Copper State Cutlery Association

Member Favorite Knives Page for:

Bob Purvis, #10
520-795-8290
PurvisKnives.com
repknives2@cox.net

Robert E. Purvis of Tucson, Arizona, handcrafts these knives from the highest quality materials. Mr. Purvis uses high quality mosaic and stainless Damascus steel, as well as Swedish Damasteel (a very high grade of stainless steel with extraordinary edge-holding properties). Mr. Purvis favors Damascus made by Chad Nichols, Robert Eggerling, and Devin Thomas, all master artists in steel. His favorite handle materials are mammoth ivory, pre-ban elephant ivory, mother of pearl, stag, Arizona hardwood, as well as some dense stabilized woods such as dyed box elder and maple. Thumb studs are 14k gold or titanium, and are set with precious and semiprecious gems. Most folders are embellished with file work along the spines. Ellen Purvis, a custom jewelry maker, constructs sheathes from cow leather, stingray leather, snakeskin, as well as ostrich and other exotic hides, which she tools and embellishes with conchos.

Mr. Purvis designs all of his knives, and heat treats the blades to between 55 and 60 Rockwell, ensuring they will hold a fine edge. He makes his folder frames from titanium for strength and durability. Each knife is produced individually from design through completion for durability and smooth functionality.

Mr. Purvis started making knives shortly after retiring from General Motors, more than twenty years ago. He takes pride in building the best knife possible at a reasonable price. He just hopes buyers will enjoy the knives he creates as much as he enjoyed creating them. Making fine quality custom knives is much more of a passion than a business, and Mr. Purvis is pleased to share his experience and information with new knife makers, in the hope of helping the craft of knife making to grow.