Tom Ploppert is a part-time maker from Cullman, AL. He credits his inspiration behind his knife making passion to Bill Ruple - a master at making slip joint folders. Tom built his first slip joint knife in April 2009. He later took a slip joint making class taught by Bill Ruple and Rusty Preston (another Ruple alum). Tom has certainly been a good student. You can see his passion in his work, and tell it from speaking with him. Tom's fit and finish, and attention to detail is obvious once you hold one of his folders. He's also a humble and personable guy.
The Back Pocket was designed by renowned custom knifemaker Tony Bose as a larger, single blade variation of a Trapper. It was intended to be large enough to do many tasks, but slender enough to carry in your pants back pocket. This Back Pocket from Tom features a California Clip blade made from A2 tool steel with a blackened or deep blue finish. The spring is also black/blued A2 tool steel. The knife is new and direct from Tom. The bolster and integral liners are 416 stainless steel. The scales are gorgeous Natural Premium Stag, that are well-matched, with great texture and feel. There's also a lined lanyard hole, and Tom's included a black leather lanyard with some matching blue beads. Nice comfortable nail nick, with a smooth and even pull. The blade locks up tight with no play, and the blade seating is centered. The blade pivots around an Aluminum Bronze Bushing. Tom's grinds are clean and symmetrical, with tight tolerances! Comes in a padded, zippered Ploppert Custom Knives case.
