Tony Bose 3-Blade Sowbelly #1, Jigged Bone Slip-Joint Folding Knife (SOLD)

From the Bose Knives website..."Tony Bose comes from humble beginnings in the West-central Indiana town of Hymera.  He suffered an injury to his right eye at the age of six and his family endured hard economic times throughout his childhood.  When Tony became old enough to work, he encountered many obstacles due to his partial blindness.  As it turned out, that childhood injury and his love of "pocket knives" became a catalyst in making Tony who he is today and his knives some of the most coveted hand made knives today.  Tony started making knives in 1972 after many years of repairing knives for extra money.  He made his first folder in 1975. To date he has made over 48 different patterns based on knives from the old cutlery companies.  Tony says, "I don't design knives, I bring old knives back from the grave."  Tony's forte is just that; bringing old knives back to life but with all the improvements that modern materials and superior craftsmanship offer.  Tony's reputation as a master cutler of traditional folding knives was recognized and rewarded in 1998 with his hiring as consultant to the W.R.Case & Sons Cutlery Co.. Tony provides a level of expertise with pocket knives that could easily have been lost but he shares the information openly with anyone who wants to learn."

This is an early Tony Bose three (3) blade Sowbelly.  It is marked with the number "1" on the ricasso of the Pen blade.  From the research I have done, I believe this to be the first 3-blade Sowbelly that Tony made.  It features dark green jigged bone scales, and ATS-34 stainless steel blades.  The front and rear bolsters, pins, liners and corset / dress-shaped shield are all 416 stainless steel.  There are no half-stops.  This knife was previously owned in a high-end collection.  It was never used, carried or sharpened.  It is in excellent to near mint condition.  Although I cannot find anything of  note on the blades or bolsters, I am guessing there's a micro scratch lurking somewhere.  Ample nail nicks on all the blades, for a smooth, firm pull.  All the blades lock up tight with no play, and the blade seating of each is spot-on.  Nice piece from Tony's early knifemaking career / history.  Comes in a padded, zippered case.