The Puma White Hunter is one of the most recognizable and collectible hunting knives ever produced by the German cutlery company Puma-Werk in Solingen, Germany. Introduced in 1956, the White Hunter was originally designed at the request of the East African Professional Hunters Association who wanted a single knife capable of handling a variety of demanding outdoor tasks. With its distinctive broad blade, dropped point, and pronounced finger guard, the White Hunter quickly earned a reputation as a dependable all-purpose hunting knife. Most examples feature genuine stag handles secured with aluminum rivets and a heavy nickel silver guard, making them as attractive as they are functional.
The original White Hunter featured carbon “PUMASTER STEEL” and are etched with the model number 6377. Around 1980, Puma added the 6375 model that featured a stainless steel blade. Another version released (model 6399) in the 1960s has wood handles and a carbon steel blade.
Beginning in 1964, Puma stamped a “control number” on the guard that identified the month and year the knife was manufactured. If a White Hunter does not have a control number stamped on the guard, it was made prior to 1964. These knives generally command a premium because of their relative scarcity and beautiful wooden display box. Here is a great video on YouTube that shows how the White Hunter is made.
Whether you’re searching for an early pre-1964 example (eBay link) or a later date-coded knife, the Puma White Hunter remains one of the most iconic vintage hunting knives ever made and continues to be a cornerstone of many serious knife collections.
Check out these vintage Puma White Hunter knives that are currently available on eBay. I earn a small commission when an item is purchased at no extra cost to you.
