Some knives are tools. This one is a testament.
On Christmas Eve, December 24, 1989, master custom knifemaker Bob Hardin set down his tools for the last time on what would become knife number 4,000 of his career — and he made it count. This wasn't a production piece. It wasn't a commission. It was a personal gift, handmade for his best friend, Guy Henley, and it received every ounce of skill, patience, and artistry Hardin had accumulated over a lifetime at the bench.
Serial No. 5 of 25. One of only 25 presentation-grade Bowies ever made to commemorate this milestone. This is the kind of piece that ends up in museum collections — and rarely comes back to market.
The Knife
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Blade: 9-7/8" with high-contrast, multi-layered deep relief etching — Side A features a detailed American Mountain Man/Frontiersman with long rifle; Side B, a Mountain Lion navigating a rocky cliffside
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Handle: Natural bone or ivory scale with a high-relief, deeply sculpted American Eagle in mid-flight, set against a hand-stippled darkened background
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Guard & Pommel: Ornate classical relief-patterned cast brass/bronze
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Weight: 1 lb 14 oz — substantial, balanced, built to impress in hand
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Overall Length: 15-1/2" (9-7/8" blade + 5-5/8" handle)
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Includes: Original velvet display case
The Inscriptions
Hand-engraved by Hardin himself across the ricasso and handle spine:
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Obverse Ricasso: "By - Bob Hardin, Knife No. 4000, No. 5 of 25 - 12/24/89"
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Reverse Ricasso: "Custom Made For My Best Friend Mr. Guy Henley."
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Handle Spine: "Carved By Bob Hardin Dec. 24 1989."
Why This Piece Is Exceptional
Custom knives made as personal gifts — especially milestone pieces — represent a maker's absolute best work. There's no client to satisfy, no deadline to hit, no budget to manage. Just a craftsman at the height of his powers, making something worthy of the moment. That's what you're acquiring here: Bob Hardin at his finest, preserved in steel, bone, and brass for the next 35+ years.
🛡️ Buy With Confidence
- ✅ Ships fully insured with signature confirmation required
- ✅ Securely packed for safe transit — we treat every piece like the irreplaceable artifact it is
- ✅ High-resolution photos available — review every detail before you commit
- ✅ Questions? We're collectors and outdoorsmen ourselves. Reach us at support@ruebushcustoms.com — we'll give you a straight answer
- ✅ Secure checkout — your payment and personal information are always protected
This is a one-of-a-kind piece. When it's gone, it's gone.
