Tony Bose, a revered figure in traditional knife-making, left an lasting legacy as one of the most respected and influential artisans of his time. Renowned for his profound impact on traditional pocket knives and notable collaborations with Case, Bose significantly shaped the landscape of the knife community. Beyond his role as a designer, Bose distinguished himself as a mentor and cherished friend to many within the craft. His influence extended to the revival of traditional slip joints, where he played a pivotal role as a resurrectionist, breathing new life into this classic art form.

Bose's journey into knife-making was marked by adversity. Having lost his right eye at the age of six, he faced challenges securing conventional employment. Undeterred, Bose undertook a self-taught exploration into the intricate craft of knife making, creating his first knife in 1975. While he had previously honed his skills in repairing knives for collectors, in Wilfred, Indiana, creating knives from scratch presented a more demanding and challenging endeavor. Despite the inherent difficulties, Bose devoted years to refining his craft, emerging as a master in the field.

By 1989, Bose had transitioned into full-time knife making, gaining recognition for his expertise in crafting slip joints and adhering to traditional patterns. Showcasing his knives at local exhibitions, Bose gradually made a name for himself, winning awards and gaining acclaim. His breakthrough came in 1994 when he secured the Best Folder award at the East Coast Custom Knife Show, followed by another win in 1995 at the world’s largest knife event BLADE Show in Atlanta, Georgia. These victories propelled him to greater heights within the industry.

- Bose began repairing knives in Wilfred, Indiana in 1972 before making his first knife in 1975

- By 1989, Bose transitioned into full-time knife making- By 1989, Bose transitioned into full-time knife making

- Bose won the Best Folder award at the East Coast Custom Knife Show in 1994

- Bose later went on to win another award in 1995 at BLADE Show in Atlanta, Georgia

In 1999, Bose embarked on a fruitful collaboration with Case, when Ed Jessup of Case called Bose to see if he would be interested in working with them. This partnership led to the creation of several distinctive Case knife lines, starting in 1999 with the Case XX, Tony Bose, slimline trapper. With Bose also assuming the role of a spokesperson for Case, the collaboration proved mutually beneficial, allowing Bose to share his designs with a wider audience at more affordable prices and enabling Case to expand and enhance the quality of their knives.

Tony Bose's approach to knife-making deviated from innovation in high-tech advancements. Instead, he returned to traditional forms, particularly focusing on the unexplored realm of traditional slip-joint pocket knives. Bose breathed new life into these designs, revitalizing the traditional slip joint culture. His impact on the industry was profound, and in recognition Bose was inducted into BLADE Magazine Hall of Fame in 2019. Upon his passing in 2020 at the age of 74, the knife community mourned the loss of a mentor and inspiration. Tony Bose's influence will continue to resonate within the knife industry for years to come.

- Bose partnered with Case in 1999 after being approached by Ed Jessup

- Bose and Case released the Case XX Tony Bose slimline trapper in 1999

- Bose was inducted into the BLADE Magazine Hall of Fame in 2019