2002 forum knife question

[zenheretic]

I have a 2002 Vesuvius Forum knife. Most photos, but not all, that I've seen show a silver bug inlay on the handle. Mine does not have an inlay. I've skimmed through the multitude of threads about the Vesuvius, and I believe there was a Vesuvius version without a silver bug inlay. But I can not figure out if some of the Forum Knife version came without the silver bug inlay, or did I get one that the silver bug was removed (or fell out).

Any of the brain trust have better knowledge on the matter?

If you need a picture, simply google images: 2002 vesuvius forum knife.

[SpyderNut]

Good question, Zen. I'll have to look at mine when I get home. Can't recall off-hand, unfortunately.

[The Deacon]

Hey Darren, long time no see.

AFAIK all 2002 Forum Vesuvius have a burgundy FRN handle with the :spyder: inlay. If the inlay fell out, there would be a cavity where it should be. If there's no cavity, is the handle burgundy? You may have to take the knife outdoors to check that. The "burgundy" is such a dark purple it looks black under some light, closer to concord grape juice than burgundy, IMHO.

If it's burgundy with no cavity, then you have a very rare knife. Otherwise, if there's no cavity, then you probably have a Frankenspyder consisting of a 2002 Forum Vesuvius blade mated with a plain black handle. My money would be on the later, but I've been wrong before and hope I'm wrong this time.

[zenheretic]

Thanks for the responses. It has the cavity just no metalic spydie. I got burned a few times when collecting...

[jdw]

Thanks for the responses. It has the cavity just no metalic spydie. I got burned a few times when collecting...

Me too. I usually just fold up the loss and go on. It really sucks though.

[zenheretic]

Thanks for the responses. It has the cavity just no metalic spydie. I got burned a few times when collecting...

Me too. I usually just fold up the loss and go on. It really sucks though.

Not a huge deal, I bought it years ago and never noticed. I''ve been selling off the collection in a different area and a potential buyer asked about the bug hole in the handle. Then I began looking into the Vesuvius, couldn't really find a definitive answer so asked here. So now, I can use it and not worry about the whole deal. I really like the Vesuvius/Centofante line anyhow. :)