Bobby Paolantonio (Bonfire bob) - Gone But Never Forgotten

[bestgear]

This forum topic is intended to honor the life and legacy of Bobby Paolantonio, known on AAPK as Bonfire bob who was active from 08/13/12 until 10/31/14 after making 527 posts during 2.22 years with us. The link(s) below are to memorialize the loss of Bonfire bob but other links may exist within AAPK that personify the contributions made in the forums. Please feel free to add those additional links and comment in this forum topic of your favorite memory of Bonfire bob and the impact he had not only at AAPK but to the world!

MEMBER MEMORIAL: https://www.allaboutpocketknives.com/kn ... hp?t=43634

MEMBER MEMORIAL: https://www.allaboutpocketknives.com/kn ... hp?t=43638

OBITUARY: https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/na ... =179282788

[ThatWeirdKnifeGuy]

Bobby is the main reason I joined this site. I inherited an old Colonial jack when I was 5. It got put with some trinkets and put away for 25 years or so. When I rediscovered it I wanted to know more about it, and how to appropriately fix it up to be suitable for carry. Searches brought me to this site.

Here I found the single best source of information on the planet for Colonial knives, the man himself, Bonfire Bob. I excitedly read all of his posts. I made an account and prepared to present a question to him. I found the appropriate thread and was about to post, but then I read a post near the bottom of the thread. It was informing a different user of the oversight they too had made. They had asked a question to a man who had passed almost 10 years prior. I think I waited a while but eventually began posting and enjoying the comradery to be found here.

His enthusiasm for the hobby we all share shined through in his posts. I still go back and read them from time to time. Participating in this site has had a big impact on my life, and I have Bobby to thank for that. Colonial will always be my favorite brand. I hope your service continues beyond just as your legacy lives on here Bobby my good sir.

[bestgear]

Bobby is the main reason I joined this site.

Thank you so much for sharing that Zach, what a special tribute. He was certainly passionate about his craft and his heritage and his inscribed book is amongst my finest in my tiny knife library. I'm glad he made a difference for you and that you are still a part of our community

[ThatWeirdKnifeGuy]

In Bob's honor I'd like to share my favorite Colonials. Its amusing to me how excited he'd get over even the most mundane of his family's company's offerings.

First up is the knife that started it all, my great grandfather's jack paired with a swiss master executive that belonged to my great grandfather in-law.

Next up is a duo that I recently received back from my grandfather. I gave these to him a while back, but he could not bring them with to the skilled nursing facility he recently moved to. The picture is of him in Joplin Missouri in 2011 on a mission trip to help with recovery efforts after the tornado there.

This trapper I think would have brought Bob joy. A true hok, this knife was the first that I ever purchased with the intention of repairing for use.

Finally, this is the nicest knife I will ever own. Unveiling here for the first time in Bob's honor is my Old Cutler Rap Prototype type Stockman with mother of pearl scales, Bob's one of a kind file work on blades liners and backsprings and Clint Orms custom engraved nickel silver bolsters engraved with BP-1. An exemplary display of a master cutlers immense talent.

[1967redrider]

Awesome posts, TWKG, and that pearl prototype is exquisite!

[wlf]

He certainly was proud of his tradition.I was a fan after obtaining this beauty. As stated above,it has the same engraver and Bobby's personal touch. This is a quality line of knives. Wish I had better photos.

[1967redrider]

Gorgeous, Lyle! You two are lucky dogs.

[bestgear]

You two are lucky dogs.

ditto!

[Paladin]

Gorgeous, Lyle! You two are lucky dogs.

Sure enough! No kidding! Wow......

Ray

[ThatWeirdKnifeGuy]

He certainly was proud of his tradition.I was a fan after obtaining this beauty. As stated above,it has the same engraver and Bobby's personal touch. This is a quality line of knives. Wish I had better photos.

I've admired this knife of yours since before I joined the forum

[Reverand]

I loved when someone would ask a question about a Colonial knife, and Bonfire Bob would tell about the knife, then would often name some of the men who worked on that pattern! He made every Colonial knife feel personal. His insight was invaluable, and he was always happy to share it.

[OLDE CUTLER]

I have this file worked 4 blade Old Cutler stockman that is reminiscent of that time peroid.

[doglegg]

I have this file worked 4 blade Old Cutler stockman that is reminiscent of that time peroid.
20260624_074835.jpg
20260624_074856.jpg

Lovely example.

[OLDE CUTLER]

I have this file worked 4 blade Old Cutler stockman that is reminiscent of that time peroid.
20260624_074835.jpg
20260624_074856.jpg

Lovely example.

Thanks Floyd. I got it in the 2025 POS exchange from Bladebuddy. He must have sent it by mistake. lol