Mel Pardue

Rick Bowles · May 5, 2020

I know you folks are familiar with Mel Pardue's designs for Benchmade. I thought you might like to see a couple of Mel's folders from forty years ago! The engraving was done by (now) world famous engraver Jon Robyn when he was 22 years old!

Silent H · May 5, 2020

Thanks! Those are both absolute stunners. I haven't seen much of his custom work, but I love his Benchmades. That second one is a beauty, I wonder if Benchmade could or would ever make versions of these and his other designs.

Rick Bowles · May 6, 2020

I think these may be a little "old school" for most today!

Wannabe Rambo Guy · May 6, 2020

They're both stunning, but that top blade is a beauty to me

sliceofaloha · May 7, 2020

Amazing work, back when a 20 was real money. Fill up your tank and take the fam out for greasy burgers with that then.

Professor · May 7, 2020

Rick, those are absolutely awesome! Thank you for sharing! Mel is my favorite designer for BM, and always has been. His design cues aimed at ergonomics are always apparent, and the mini-Griptilian with the sheepsfoot blade is my all-time overall favorite BM made today. It's stood the test of time!

BTW, are you the same Rick Bowles who designed my favorite Randall pattern of all time? If so, this is a magical day!

Professor.

Professor · May 7, 2020

Wow, I just verified, you are the same RB! Great seeing you here. Love your work and design!

Silent H · May 7, 2020

Rick Bowles said:
I think these may be a little "old school" for most today!

What's old is new again! I think there's a lot of old school influences in Benchmade's current lineup. Just look at the Crooked River, Proper, and Tengu. Speaking of the Tengu, I see some similarities between that and that tanto in the first picture, probably because of the tanto blade and black and white color schemes.

Chocula · May 7, 2020

Amazing! Love the curves on the second knife. Thanks for sharing

Darkera · May 7, 2020

Wow that second knife is incredible.

Eljay2 · May 7, 2020

Awesome!!

Rick Bowles · May 11, 2020

Professor said:
BTW, are you the same Rick Bowles who designed my favorite Randall pattern of all time?

Professor.

Yes thanks! I've been fortunate to design two Randalls, my Skinner and the non-cataloged Gambler.

Professor · May 11, 2020

Oooh. I didn't realize you designed the Gambler. I had one of those in yellow linen micarta many moons ago. Love the skinner though. Any upswept broad blades tend to grab my attention! Very nice, Rick!