Joe,

Cool knife! Any SS blade is desirable, so I can understand your excitement on this one. Not to take away from your post, but it seems that very few of these older 18s, specifically the ones that appear to have been used in service or otherwise, have wrapped handles. Do you think most servicemen wrapped the handle, but the wrap has been removed over time? Have you seen many 18s with wrapped handles? Functionally, a wrapped handle makes the most sense. It provides a better grip, insulation for the hand in cold weather and of course, storage for extra line or cordage.