September 1984, I bought my first custom knife. It was a Robert Parrish Hollow Handle Survival knife.
Now at this point I will admit to knowing practically nothing about custom knives. I bought the knife primarily because of the serration's on the back. The claim was they could cut through aircraft aluminium.
Stationed with the 101st Airborne, my primary mode of transportation to and from training were LPC's (Leather Personel Carriers {Boots}). However on big field problems we flew in helicopters. My thinking was if the helicopter crashed and I had to cut my way out this would be the knife.
All right, so hardly no one survives a helicopter crash. Since we flew with the doors open, more than likely there would be a big hole (or two) to get out of.
The Parish worked very well, the saw teeth were incredible on wood and nylon cord. The spear point tip never chipped or broke. Trust me the knife was abused.
As John states, I would like to see the steel updated on these knives. Either D-2 or 3V would be a vast improvement.
Back then the knife sold for $185. To me at that time that was a lot of money, especially for a knife! Now, I laugh to myself whenever I write this.
A few years later, my Batallion was sent to Somalia. We went in response to the Ethopian's coming over and stealing their (We Are the World food {for those of you old enough to remember the We Are the World song and subsequent food drive}).
So while processsing to go overseas I am informed by some JAG Captain that my Parrish violates the Genevea Convention. My response to him was "I give you my word as an officer that whoever I stab with this knife will be dead". He found no humor in my comment. It was at that time I was grabbed by my Company Commander and told to move out.
I took the knife. However, upon my return I was told to get another. I saw this knife in a Soldier of Fortune article from a fellow named Walter Brend. I thought I would give that one a try.
Now you know the rest of the story!
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Les Robertson
www.robertsoncustomcutlery.com
Custom Knife Entrepreneur
