After getting a Buck Vantage in the Avid series (more affordable), I decided that I wanted one with G10 handle scales and S30V steel, so I bought the 347 Pro version. I find the Vantage design rather compelling. It is what I would classify as "modern", with clean, flowing lines. Though the checkering on the G10 scales is somewhat smooth, Buck somehow managed to make it surprisingly "grippy". I am particularly fond of the blade shape. Additionally, Buck did an absolutely BRILLIANT job with the pocket clip (which is a bayonet design that mounts at the tip of the handle). Take note of Buck's new logo design. Very nice. In terms of deployment, I've tried the "thumb hole" (think odd-shaped Sypderco) and found it too small for my thumb to really "grab". Fortunately, when the blade is closed, the exposed tang actually works as a flipper. Really, a very beautiful knife. That said, I will give it a couple of simple "knocks"; Buck needs to add jimping to the spine of the blade and the exposed "flipper". This blade is one that really exemplifies the "Second Kind of Cool".