I appreciate all of the feedback on my inquiry. I just picked up my KA-BAR today and I could not be any more satisfied or impressed.<br><br>To answer your question, Chris, this one is an original product from KA-BAR Knives, Inc. They have a Black KA-BAR line that they started not too long ago, I think. The knife consists of a black oval shaped Kraton G thermoplastic elastomer handle (instead of the traditional leather) and the blade (HRC 56-58) is an epoxy powder coated, high carbon steel (1095). I suppose that the only difference between the Black and Original KA-BARs, is the material on the handle.<br> <br>I was a little disappointed about the lack of RAZOR sharpness in the blade when I received it, but I ran the blade through my tungsten steel sharpener and with a few strokes it was shaving hair. All in all, I am very satisfied with my new toy.<br>If anyone would like to find out more about the Black KA-BAR line, check out www.ka-bar.com.<br>Again, thanks for the info.<br><br>