Ernest Emerson Custom Bolstered Pre-Prototype ''Missing Link''

"Jon, that is rare (one of a handful of Emerson Pre Tacs) that demonstrates/looks into the design process of Ernie Emerson's mind.

This knife dates to around 1988-89 when Ernie was just concepting/developing the Viper series of tactical knives. A Pre-tac of course, but it would become his Proof of Concept Profile for the Emerson Custom Viper 4 (call it a Pre-Prototype!) 

The handle shape is extremely similar to the V4, particularly his use of the slightly turned-down boat-tail butt.  And, the spearpoint blade is also close to a Viper 4, with a slightly less aggressive fighter profile. 

Additionally, he has dressed up the titanium bolster using the 3-D contours, brilliant anodization, and shaping that he then put on the folders which were to be the absolute peak of his craftsmanship - the handful of his knives he created that had all of these characteristics include the Emerson Custom Stealth Prototype that you once had. 

It has to also be noted that this particular knife has scrimshaw (signed but in the artist's true style, hidden in plain sight) on its handles by one of the most famous artists in the knife world - Gary Williams, aka Garbo! 

Taking all this together, it is a true historical piece: it represents that point in time when Ernie is still deeply focused on creating knives that exhibit his highest level of ability, but while wanting to make knives that are usable weapons. He was still in both camps, but very soon after making this piece he went all-in on tactical knives. 

This model design would next be seen (on another outstanding piece that you once had) with black micarta handles, plain bead-blasted bolsters. But this is one of a very very few "missing link" folders that shows how Ernie came to be a tactical knife maker."

JBravo on the USN (Emerson Knives Historian and Leading Authority) 
 

• Specs: 4 1/8" Blade; 9 5/16" OAL; 5.36 Ounces

• Condition: Pre-owned in Mint Condition