I don't enjoy ragging on the new design, but I just can't see the res-c guard holding up to abuse after moderate to heavy woodscraft use--even if it is reinforced on the inside. I'm also a proponent of a full flat grind for working with wood--however, if the Regulator was intended to be a fighting knife, full flat may not be the best choice. That being said, I actually like the new choil for use in detail work--seems to increase the functionality of the knife even if "looks" are sacrificed a little. Like everyone, I'm waiting for the full list of specs.