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. No matter what show he attends, he always sells out - and quickly!
Bill calls this pattern his "Pleasanton Persian" after his hometown in Texas. I have also heard this pattern referred to as a Bow Trapper. It features an upswept CPM-154 stainless steel blade, and 416 stainless steel fluted front bolster, pins, lined lanyard hole, and liners. The liners are integral to the bolster. The scales are two pieces of black Micarta, hand-jigged by Bill. There's an inlaid 416 stainless steel Federal shield with a shadow line. And there are also red spacers between the scales and the integral liners. The knife features a half-stop, locks up tight with no blade play, and the blade seating is perfectly centered. Nice large nail nick, with a firm yet easy, smooth pull. Great walk-and-talk from the master! Comes in a Ruple padded, zippered case.
