The resiprene version does feel quite a bit different, but they are both great knives. I'm extremely fond of the resiprene for its light weight. It makes the howling rat feel like nothing. Good luck in your search! Also, keep an eye to the boards for someone in your neck of the woods that might have one that you can handle. :thumbup:
I picked up a sheath from Mashed Cat for the Basic 8. The Howler has a sheath I made, but I've been considering sending this to Eric as well. Here's a pick of what I did for the Basic...
This killer combo has been a long time in the making.