Vintage 1980 Kissing Crane NKCA Stag Stockman Knife – Solingen Germany – 1 of 12000

This vintage 1980 NKCA club knife, made by Kissing Crane/Robi Klaas of Solingen, Germany, is a beautifully preserved stockman-pattern knife crafted exclusively for members of the National Knife Collectors Association. Produced in a limited run of 1 of 12,000, it features genuine stag handles with deep natural character and the refined workmanship expected from Solingen cutlery.

The master clip point blade is adorned with the ornate “NKCA 1980” etching, while the secondary sheepsfoot and pen blades bear the Robi Klaas – Solingen Germany tang stamps. All three blades open smoothly with solid snap; the pen blade has a slightly softer close, common in vintage knives but still fully functional.

The stag scales are exceptional—warm caramel, ivory, and dark bark accents blending into rugged texture on both sides. Bolsters and pins remain tight, completing a knife that stands as both a display piece and a historical artifact of the NKCA collector community.

🔧 Specs:

Maker: Robi Klaas / Kissing Crane – Solingen, Germany
Edition: NKCA Club Knife (1 of 12,000)
Pattern: Stockman
Blades: 3 (Clip Point, Sheepsfoot, Pen)
Handle: Genuine stag
Bolsters: Nickel silver
Liners: Brass
Closed Length: Approx. 4"
Blade Action: Strong snap on clip & sheepsfoot; pen blade slightly weaker close

🔎 Condition Note:

This knife is in excellent vintage condition. The stag handles show no cracks or wear and display beautiful natural coloration. Blades have some age patina typical for a knife of this era (see photos). All blades function properly; pen blade has slightly lighter snap on closing. Ships wrapped in acid-free archival tissue to protect handle and steel during transit and storage.

📜 Historical Note:

The 1980 NKCA club knife marked a collaboration with Kissing Crane/Robi Klaas, one of Solingen’s premier traditional knife makers since the 19th century. NKCA annual knives were produced in limited numbers and distributed only to club members, making surviving examples highly collectible. This stockman pattern, paired with premium stag and German steel, remains a standout from the late NKCA era.

🧲 Collector’s Note:

NKCA knives occupy a special place in the collector world, and this 1980 stockman is no exception. The Solingen craftsmanship, classic stag, and limited-edition nature make it a worthy addition to collections focused on German knives, club knives, or traditional American-stockman patterns.

⚠️ Disclaimer:

All knives in this shop are vintage or pre-owned unless stated otherwise. While many are in excellent condition, they may show normal signs of age or handling such as scuffs, blemishes, or blade wear. I try to document condition as accurately as possible in both the description and photos.

By purchasing this knife, you confirm you are 18+ and compliant with all knife laws in your area.