If I were to make any changes to the Vex I would:

1) Make the handle/choil transition less abrupt.
2) Make the blade about 1/8" taller, so that the finger sets deeper inside the choil. Safer.
3) Make the blade 1/8" thick.
4) Skeletonize the tang.

I'm looking forward to seeing your evaluation results.

USMC 1997-2002. 6173 CH-53D Sea Stallion Helicopter Crew Chief and Flightline Mechanic. Semper Fi!

"Be still, Taggart!"