Geeze,...I can't believe I forgot to mention that this older Model 20 Yukon Skinner was ONLY 3/16" at the widest part in front of the hilt before I started any work. Not sure if behind the hilt and into the handle is thicker?

New Model 20's are listed as coming in 1/4" thick stock, so a conversion like this will be more difficult if that thickness starts in front of the hilt, especially of you want to retain most of the Randall stamp AND get a usable grind to edge transition,.... and remove the lower part of the blade's edge to eliminate the choil.

I suspect mine is 3/16" stock even into the handle though, and a much better choice in my view anyway. ( although I could live with even thinner as you all probably know by now )

If anybody has a later vintage Model 20 and can take a measurement of the thickness in front of the hilt, that might help steer someone wishing to do a similar project in the right direction.

The Randall catalog mentions this model was designed by Ward Gay ("famous Alaskan Bush Pilot"), and I have to assume that 3/16" stock was part of that original design (at least in front of the hilt). Not sure why a "skinning" model was later seen needing an uptick in blade thickness in later years? The blade's too short to stand a chance if called upon to stick a LIVE Grizzly anyway! Ummmm????

Also,...just putting this out there as I have no interest in it personally. There is currently another older Model 20 on ebay, although it seems high priced to me as a buy it now at $675.00 with shipping.

.....but maybe the seller would be open to lower offers in the $425 to $475 range???

http://www.ebay.com/itm/221417685896?_trksid=p2055119.m1438.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT

cheers,
Joe T