Early Gerber Shorty prototype? hunting knife

[Sampson+1]

I bought this Gerber Shorty some time ago from an elderly man that used to live in Oregon. He had told me this knife was an early Shorty prototype and very rare. I assume it is just an early version but have not been able to date it. I know it must be early since the names are on the side of the handle but not sure how early. I was hoping someone out there in the big wide web could help me with the history of this piece. Thank you in advance for your help, Aaron

[New_Windsor_NY]

I.....

Maybe an answer here.
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