Bill Ruple Stag 5-Blade Sowbelly, File-Worked, Slip-Joint Folding Knife (SOLD)

Bill Ruple is a master at making slip joint folders.  He has taught and inspired so many knifemakers on how to make folding knives, that it's almost impossible to list them.  You have to hold one of Bill's knives to truly appreciate the fit and finish, and his attention to detail.  He has been making knives since 1988.  The quality of his knives has been consistent throughout his career.  He has made knives with from one to five blades.  No matter what he makes or what show he attends, he always sells out - and quickly!

This five (5) blade Sowbelly is one of the more challenging knife patterns for any slip-joint knife maker to build.  The tolerances, and fit and finish must be impeccable and spot-on.  This pattern is both time consuming and costly to make for any knifemaker.  All the blades are CPM-154 stainless steel, and they all have half-stops.  The integral front and rear bolsters are 416 stainless steel and are fluted with shadow lines.  The pins, liners, and Crest-shaped shield are also 416 stainless steel.  The scales are two gorgeous pieces of premium natural stag, well-matched and highly figured with great color.  Bill had done some very tasteful and time-consuming file-work around the springs and liners.  This knife is previously owned from a one owner, high-end collection and is in excellent to near mint condition.  All the blades lock up tight with no play, and the blade seating of each is spot-on.  Tough to make all those blades fit in the limited real estate of the handle.  Remember, when opening this knife, start by opening the blade in the center and work your way outward until you open the most outer blades.  Close the knife in the reverse order.  There's a long pull on the main blade and nice large nail nicks on the remaining blades, all with firm and smooth pulls.  Bill is the master of "walk-and-talk", and this knife is no exception.  Comes in a padded zippered "RUPLE" case.