I don't have your ambition for wholesale modding, but I did remove front bump of Res-C for a smoother transition to the metal guard on one of my S5s. Sanding the handle abraded a bit of Moss blade coating off the back of the guard, but not much, and I agree that it really does improve the handle ergonomics. It also loosened the (kydex) sheath retention, but I believe the knife is still held adequately.