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 Zulu Spear is a pattern popularized by Tony Bose. The blade, as well as the spring are PM 154 stainless steel. The liners are Integral to the bolster - meaning no seams - making a knife of this construction much more challenging and time consuming to build. The liners are heat treated and tempered 416 stainless steel. The fluted bolster, pins and shield are also 416 SS. Tom has used some outstanding, creamy African Goat Horn scales for the handle. The blade has a half stop, locks up tight with no play, and the blade seating is dead center. The blade pivots around an Aluminum Bronze Bushing. Nice large, long pull with a firm pull. Tom's grinds are clean and symmetrical. The tolerances that he is able to maintain are outstanding! Tom has definitely mastered the walk-and-talk, and this knife is a great example. It is essentially in new condition, but since it is previously owned, I'll call it near mint. Comes in a padded zippered case.
