Question About Different Handle Types

[Greg V]

Hello again. I am confused about Ontario's M9. I have a couple of questions.

Do they currently produce an M9 for the U.S. Military?

Why a difference in handle types? I see some that are tapered like the lower one pictured and some that are straight/waffle like the upper one. I assume one is earlier than the other.

The blade markings are the same on both: M-9, ONTARIO, KNIFE CO, USA.

I seem to see the same NSN: 1095-01-277-1739 for both handle types.

Any shared knowlege would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks, Greg V