The NMSFNO LE I got was serial #1 and I have not been able to bring myself to use it yet. The Queen status of the LE is the primary reason that I have the CG NMSFNO to play with. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/laugh.gif" alt="" />

I have used the hand shaped NMFBM that has a similar smooth feel and it is great, no problems at all. I think there is a slight tradeoff with the machined handles providing better grip and the hand shaped providing more comfort but I have not chopped enough with the NMFBM to really have a strong opinion. I would guess that the hand shaped would produce fewer hotspots during heavy use but that is a pure theorycraft.

If you order the machined scales I think that it would be pretty easy to sand them down if you decided you wanted them smooth instead.

p.s. - I just finished drilling out about 20 wooden beads and cutting 2' lengths of paracord to make new lanyards. I'm going with the Osborne Safety Lanyard style and using the forward handle hole so that the knife won't swing into my leg if it slips. Now I need to figure out a way to make it work for my ResC knives.