Robert Parrish - any insight??

Joined
Nov 1, 1998
Messages
354
Hello to all: I im interested in a Parrish survival model but have no luck in contacting him. I have his contact info but I don't get returned calls or letters. Does anyone kow if he is still in business? Any insight is appreciated.

respectfully,

Doug
 
I don't believe he is. I too am interested in obtaining one of his knives, and have "spoken" to a few other guys who are too, and they all say the same thing as you. Good luck to you though.
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Yes, Robert is still in business. He is currently 2 years behind and is not accepting orders.

He is a part time maker, and makes a batch when he can fit them in.

Your chances of getting one are slim and none. Unless you find one in the aftermarket.

Good Hunting.

Les
 
First, let me state, that a Robert Parrish Hollow Handle Survival knife was the very first custom knife I ever bought. In 1984 the price was a hefty $185.00.

As a Second Lieutenant in the 101st and headed a Infantry Rifle Platoon I wanted a good knife. At the time the Rambo craze was on, this influenced my decision. Also, the saw teeth on top were some of the best and still are that I have ever seen. I liked the fact that they could cut the skin of a Helicopter if need be. At the time, a Helicopter was how it got to "work".

In 1986, my Battalion was selected to go to Somolia as part of a show of force. Remember the "We are the World" concerts. All that food going to Africa.

Seems the Russians got all of the Ethopian's grain (payment for those shiny AK-47's). So they decided to go to Somolia and get their grain. Enter the 2/502 Infantry, 101st Airborne.

Well while waiting to deploy, I was told by a well meaning JAG (lawyer) Captain, I could not take the Parrish as it was against the Genevea Convention due to the serration's on top of the blade.

I said to him "If I promise to make sure the person I use this knife on is Dead, can I take it". Even in the Army lawyers have no sense of humor.

At that point my boss stepped in and told me to move the F**K out. The knife went in my rucksack.

Upon return the search started again. Enter the Walter Brend Model 2. For those who know me, enough said.

With all this said, understand I am a fan of the knife. But this is 16 years later. The knife is made out of 440C (as it was then).

First, there are much better steels out there.

Second, even though the hollow handle on Robert's knife stood up to every test I put it through. I now feel that solid handles are better.

Third, if you cant get the knife....move on.

Bill Sanders in Colorado (used to be part of Timberline), I belive still makes the hollow handle knife that he did when he was with Timberline. Excellent quality work.

Guys, I would recommend that you look at some of the fixed blades that are out there. It's obvious that Robert is going to do things the way he wants to, as he should be entitled to do.

Like I said in the beginning, I understand the need and the want. However, there are now numerous alternatives for you to consider.



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Les Robertson
www.robertsoncustomcutlery.com

"Nobody throws me my own guns and tells me to run, nobody!
 
While I am not really on the market specifically for a hollow-handled knife, I always thought the RP would be an awesome alternative to the similar Randall, and I'm regretful that I did not place an order when I had the chance.

Very interesting note re the Geneva convention....Not the first time I have heard of our warriors having their private purchase blades banned.

Yes, I suppose RP has every right to to things on his own terms. I'm the same way. Thanks for the response, Les.
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I posted a similar request a few weeks ago, I spoke to Mr. Parrish in february... He said he's still making, and if I want one, "just hang on..." Mine will be a three-year wait the end of June, this year (2000). I have held a few of his knives, all survivors, and admire all of them. I continue to hope that I will see mine. As soon as I get it, I will announce it here. He now lives in Weaverville, NC

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Mark, Isiah 40:31 They that wait on the LORD shall mount up with wings as eagles...
 
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