John, 

I believe the model of this Ruana is the large Skinner.  Does that help in appraising it?  Should I send the thing in to Ruana for appraisal and get their certificate of authenticity?  Does that help increase the value of it for collecting? 

If I do decide to sell this one, do you think Ruana would offer a good price for it since they buy back old knives? Or is better to find a collector who may appreciate having this in their collection?  This has been a "user" as a hunting knife in my collection for several years.  It's a good knife and will hold a good edge.  I have never really "bonded" with this knife for some reason:)  I'll work on posting a few more pictures of the blade to show the shape it is in.  It is in pretty good shape with no pitting or rusting. 

Thanks,

Jans

 
John McCain said:

J.P.--The tang stamp with the M indicates that your Ruana was made circa-1962-1983.In general, the dovetailed handles indicate later knives, but Rudy actually started using the dovetail equipment in 1944.If I had to guess without further information I would say it was made in the 70's.In regards to the value, hard to say without a picture of the blade condition in profile, the model number, or in lieu of the model #, the OAL and the blade length along with a picture.In general, Ruana's of this vintage sell in the $300-600 range, with the average around $400-500.Obviously, condition, size &model also determine this. If you can provide some more info, hopefully I can give you a more accurate appraisal.I don't know if you are looking to keep it as a collectible, a user, or plan on selling it.  http://www.ruanaknives.com/ can offer certificate of authenticity and date it to within 10 years for a small fee, can refurbish it to your specs, or buy it from you any any condition. FYI