- Joined
- Oct 3, 1998
- Messages
- 4,670
This year, Emerson Knives has made some minor changes to their Commander model. They are:
<li> Widened the back end of the handle, from the finger recess on back to the butt tip. This creates a fuller feel in your hand compared with the older Commanders.
<li> Redesigned liner lock bar - the lock bar is wider and shorter. The angle at which it engages the tang has been changed, making it engage with more authority for a stronger lock up.
<li> Machined traction grooves on the handle spine and near the butt of the handle
<li> Thumb ramp on blade spine has a slight curve to it, for a more comfortable purchase with your thumb.
<li> Thicker diameter stop pin
<li> Blade grinds - gone is the swedge grind, which leaves full stock thickness up to the blade tip. For those who have a Mach-1, this is the similar type grind.
<li> Longer handle spacer for more lateral rigidity.
<li> The six micro screws that held the G-10 to the liners are gone. This cleans up the appearance of the handle, leaving only 4 screws inserted into the rear of the handle in a staggered position like that of the SARK/PSARK models.
Overall, the difference in the handle redesign is very apparent when you grip the '02 Commander in your hand. Little things do mean a lot. A great folder is made even better!
Here is a scan. On top is a '02 Commander SF GH, bottom is a '99 vintage with a CrN coated blade. You can see a slight difference in the handle profile here.
<li> Widened the back end of the handle, from the finger recess on back to the butt tip. This creates a fuller feel in your hand compared with the older Commanders.
<li> Redesigned liner lock bar - the lock bar is wider and shorter. The angle at which it engages the tang has been changed, making it engage with more authority for a stronger lock up.
<li> Machined traction grooves on the handle spine and near the butt of the handle
<li> Thumb ramp on blade spine has a slight curve to it, for a more comfortable purchase with your thumb.
<li> Thicker diameter stop pin
<li> Blade grinds - gone is the swedge grind, which leaves full stock thickness up to the blade tip. For those who have a Mach-1, this is the similar type grind.
<li> Longer handle spacer for more lateral rigidity.
<li> The six micro screws that held the G-10 to the liners are gone. This cleans up the appearance of the handle, leaving only 4 screws inserted into the rear of the handle in a staggered position like that of the SARK/PSARK models.
Overall, the difference in the handle redesign is very apparent when you grip the '02 Commander in your hand. Little things do mean a lot. A great folder is made even better!
Here is a scan. On top is a '02 Commander SF GH, bottom is a '99 vintage with a CrN coated blade. You can see a slight difference in the handle profile here.
:barf: 
