DeLeon Bowies

[Dennis Wright]

I'm looking for some information on a maker named John DeLeon, who is, I believe in Lubbock, TX.

I have several large Bowies made by him but I can't find any information on him or his knives. They are beautifully done and very well made with really nice elkhorn and stag handles.

I would appreciate any information on how to contact him or what anyone may know about his work, ie. materials he uses, etc.

Thanks

------------------
Dennis Wright
Wright Knife & Sporting Goods

wrightknife@ixpres.com

 

[UglyJim]

I think the maker you are referring to may be Enedino DeLeon out of Lubbock, Texas. I met Mr. DeLeon at a show last year; he does some very nice work. It is my understanding that he used to work in Ralph Bone's shop before he went into business for himself. I purchased one of his "Jungle Fighters" at the show; it's a 7" fixed blade in ATS-34 with a stag handle and a Micarta spacer…very well done and a very good value. I was able to find a brochure from the show…it shows the following information for Mr. DeLeon:

DeLeon Made Knives
1920 East 14th Street
Lubbock, Texas 79403
(806) 765-7638

His catalog shows a nice assortment of fixed blades and folders in both 440C and O-1 steel (although I understand he uses ATS-34 in most of his stainless knives now), with some particularly nice "traditional" Bowies. Most of his work isn't fancy…just solid, working knives for the most part. I haven't given his knives a lot of hard use, but the fit and finish are excellent and the prices are very reasonable. Hope this helps!

Jim

 

[Dennis Wright]

Jim,

THANK YOU! That was exactly what I was looking for.

I have a Jungle fighter as well as some others, including a Jungle Bowie. You are right they are very well made, not fancy but very handsome. Good working knives. I have custom sheaths by Gene Brown for them and now that I know how to contact him, I'll have the pedigree. I have really taken a liking to these knives.

Thanks again, very much.



------------------
Dennis Wright
Wright Knife & Sporting Goods

wrightknife@ixpres.com