Description :

Rare Presentation-Grade Rod “Caribou” Chappel Custom Fixed-Blade Hunting KnifeMaker: Davis Knives — Spokane, WashingtonProduction Date: February 18, 1981Description

Offered here is an exceptional, highly collectible example of custom cutlery history: a presentation-grade fixed-blade recurve hunting knife handcrafted by the late, legendary master bladesmith Roderick "Caribou" Chappel. Produced early in his solo career under his revered Davis Knives banner in Spokane, Washington, this piece represents the pinnacle of Chappel’s iconic "organic-ergonomic" design philosophy.

The knife features a flawlessly executed, mirror-polished high-hollow ground 440C stainless steel recurve blade. The obverse side features Chappel's highly prized, deep presentation-style hand-engraved script reading: “A Roderick Caribou Chappel Knife...” The reverse side bears the classic workshop stamp: “DAVIS KNIVES / SPOKANE, WA.” paired with a hand-engraved, exact manufacture date of “February 18, 1981.”

True to Chappel's legendary styling, the handle is an ergonomic masterpiece. It features a sweeping, highly contoured grip carved from a richly figured, warm-toned premium hardwood. The handle scales are seamlessly integrated into a mirror-polished solid brass handguard and a prominent, flared brass pommel. Elegant black, silver, and red accent micarta/metal spacers bridge the hilt and butt cap, completing a visually striking aesthetic.

Dating exactly six months before the debut of his historic "Lady Diana" model, this February 1981 masterpiece captures the exact moment Chappel revolutionized the custom knife landscape with his radical, fluid geometries. It is an indispensable addition for any serious investor or high-end custom knife collector.

• Blade Style: Recurve Skinner / HunterBlade
• Finish: Mirror Polished
• Blade Grind: High-Hollow Ground
• Handle Material: Figured Hardwood with Brass Guard & Pommel
• Accents: Multi-layer Red, Black, and Silver Spacers
• Markings: Hand-engraved signature, workshop stamp, and complete date (Feb. 18, 1981)

Overall Condition: Excellent / Near-Mint vintage condition.

• Blade: The factory mirror-polished finish is remarkably clean, showing sharp grinds and original, unmarred bevels. Minimal, light surface handling wisps consistent with age.
• Handle: The wood scales show vibrant color and zero cracking or separation. The solid brass guard and pommel show a beautiful, authentic aged golden patina (can be left original or polished to a high mirror shine at the buyer's discretion