This knife is an amazing look into the evolution of the model 18. Made just post the full tang period of the introduction of this model, the shop reduced the length of the tang inside the handle to allow more room for storage as was its intended design.  The blade is like the day it left the shop, showing no use or evidence of any sharpening. Note the long top bevel going back to the hilt, a sure sign of early production.

 

The large brass hilt shows a light patina from age and likely has been cleaned at some time in the past. There are no holes present in the hilt for a thong, also attributing to an early build.

 

Pinched stainless handle necessary to fit the square hilt. The handle is topped by a white crutch-tip that I suspect is a replacement.