If you can find my review notes on this, I spent a significant amount of time "stabbing" with my TT Regulators. The guard was sufficient.

Also, FWIW, (and no offense to pretty lanyard lovers), I use a simple loop lanyard (or "D-guard" when possible) to PREVENT my hand from sliding onto the blade during "stabbing". I use a lanyard for that purpose and for retention instead of decoration or to pull the knife from its sheath.

I like the Regulator handle. I have tested a TT Regulator to baton wood and had no damage issues, but I have no problems keeping handles from hitting the wood.