Almost all, if not all, SS and police degens have 13 segments in the grips. On this one it looks like the upper segment has been demolished. So, the grip would have to be replaced or repaired to make it look "right." Pliers marks are often found on these degens, officer and NCO models. For some reason, someone feels compelled to remove the top fitting to see what's inside. They often damage it when they do so. This is a condition issue, rather than an authentication one. The grip was likely damages when the top fitting was replaced and overly tightened. Duh! As to the etch, I know little about them, but I agree this one looks odd. It sort of has the look of a photo etch, but I could be wrong. It appears the whole degen has been highly polished, objectionable to some collectors. The final decision, of course, is up to you. With the comments here and the price of the degen, you might or might not decide it is a good buy for your taste and purposes.