We had two prototypes at the Moot. Initial impression of the blades were that they were great, and that the handles were dire. Feedback was sent to the manufacturer and it turned out that they were fully aware of these failings and were not in any way intending to have them carry over into a production item.
Handle shaping on a one-off prototype is a difficult thing for a company that usually makes batches of hundreds or even thousands since they use tooling and jigs to ensure they get the right shape. A one off is highly labour intensive hand work, and as such isn't truely representative of what you will get when production starts anyway. I was disappointed, but am not so bothered now.
One of the prototypes had enough material on the handle for me to do some re-shaping so that it was more like what we wanted. With that done I have been playing around with it and am very impressed with the steel and heat treatment. It sharpens easy, takes a wicked edge and seems to hold it for a good length of time.
We haven't nailed all the details yet, but we are looking at a flat grind, trying for a convex edge, thin stock of around 3mm, stainless steel and Micarta, stabilized or heavy tropical wood handle.
There should be more info in a few more weeks. It sadens me that things have taken so long, initial promises were that we would have prototypes in hand for May this year, but various glitches cropped up which slowed things down. Oh well, such things are to be expected, even if they aren't welcome