The Jeff VanderMeulen Homicide #20 Tanto is a standout custom folder with the aggressive profile and hard-use attitude that collectors associate with VanderMeulen’s work. This example is especially compelling because it is not just pre-owned. It has been refurbished, with the blade and scales Cerakoted by Viking Mike Customs, then professionally sharpened by a legendary knifemaker Florida knifemaker. The result is a one-of-a-kind VanderMeulen with a striking custom color combination and strong collector appeal.
What makes this knife even more interesting is that it still retains the maker’s original internal etching. The inside of the scale is marked “Homicide #20” and “2017”, confirming this as an earlier Homicide model. For collectors, that matters. Earlier examples often carry added interest because they help tell the story of a maker’s design progression, and having the original internal maker etching still present strengthens that provenance.
From the photo, this Jeff VanderMeulen Homicide Tanto presents with a dark blade finish and vivid red-toned scales, giving it a bold and unmistakable visual identity. It keeps the angular, purposeful lines collectors expect from a VanderMeulen Tanto, while the Cerakote treatment gives it a very different feel from a standard example. Instead of reading like just another preowned tactical folder, it feels like a carefully refreshed custom piece with personality.
A One-of-One Refurbished Jeff VanderMeulen
What makes this Jeff VanderMeulen Homicide #20 Tanto especially marketable is the combination of maker reputation, early-model status, and tasteful post-maker customization. Jeff VanderMeulen is well known for building robust custom knives that prioritize performance, precision, and distinctive styling. On top of that foundation, this knife was Cerakoted by Viking Mike Customs, creating a custom look that makes it stand apart from standard finishes.
That matters from a collector standpoint. In the custom knife world, a well-executed refinish can transform a piece into something even more memorable, and that is the case here. The additional professional sharpening adds another layer of value, especially for a buyer who wants a knife that is not only collectible, but also dialed in and ready for use or display.
Just as important, this knife includes the original Certificate of Authenticity, which adds meaningful collector confidence. When paired with the internal etching showing Homicide #20 and 2017, the original COA helps reinforce this knife’s authenticity, early production status, and overall provenance.
VanderMeulen Custom Video Presentation
Take a closer look at this Jeff VanderMeulen Homicide Tanto, a one-of-a-kind custom folder that has been refurbished, with the blade and scales Cerakoted by Viking Mike Customs and then professionally sharpened by a legendary knifemaker. This customized preowned VanderMeulen knife blends aggressive tactical styling with a standout finish package that makes it especially appealing to collectors of rare American custom folders.
Jeff VanderMeulen Craftsmanship and Collector Appeal
Jeff VanderMeulen has built a reputation around handmade knives produced in the USA using manual machines, with a focus on hard-use tactical folders and premium materials. His work is consistently associated with bold design, strong ergonomics, and hand-finished construction. That reputation gives this knife a strong base level of desirability before even factoring in the custom refinish.
For collectors, this listing has several qualities working in its favor. It is an earlier Homicide model, it still carries the maker’s internal etching, it includes the original Certificate of Authenticity, it has been professionally refurbished, it features a custom Cerakote treatment by Viking Mike Customs, and it has been professionally sharpened. That combination makes it especially attractive for buyers looking for a Jeff VanderMeulen piece that feels uncommon, documented, and ready to stand apart in a serious collection.
Collectors who appreciate the Jeff VanderMeulen Homicide Tanto may also want to explore more custom tactical folders and maker-driven pieces across the We Buy Knife Collections website. You can browse additional inventory through our Shop by Maker page, view more premium builds in Folding Knives, and discover other curated pieces in our Preowned Knives section. We Buy Knife Collections exists for one purpose, to source and sell the finest custom knives in existence.
