Rare Very Early (1992) DALTON "AFO" Auto w/ Wood Inlay

 DCC (Dalton Combat Cutlery), AFO is a side opening, coil activated auto designed after Benchmade's AFO model. This was one of Dalton's earliest manufactured auto. It is one of Dalton's first pieces he made.

The 3 3/4" Gray Bead Blast ATS-34 Stainless Blade is unmarked (sterile). (Most of Dalton's pieces had his trademark DCC Paratrooper Logo, or were marked with a "D", but some of very early pieces were sterile). Features razor sharp ATS-34 stainless. Measures 4 3/4" closed with Rosewood Inlays on both sides.  Overall length is 8 1/4" open..

Features an adjustment screw located where the blade locks open, which is designed to eliminate any up and down blade play. (This idea was taken from the "Black Knife" which Dalton also utilized in addition to Benchmade's AFO in the design of this auto. Very few of these were made. Other similar models included Jigged Bone and Stag Inlays.

Dalton knives were made in Kentucky, USA. Dalton started out making copies of Microtech's HALO and Benchmade's AFO, (like this one), then graduated into his own designs, some rather unique. All were limited in production and as such, he created a following. Many of his models are good investments and have increased in price and are highly sought after.

This model being one of his first is rather crude when compared to his other models, but was successful because at that time (1992) his knives, along with Benchmade and the "Black Knife" were the only American Made Knives available to collectors. It also shows how his work improved immensely over the years after he started designing his own models, rather than making copies of Benchmade.

This model is not mint, but functions superbly. It shows some handling and wear marks on the handle and blade. Rare chance to own one of Dalton's first pieces. Includes a custom zippered pouch. The price reflects the extreme rarity of this piece.