This question came up a day or so ago. I have looked through threads here, but can’t find an answer.
On new knives, you can specify round or squared hilts. Has this always been the case? If not, about what time period were we given a choice.

Here is a thread with a discussion of square hilts:
Go to "Randall Made Knives," then go to "Knives of the Week...," then to "RMK #28." The discussion begins a little over halfway down page 9, and continues on page 10.

Rod,
As with many things Randall, there are exceptions..."BUT"...(I feel much better now)...many models, which come standard with the newer (rounder) version, can be ordered "SQH" at no additional charge.
Model #28?...No! Here's a Divers I recently sold that came out last month. Hope this helps.
Stay sharp, Capt. Chris

Thank you Steve and Cap. The muddy water is a bit clearer.

That’s been going on for a good while now Rod. I recall Dale Dorris and I discussing the hilt configuration, and that’s been a good 10/12 years ago. Both he and I favored the squared off style.

How long before that, I can’t tell you ??
Interesting question though !!

Hi Michael

From what little I read, there are no hard and fast dates for when round/square started or stopped. But (trying to sound like the Cap) I will get out books and see if I can find out anymore info.

Ballpark: mid-late 1980's
Best, Capt. Chris

Cap

Thank you for your help.

With the advent of Johnny Johnson entering the picture & Maurice Johnson exiting (around 1985) I noticed more round hilts. I know this wasn't the reason for rounded hilts, just the approximate time. By the time Sullivans took over (from late 1980's-early 1990's) round hilts were the norm.
I'm sure, although I haven't the time right now, that someone could look through catalog printings (& dates) and notice these changes were about the same time period. So...not an "exact" but a "close" dating window at least.
Hope this helps, Capt. Chris

Cap

It helps a lot. Thank you. I never gave any thought to all of this until a few days ago.

Jokingly, after Tide’s loss yesterday, good to see you posting. I thought you would be on suicide watch. I checked in with Billy. He was pretty sad!!