My collection is more one of variance than uniformity. I go for different types and styles of quality knives rather than zeroing in on a given brand or category. Emerson is the brand most duplicated among the folders I own.
I have been an Emerson boy since about the early '80's. A number of their knives have passed through my hands either in motorcycling, crazy outdoor stuff, the pool halls, second-rate colleges or generally hanging around in less than desirable places. They are well built, tough, reliable, hell-for-sharp and have great company backup in my experience. Also, overall line ergonomics that may be unsurpassed in the biz. Most of their blades, in satin, are very pleasing to me.
Those I carry most are the Combat Karambit and Super 7.
As for the Emerson myths...I like a touch of lock stick; and those "gritty, too tight, off center pivots and actions" break in to really nice pieces of equipment given a little patience. And I suppose their excellent but unusual grinds add to the stigma for the sideline detractors.
While they aren't popularity winners around here, Emerson is a brand similar to Harley Davidson---exceptionally loyal followers comprised of product enthusiasts who get it. "If you have to ask you wouldn't understand..."
