Bill Ruple copperhead slipjoint

SharpByCoop

SharpByCoop

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Knifemaker / Craftsman / Service Provider
Joined
Oct 8, 2001
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I have a soft spot for these fileworked double-blade slipjoints. I don't know much about Bill Ruple from Texas, but his reputation as a traditional folder maker is notable. This photo shows why.

Many thanks to Mike Gianlorenzo at RCK Custom Knives for working with me to put this in my collection. He's a good egg. :D

Who cannot appreciate the engaging and precise dual filework pattern? This just grabs you visually. What also appealed to me what the shape of the bolsters and how it shows more of the blades when closed. I am guessing this is what a 'copperhead' is?

The backspring on this is no joke. The blades are SO sharp and the spring is so tight that opening or closing these can get a little spooky. :eek:

I like diversity. This covers one area nicely.

Coop
 
Coop,
You're right that Mr Ruple has a fine reputation as a custom maker.
If that filework isn't just plain STUNNING, I don't know what is.
And the fit and finish looks about a step beyond excellent as well.
I'll bet "she" walks and talks a well as she looks good.
Pretty easy to be thrilled about this one isn't it?
 
The knife's a beauty Coop (as is the photo). That filework is beautifully precise. I've also dealt with Mike at RCK on a number of occasions and it has always been a pleasure.

Roger
 
I can't see where the blade spine ends and the backspring begins.

What a beautiful slipjoint.
 
That's a beauty! Bill makes an outstanding slip joint. I was lucky enough to see him do a demonstration on that filework at the SOS show last year. He sure makes it look easy. But it ain't!
 
Love everything about this one, except for the fact that I will never own it.
 
Hi Coop,

Glad you like it and thanks for the plug.
Very....nice photo! The tips you gave me last time around have come in handy.
Regards,
Mike....
 
That's the nicest slipjoint I ever saw.
I used to not like the copperhead design, but now I see the light.
Besides acting as a hand guard, it also covers up the tang of the blades when in the pocket.
How much did that knife run if you don't mind asking?
My list of slipjoint makers grows by the day:\
Ruple
Huffman
Both Boses
PJ Tomes
Shadley
and probably more I can't think of right now.
Lenny
 
Most excellent !

That filework is extremely clean.

Congrats Coop.
 
Thanks, guys! :D

Yup, she walks and talks with authority.

This HAS been a most gratifying purchase. Bill has another style of filework that you will see on his and Don Morrow's work which is even more engaging--if there is such a thing. Those Texas makers really do these well!

Price? Somewhere less than a Bose and more than a Huffman. ;) They're ALL good!



Coop
 
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