Tom Clinton Special Edition

[Ken Thomas]

Hi Guys,
I've been seriously thinking about finally purchasing a Randall knife. My birthday is right around the corner and since I'll be 42, I figured this would be a great time to invest in the legend.
I was looking at model 1/7 variant's on e-bay and other web sites for the last week. I've always wanted the classic model 1 but, I've been seeing a few of the magnificent Tom Clinton Special Edition's with various handle types for sale. I can't seem to find out any info on this variant other than they are dealer special models. I do know that they are unlike any other version of the model 2/7. At 7 inches long and 1 5/8 inch wide, it is a massive blade form, like an Applegate that went power lifting. I would greatly appreciate any information on this magnificent beauty.

 

[lunde]

The "Tom Clinton Special" was Tom Clinton's Dealer Special. Tom sadly passed away on August 2nd, 2008. His son, Gary, took over the RMK dealership, and continues to offer the Dealer Special that is named after his father. His business is called Clinton Knives. (His father's business was called Sharp Stuff.)

Anyway, you can either buy one of the over-priced ones on eBay, or order one directly through Gary. His contact information is here: http://lundestudio.com/RandallOrderingFAQ/II/2.html

Note that Dealer Specials are not restricted to five chargeable options. The standard configuration of the TCS is, if my understanding is correct, is as follows:

7-inch Stainless Steel Blade
Forward Curved Nickel Silver Hilt
Commando Handle Shape
Black Micarta Handle
Aluminum/Black Spacers
Duralumin Butt Cap

Like this:

You can also specify a Double Hilt shape like on the #2.

I own four of them, and have a fifth coming in this November. Here is one that I received early this year:

 

[Ken Thomas]

I truly thank you for this information and link!! This dealer special is a magnificent and unique variant. The one's that I've seen on e-bay are selling for around 550 to 1,000 depending on upgrades.

 

[Melvin-Purvis]

Ken, like Ken, I've owned a few too - and while I can't find all the photos just now; agreed, you can buy from a reseller, or you can buy from the authorized dealer. In my experience, however, depending on when the reseller bought, the price is about the same if you do your homework. Still, many of those pesky resellers are trouble, nothing but trouble I tell ya...

Shel

 

[Ken Thomas]

Guys, Thanks for this great information.

 

[Ken Thomas]

I took the plunge and purchased a Tom Clinton Special standard variant just like the first photo in Lunde's post. I also purchased a companion model 1-7 w/ stainless blade, nickel double hilt, black micarta/aluminum spacers, black micarta handle, aluminum butt and black C style sheath w/ paracord. They are a perfect King and Queen combination. For a once in a century 10/10/2010 birthday, this is the perfect gift to myself. Thanks again for all of your help, guys.