Thanks for the nice comments.

Re: Handle material - for those interested, there is a model 1-7 on E-bay with what appears to be similar handle material.



The knife handle ID on E-bay concurs with an independent opinion from another knowledgable source, that the handle of my 12-8 is possibly made of maple burl.

Apparently maple burl was available in two catalogs in the early 70-71-72 period. The apparently newer model 1 on E-bay (at least the sheath is 1995+ or so) indicates it was availabe at other times or was specially supplied. D***! that is beautiful wood! I'm surprised not seeing more of it in posted pictures.