Has this knife been altered?

[TripleF]

As I handle more and more knives I "THINK" I am beginning to pick out knives that have been altered. I mean, in some way the knife is not the original knife as it left the factory.

I think this Chicago Cutlery P16 USA has been altered because:
1). the blades are shiny new while the springs are tarnished
2). there's spacing on the back between the bolsters
3). the wood portion doesn't for the bradd liner "perfectly"
4). the wood handles seem to be stained

Do you agree? Has this knife been altered?

[chetr1200c]

even if it isnt altered, i dont think this knife would bring very much attention, especially since the obvious shield is missing. so it begs to answer the question. why would anyone want to alter this knife?
just my opinion,,,,chet

[1967redrider]

I agree with Chet, why alter something that isn't a top dollar collectable? I have a Buck 301 with rusty springs but decent blades. It could have spent some time sitting in a rusty drawer or in some shallow water.

[thefarside]

The blades shine because they are stainless and the backsprings show patina because they are not. You see this frequently on knives of all makes and ages.