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This is a vintage 1970s Rigid Knives R-1 "Sidewinder" heavy-duty fixed-blade hunting knife. This is true New Old Stock (NOS) and comes as a complete factory package.
Rigid Knives was founded in 1969 by former Buck Knives assembly supervisors who championed rugged, hand-ground craftsmanship.
This early "R-Series" model represents the absolute peak of their production quality before operations later changed hands.
Product Details & Specifications:
• Model: Sidewinder (R-1)
• Country of Manufacture: Proudly made in the USA (Lake Hamilton, AR era)
• Blade Length: Approx. 4-1/4"
• Overall Length: Approx. 9-1/4"
• Blade Steel: Semi-hollow ground 440 stainless surgical steel with a mirror-satin factory finish.
• Handle: Deeply contoured, ergonomic finger-grooved South American hardwood scales.
• Bolsters/Guard: Solid, heavy brass guard and pinned brass pommel endcap.
What’s Included with this Purchase:
1. The Rigid R-1 Sidewinder Knife: In pristine, unused condition. The factory edge is completely untouched. The brass bolsters retain a gorgeous, authentic vintage patina (left unpolished to preserve collector preference).
2. Original Leather Sheath: Dark brown premium leather sheath featuring heavy-duty brass rivets and an embossed snap cover. Leather remains supple with strong stitching.
3. Original Factory Box: The rare, original tan textured cardboard factory box. The end cap is clearly stamped "SIDEWINDER R-1". The box is structurally sound with minimal shelf wear.
4. Original Paperwork: Includes the original factory-issued "Rigid Knives" folding pamphlet detailing "How to Sharpen Your Knife" and warranty details.
Collector Note: Finding a 1970s Rigid Sidewinder is tough enough, but finding one that escaped field use and retained its original factory box and paperwork is exceptionally rare. This is a definitive center-piece addition for any serious vintage Buck, Rigid, or American fixed-blade collector.
Please review the high-resolution photos carefully to evaluate the exact condition for yourself. The item pictured is the exact item you will receive.
