CASE KNIVES
High quality, extremely collectible handmade knives since the 1800s.
SHOP CASE KNIVESFor serious knife collectors, opportunities like this don’t come around often. The Bob Cargill Custom Canoe for the Western Reserve Cutlery Association is a genuine piece of American cutlery history, crafted in the 1980s and built with the kind of attention to detail that defines true custom work. Made in the USA, this folding knife reflects a time when craftsmanship, materials, and tradition came first.
This classic canoe pattern features two stainless steel blades, a sheepsfoot and a pen blade, both equipped with traditional nail nick openers for smooth, controlled deployment. Each blade is marked with the Western Reserve Cutlery Association 1-40 1980 blade etch, a detail that firmly anchors this knife in its historical context and adds undeniable collector value. The slipjoint construction keeps the knife true to its heritage, offering reliable, spring-driven action without modern locking mechanisms.
The handle is where this knife truly stands out. Rich stag scales give it a bold, organic look that’s impossible to duplicate, with natural texture and color variation that make this piece unmistakably unique. Brass liners provide structural strength, while nickel silver pins, bolsters, and shield add both durability and a refined contrast that complements the stag beautifully. Every component reflects the careful material selection and fit expected from a custom maker like Bob Cargill.
At just 3.65 inches closed and weighing only 2.9 ounces, this canoe knife offers a compact, pocket-friendly profile that was designed for everyday carry, yet it clearly transcends simple utility. It’s the kind of knife that feels equally at home in a display case or in hand, appreciated for its balance, proportions, and historical significance rather than hard use.
This knife is a one-of-a-kind offering, with only a single example available. For collectors of vintage American knives, Western Reserve Cutlery Association pieces, or Bob Cargill customs, this is a chance to own a rare and authentic example from a respected era of knife making. Once it’s gone, it won’t be easily replaced.
Order it today from SMKW!