"A handle with smooth lines is going to be better than one with finger groves and sharp metal around the scales, etc."

In a number of knife-related forums we'll commonly hear folks complain about the smooth handle on the Becker Knife & Tool blades, but to your point, I know I have read somewhere a comment from Mr. Becker himself saying that the smooth handles were designed to reduce hand irritation after extensive use. Rough, edgey handles may look cool and feel good at first but they are blister-makers.

BTW, I LOOOOOOVE my Ritter fixed blade. If you haven't purchased one yet, please consider doing so. From looks alone it is a beautiful knife (especilly the handle) with a very classy sheath (gray lettering on black - I like that it looks less military than the Becker sheath), but it also handles well and is sized just right, at least for my camping needs.