How to Identify the Year of a Walden Knife

Clean the knife thoroughly to make it easier to examine and safer to handle. Many Walden knives are over 50 years old. You can clean most knives by submerging them in boiling water for just under a minute. Rub any remaining dirt off with a toothbrush and wipe the knife with a clean towel.

Examine the knife for markings. Look for brand names, years of manufacture, and anything else that might yield a clue to the knife's origin. Write down each detail. Ideally, you will have a list of several identifying features on the knife.

Cross-reference the features of your knife with a list of known Schrade-Walden knives. While hundreds of variations have been manufactureed, you can find a rough guide for dating your knife in the "Official Price Guide to Collector Knives," which is linked in Resources.

Visit a knife specialist or antique store for additional help in identifying the knife. Checking with an expert is one of the best ways to verify your conclusions about the knife and its origins. You may also be able to get an appraisal of the knife's value.