Hi Rob,
Thank you for the nice comments. I dont think I started the wave, although I like to think I helped it along towards the beach! Currently, Im seeing a demand for Damascus Liner Locks, generally in the $700 - $850 range. Although, I cant seem to keep the $1,200 - $1,600 either. The other trend seems to be the tactical SA auto or DA auto.
The Vallottons with their release of the SOF series, (SOF 98 due in Mid-November) always seems to get people talking about custom tactical autos. But it usually dies out as there is nothing to keep the "wave" going. However, this year with Larry Chew (check out the current issue of Knives Illustrated), R.J. Martin having DA tactical auto's will bring additional interest.
Allen Elishewitz will have his new tactical auto (built on a Phantom frame), as well as a new offering from Brian Tighe and Mike Franklin of Hawg Knives has some prototypes on the street.
One other area of interest seems to be fixed blades, both tactical and presentation grade.
Ive noticed the demand for those rising steadily since June. Al Polkowski, RJ Martin, Greg Lightfoot, Walter Brend, Bud Nealy, David Broadwll, Mad Dog, Bob Dozier, and several others are getting well deserved press and our tempting primarily folder buyers to consider tactical fixed blades.
So if your heading to future knife shows, watch for the new waves, they are coming.
Les
