I didn't shave down anything on my Varsity's & didn't notice any dramatic height issues, either. Couldn't seem to get them tight enough, though. I don't skate them anymore, even though they are in great condition.
K2s are pretty much true to size, but yes, it can depend on the model. I think the 250ccs ran a half size small, the Style Points were true to size, Nemesis era seemed true to size, the red Varsity's seemed a half size too big.
I'm pretty sure the toe cap is glued on the 2012 Fatty Pro. The other Fatty Pro models that have some out in the last few years have been glued on, I don't see why they would stop doing it now.
I currently skate these bad boys

They are amazing.

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