Rare Axe | Marble's #2, UglyTent Bushcraft & Survival
Scagel Custom Hunting Knife (1930s)
Estimated value: $3,500–$5,000
William Scagel’s knives are legendary among collectors. His handmade hunting knives feature stacked leather and antler handles with distinctive shapes. Early examples are considered works of functional art.
Scagel Style Swayback Hunter (Model 2B), BladeGallery Inc
Randall Smithsonian Bowie (1950s–60s)
Estimated value: $4,000–$6,000
This oversized knife was a showpiece as much as a field tool. Its massive blade and ornate handle made it famous. Early versions with original sheaths and paperwork are extremely valuable today.
Ultimate Bowie Knife, hickok45
Moran Drop Point (1970s)
Estimated value: $5,000–$7,000
Bill Moran, founder of the American Bladesmith Society, made gorgeous laminated steel hunting knives. His early drop point hunters are considered museum-quality items by collectors worldwide.
Spyderco Bill Moran Drop Point (2010 Sprint Run), Stefan Schmalhaus
Lile “Mission” Knife (1980s)
Estimated value: $6,000–$8,000
This was the knife made famous by *Rambo: First Blood Part II*. Though not a traditional hunting knife, it was based on Lile’s real-world survival designs. Original signed versions can fetch serious money.
Ruana Custom Hunting Set (1960s)
Estimated value: $7,000–$10,000
A matching set of Ruana knives—including hunting, skinning, and caping blades—was often custom-ordered. Full sets in pristine condition are rare and incredibly valuable to serious collectors.
Scagel Original Combo Set (1930s)
Estimated value: $10,000–$15,000
Sets made by Scagel featuring both hunting and camp knives are beyond rare. They show up in private collections and museum auctions, often fetching top-tier prices due to craftsmanship and history.
Scagel Knives Model 5 Medium Hunter Review | OsoGrandeKnives, Oso Grande
Loveless Stiff Horn Knife (1970s)
Estimated value: $15,000–$25,000
This knife is a grail item for many collectors. Known for its flawless lines and mirror finish, the Stiff Horn was made in small numbers. Signed pieces with provenance are considered investment-grade collectibles.
Willem Steenkamp Stiff Horn loveless Giraffe, Heinnie Haynes
Moran Custom Damascus Hunting Knife (1980s)
Estimated value: $20,000–$30,000
Bill Moran’s Damascus steel blades are masterpieces. His custom hunting knives with Damascus patterns are among the most desirable blades ever forged—and command top prices from knife investors and museums alike.
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