Miltary - recent changes to design?

[Jeff/1911]

In a past thread about the appearance of the "new" Military knives compared to the "old" that I dug up today from the archives, with respect to the laser engraving compared to the diamond type used before... Sal explains to the group about some of the changes that occurred with the design at this time. It suggested that the new version is stronger, safer and had tighter tolerances than the old one. I would like to know how significant these changes are, as I'm trying to decide whether I should buy the "old" diamond engraved version that my local shop has in (which I prefer the appearance of), or the newer style knife to take advantage of recent improvements. Does anyone here know how much they've changed?



Thanks, Jeff/1911.

[cerulean]

From my limited experience, I'd go with the older, diamond engaved version if you can find one (not the "first generation", but the second generation before the latest changes). I've got a serrated older one and a plain edged new one. The older version seems so much better that I'm thinking about going on a hunt for an old plain edge.

I'd have to agree that the older one looks better. The handles are nicely finished and the engraving is very pretty. Plus, the older one seems more solid and functions more smoothly, maybe because it has thinner washers.

Additonally, on the newest version of the Military I have, the top of the backspacer isn't close to flush with the top of the scales. And the scales aren't parallel to each other; the holes for the screws were drilled in slightly different places on the two scales, so one sits higher than the other.

I'm not complaining though. It's not that the new Military isn't worth the price or anything: it's just the the older Military, in my opinion, was worth <i>more </i> than the price you paid for it. But, I'm sure there are hidden changes in the newer version that aren't readily apparent and may be refinements or improvments.

Edited by - cerulean on 5/27/2001 8:47:43 AM

[Jeff/1911]

cerulean - That is MOST helpful. I really like the feel (and the looks) of the one at my local dealer; it's a plain edge w/ the diamond engraved blade. I just wanted to try and determine whether I should deliberately look for a new version instead of this one. I certainly won't now. The great thing is: I can probably get this knife for LESS than I would have to pay for a new version when I explain that there is a newer version out.

I will write back once I've got it. Thanks a lot for your response. I was hoping to hear some opinions before tomorrow.

Cheers, Jeff/1911.