From another forum, I have learned that to get the handles off, by putting them under a heat lamp, and gently prying them off. Have not tried this myself. I have been looking in flea markets, and the prices on used knives can be higher than just going to Walmart for the same knife. Just have an aversion to tearing up something brand new.
Slabber says there is a knife maker just down the street from his shop, will probably go there, the next time we get to visit Deans shop. It's Krein Knives, and his website is still under construction.
Also, AG Russell Knives sell seconds, and I go by there daily, guess I should stop in. Most everything they sell is high end, though. They have a website.