Everyone who reads this,
Joe and I have talked, on numerous occasions, about the subject of transitional sheaths. We have both (as Joe stated) "handled" a lot of examples of transitional sheaths over the years. I spoke with Joe today about all of this and we both agreed (Yes: That's correct. Joe & I agreed on something) about a couple of key...VERY key points.
* There is no finite "rule" or "absolute", when it comes to transitional sheaths.
* Though many cases (and "stands") may be represented and taken, transitional sheaths have their obscurities.
* The "third" point is the best common ground..."AND" the one you good folks should hold true above all others. Though a transitional sheath may be Heiser, HKL, Johnson or some mysterious other sheath makers offering, THE VALUE OF THE KNIFE & SHEATH PACKAGE DOES NOT CHANGE! For appraisals (which I do) or authentications (which Joe does) the end result is all good and the value is not affected!
One more thing: Joe & I have had "spirited" debates over Randall "findings". We respect each other, each other's knowledge and passion for this fantastic addiction we both share. Never once have we had a harsh word to one another, nor publically attacked each other. I hope through all of this venture everyone has seen that...if nothing else.
Transitional sheaths need to be closely examined, by hand, to offer finite opinions as to their origin, etc. Nothing else will do. I hope everyone will take something positive away from all of this subject. I hope all will have learned a little more about this era in Randall Made Knives' history.
Back to work...
Stay sharp, Capt. Chris