Great Example of Asking Good Questions
I recently wrote about how critical it is when buying on eBay to ask the right questions. Questions about what you see (and don’t) and what was said (and didn’t say) and to see how thorough he/she is in the answers. I found a good example of a toenail bidder asking some really good questions on an auction that ended today on a Cattaraugus toenail and thought I’d share them here.
Hello! This is indeed a rare knife, but would appreciate your answering the following questions. 1) Main Blade: a) How complete and clear is the “Cattaraugus Cutlery Co., Little Valley, NY” front tang etching? b) Is there a pattern # etching on the back tang, and, if so, how clear is it? 2) Both Blades:The text says they need cleaning, but close good. Would you please be more specific? (eg., Do both open with a firm snap to a 1/2 stop and then to a fully open position? Do they both firmly snap close?) b) When opened, do the blades “wobble”? c)Is there any rust pitting or heavy staining on either blade, front or back? c) Have either been sharpened? 3) Both Bolsters: Are the pins (holding them to the frame) visible, however faintly, front or back? 4) Back Bolster (re smaller blade): Does the pic show staining or scratching? 5) Front & Back Stag Slabs: a) Tight to the frame? b) Any cracks or chips? 6) Any other issues? Thanks for your help. Feb-23-08
Answer:
Thanks..a. it is complete but needs some of the tarnish removed and i did not to ruin the integrity of the blade so whomever bought it i left that up to them, but you can read 50% of it. b. it is covered by tarnish/rust and cannot be made out. c. the average tarnish and minor rust needs removed and i do not want to ruin it with my own cleaning techniques so again i will leave it to the winning bidder, but it is not as bad compared to my other knives..both need a little oil but i tell you what these snaps and blades are well preserved in their mechanics. no wobbles also, no rust pitting..just some excess where the words are but this can be worked on..it is not unworkable, they have been sharpened with fine scratches on the blades..the pins are perfect..stag is very solid and in very good shape..hopefully that helps you out even though some questions were covered by other interested members
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