Conley/Weyer 'boot knife' folder

[SharpByCoop]

I had known little about this collection of odd folders for years, as it is hidden in a single page of Jim Weyer's 'Points of Interest' Knife Photography books.

Apparently Jim Weyer (noted photographer of MANY coffee table books and the patriarch of ALL knife photographers) was also a noted collector, and had a pattern he wished to have replicated in various maker's styles according to his or the maker's wishes.

I am told a total of 54 knives were made. All of them are different, and many of the makers are still making knives today. Sadly, many aren't.

(Photo courtesy of NordicKnives.com)

They are all lockbacks with an exception: one of them is a faux folder (made to look like a folder but fixed). Truthfully they are not a flattering or modern design. Regardless, they represent one man's early support of custom knives, and the inspirations and craftsmanship from 54 quality makers.

The knives were made in the late 70's to the mid-80's. Somewhere in the 90's the entire collection was sold to a European collector. Just lately the entire collection was acquired by Dave Harvey of Nordic Knives, and he was willing to sell them piece-by-piece. Many are still available.

I looked over all the offerings and struck my deal on this smart-looking version by Robert Conley--a maker I know nothing about. (Thanks to Dave for his kind dealings)

I liked the double bolsters and his outstanding pin treatment. The ironwood is a classic that looks as good now as it did when he built it--22 years ago.

I am priviledged to have captured a piece of Jim Weyer's early vision. It only seems proper as a photographer to have one of these...

Take a step back in time and enjoy with me. Kumbaya!

Coop

 

[dredd8]

Good choice Coop...So many to chose from and so little time.

 

[T.K.C.]

Coop, that one is beautiful!! Annd yes, it does seem proper for a photographer to have one of those knives. I love the file work on your piece too. WOW, that is an amazing collection!

Is it just me, or do those knives remind any one else of boots?

 

[Raj]

Hi Coop ,nice pictures.How is the fit and finish on this Conley?.Knowing a little bit about you.You must have tried to contact the maker .Were you successful. Does he still make knives?.

 

[SharpByCoop]

Hi Raj,

F&F are very good. You can see the rivet/pivot on the LH side. That's the worst I can find. Good centering and action. What I didn't capture were that the flats on the blade are left with a vertical sanded finish, while the bevels are polished. A nice touch.

No, I hadn't goten that far to call him. But... you just lit the fire. I'll report back when and if I do

Thank you.

Coop

 

[Keith Montgomery]

I think this pattern is actually referred to as leg, not boot.

The one with the pistol attached is really cool.

 

[rick melear]

I have 2 folders made by Bob Conley. One is a double bolstered slip joint with cocobolo handles that I bought from him in the mid 80s when the Blade Show was in Knoxville. The other is a beautiful lock back with imala horn handles, engraved bolsters and fancy file work on the lock bar,liners and blade.I bought this knife in the late 80s, dont remember where but probably at Blade as well.

If you want to part with that knife in the future Im always looking to add another Conley to the case

 

[malextwo]

Didn't Nordic have the entire collection for sale recently? Mike

 

[SharpByCoop]

Just lately the entire collection was acquired by Dave Harvey of Nordic Knives, and he was willing to sell them piece-by-piece. Many are still available.

Yes.

Coop

 

[Don Hanson III]

I remember reading an artical about these knives many years ago.

Good for you Coop :thumbup:

 

[peterinct]

After seeing the other thread with a pic of two of the Weyer knives I didn't immediately think of the "leg" pattern, but seeing the pic with 54 knives it became very apparent.

The one you bought is extremely nice Coop.

Thanks,
Peter