Jimmy Lile Custom Handmade Folding Lockback Knife

Description

Offered for sale is a James B. “Jimmy” Lile custom handmade folding lockback pocket knife, made in Russelville, Arkansas, USA, probably circa 1970s or 1980s.   Jimmy Lile started making knives full-time in 1971, and quickly became a legend among knifemakers.  He served as president of the Knifemaker’s Guild, and was an early member of the American Bladesmith Society.  Lile is famous for making the “Rambo” knives used in the film “First Blood” and the various sequels featuring Sylvester Stallone.  Lile passed away in 1991, and his knives have become very collectible.  This knife features a stainless steel drop point blade with a thumb stud, integral nickel silver bolsters and liners, brown micarta handle scales, and a blade locking device.  The handle scales are dovetailed into the bolsters.  Length closed is 3-3/4″ and length open is 6-3/4″.  The blade has a tang stamp of “Lile.”  There is no dot over the tang stamp, meaning this knife was made while Lile was still alive, either by Lile himself or under his direct supervision.  Lile knives with a dot over the tang stamp were made in the Lile shop after Lile passed away.  The knife is in excellent condition overall, showing signs of occasional handling and some minor pitting on the blade.  The blade appears to be 100% intact and the blade locks up tight.  Included with the knife is a felt storage pouch.  This knife is very well made, and will provide many more years of service with proper care.  Or, it would be right at home in a collection of custom pocket knives.  You can own this very high quality, highly collectible pocket knife from a highly respected maker, for $899.99.