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 large three (3) blade Sowbelly, is a challenging knife to build. The tolerances, and fit and finish must be spot-on. All the blades are CPM-154 stainless steel, and they all have half-stops. The front and rear bolsters are 416 stainless steel, as are the pins, liners, and arrowhead-shaped shield. Bill put a pin through the shield - apparently the first time he's done this. The scales are two gorgeous pieces of stag, well-matched and highly figured with great color. This knife is Brand New and direct from Bill. All the blades lock up tight with no play, and the blade seating of each is dead-on. And if you look at the picture of the liners, you can see that Bill did some file-work to the center liner, giving it a jeweled appearance. Nice large nail nicks all the way around, with firm yet easy pulls. Bill is the master of walk-and-talk, and this knife is no exception. Comes in a stingray, padded, zippered case.
