I've owned, in my collection, this Made Rite 44 brush that is new in the box. I bought it many many years ago with the initial intention of removing the nylon knot and replacing it with a modern Badger. I've never even tried the nylon knot as I remember them from my younger days as being awful but don't know about this one. I'm starting to divest of some of my collection so my kids don't have to! Has anyone used this brush with the original nylon knot or one similar? I don't want to destroy it's value by replacing the knot. It has a beautiful handle of what I believe is Catalin and Plexi but I'm no expert there either. Thought I'd post this for your views before I make a decision.