Blackie collins river master

The 1985 Gerber River Master, designed by Blackie Collins, is a standout piece from a golden era of innovative knife design. This discontinued model—made in Italy—is one of the scarcer variations, making it especially appealing to collectors. While River Masters were also produced in Portland, the Italian-made versions are far less common on the U.S. market. Featuring a 3.5" stainless steel blade with a combination serrated edge, this knife was built for performance in demanding environments. With an overall length of 7.85", a blade thickness of .175", and a width of 1.1", it offers a solid, capable feel in hand. It weighs approximately 3.85 ounces, or 4.9 ounces with the sheath. In 1985, Gerber Legendary Blades earned Blade Magazine’s Overall Knife of the Year award for the Clip-Lock design—an innovative, one-piece system created by Collins. The spring-loaded Clip-Lock mechanism allows for fast, reliable deployment and secure retention in its durable black Zytel sheath. Originally designed with emergency and whitewater use in mind, the River Master excels in situations where speed and reliability are critical. Its blend of practical design, award-winning innovation, and limited Italian production make it a highly desirable addition to any serious knife collection.