KnifeCenter FAQ

[@rxsheepxr]

An heirloom knife, to me, can be literally anything. It's more about the memories associated with it and the use history, etc. I bought my Dad an inox Opinel about 10 years ago so he could whittle with it, and when he passed away last year, I ended up getting it back. It's literally just an Opinel, but the fact that he used it and it was a part of his daily routine, makes it an heirloom knife to me. Another one of his knives, that lived at his hip in a really worn out leather snap pouch, I don't even know who made it... but it bears the scars of rough use and there are so many memories attached to it, and that knife, to me, holds more meaning than any new knife I could buy for myself. Thanks for giving me the opportunity to should out and honor my Dad with this topic, guys.

[@ericcantocorner4517]

True. Its not the knife, as a knife with its qualities, but the memories associated with it

[@jordanturner509]

Agreed but I wouldn't pass down a gas station knife unless it saved me or something very significant. I feel heirloom has to have a bit of back story other than "that was my grandfathers edc"

[@ianhealy2233]

I agree. A knife you used a lot and loved is the right kind to pass down.

[@robert.sec2]

I just want to say, this video made me really love about KnifeCenter. These videos, no matter how informative they are, also function as ads, and so to respond to "what are some great heirloom quality knives" with "I'm going to be honest with you: I don't think heirloom quality knives actually exist" is such a refreshingly honest response. It's the kind of response that could make it much harder to get someone to click through some of those links and buy something off of this video-- but it's what you earnestly believe, so you stated it and stood by it anyway.

[@LarsRibe]

Heirloom is all about feelings and memories. For me, it is the knife I remember my father using. And I clearly remember being allowed to use it for butcher a salmon as a kid. He lost the knife many years ago, but the Buck 55 still holds that heirloom childhood memories magic.

[@scottmackey4182]

Seth nailed the identity of an heirloom piece. Great examples and insight into what makes a knife worthy of handing down.

[@user-wy1dl2me2p]

You guys are really good at unpacking knife knowledge, and Seth really exudes imagination. Kudos

[@douglasblaydes7801]

I had an opportunity to visit the Randall factory and museum in FL last year. While I was there I met one of "Bo" Randall's grandchildren. We talked about different hiking / camping knives. He made one comment that I would like to share - "whatever knife you ultimately decide to go with, my Grandfather would want you to use it. Randall Made Knives are made to use." I am currently saving my pennies for a Model 25 or Model 26. Trying to make up my mind - 4", 5", etc.

[@stevek8829]

25-5 is fine if you skin deer. The one in the video looks just like it.

[@douglasblaydes7801]

We do skin deer in Ohio - thank you!@@stevek8829

[@stevek8829]

I have a 25-5 and it’s a useful size and shape for skinning whitetail, among general order things. It’s not a chopper! It feels good to hold.

[@holdyourshoe]

Sometimes an heirloom is just what was in the basement that never got thrown away.

[@MikeLyons-rm9lg]

I think it is anything with a story. Examples in my mind are … My first knife, the knife that my father or grandfather used, a knife that my grandfather brought home from WW II, a knife that I carried the most for whatever reason. I have user knives, collectible knives, investment knives etc. The ones I inherited or intend to pass on to my kids and grandchildren all have “a story “ that makes them special.

[@dannzalbjorklund]

You guys should frame the camera so that we can see all the knives while you talk!

[@ironmaiden3842]

100% This

[@twatmunro]

Instead of those two unappealing man-faces.

[@Mid-Knife-Crisis69]

Yep. Sack the standins! 😂

[@norsefalconer]

A tilted stand in front of them wouod take up less room so they could pull them closer and get them in frame. Plus, it would provide the viewer a better point of view.

[@om-2nuser512]

Yup, we’re here to see the knives…

[@livinglarge13]

Any and all knives that my father, grandfather or great grandfather used or collected n passed down are heirloom in my humble opinion great video thanks for sharing

[@mylesgalos6465]

Agree, my great grandfather left me a WW II boot knife. An heirloom

[@danielcox5849]

I have a penknife that my father carried for years. I don’t carry it but it brings back memories and I will pass it on to my children/grandchildren. As such I would consider this no name penknife an heirloom knife. As for my personal knife collection, I carry and use nearly all of my knives with the exception of a limited edition WE knife that is just too pretty to use. While a knife is primarily a tool, sometime they are works of art as well and best suited for display. As such, this type of knife could also be considered to be an heirloom knife.

[@addytuney2028]

Thank Guys! First i'd like to add to the conversation that a knife (it's edge) is a consumable product although It may take years to consume (like my first run Spyderco Military with it's 61RC S60V). I have no opinion on what makes a knife "heirloom" quality but in my mind an heirloom knife has to do with family history. I have 3 examples: I have my grandfathers Remington UMC brown bone Muskrat knife that brings back memories i have of him sharpening it and cutting apples/oranges. I have my fathers Camillus 2 blade "electrician" TL-29 knife that was always in his pocket. Lastly i have my uncles Kutmaster bone handled 3 blade knife (military issued) that he always used to prep his cigars.

[@skipads8784]

Mine is a Puma White Hunter from the '70s given to my father by an artic guide that he went on a few hunts with. The Butcher, Leonard Anderman.

[@billhuddleston6791]

Re heirloom quality tools - I do have hammers and saws that were owned by my great grandfather who was a carpenter in Wisconsin in the 1880s. However an example of a tool that doesn't get as much wear are the measuring tools - I have his Try- Square as well, which is still accurate 150 years later. Thanks! Bill, Arlington, Virginia

[@jimpatton8148]

I would argue that indeed some knives are intended to be heirlooms because they are works of art and not a tool. Your website has witness to that. Luv you guys.

[@jameskosch4052]

I think David hit it pretty well. It depends a bit on what it is, but also depends on how it was used. I have a Buck 110 that I bought in 1968 in Alaska when I was serving as a Coast Guardsman on a buoy tender out of Cordova. It served me well on the ship for 2 years and then was semi-retired for newer and "better" knives. The brass occasionally needs polishing, but it's still in almost mint condition. That's an heirloom. I have a Dunn fixed blade made in the early 1980's from D2 when that was a super steel (although the term hadn't even been invented yet). I think that's an heirloom. I also have my great-grandfather's wicker rocking chair that I remember him rocking away in in the early 1050's. That's an heirloom although my grandmother had the cane seat and back replaced with upholstery in the 1960's. (I still rock in it every night before going to bed.) That's an heirloom. Good quality, a frequently used, and companion item, makes an heirloom. it's not the marketing about materials, it's the personal connection with an earlier generation that makes an heirloom. Great video guys, keep up the great work.

[@Leftyotism]

18:34 Yes there are many! We got a whole workshop filled with old tools from my great great grampa! Even those big old knives with the full tang and the fat wooden handle scales, he used the chrome out of those lol. All the old tools (and hammer heads) got that dark and almost black "finish" to them, I think that's a lifetime of patina haha. Mostly full metal tools, and some wooden parts.

[@Leftyotism]

22:56 Haha, I actually just imagined my great great great grandfather (or great great grandfather) holding one of our very old, partially rusty, heavily patinated (or what's the word), and heavily ground down and used workshop knives, after purchasing it, when it was still fresh and new. They got a more classic blade style (as far as you can tell haha), like with straight spine with straight but angled edge, and a belly towards the tip. Thanks for that picture in my mind DCA!

[@jasonfisher4860]

Seth was 'more right' in that quality usefulness and history of design proof, does add to the pass on special value to the knife. DCA was really close to it when he was talking about the 'used up' knife and 'stories' it could tell. Those stories 'of use' by that (or many of) those previous generations will ADD the inherent value. BOTH will lead to the definition of a proper heirloom. *Note: It does always seem to take both of ur minds to properly explain/describe/present the best KC has to offer. THX.!.

[@Xandrosi]

I truly appreciated how you started with your personal definitions of what an heirloom is. It goes to the heart of the purpose, attributes (shape, ergonomics, edge geometry, steel, heat treatment), workmanship, and subjective aesthetics of the knife, in that order. When all of these come together, the knife is more collectable. A superior design that reliably excels at its intended function can be an heirloom. As an example, a tactical fixed blade that is easily concealed and that is meant to get someone off you during lethal grappling might be the Clench Pick or MDV Plus One. Optimally, you're not going to use these knives often and need the skill to use such a knife effectively. But, I could explain why these designs are superior to an heir. By contrast, a tactical fixed blade meant to be open carried would result in a completely different set of criteria. So, to me, heirloom means ultimately fit for its timeless purpose.

[@Jeremy-Two]

Hi David, Which keychain knives are the safest to carry?

[@davidhalbleib5040]

I always feel like an heirloom is something that is not only valuable but has value in that it has been in the family for years passed on father to son even through generations possibly. There is a sort of familial attachment to the object that endears the object to the owner/user. For example, I have an old case xx hunter passed on to me by my father that he used to skin caribou in AK. You guys are making me think today.

[@kinghenry056]

Honestly, for me, it's whoever is getting the knives. Are they going to appreciate them as much as you did and take care of them? I think that's what makes anything a heirloom.

[@littlemouse7066]

In my opinion something is an heirloom because of the emotional attachment to it so it doesn't matter much its real value it's the sentimental value that counts.

[@Jeremy-Two]

Hi David, What are the top five hairloom keychain knives?

[@norsefalconer]

To me "Heirloom Quality" applies more to the owner than the object. No matter how high quality, rare, etc., the object is, it won't be a lasting heirloom if proper care isn't involved.

[@jimcooney552]

Well said. I couldnt have said it better. It's not about the thing, it's about the memories.

[@norsefalconer]

@@jimcooney552 Thanks.

[@pt.eforestmanagementconsul5712]

I think there are two meanings behind heirloom. 1). Heirloom quality is a marketing term to instill a sense of quality, durability, and perhaps aesthetics - something you would want to pass on to the next generation because it is "quality". 2). An heirloom on the other hand is something with history, that has attached sentimentality either due to association with special people/ancestry or out of faithful use / fondness / familiarity - e.g. something that has been an anchor /main stay for a family such as a durable wooden dining table... a knife can definitely fit with both meanings of the word.

[@saltytomato3018]

I think everything in our world is consumable, or can get used up. Houses, clothes, tools, even us humans. Nothing lasts forever. An heirloom is something that you choose to use but also take care of, has value and the ability to last for generations without falling apart. Knives are very much able to be heirlooms. The use gives them purpose and makes us value them to pass them down. I think almost any knife can be an heirloom. If youre not using a belt grinder to sharpen and you don't have OCD and sharpen the knife after every use i think most blades are capable of lasting many generations. Before I started collecting and really getting into the knife thing i could use a knife for many months without sharpening it, and it worked just fine. Only now that im obsessed does my knife have to constantly be able to shave my beard off at any moment.

[@randymartin5521]

I cherish the knives that belonged to my father and grandfather not because of their monetary or collector value but because of the memories they evoke when I use them. To me, the emotional connection is what makes an heirloom. Using something myself that I have fond memories of my dad or grandfather using is satisfying and I often say "Thanks, Dad." or "Thanks, Grandpa." when I'm using them.

[@marquetteave]

A knife that has a story. Great-Grandpa's bent K-BAR that stopped a German bullet would be somewhat of an heirloom knife.

[@Marc_Us_]

Hi! What are some good options for pocket knife storage? Need something better than a shoe box, would like to see them all each morning & pick which one is right for the day.

[@billvan5219]

From my great uncle's WW2 combat knife through my antique Damascus and onward I have a hundred heirloom knives 😊

[@corporalpunish6089]

Heirloom = the Marbles hunter knife my grandmother gave my grandfather for his 16th birthday in 1927. The heirloom part is the memory that comes with it

[@Eelis0]

Dave, you overlooked the Chaves Ultramar CHUB Utility Blade Flipper. You can keep replacing the utility blade inserts indefinitely, so your argument that with sufficient use, the knife's blade will eventually wear out, doesn't apply.

[@Capin91]

I would push back, mildly, on the furniture comparison- If the blade of a knife is a consumable wear part, and that is a disqualifier, what about upholstery? Re-caning or re-stuffing.. replace a blade.. ship of theseus. And if ‘sitting not in use’ didnt count as longevity then no furniture could really count at all, since much of what it does is sit un-stressed. Points taken from DCA, dont get me wrong haha

[@xtian5399]

DCA and Seth, what are the 5 knives you would keep if you had to sell off everything else? Let's assume a.) Kitchen knives don't count - you get to keep those regardless b.) Everything else is being sold off so you can buy/keep any knife of any value c.) The 5 total includes folders and fixed blades combined. You choose the ratio of fixed to folding

[@edgeguru411]

Hey guys love the shows you bring us your a blessing to the knife community. My question is for Seth, my Microtech socom elite(manual) has a hole drilled at the very bottom of the non pocket clip side (show side) does yours have this hole? What's it for? Just very curious 🤔 any help will be appreciated. Thanks for the content love it!

[@DanielChzBurger7]

Potential argument that fits both DCA and Seth’s narratives so to speak, is design. A wharncliff blade style has been used for centuries and we still use it today. Fillet knives, they’ve been used for centuries and they have narrow blades that will never outlast a meat cleaver when it comes to amount of use to sharpening ratio. I see both sides and agree with both sides; but if I may have my own take, it would be design. From the iconic and unmistakable clip point blades we see in the Buck 110 and Hinderer Rancher Bowie, to the tantos of a Chris Reeves Sebenza and the sharp lines of the Cold Steel Knives. Iconic brands can build knives that last for generations, but in the end, materials are replaced and disappear; just as past nations and societies, yet they still live on to this day because of the impact they had in history. Get something that speaks to you and pass it on. God bless and keep collecting/ searching.

[@mattvanderwalt6220]

For me its the memories that are retained through experiencing in use. Wether its a chair or a knife. My grandfather always caried a small traditional carbon steel folder. When he died I received 2 of them both Soligen Robertz both heavily worn with broken back springs,unusable, but both incredibly meaningful. I often carry a trad folder, and its thanks to him. My kids will probably carry SAK's because its what they have mostly experience me using.

[@eriklundquist3588]

There seem to be 2 different questions here: 1. What makes a knife “heirloom quality?” and 2. What qualities make a knife “heirloom?” (which is what I think the commenter meant). To me, “heirloom quality” simply means that the item has the CAPACITY to be passed on through multiple generations. Basically, that it’s going to last that long. The real question about what qualities make a knife “heirloom” are obviously going to vary from person to person. For me, it would be a knife that has a sufficient combination of sentimental value, high quality, aesthetic value, financial value, and is something that the recipient will appreciate.

[@lannylancaster62]

It's the tradition of knife carry along with the types. My grandfather carried a Case medium stockman with yellow covers. My dad carried an Old Timer with a clip point blade and a Barlow. I've always carried a Victorinox SAK of one kind or the other. My brother and I have number of different knives e.g. Buck 110, KaBar, Spyderco, Kershaw, etc. My son now collects a number of knives. Incidentally, my son introduced me to Opinels and Moras, so it goes both directions.

[@goodinsrt8]

I think heirlooms are 100% personal. My brass Penguin that I have beat on daily will be more valuable to my kids than my Microtech UTX85 that I never carry.

[@buckaroobanzai2551]

What model Randall was that?

[@johnruiz6743]

Heirloom to me is unique, irreplaceable. That object is special and unique cause of who passed it on, not just the characteristics of the object itself. Jewelry, watches, furniture etc, and most certainly knives.

[@Newt1969]

I think something should be said of seeing Dad or Granddad (or Mom, etc.) using/carrying the knife a lot. For me, since the day it arrived my carry has been the Leatherman Arc. It has everything I ever wanted from a multitool/knife and while I do have other knifes for this or that. They always see me with it, and I don't see that changing.

[@paulstone1912]

I differ. There's heirloom quality knives. The edge may be wore down some but unless someone missharpens the edge there is still usable blade and handles can be taken care of and repaired or replaced

[@lachlanbanks-smith1106]

Grandfather gave me a Solingen Germany made knife from about the 60's. 4" blade Made of stainless. To date its what I find to be the most beautiful and heirloom knife I own. It looks very similar to the Randall in this video, with antler handle. I would genuinely love another modern built knife with similar looks, but perhaps without the price tag. Buck makes similar knives, but not quite the same look with the finger guards. Any alternative 4" fixed blade knives to look at?

[@MajorPickleRick]

DCA and The Knife Center Crew. I am wanting to get go back country camping in the Smokies with my daughters a few times this year. I’m looking for a general purpose camp utility tool, fire prep, camp needs maybe a little bush craft. I often carry my cold steel SRK in CPM 3v when we hike or build fires in the back yard. I can’t seem to figure out if I should get a machete, axe, hatchet, tomahawk, etc… Can you give me some guidance? Budget is 200 and under. Keep up the great work! Thank you!

[@stevewealthy6120]

I think this question I going to be completely individual. My uncle, who I was close to, had a couple of fairly cheap case knives. They were users, not abused, they were tools to be used. I have 2 brothers, and we each took one. My son did as well. They aren't something I would use, but they aren't leaving my collection. Now, for me, I love the old school looking knives. Like the Barlow, Stockman, etc. But I want modern materials. So my new kick is Pena knives, and Jack Wolf. I just bought the Jack Wolf Gunslinger with the the Iron Wood handle from you guys. That knife is the epitome of what I'm looking at. - Classic blade shape, but modern steel. - Classic looking handle, modern materials. - And I know this is silly, but it must lock. Also, these Pena and Jack Wolf knives MUST be used. If it just sits on a shelf, it's a decoration.

[@thehairywoodsman5644]

I have a Case that my great grandmother gave me on my 10th birthday in December of 1976. it was my great uncles knife when he was a boy. I never met him, he died in WW2. so he got the knife in the 1930s . it is a 3 bladed knife with black jigged scales and silver colored bolsters it has 3 pins a silver one on each end and a larger brass one in the center. it has a large spear blade, a sheepfoot, and a pen blade on the large blade it has Case , in capitol block letters the C ends on top between the A and the S, the bottom of the c underlines the entire word. the knife was made between 1932-1940 I carry it everyday in my watch pocket, but rarely use it. the back springs are tight and snap the blade closed with authority . there are no gaps anywhere on the knife and the fit and finish are perfect. it is a user , my uncle used it as a boy, so did I, the blades are a little worn from sharpening, now its just a conversation piece when I meet another knife guy. I do not know what it's worth, but I wouldn't trade it for a new Corvette ! one day , I'll pass it on to my grandson.

[@stevendominy1737]

Where can I get stag or bone handles for my pm3 and pm2 I would really like a pm2 and 3 with traditional bone and stag handles

[@pauljosephbuggle3722]

I passed on my Swiss Army knife to my son. It must be 30 years old. I changed the scales, cleaned and oiled it. I changed the scissors spring and gave it a good sharpening. It's like new and he carries it to work.

[@jameskosch4052]

The old saying is: "It's my grandfather's knife. I replaced the blade, the scales, and the spring over the years, but it's still my grandfathe's knife."

[@rafybassilious8390]

What steel has great combination of toughness and edge retention? I am willing to sacrifice it being stainless.

[@acid6urns]

4v, cruwear, magnacut, rex45, m4 are your best bets

[@michaelcope2329]

It’s something that is made of such quality materials and workmanship/craftsmanship that even though it was used extensively for its intended purpose it will outlive its original owner or user and be completely capable in relation to physical and functional properties of being passed on to another generation for continued use of its intended purpose and design.

[@anthonyb5345]

Hey DCA love the content. Just purchased a worksharp precision adjust and it’s awesome for me as it helped me vastly improve my sharpening. My question is are the filings and dust generated from doing a lot of sharpening harmful? Do you wear a mask or anything? Also what’s the best way to clean up when you’re done.

[@Rcasca1]

Hey guy's, DCA's analogy of air loom quality knives compared to furniture brings a question to mind over this. I'm not the know it all when it comes to knives, heck I really don't know much on the subject. My question come though on my knowledge of firearms. You can shoot a barrel out on an air loom firearm such as an original 1873 Winchester. I can have it barreled. Could you not replace the blade on my carry knife a Sabenza 31?

[@rofferdal]

This to me ties nicely into the grandfather's axe paradox: "This is my grandfather’s axe. My father replaced the head. I replaced the handle. My daughter added some tape to the handle. Is it still my grandfather’s axe?" To me the continuity of the axe, the story and the obvious utility it has had for generations makes it heirloom quality. Still, it is not the only definition if heirloom. The term "heirloom quality" is also different from a "heirloom". A knife (or axe) can have a heirloom quality and still not become a heirloom item, and what turn out to be a treasured heirloom may not initially have a heirloom quality. For some, something being kinda exclusive and expensive may constitute a heirloom quality and it may be treasured for being unique or exclusive. Another heirloom quality may be that it has had utiliity and endurance for an ancestor and can be passed on and still be used and also be repaired and continued. I have two iron cast skillets from my parents. They are heirlooms for sure. My father’s old Mora knives are used and resharpened so much that the blades are almost toothpicks. They are certainly used up. They could be heirlooms as memory items, but they would not be repaired to be continuously used...

[@jaybolton9117]

As long as it means something special to you.That's What makes it special to pass on

[@jeanmorin3247]

A heirloom must have an imprint of a loved person, no matter what the quality of it can be. One must feel the attachment to that person, or perhaps that generation, or perhaps to many generations of persons, through the visual, tactile or even odorous perception of the object. Of course objects of great value or of particularly remarkable art enhance the preciousness of the link. One cannot buy a ready-made heirloom for oneself. A heirloom knife should reflect age, patina of usage, and some aspect of character reminiscent of the honored source.

[@FarmersSON55]

Great topic, I always think case, I have seen my dad wear a case down to the spine, send it in for a free replacement, and repeat that process 4 or 5 times in my lifetime, dad gave me my first case, exactly like the one he carries.. not custom, but for everyday use.. dad gave me my first buck knife, and my first one off custom Stagg handled hunting knife with my name engraved in the handle...

[@RobbieEdminson]

I think more sentimental equals heirloom quality. It is the stories the knife tells.

[@lordvanducan8248]

Hey DCA and all at knifecenter, i am really into micarta as a handle material especially on fixed blades but I have never seen an integral style handle made from it, so I wondered if there are any or if not why. Greetings from Germany

[@jeanclaudelavallee4919]

hi mr anderson i txting you from canada i was wondering if a knife like the pocket tango would pass through the custom easily in your experience ??? thank you

[@thomasvangeel1869]

My grandfather’s picnic knife was always an Opinel, and I gave one to my daughter last year.

[@Pro-Trucker68]

personally i believe heirloom objects,can be anything passed down that has family history.its more about connection,use and function.vehicle,jewelry,tools,furniture etc.knives are in a special category of heirloom because they can save lives and be used to survive. everything has a life span.if i have custom knives made ,one of a kind to my specs,that is heirloom that can be passed down several times .

[@IddoPinkas]

I sometimes work with prehistoric flint (chert) tools such as blades that were made several hundreds of thousands of years ago. Nothing we make or acquire in our lifetime comes even close to such tools. However, your take on heirloom is very interesting. Thanks!

[@user-wy1dl2me2p]

I have a German made Stilleto ( kissing cranes ) very well made , external lock , 23 years old. Heirloom to me .

[@richardvirchow3390]

Recently my fellow retirees jested that when I pass ( I’m 70 and have a knife collection of about 200 knives ) that my daughter will sell them as a lot for only $15 in an estate sale. So your “Heirloom” video has really got me thinking. Great video, guys!!

[@jameskosch4052]

I'm 75 and have also have a 200+ collection. I've told my oldest grandson that he can probably make a fair amount on Ebay if he wants to get them out of his way. Keep it going while you can :-).

[@troyspurling1910]

You are both right. I have knives in my collection that can be passed down, many have never been used. They have quality and history and legacy which is why they are in my collection. Big difference between those knives and my EDC. Firearms and even motorcycles can be heirloom quality. We have deer rifles and shotguns that have been passed down for a century, are fully functional and beautiful, but only get used in November. Vintage Harleys will last multiple generations of being ridden, but not necessarily a daily driver. To me heirloom means used and appreciated by multiple generations but intentionally preserved

[@GoodmaneYT]

In anticipation of the upcoming Tango 2 fixed blade from MKM, which multitool would you pair with it?

[@curtismiller274]

Heirloom is in the eye of the recipient. An object doesn’t need to be expensive to be an heirloom. A pocket knife that belonged to a father, grandfather, uncle or even a brother that you know and remember this person carrying it daily. Can materials help play into “Heirloom” well certainly. But an old Jack knife that originally cost $12 can be an heirloom.

[@andyy1591]

Agree with both of you. But to get the best of both worlds, best heirloom knife would be the knife you pull out once or twice a year for family holidays (Thanksgiving/Christmas) to slice the turkey and it can be handed down. Won't wear out cause it rarely gets used, but everyone will remember dad/grandad slicing the turkey with it.

[@BackcountryBeginnings]

I really appreciate these discussions between DCA and Seth. Google defined heirloom as a valuable object that has belonged to a family for several generations. Based on that definition, it's not an heirloom until it's been in a family for "several generations." Google also states it's a valuable object. Value can be in terms of money or emotional connection. A cast iron pan can be priceless to someone if it's been in a family for eight generations. I think my definition of heirloom is: an object that's been handed down to multiple generations and holds emotional importance for the same family.

[@Icecold-zp6hz]

Hi DCA, I’m in the market for a blackout edc. Black handle and blade with DLC coating. I own a few benchmade knives including multiple bugouts, the bailout and Osborn. Can you please put together a line up with other brands? I do like the Protech Malibu in all black. Curious as to what else is out there. I’d like to add a sleek matte black folder to the collection. Please and thanks

[@calebwhiteknives]

I would argue that knives/swords/steels in-use will far outlast furniture. There are thousands of museum examples of blades from hundreds of years ago, even up to 1000 or more years old, that can still hold a useful edge and be put to task. The wood/natural material handles having long since rotted away. Whereas any furniture in a museum or historical display from more than an average of about 100 ago cannot be used anymore without significant damage to it, or need of massive refurbishment. Looking around the armories of the world, from feudal japan to western Europe; the blades and steel/alloy products dating back to the beginning of the iron age can still be found. One of the oldest living, bladed, artifacts in existence...a flint knife; has outlasted them all. Thanks to Otzi the Iceman! And I'd argue that the flint knife will abrade 1000 times easier and faster than any steel knife; yet it persisted and can still be seen today. Designating things as "heirloom" solely based on their useful life is sort of an exercise in futility. King Tut's golden dagger was never actually that useful as daggers go...but it's an heirloom from antiquities without equal. To me 'heirloom' denotes more of a philosophical and emotional connection to an object, with profound enough sentimental value that the owner and their descendants hold onto the object as long as possible to illicit connection to the past and fondness for heritage passed down through the object. The materials it's made of, and the service life matter much less than the importance of the historical identity of the piece. Still needs to work good and look good though...😉

[@julianmartin702]

DCA is literally the uncle iroh of the knife world, the best advice, knowledgeable in many aspects, humble, and now confirming he drinks tea

[@PhilPartin]

I have several knives that will outlast me. The ones that have been on combat missions, used at work, on epic travel are what my kids will cherish. The memories attached, shown through the scars the knives earned are the stories they will tell🤠🤠🤠

[@johnboyd7158]

Another great video. What watch is Seth wearing. Thanks

[@mike36dc]

I have 5 Randal Made knives on order, including the knife in this video. I may keep 2-3, we'll see. Some may become gifts. 5 1/2 year wait when I ordered, but over 6 now. I also have a Diamond Blade Summit that I used on an elk, a buck short run that I used on another elk, and also a KOA Bush Camp and 3 Moraknivs. But my favorite, my heirloom, is the cheapest: my Buck 110 my parents gave me when I was 7. I couldn't even unlock the super tight mechanism to close it for the first 2 years I owned it. It has carved up 2 white tails, an Aoudad, and Axis, and a couple of rabbits. My wife and I used it on fish and pried open clams on about 15 trips to Baja CA, Mexico. It's still solid, although very marked up (with use comes beauty), and razor sharp. I carried it last weekend on a hike. I have had it for 49 years. That's heriloom.

[@GardenerGeorge]

You are more skilled with your knife than I am ! I tried opening clams with a Buck Ranger when I was 16 And within 2 minutes stabbed the palm of my hand and had to go to the ER for stitches . Much older now ; better technique , but I don’t use a sharp knife on my clams and oysters …

[@mike36dc]

​@@GardenerGeorgeBeen there. One of my hobbies years ago was cutting myself with my own knife. Much better technique now. :)

[@Leftyotism]

22:42 Ha! That's how all the old and banged up workshop knives from my gramps look like, which he got from my grandmas paps I think. And yes, most of them had the same original shape, and some of them are reeaally used up and down (and sharpened), you can see it by the tiny blade with the same handle size lol. And yes, some have a smaller handle size. But some also got quite the original shape still, meaning a long and relatively fresh blade (don't mind the rust and patina haha).

[@Leftyotism]

Those are the actual dirty deeds knives, they had cut through so much grit, it's amazing to think about what they went through and are still here to be used and to save me more shiny and expensive blades from all the damage and what not. You really do feel like they are a tool, they don't even got a sheath, but we put up a magnetic bar, since they were stored by sticking them between the working bench and the wall haha. Clever way to store them though, had to make do right. It's Germany after all, and you all know what happened when those guys were alive. Kinda amazing what kinds of things made it through time, and my people.

[@jamesnguyen1402]

Hey D.C.A & crew. I enjoy learning the history of modern knives and have tried to learn as much about knife makers/ designers as possible. A.G. Russell is at the top of that list for me personally. Having learned how much of an impact he has had on the industry as a whole it amazes me that he isn't spoken of more like other makers/ designers of his generation. Arguably the industry wouldn't be where it is today if not for him. My question is, what are your thoughts on this, and are there makers/ designers that you feel should be better known for their contributions? Thank you guys for the hours upon hours of entertainment!

[@stevebeyer]

Darn it David you had a convincing argument. First on the furniture example. What percentage of that furniture survived and could it be assumed that those that did were lighter users. A knife of todays quality with similar build as furniture made to the same quality as the furniture you described might survive to your great grandchild. The other argument for knives obtaining heirloom status is yes the blade wears out and yes us knife lovers think the blade is the knife but is it? Your special knife should be able to reblade and still make it an heirloom to its current owner since it was his Granparents. The blades are much like the fabric or the cane. It also wears out but easily replaced

[@maybefrank8345]

David, concerning your take on heirloom quality knives, I know they exist because I have a couple! Bought by my grandpa many years ago, they were tools and used like tools. But they didn’t need to withstand multiple lifetimes of cutting and sharpening, only one, because when they were passed down to me they stopped being tools and became heirlooms. They’re still knives that could do the job, but now they have a different job and it doesn’t wear down the edge 🤷‍♂️

[@ceejaymurrayjr9273]

I think the word Seth was struggling to find at 17:53 is “consumable”. The edge is designed to be “consumed” over time. It’s not disposable, or broken or failed it’s been fully consumed.

[@connorw1494]

Every video should have both of you in them! Please!

[@Ashton.everydaycarry]

Really interesting. Definitely know what you mean DCA. I have my grandfathers jack knife, and one of the blades has been sharpened down so much that it sticks out.

[@MrJonthebassist]

Hey DCA and Seth! Long time listener, first time caller. I recently tried to order the Vosteed Corgi and was told that y'all can no longer ship button lock or flipper knives to Canada. Could you folks explain what knives you can and can't ship north of the border?

[@ronfry5851]

Is there an heirloom ax?

[@Driving-home_alone]

Hoping you can get to this question and hoping you have a good answer. Could you point me in the right direction, I'm looking for a 3-inch, scandi grind, removable handle scales, with full tang, preferably 3V steel puuko. I'd be grateful for this exact set up but ok with variations.

[@krisjaenicke7126]

Please do a session on sharpening knives. Best way, what device do you use to sharpen etc. Thank you

[@hanno_t]

Hey DCA, which fixed blade would you recommend as an "emergency stash knife" - a knife that you would buy three or four of to stash in every place (in your home, at work, in the car, in the garage, at your parent's place...) to always be able to get to one? Mora would be the obvious answer, but I don't think a Scandi grind would be a good choice for this. What is your answer?

[@knifecenter]

Nope, Mora all the way lol -DCA

[@muskyman1018]

My first thought of an heirloom knife would be a Randall, but by the end of the video I tend to agree with DCA, not really sure there’s such a thing. I think it’s about sentiment, and that’s what makes a knife worthy of being passed on. Grandpa’s 119 that was always on his hip at elk camp, dads case peanut that was always in his pocket. Like Seth’s choice of the Swiss Army knife. Tradition, special memories, and hopefully good enough quality that it’s still useable when passed down.

[@TheBowhunterinNB]

I have my grandfather’s knife and my father’s as well. Either were expensive but what makes them Special to me is the history. I remember watching my grandfather skin a deer with his knife and seeing my father’s knife on his belt days we spent in the woods . I appreciate beauty and quality in a blade but there is nothing more heirloom than memories attached to a knife

[@patrickalbertson2768]

Great episode. What watch is Seth wearing?

[@elya.dejesus9372]

In my opinion a family heirloom doesn't have to be a of a higher quality or price or availability. My grandfather was a minister for 55 years (retired in '78. died in '97 at 93). I have in my possession his last bible. I have my grandmother's favorite blanquet. I'm getting in to the here weeds here but a real family heirloom for me is something with first and foremost a sentimental value. I also have my grandma's old "grandmother clock" (I got a tattoo of it on my shoulder marking the hour of grandpa's passing and my grandma's favorite flowers). It doesn't even work! but it's a fixture of my childhood and my brothers and uncles and cousins all would love to have those things. I'm sure my daughter and my nieces would like to have some of my old Doc Martens boots that i've been using since before they were born. My daughter has her grandfather's (a Master Sergeant) rusty non working Zippo and his old army bayonet that I found within his old tools after his death (which she also proudly guards). So I'm more than sure where my 110 Hunter or my cheap Squier guitars and low end Gretsch or my Kangol hats or my music collection or my Bukowski books, or the SAK that's always in my pocket would end up after my passing.

[@larrylacostjr.2075]

I can see knives in a historical museum, when I visit, that has been handed down as an heirloom before it ever got to the museum. The museum sees value with a knife. So, yes, there are unique knives that can be heirloom quality. Maybe not the kind and type of knife, but the historical time era of when the knife was produced and used. For example, one can go to the Chicago Art Museum to see historical knives and swords from the Medieval era. Those tools and implements were passed down from generation to generation as an heirloom, until finally it got to a museum from individuals who decided to donate, display, and share its historic heirloom importance.

[@madtownangler]

Once I bought a whole bunch of used SAK's on eBay and gave away a whole bunch of guys for work. They mostly got put on keychains and guys carry them around and pull them out for things like splinters at work

[@paullambert4445]

I once read that a good Scandinavian knife was designed to last three generations. Maybe or maybe not, but I have a Brusletto that is two generations old and still in use. 🎸🔪

[@Tusk2001]

To me the term “Heirloom Quality” means a knife that while it is carried, if not EDC, but instills the desire for that knife into a future generation. I have kids that I’ve mentored that have a love for knives becasue of what i’ve been able to give them. For example, I have kid that loved knives, that know carries both a RAT-1 and a Mora, neither are expensive but both are great users.

[@fredf9562]

Question for future video, maybe? Can you name a few gentleman folder types with both a nail nick AND a one handed deployment method, like a flipper or thumb stud? Thanks!

[@cbyron9308]

What about katanas, I’m fairly certain there are a few very old ones still used in Iaido?