Gil Hibben is a renowned American knife maker known for his distinctive designs and high-quality craftsmanship. He turned professional in the 1960s and is famous for his collaborations with the “Rambo” movie franchise, designing iconic knives like the Rambo III and IV Heartstopper. Beyond “Rambo,” Hibben produces a wide range of knives, from hunting and Bowie styles to fantasy pieces. His work features dramatic lines and focuses on both aesthetics and functionality. 

LEO PANTERA

Gil Hibben handcrafted shield ‘Leo Pantera,’ featuring detailed metalwork and intricate engravings, one of a set of three unique collector’s shields.

Every detail showcases the pinnacle of craftsmanship. The Lions head is cast in rich bronze, while its fearsome bite is forged from 30 Grams of solid 14-karat gold.

The LEO PANTERA is a rare masterpiece guided by the skilled hand of Gil Hibben, a craftsman whose expertise brought this formidable creation to life. More than a shield or weapon, it is a striking convergence of precision and artistry, each curve and edge meticulously honed under Hibben’s direction. Its presence is commanding, evoking both strength and elegance, and its scarcity makes it one of the most coveted pieces in any serious collection.

The project was a remarkable collaboration of talent:

  • Gil Hibben brought the concept to life.
  • Paul Ehlers envisioned and designed the mask.
  • Norman Leigh executed the bronze mask itself.
  • Devin Thomas, one of the great steel artisans, contributed the ladder-pattern stainless Damascus.

This rare creation is more than an art piece—it is a fusion of artistry, metallurgy, and imagination, a testament to three masters working in unison. A weapon, a sculpture, and a legend in bronze, steel, and gold.

Gil Hibben Custom Hollow Grind Blade with Brass Hilt and Pommel

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Own a striking example of craftsmanship with this Gil Hibben custom hollow grind blade, featuring a polished steel blade paired with a solid brass hilt and pommel. Known worldwide for...

$1,900.00

Gil Hibben Tanto with Micarta Handle and Sheath: Koi Emblem

Fixed

Shirasaya is a traditional Japanese mounting style where the handle and scabbard are made of the same material to create a seamless, minimalist look. Period: The "Louisville, KY" stamp dates...

$1,250.00

Rare Gil Hibben Silver Shadow Dagger (Original Handmade, Kentucky)

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This is not the run‑of‑the‑mill fantasy replica — this is a genuine, original handmade dagger by Gil Hibben, crafted in Kentucky (La Grange), bearing that prized “Kentucky” mark. It’s the...

LEO PANTERA

Gil Hibben

The LEO PANTERA is a rare masterpiece guided by the skilled hand of Gil Hibben, a craftsman whose expertise brought this formidable creation to life. More than a shield or...

$22,000.00

Hibben Damascus Bowie

Gil Hibben

https://youtube.com/shorts/iRHB35WDQRY

$3,800.00

Hibben With Jeff Flannery Engraved Hilt

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Gil Hibben Knife with Jeff Flannery Engraved Hilt A stunning collaboration between two masters — Gil Hibben and Jeff Flannery. This handcrafted knife features Hibben’s legendary blade design paired with...

$2,800.00

Hibben Toothpick Horn Handle

Fixed

https://youtube.com/shorts/2q_3N4_26mg

$2,549.00

Gil Hibben Short Sword - Utah

Gil Hibben

https://youtube.com/shorts/mIjie7K2rd0

$4,800.00

1974 Annual Fur Rondy - Gil Hibbon & Peter Mayac

Gil Hibben

“A legendary 1970s Gil Hibben knife with hand-carved whale-tooth scrimshaw by Pete Mayac. One-of-a-kind craftsmanship

$3,800.00

Beyond his prolific output, Hibben has significantly influenced the knife community as a teacher and mentor. He’s been inducted into the Blade Magazine Cutlery Hall of Fame (1990) and various martial arts halls of fame. The Hibben legacy continues through his sons, Wesley and Derek, who are actively involved in the family business, ensuring the enduring quality of Hibben knives.

Email Chuck Benedon for sales Inquiries.

In “Star Trek: Nemesis,” the villainous Shinzon, portrayed by Tom Hardy, wields a uniquely designed split-blade knife crafted by Gil Hibben. This distinctive weapon features two blades extending from a single handle, creating a visually striking and menacing presence. The knife’s alien aesthetic perfectly complements the film’s darker tone and the unique look of the Reman race. It underscores Shinzon’s dangerous nature and perhaps even symbolizes his fractured identity. The knife becomes an extension of the character, adding a unique edge to his fight sequences and leaving a lasting impression.

Gil Hibben’s Double Shadow, featured in “Expendables 2,” is a striking example of his innovative knife designs. This unique blade features a split, double-edged design crafted from polished 420 stainless steel, creating a visually impressive and formidable look. The durable Micarta handle provides a secure grip, while the substantial size and design, including the oversized guard and pommel, give the Double Shadow a powerful presence. It’s a testament to Hibben’s craftsmanship, blending form and function into a truly memorable piece.

Gil Hibben, a master bladesmith from LaGrange, Kentucky, is a versatile craftsman. Beyond knifemaking, he holds a sixth-degree black belt in Kenpo Karate, is a musician, and a former Alaskan hunting guide. His expertise has attracted collectors like John Wayne, Elvis Presley, and Sylvester Stallone.

Hibben revolutionized the industry by pioneering licensing agreements with United Cutlery (1988), achieving mirror-polished blades, and championing 440C steel. Starting at 15 by crafting his own Bowie knife, his machinist background at Boeing honed his metal understanding. He became a full-time knifemaker in 1964.

Table: Gil Hibben’s Hall of Fame Inductions

Year of InductionHall of Fame Name
1990Blade Magazine Cutlery Hall Of Fame
2000Masters Martial Arts Hall Of Fame
2003International Knife Throwers Hall Of Fame
2004Action Martial Arts Magazine Hall Of Fame

Table: Gil Hibben’s Annual Fantasy Knife Series

1990Silver Shadow
1991Double Shadow
1992
Highlander Bowie
1993Raven
1994Raptor
1995
Warbird Dagger Warbird Bowie
1996Dragon Lord
1997Hornet
1998Odyssey
1999Jackal
2000Griffyn
2001Scorpion
2002Tiger Shark
2003
Eye Of Drakonus
2004Centurion
2005Titan
2007Immortal
2009
Dragon’s Lair Sword
2010Valiant
2011Eclipse
2012Cody Bowie

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