Ernest Emerson
American knifemaker and martial artist / From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Ernest R. Emerson (born March 7, 1955) is an American custom knifemaker, martial artist, and edged-weapons expert. Originally an engineer and machinist in the aerospace industry,[1] Emerson became a knifemaker by producing knives for a martial arts class and making art knives early in his knifemaking career. In the 1980s he became better known for his combat knives and popularizing a style of knife known as the Tactical-folder.[2][3]
Ernest R. Emerson | |
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Born | (1955-03-07) March 7, 1955 (age 69) Northern Wisconsin, U.S. |
Alma mater | University of Wisconsin–La Crosse |
Occupation(s) | Knifemaker, martial artist, CEO |
Known for | tactical knives |
Spouse | Mary Emerson |
In order to secure military contracts, Emerson eventually founded Emerson Knives, Inc a production company to mass-produce his designs in 1996. Emerson's knives have been displayed as museum pieces, designed for use by Navy SEALs[4][5] and used by NASA in outer space.[6][7]
Emerson's knives have been featured in films and novels, due to their association with military units. This has furthered their popularity with collectors.[8]
Emerson is an accomplished martial artist who has developed a combatives system, Emerson Combat Systems, which has been taught to police officers, military units, and civilians.[9][10]