Approved - knives withdrawn from private collections, checked, overhauled and certified by Coltelleria Collini

KNIFE PREVIOUSLY PURCHASED, FROM A PRIVATE COLLECTION
* Origin: Acquired from a private individual, previously purchased
* Condition: Overall in excellent condition; shows some barely noticeable signs of aging on the Zytel handle and a couple of small spots of oxidation on the tip of the blade (right side), which in no way compromise its practical use
* Commercially available: Discontinued
* Sharpness: Factory-sharpened; could be improved
* Marks on blade: A couple of small spots of oxidation on the tip of the blade, on the right side, which in no way compromise its practical use
* Marks on handle: A few barely noticeable signs of aging
* Box: -
* Sheath: -
* Manuals, Certificates, and Warranties: -
* Inspected and certified by our in-house laboratory

Intended use: sports / collectible

Production type: Industrial
Country of manufacture: Japan
Blade: VG-10 stainless steel
Blade finish: Satin
Handle: Zytel, with stainless steel liners
Blade length: 90 mm.
Blade thickness: 4 mm.
Closed length: 120 mm.
Overall length: 210 mm.
Thickness when closed: 20 mm.
Weight: 135 g.
Closure: Arc-Lock (crossbar lock)
Clip: removable, stainless steel
Packaging: -
Notes: Previously purchased knife, from a private collection

PREVIOUSLY PURCHASED AND USED KNIFE, FROM A PRIVATE COLLECTION
* Origin: Acquired from a private individual, previously purchased and used
* Condition: Good overall condition, with evident signs of age and use
* Commercial availability: Discontinued
* Sharpening: Resharpened
* Marks on blade: Present, with scratches, abrasions and surface dulling consistent with age and use
* Marks on handle: Present, with natural patina and signs of use on the stacked leather washers
* Box: -
* Sheath: Present, original leather sheath, heavily used and showing signs of age
* Manuals, Certificates and Warranties: -
* Inspected and Certified by our in-house laboratory

The SOG S1 Bowie Vietnam 5th Special Forces Group is one of the most representative knives in the history of SOG Specialty Knives and the model with which the American brand began its production during the second half of the 1980s. Made in Seki, Japan, the S1 was created as a tribute to the famous knives used by members of the Military Assistance Command, Vietnam – Studies and Observations Group (MACV-SOG) during the Vietnam War.

It is important to distinguish the S1 from the original “sterile” military knives actually used operationally during the conflict: the commercial SOG model instead reproduces the commemorative configuration of the famous MACV-SOG Bowie, featuring the U.S. Army Special Forces crest on the blade together with the marking “VIETNAM 5th SPECIAL FORCES GROUP”. This strong historical identity, combined with the quality of Japanese manufacturing, has made it one of the most recognizable and sought-after vintage SOG knives among collectors.

Production was entrusted to Ichiro Hattori in Seki, one of the most important names in Japanese knifemaking. The substantial Bowie blade is made from SK-5 carbon steel, hardened to approximately 57-58 HRC, with the characteristic dark gun-blue finish combined with polished surfaces. The handle uses traditional stacked leather washers stabilized with epoxy resin, completed by a sturdy metal guard and pommel.

This example features the classic SOG Specialty Knives logo on one side of the ricasso and, on the opposite side, the markings “SEKI-JAPAN”, the Special Forces crest and the inscription “VIETNAM 5th SPECIAL FORCES GROUP”. It is also accompanied by its original black leather sheath, complete with sharpening stone pocket and a large Special Forces crest embossed on the lower section. The original period identification label is still present on the back of the sheath.

The example offered here comes from a private collection and has actually been used. The blade shows scratches, abrasions and surface marks, both on the blued and polished areas; the leather handle has developed a noticeable patina and shows wear consistent with its age. The original sheath is also heavily used, with leather wear, marks and widespread abrasions. Its condition should therefore be considered good in relation to its age and nature, but it should not be compared with a display-grade or NOS example.

These very characteristics tell the story of an authentic SOG S1 made in Seki: a knife that, regardless of its cosmetic condition, retains all the appeal of one of the founding models of the brand and today represents a particularly significant piece for a collection dedicated to American military knives and Japanese SOG production from the 1980s and 1990s.

Intended use: Military / Collection
Production type: Industrial
Model: S1 Bowie - Vietnam 5th Special Forces Group
Country of manufacture: Seki - Japan
Model production period: 1986 - 2005
Blade: SK-5 carbon steel
Hardness: 57-58 HRC
Blade finish: Gun-blue / polished
Blade profile: Bowie
Edge: Plain
Handle: Stacked leather washers stabilized with epoxy resin
Guard and pommel: Metal
Blade length: Approx. 159mm
Blade thickness: Approx. 7.1mm
Overall length: Approx. 273mm
Weight: Approx. 349g
Sheath: Original black leather sheath with sharpening stone pocket and Special Forces crest
Notes: Previously purchased and used knife, from a private collection

KNIFE PREVIOUSLY PURCHASED, FROM A PRIVATE COLLECTION
* Origin: Acquired from a private individual, previously purchased
* Condition: Like new
* Commercial availability: Discontinued
* Sharpness: Factory-sharpened, could be improved
* Marks on blade: None
* Marks on handle: None
* Box: Included
* Sheath: Included
* Manuals, Certificates, and Warranties: Included
* Inspected and Certified by our in-house laboratory

The SOG Forge FG01-L is a knife of extraordinary beauty and build quality, combining Japanese craftsmanship with modern production techniques.

The blade, forged using a hammering technique, features a unique texture that is one-of-a-kind for each piece. It is made of San Mai steel, with a VG-10 cutting edge and 420J2 outer layers, a combination that ensures an excellent balance between sharpness, edge retention, and durability.

The glass-reinforced nylon (GRN) handle is designed with perfectly contoured inserts to provide optimal balance and a secure, comfortable grip. The knife is complemented by an elegant premium leather sheath, enhanced with a colored fabric insert and a button closure.

Manufactured in Japan, the SOG Forge FG01-L evokes an era when honor and master craftsmanship were fundamental values. An object that is not merely a tool, but a true collector’s item destined to stand the test of time and be passed down from generation to generation.

Intended Use: Collectible / Sport

Production Type: Industrial
Country of Origin: Seki - Japan
Blade: SanMai laminated stainless steel with a VG-10 cutting edge and 420J2 outer layers, featuring a concave grind
Blade Finish: Hammered and Brut de Forge with a satin-finished portion of the cutting edge
Handle: Three-dimensionally shaped GRN (Glass Reinforced Nylon)
Blade Length: 160mm.
Blade thickness: 5 mm.
Overall length: 275 mm.
Weight: 290 g.
Sheath: Leather, with an insert of fine Japanese fabric, which varies from sheath to sheath
Packaging: Cardboard box with SOG logos
Notes: Knife from a private collection, previously purchased

KNIFE WITHDRAWN FROM PRIVATE COLLECTION

* Provenance: collected from a private individual, previously purchased
* Condition: Like new, never used
* Available on the market: discontinued
* Sharpening: factory
* Signs on blade: none
* Signs on handle: none
* Box: -
* Sheath: equal to the new
* Manuals, Certificates and Guarantees: -
* Controlled and Certified by our in-house laboratory

The Benchmade Lone Wolf Mountainside Skinner takes the classic skinning knife to the next level. Designed with a traditional line and a handle angle designed to maximize ergonomics, it offers surprising comfort even during prolonged use. The blade pin features wide knurls (jimping) that ensure safe grip control, while the generous finger choil allows for a stable and precise hand position during the most delicate work phases.

Born from the Lone Wolf philosophy, this knife reflects a deep dedication to the outdoors: combining the contributions of professional hunters, modern technology, and a timeless traditional style, the result is a reliable and high-performance tool, designed to accompany you when it really matters. This is your knife.

Intended use: Sporty / Collection

Type of production: industrial
Country of production: USA
Blade: Full tang in N680 stainless steel with stonewashed finish
Handle: Wood
Blade length: 6.4mm.
Blade thickness: 3.1mm.
Total length: 177mm.
Balance: Backward
Weight: 148g.
Sheath: leather
Note: Design by Lone Wolf Knives, Manufactured by Benchmade - Previously purchased knife, from a private collection

KNIFE WITHDRAWN FROM PRIVATE COLLECTION
* Origin: Withdrawn from a private collection, previously purchased
* Condition: Like new, NOS (new old stock), never used or removed from its original box
* Available on the market: Out of production
* Sharpness: Factory sharp
* Marks on blade: None
* Marks on handle: None
* Box: Present
* Sheath: Present and perfect
* Manuals, Certificates, and Warranties: -
* Checked and Certified by our in-house laboratory

Created in 1986 as the second official model of the newly formed SOG Specialty Knives, the S2 Trident is not just a knife, but a bridge between the past and the present. Designed in honor of the Navy SEALs and special units that operated in Vietnam, it draws direct inspiration from the legendary MACV-SOG knives of the 1960s, “sterilized” and lethal tools used in the most secret missions of the conflict.

Produced during the company's golden age in Seki, Japan, the Trident combines elegant lines and combat functionality: a thick, balanced AUS-8 steel Bowie blade with impeccable satin finish; ergonomic and durable black micarta stacked washer handle; and the engraved Navy SEAL symbol, a seal of belonging to an elite group. The leather sheath with sharpening stone completes a package designed for operators and collectors.

The S2 Trident is the most refined tribute to SOG's operational past: a homage to the military tradition of Vietnam reinterpreted with Japanese craftsmanship. Today, with a very high rarity index, it is considered one of the most sought-after pieces by military knife collectors, not only for its build quality, but for the history embodied in its blade.

Intended use: Military / Collection

Type of production: industrial
Country of production: Seki - Japan
Blade: AUS-8 stainless steel
Blade finish: Satin
Handle: Stacked micarta rings
Blade length: 160mm.
Blade thickness: 6 mm.
Total length: 278 mm.
Balance: rearward, 1 cm from the guard
Weight: 312 g.
Sheath: leather with pocket for sharpening stone (included)
Notes: previously purchased knife from a private collection

KNIFE WITHDRAWN FROM PRIVATE COLLECTION
* Origin: Iconic knife handmade in 2021, withdrawn from a private collection, previously purchased
* Condition: in excellent condition, unused and kept solely in a collection
* Available on the market: Currently out of catalog and cannot be ordered/obtained from the craftsman
* Sharpness: Factory sharp
* Marks on blade: None
* Marks on handle: None
* Box: -
* Sheath: in excellent condition, with signature and date of manufacture
* Manuals, Certificates, and Guarantees: Certificate of guarantee and authenticity with date and technical data of the model
* Checked and certified by our in-house laboratory

THE LEGEND
Jimmy Lile (1933–1991), known as “The Arkansas Knifesmith,” was one of the most important American knife makers of the 20th century. Born in Russellville, Arkansas, he made his first knife at the age of 11 and devoted himself professionally to knife making in 1971.

He is famous for the legendary Rambo knives, designed for real use with 440C blades, hollow handles, and innovative details. He was president of the Knifemakers' Guild, and his works were commissioned by presidents and celebrities.

He died in 1991, leaving a legacy of the highest caliber in custom and collectible knives.

THE PRESENT
Today, the Lile Knives, LLC brand is owned by John Hill of McKinney, Texas. In the 1980s, John was already collaborating with Bob Rankin on the sale of original Rambo knives, and in 2003 he co-authored a book dedicated to Lile's work.

After Jimmy's death, John maintained a strong relationship with Marilyn (Lile) Miller and purchased the Lile brand from her to continue producing high-quality replicas of the movie knives, adhering to custom knife standards and guaranteeing Marilyn royalties.

Since 2011, John Hill has been collaborating with Vaughn Neeley, former owner of Timberline Knives, to produce limited editions of Rambo knives that are prized by collectors. Today, Vaughn produces the entire new “Cerakote™ Series,” while the “Utility Series” is produced under his supervision, keeping alive the tradition and quality of Jimmy Lile's original models.

THE KNIFE
“The Mission” is one of the most iconic survival knives ever made, born from Jimmy Lile's vision to combine extreme functionality and military design.

Featuring a stainless steel blade finished entirely with bead-blasting to eliminate reflections, this model combines tactical aesthetics and real performance.

The back is equipped with aggressive serrations, while the hollow handle, wrapped in paracord, integrates a compass and allows for the transport of small tools.

The multifunction guard features screwdriver tips, making it a complete survival tool. Produced in a limited edition, “The Mission” represents the perfect synthesis between a combat knife, field tool, and collector's item.

Intended use: Collection / Survival

Type of production: entirely handmade
Country of production: USA
Blade: CPM-154CM stainless steel
Blade treatment: Titanium Grey Cerakote
Handle: 316 stainless steel, hollow, waterproof, paracord coated; 316 stainless steel through guard; screw-in aluminum tang with integrated glass breaker and Pyser Optics NATO internal compass
Blade length: 253mm.
Blade thickness: 7 mm.
Total length: 393 mm.
Weight: 573 g.
Sheath: black leather, belt-mounted, for vertical carry, with craftsman's signature and date of manufacture
Packaging: supplied with warranty certificate with date of manufacture and technical details
Notes: iconic knife used in the Rambo films, entirely handmade, with LILE logos and serial number. Previously purchased, never used, from a private collection

KNIFE WITHDRAWN FROM PRIVATE COLLECTION
* Origin: Iconic knife from 1981, withdrawn from a private collection, previously purchased
* Condition: Overall in good condition, mechanically perfect, shows some signs of wear on the nickel silver handle and micarta inserts; the blade shows signs of mechanical friction on the back due to opening and closing in the handle
* Available on the market: Not available, craftsman no longer in business
* Sharpness: Factory sharp
* Marks on blade: Small marks due to age and friction when opening and closing the blade
* Marks on handle: Several signs of wear visible on the nickel silver handle and micarta inserts
* Box: -
* Sheath: -
* Manuals, Certificates, and Warranties: 1981 warranty certificate from Coltelleria G. Lorenzi in Via Montenapoleone, Milan
* Checked and certified by our in-house laboratory

In the 1980s, Jimmy Lile developed an elegant folding knife with a button lock mechanism, known as the “Lile Lock.” This patented system consists of a front button on the handle that unlocks the blade when opening and locks it in the cutting position, ensuring safety and ease of use. The monolithic nickel-silver guides support the D2 steel blade, while the micarta inserts on the scales give the knife a refined look.

This is a generously sized knife, produced in limited quantities between the 1970s and 1980s. The numbered examples bearing engravings such as the patent number 4148140 are now highly sought-after collector's items of great economic value.

This folding model represents a perfect balance between functionality and collectible design: compact and easy to handle, with a reliable lock, high-quality materials, and meticulous details, embodying Lile's attention to craftsmanship even in a context other than the famous survival knife.

Intended use: Collectible / Sports

Type of production: Entirely handmade
Country of production: Arkansas / USA
Blade: D2 steel
Blade treatment: Satin finish
Handle: Nickel Silver handle with Red Micarta inserts and stainless steel rear spacer
Blade length: 90mm.
Blade thickness: 4.5 mm.
Closed length: 124 mm
Total length: 212 mm.
Weight: 198 g.
Closure: Lile Lock (Button Lock)
Packaging: supplied with a 1981 warranty certificate from the historic “Coltelleria G. Lorenzi” in Via Montenapoleone, Milan
Notes: extremely rare knife from 1981, previously purchased, withdrawn from a private collection, serial number 447 engraved on the blade and patent number “U.S. Patent No. 4148140” engraved on the back of the button lock.

KNIFE RETIRED FROM PRIVATE COLLECTION

• Origin: Withdrawn from a private owner, previously purchased and no longer in production
• Condition: Overall in excellent condition
• Commercial Availability: NOT commercially available
• Edge: Original
• Blade marks: None
• Handle marks: None
• Box: -
• Sheath: -
• Manuals, Certificates, and Warranties: -
• Inspected and Certified: by our internal laboratory

The SOG Mini-Vulcan VL-02 is a high-quality folding knife designed to meet the needs of knife enthusiasts and demanding users. Engineered to combine durability, functionality, and refined design, this model is the perfect blend of advanced engineering and precision craftsmanship.

The VG-10 steel blade, extremely sharp and corrosion-resistant, ensures flawless performance both in outdoor settings and daily tasks. The patented Arc-Lock opening mechanism from SOG offers secure and smooth closure while ensuring speed and ease of use.

Compact and lightweight, the Mini-Vulcan is perfect for those seeking a versatile, reliable, and easy-to-carry knife. Whether you’re a collector, hiker, or professional, this knife will be an essential companion, ready to tackle the challenges of any day.

Intended Use: Sporting

Production Type: Industrial
Blade Production: Japan
Blade: VG-10 stainless steel
Blade Treatment: -
Handle: Zytel and steel liners
Blade Length: 78mm
Blade Thickness: 3mm
Closed Length: 109mm
Overall Length: 187mm
Closed Thickness: 20.3mm
Balance: -
Weight: 104g
Locking Mechanism: Arc Lock
Clip: Removable, stainless steel
Sheath: -
Packaging: -
Notes: -

The SOG Winder II Heavy Duty Folding Knife (model SOG00009) exemplifies high quality and precision in knife making. With a blade length of 8.8 cm and a thickness of 4.7 mm, it is perfect for all kinds of tasks, providing excellent performance in cutting, slicing and piercing. The black textured Kraton handle provides an excellent grip, while the sturdy Lockback mechanism ensures safety during use.

The knife has an ambidextrous design, making it easy for both left- and right-handed people to use, and its compactness (11.4 cm when closed) makes it convenient to carry in a pocket or backpack. Made in Seki, Japan, a city with a long tradition of knife making, the Winder II is synonymous with high quality and craftsmanship.

Purchased in 1994 from the well-known Hoffritz cutlery chain in New York and now discontinued, it is a collector's item of great historical value. This knife, from a private collection, shows no signs of use, and is a prized piece for enthusiasts and collectors.

KNIFE WITHDRAWN FROM PRIVATE COLLECTION
* Type: Previously purchased.
* Condition: In very good condition, with normal signs due to time
* Commercially available: 1994 knife - Discontinued model
* Sharpening: Factory.
* Marks on blade: Normal marks given by the opening and closing of the blade.
* Marks on handle: No.
* Box: /
* Scabbard: /
* Manuals, Certificates and Warranties: /
* Checked and Certified by our in-house laboratory

Intended Use: Collection

Production Type: Industrial
Country of Production: Japan
Blade: stainless steel AUS-8
Blade finish: satin finish
Handle: stainless steel and kraton
Blade length: 88mm.
Blade thickness: 4.7mm.
Length closed: 114mm.
Total length: 205mm.
Weight: 220g.
Closure: back-Lock
Notes: previously purchased 1994 knife, discontinued, in excellent condition

KNIFE WITHDRAWN FROM PRIVATE COLLECTION
* Origin: Withdrawn from a private collection, previously purchased.
* Condition: Overall in very good condition.
* Commercially available: Discontinued
* Sharpening: Factory sharpened
* Marks on blade: None
* Marks on handle: None
* Box: Present
* Scabbard: /
* Manuals, Certificates and Warranties: Present
* Checked and Certified by our in-house laboratory

Intended Use: Sporting

Production Type: Industrial
Country of Production: Japan
Blade: VG10 stainless steel
Blade Finish: Black TiNi
Handle: Zytel with steel liners
Blade Length: 78mm.
Blade thickness: 3mm.
Length closed 109mm.
Total length: 187mm.
Thickness when closed: 20.3mm.
Weight: 104g.
Closure: Arc Lock
Clip: removable, stainless steel
Scabbard: -
Packaging: cardboard box with SOG logos
Notes: previously purchased knife from a private collection

KNIFE RETIRED FROM PRIVATE COLLECTION
* Type: Previously purchased
* Condition: In like new condition
* Commercially available: No
* Sharpening: Factory
* Marks on blade: No
* Marks on handle: No
* Box: Yes original
* Manuals, Certificates and Guarantees: Yes
* Checked and Certified by our internal laboratory

Intended use: Sports
Type of production: Industrial
Blade production: Japan
Blade: laminated stainless steel with VG-10 cutting edge
Blade Treatment: -
Handle: Zytel and steel liners
Blade length: 90mm.
Blade thickness: 3.5mm.
Closed length 123mm.
Total length: 210mm.
Closed thickness: 21.5mm.
Balancing: -
Weight: 144g.
Closure: Arc Lock
Clip: removable, stainless steel
Sheath: -
Packaging: cardboard box with SOG logos
Note: -

KNIFE WITHDRAWAL FROM A PRIVATE COLLECTION
* Type: Previously purchased - knife no longer in production since
* Condition: in excellent condition, like new
* Commercially available: difficult to find
* Sharpening: factory sharpening
* Marks on blade: no marks
* Marks on the handle: no marks
* Box: original Sog box
* Manuals, Certificates and Warranties: -
* Checked and certified by our internal laboratory Coltelleria Collini

Intended use: Sports / Collection

Type of production: Industrial
Production Lama: Japan
Blade: VG-10 stainless steel
Blade treatment: -
Handle: GRN
Blade length: 74mm.
Blade thickness: 2.5mm.
Closed length: 114mm.
Total length: 178mm.
Thick when closed: 7mm.
Balancing: -
Weight: 113g.
Closure: Arc-Lock Pendulum
Clip: Stainless Steel
Sheath: -
Packaging: Cardboard box with SOG logos
Note: -