1996 Brian Yellowhorse Artist Proof Barlow Knife – Custom Inlay – 3.5" Closed

This 1996 Brian Yellowhorse Artist Proof Barlow is a stunning example of custom Native American artistry paired with traditional pocketknife design. Brian Yellowhorse, a renowned Navajo craftsman, is celebrated for his intricate stone and wood inlays that elevate classic knives into one-of-a-kind works of art. This knife features rich turquoise, red jasper, and mother-of-pearl inlays set in bold geometric patterns, framed by nickel silver bolsters engraved with “Barlow.” The primary blade is etched Yellowhorse Custom ’96 Artist Proof, marking it as a rare proof example from his custom shop.

The tang is stamped USA, and the knife measures 3.5" closed—compact, yet substantial in hand. Both blades remain tight with excellent snap, opening and closing smoothly.

🔧 Specs:

Maker: Brian Yellowhorse (Custom Inlay on U.S.-made knife)

Pattern: Barlow (Two-blade)

Year: 1996 (Etched on blade as Artist Proof)

Blades: 2 (Clip and Pen)

Handle: Custom inlays of turquoise, red jasper, mother-of-pearl, and hardwood

Bolsters: Nickel silver (long bolster engraved “Barlow”)

Closed Length: 3.5"

Etch: “Yellowhorse Custom ’96 Artist Proof”

🔎 Condition Note:
This knife is in excellent functional condition. Both blades are tight and open/close with strong snap. There is some light peppering/oxidation along the upper edge of the main blade, consistent with age. The inlays are vibrant, smooth, and intact. The knife comes housed in a fitted wood-and-glass display case (not original but presents beautifully), along with a signed Yellowhorse certificate card. Ships wrapped in acid-free archival tissue to help preserve both the blade and handle during transit and storage.

📜 Historical Note:
Brian Yellowhorse, son of Navajo silversmith David Yellowhorse, brought Native American artistry into the knife world during the 1980s and 90s. His inlaid knives often incorporate turquoise, coral, jasper, and silver in bold geometric forms, making them prized by collectors of both knives and Southwestern art. Artist Proofs, such as this one, are especially valued as early test runs or prototypes, produced in very limited numbers.

🧲 Collector’s Note:
For collectors, a Yellowhorse Artist Proof is more than a knife—it is a signed piece of Navajo artistry. This 1996 Barlow blends a timeless American knife pattern with master-level inlay work, making it equally at home in a knife roll, a display case, or as a highlight among other Yellowhorse pieces. A rare opportunity for collectors of Case, Barlow, or Native American custom knives.

⚠️ Disclaimer:
All knives in this shop are vintage or pre-owned unless stated otherwise. While many are in excellent condition, they may show normal signs of age or handling such as scuffs, blemishes, or blade wear. I try to document condition as accurately as possible in both the description and photos.

By purchasing this knife, you are confirming that you are 18 years of age or older and are complying with all applicable laws and regulations regarding knife ownership in your area.