Why does the "Nessmuk" or "simi skinner" blade pattern exist?

[Naphtali]

I have handled what Loveless identified as "simi skinner" from Loveless, Morseth (original laminated blade), and Cold Steel. I'm nearly certain that many custom makers also make a version of this knife pattern. The owner of the Morseth knife said its pattern is based on a turn-of-the-twentieth-century knife by "Nessmuk" (spelling??), a well-known outdoor writer.

What is this unusual yet interesting looking blade shape supposed to do better than more conventional patterns? Does the pattern, in fact, do that job better?

My instinctive reaction to the blade shape was that - like fishing lures - it is intended to lure buyers.