Ok, if my memory serves me, I was told by Pete that the four finger groove was the earliest. The reason I asked was I owned it at the time, and I guess that was 7-8 or so years ago.

Walt is correct in his assertion that the four finger groove was very time consuming, so it only lasted for a few examples from what I understand. I think the smooth handle and finder groove handle were made right at the same time.

Dave Griffin made all of these I believe, and I don't think the tapered tang was a conscious thought to reduce weight inasmuch as to make a "custom" type knife like you might find from Herron or Loveless.

Scott might have some input on these.