Knife Show Etiquette & Tips

Attending a custom knife show can be an exciting experience—whether you’re a seasoned collector, a first-time buyer, or someone wanting to learn more about the custom knife world. With the right preparation and approach, you can maximize your time, make meaningful connections, and even find rare or investment-grade knives. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you get the most out of your next knife show.

KNIVES ARE SHARP!

Generally, custom knives are sharper than the factory knives readily available at Wal-Mart and gun shows. I know this to be true as I have handed out more than my fair share of band-aids to those who did not show the custom knife the respect it deserves. Each year you will hear tales of those collectors who have met other collectors at the emergency room of the hospital. They were there for stitches to take care of that bite.

I write this to point out what most of you already know, knives can be sharp. What scared me more than anything was that little hand reaching through the group of grown-ups to grab a knife. For those of you who attend shows please make sure you do not allow your children to handle the knives without your supervision. Fortunately, I have never had a child cut at my table, but it could easily happen.

— Ask permission to handle a knife

Most of us on the business side of the table are happy to have you handle the knives; however,  I would recommend you ask permission. Even with a sign on the table that reads, “Please do not handle without permission,” people walk right up and grab the knife.  Don’t be that person.  People have spent hours creating these knives, give them and their knives the respect they deserve.

— The imaginary knife fight

My table usually had a variety of large fighters and Bowies.  Over the years, I have witnessed my share of imaginary knife fights in front of my table.  The scenario is as follows, collector picks up a knife, takes a step back then starts swinging the knife.  Eventually, they stop and look at me.  I smile and ask them, “Did you win?”   They give me a nervous smile and set the knife down.  The issue becomes if the collector gets carried away and accidently cuts or stabs another person.  Nothing wrong with checking the handle ergonomics and balance, but keep the knife fighting to the minimum.

— Flippers, twirlers and other knife fighters

For those who enjoy Balisongs (butterfly knives) and/or practice any variant of martial art that utilizes knives, do not practice your moves at the table.  Given that you are a human and can be prone to mistakes, none of us wants to see a knife you are manipulating go flying out of your hand.  I have witnessed this happen and the knife landed on the table right on top of several other knives. Congratulations, you just bought a knife and paid to have others repaired by the maker.  DO NOT BE THIS PERSON.

PET PEEVES

— The Space

Most makers will have between 1 and 10 knives on their table which allows plenty of room to replace the knife on the table after you completed your inspection.  On dealer’s table, they may have 30-40 knives on their table, which means they are neatly organized in rows.  Each knife gets its own space.  Now for some reason there are those who pick up the knife and forget to put it back where they picked it up from.  They try to force it in between two other knives where there is not enough room sometimes scratching one or more knives in the process.  In this scenario, please look for the space large enough to put the knife back down.

— The Heavy Knife

Let’s face it, most knives don’t weigh a lot.  But you would be amazed at the number of people who cannot control their muscles enough to put the knife gently back on the table.  So instead, they drop (yes, I said drop) the knife onto the table.  If you are one of these people, please learn how to handle a knife before attending a show.  As there are those who will feel inclined to respond with harsh criticism.

— The Table

During the time frame of the show the table belongs to the person(s) standing behind it.  Do not put your briefcase, backpack, drink cup or other items on it.  I actually had an individual put his backpack on top of the knives so he could get a better look at the knives on the table next to me.  He seemed surprised when I told him if you can’t carry it, leave it in your car.

KEEP the TRAFFIC MOVING

— Road block

When you are at a busy show, often you will run into friends and naturally conversations will occur.  This is one of the great things about attending a show.  Do not block traffic, especially in front of table holder.  Just try and be courteous of those around you and take the conversation to a less crowded part of the room.

— Shutter Bug

Today most of us use the camera on our phone.  However, there are those who feel inclined to bring a larger camera to the show.  Nothing wrong with that, but don’t expect the show to stop so you can get just the right angle or lighting.  Remember, to ask permission.  Your photo shoot will possibly keep other buyers away from the table.  Basically, just be polite and try to remember as excited as you get about a knife or maker, there is someone else who gets just as excited. There is plenty of room for everyone.

Attending a knife show can be a rewarding experience when approached with preparation, respect, and curiosity. Whether you’re buying, or simply learning, these tips ensure your time is well spent and your experience is memorable.