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 two-blade Trapper features a Clip Point blade with a slight recurved edge and a Spey blade, both made from CPM 154 stainless steel. Both blades have half stops. Both blades have ample nail nicks with firm, yet smooth pulls. The scales are beautifully matched natural stag with rich color and contour. The fluted front bolster, as well as the plain rear bolster have shadow lines, and are 416 stainless steel. The liners, pins, and oval shield are also 416 stainless steel. Bill has done some absolutely impeccable file-work on the backsprings and liners, which he has continued on to the spine of the blade for about 1.0". The transition from backspring to blade spine is near seamless - it's difficult to see where one stops and the other starts. Bill's tolerances, and fit and finish, are second to none. Bill has stamped "RUPLE" on the ricasso of the clip point blade. Both blades lock up tight with no play, and the blades are well-situated, very close to center, between their respective liners. Bill does the "walk-and-talk" like very few can. This knife was acquired from the collection of a Mastersmith, who knows how to store and take care of his knives. I was told that he carried it in a leather belt pouch for a period of time, but it was never used or re-sharpened. There are some fine lines on the bolster and shield, presumably from the sheath, and the blades look perfect. Comes in a plain padded, zippered case.
Condition: Previously Owned. Excellent. Never used or sharpened.
