I see the term "replica" being thrown around quite a bit. Although the RMK catalog may have used the term early on, I don't think it should be taken in the literal sense.

The early brown 17's are the same knife the Astronauts used for all practical purposes. Whether they be the Solingen training knives NASA acquired or the hand forged astronaut "issue" pieces.

The change in the blade grind is not appealing to some folks. To net it out, the current model 17 in most respects holds little resemblance to the earlier pieces.