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Permalink Reply by Kevin D on December 14, 2022 at 17:48

Looks like an old grafting knife to me.

P Kamphaus was an old knife making company from Solingen, Germany.

I really do not know much more.  Dates of manufacture or value...  sorry.  But perhaps that will get you a little closer.

Good Luck!

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Permalink Reply by Lars Ray on December 14, 2022 at 22:53

Hi Steve - Welcome to iKC! 

My esteemed colleague, friend, gardener, and fellow iKC collector is correct - your knife is a model 840 pruner....or grafting knife if you prefer. Some refer to it as a banana knife because of its shape (not because it is used on bananas). P K made a lot of these in a variety of sizes, models, and blade shapes. Reportedly started in 1797, I believe PK is still in business today (but don't quote me on that!).

These are to gardeners, fruit growers, and vineyard growers what Stanley tools are to us....prolific and everywhere, particularly in Europe. 

Unfortunately, without knowing when PK produced the 840 or for how long, I too do not have a clue as to its age. A well used knife like this could be 20 years old or from the pre 1930's....hard to say. Knowing what it is is one thing, being a brand expert on it is another. I'm sorry. 

I am not too into folders, but I know that the snap of the blade is important, as is whether or not there is any wobble or "play" in the blade when opened. These elements certainly play a significant role in determining it's value regardless of age.

The blade on yours looks well used - in a positive way. By that I mean a practitioner took real care of this tool and used it as intended.  The handle also looks to be in great shape....nice. 

If you like your knife, I would think yours is a keeper. 

I hope this helps....

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Permalink Reply by STEVE CLAY on December 15, 2022 at 9:47

Guys, thanks for the information.  It is extremely helpful.

Lars Ray said:

Hi Steve - Welcome to iKC! 

My esteemed colleague, friend, gardener, and fellow iKC collector is correct - your knife is a model 840 pruner....or grafting knife if you prefer. Some refer to it as a banana knife because of its shape (not because it is used on bananas). P K made a lot of these in a variety of sizes, models, and blade shapes. Reportedly started in 1797, I believe PK is still in business today (but don't quote me on that!).

These are to gardeners, fruit growers, and vineyard growers what Stanley tools are to us....prolific and everywhere, particularly in Europe. 

Unfortunately, without knowing when PK produced the 840 or for how long, I too do not have a clue as to its age. A well used knife like this could be 20 years old or from the pre 1930's....hard to say. Knowing what it is is one thing, being a brand expert on it is another. I'm sorry. 

I am not too into folders, but I know that the snap of the blade is important, as is whether or not there is any wobble or "play" in the blade when opened. These elements certainly play a significant role in determining it's value regardless of age.

The blade on yours looks well used - in a positive way. By that I mean a practitioner took real care of this tool and used it as intended.  The handle also looks to be in great shape....nice. 

If you like your knife, I would think yours is a keeper. 

I hope this helps....

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