I own both models and can only offer my personal thoughts:
- I'm the outlier as the thumb studs have never caused me any issue when carrying
- While I do like the CF model, it feels like an after-thought. The weight of the G10 knife just feels better to me, and the slightly sharper edges just feel better to my hand.
- Most importantly, there is one detail that I think really distinguishes the knives (again, to me personally), and the exact same issue exists with the Green 940 vs. the G10 and CF 940 models. The CF scales are thicker, and so the Axis lock thumb studs do not stick out as far, making it harder for me to use. In other words, I get a better grip on the Axis thumbstuds on the G10 vs the CF. The same is true on the green 940 - I prefer the look of the black g10 so I wish this weren't the case on the 940.
- Also, the G10 Nakamura has a different feeling and sounding action, and I knew this from video reviews prior to buying, so it's not just my setup. I prefer the feel and sound of the G10 model for sure. If they were the same price I'd take the G10 every time.
All of that aside, I have a particular love for the Nakamura. IMHO it's a very under-rated elegant knife that has a beautiful Japanese design. One of my favorites!
Eljay