When did the style change on this model? What prompted this change? Now the real tricky part- which do you prefer and why? Just checking the pulse on this little Knife!
Walker

The change first appeared in the 1963 catalog.

Thanks Tune. Sure did not know it was that far back. I was guessing 1980s.
Walker

I own...and "use" both of them, usually for different purposes. As for a favorite? Hard to say. I know I prefer the old style with the reduced hilt over the new style with a reduced hilt. In kind, I like the single hilt on the new model better than the old.
I have dressed whitetail with both and each has it's advantage. The newer one is more hearty and gives a bit more heft in the hand. The old guy performs, almost surgically on whitetail deer! More dainty, to be sure but terrific just the same.
Having said all this, by it's name definition, I would prefer the "old style" for trout & birds...
Hope this helps, Capt. Chris

That's what I was looking for. Thanks Capt.

With all do respect to Cap, I prefer the new Model 8 design. I used my Model 8 while a fishing guide for 5 months straight. I loved the sharpened top blade for cutting off fish heads and the regular blade for fileting, etc. I wouldn't use it for big game, like deer and elk, but for fishing, it works great. Also great for small game and birds. The basic design is the smallest of the Model 8, Model 23 and Model 19 series.

Pap

"With all do respect"? Pappy: You said the same thing I said?
Huh? Capt. Chris

I did? Ok, bottom line is if all I had was a Sasquatch, I could get 'er done, lol. Regardless, Randall's rock, whatever the model.

Pap

Pappy, I agree Randall's do rock.
Walker

That's what I'm waiting on- old style.
Walker