Puma Bowie Question

[double00]

Hello,

I am interested in purchasing a Puma Bowie. Where would be a good source for this model?

Thanks in advance.

 

[kwackster]

If you want a real high quality vintage one this would be a very good place to look around: http://www.pumaknifeman.blogspot.com/
Brent Terry is friendly and he knows his stuff; I've dealt with him a few times and i would recommend him.
Keep in mind that he is officially retired; he sells knives as a hobby, so it can take a while for your mail to get answered.

 

[Doc1911]

The Puma Bowie is now advertised as being made in 440C instead of D1.4. When did they change? How do the 440C blades stack up against the highly regarded versions of the 1970s?

 

[kwackster]

Never did any edgeholding comparison tests; 440C would of course still be a very good steel if the hardening process was done right.
But judging by the overall poorly made knives Puma makes these days my guess would be that they don't put too much effort in the heat treat as well.
But i can be wrong about that one of course,

Edgeholding aside the big difference between today's Puma's and the models of yesteryear is in the fit & finish, something you cannot judge from a catalogue or the internet.
I only collect older Puma's, and with old i mean "as old as i can get them".

To a non-knife person new & old production Puma would probably seem about similar, but when you have even the faintest idea of quality you will know the difference when you hold one of the older knives in your hand.
BTW; same goes for older Gerber, Rigid, and original BenchMark knives.