That's what my impression was on it from Cap Stanaback with his response, like the research and development was still going on because of continued usage by the space program.
It was designed primarily by Mr Randall and Gordon Cooper, put into production, used for intended purpose, became part of history, a relic of an amazing part of our nations history.
It just is odd that it's evolution continues considering it's intended purpose was as an offering to collectors who wanted a replica of the astronaut knife.
In hind sight, I guess it makes those early replicas more special and sought after.
Richard

Agree with everything you have said Richard. I have been saying it for years.

What Tunefink didn't mention was that this rule was passed made by Rick T. the owner of this forum. He & Rhett started this forum together and cross-foruming has "always" been forbidden. Not my rule Bill: His..."BUT"...I agree with it.
As to this #17 being made and to continually be made after it's intent was obviously to make it collectible? Freeman: I think not. It's all typical of models being slightly modified over time...and (throw in) damned good marketing as well!
I can most certainly plainly see why Ronnie's "hated hook" blade would be safer when working with gloves on, whether Astronauts were using it...or "Usn's"!
Please everyone: Let's keep it respectable and polite.
Thanks, Capt. Chris

Gary Clinton and I had an interesting discussion about this oldie from The Captain's "STASH"....for your viewing pleasure.
Stay sharp, Capt. Chris

Capt. I have the match to yours. Mine is in a riveted Johnson ruff back sheath.

Is it a "splitback"?

I must be in the minority for liking the "humpback" shape.

Let me know when they offer that for the Mdl 18 as well.

Chris this is a great thread and I haven’t seen or read anything disrespectful or not polite. I thought this was just a discussion between a few folks who liked the old original Mod. 17’s.
On the other hand, that is a beautiful Mod. 17 you have. I guess ironworker thinks your sheath is Kydex. No offense to ironworker.

Not all the model c riveted sheaths are split back. Mine is not. Thanks for the kind words ronnie

The only disrespect I saw was calling Mitchell "a turd" and just want everyone to do what we are doing now. A nice "show-n-tell", etc., etc.
Yeah: It's one of the nicer and most clean versions of an Astro I have ever owned (and still own it), thanks.
Capt. Chris