[wood-whittler]

Has anyone ever heard of or used knives made by Bill Essex i saw these in one of the carving mags,in someones collection nice looking knife but i have never seen any for sale. any help is appreciated
BART

[Just Carving]

Here's a link to an old Woodcarver Archives post about contacting Bill Essex:

http://six.pairlist.net/pipermail/wo...ry/007683.html

and an old post from this forum:

http://www.woodcarvingillustrated.com/forum/t628.html

[Donna_T]

The last address I had on Bill Essex is 2906 Red Oak Terrace, Harrison AR 72601. I got a fantastic little detail knife from him about 10 years ago and I love it still. Oh yes, his phone number is 501 741-0941.
Donna T

[Paul_Guraedy]

I live near Bill Essex and was carving with him a couple of weekends ago. He told me that he is still making knives; but, at the moment, does not have any ready for sale. I was looking for a particular blade pattern. A few months ago I broke the tip from a knife with a long narrow point. Bill kindly offered to re-point this knife (even though it is not one of his) to the profile I desired (my efforts left the knife with a broad, thick, tip).

In keeping with woodcarver tradition, I have a collection of knives that keeps growing. I must say, that of all of my knives, Bill's are the nicest looking. His knives are noted for their beauty as well as their carving ability. The handles are made from a variety of woods, often with one species sandwiched between another. I have one that is from holly and looks like it is carved from old ivory. Like most knife makers, Bill offers a variety of blade types and profiles.

I have never seen any of Bill's knives offered for sale as used items. If you find them, if they have not been abused, and if priced at, or less than, the average price of about $35 for his knives, I think the purchase would be worthwhile.

[wood-whittler]

thanks for all of your replies this is very helpful. thats what i like about this board got a question just ask someone will have an answer for you.

thanks again

bart

[Warren in CT Valley]

I purchase knives from Bill for resale. For us who like to collect knives as well as carve, these are a nice addition for carving and admiring. I was introduced to his knives a few years back and have always found them very good.
warren

[chief2605]

HI I just came from a garage sale that these 3 older gentlemen hold twice a year and offer some nice antique tools. I was looking at some carving tools and the one guy asked me if I carved and I said yes I carve make knives and turn. He said well I have some items you might be interested in. I don’t put them out for this sale but offer them to certain people that might appreciate them. Well he said that Bill gave all of his collection of carving tools and custom knifes. I guess unfortunately Bill has cancer and is out of the business.
He had 100+ gouges and custom knives + other stuff of his. I ended buying the auto mach carver he had and would have bought the whole lot if I would have had enough money.
I thought some of you might want a update.

[Warren in CT Valley]

Sounds about right. I've not heard from Bill for a long time. He had been sick a couple of times and only communicates via email. He told me that he might not be able to make anymore but I always hope that he can. I wish I had found the tag sale.

thanks
warren