Handmade Bowie

[Eric Bland]

In about 1967,'68, I wrote to Buck knives and asked if they could make me a custom Bowie. I got a letter back signed {I believe by H.H. Buck} saying he could craft {his word} me a Bowie for $125. He then went on to list the specs. A twelve inch blade etc. Instead of following through with it, I bought a Randall Smithsonian Bowie from the Abercrombie&Fitch Christmas catalog for about the same price. Would the Buck BOwie have been a good investment at $125? Just for laughs, try to get a custom knife from A&F these days. If it isn't a flannel shirt or a pair of corduroy pants, they've never heard of it!

 

[Buckcustom]

Eric,

More than likely it was either Chuck Buck or his late brother Frank who replied to your letter. H. H. Buck passed away in 1949 I believe. After Buck incorporated, Chuck often filled custom orders. That handmade Bowie @ $125 would have been a great investment. I would love to have one in my collection. In my opinion, in mint condition it would now be worth approximately $650 to $750.

John

 

[Eric Bland]

Thanks for the info on the custom that was not. The letter may have been signed by Frank Buck. I'll try to dig it out of my old paperwork. Wish I had the knife.

 

[CJ Buck]

If you find the letter I would love to see it. My uncle lived life on the wild side and passed away in 74. He really had a way with large blades and whenever we get a knife in you can always tell if Frank made it.

Mail address is:
CJ Buck
1900 Weld Blvd
El Cajon, CA 92020

Thanks

------------------
CJ Buck
Buck Knives, Inc.
AKTI Member #PR00003

 

[Eric Bland]

CJ: If I find the letter I'll be happy to send it to you for your record. So far my easy search has not produced it, but it may be in storage and will turn up. Oh for the knife!