Interesting point in this process, skblades. And it is not solely about the knife components choice, but about the process.
The process you are offering (and managing) has the opportunity for the "backlash" you noted might occur. But there is that point, which you are approaching, where making the "executive decision" might be the excellent resolution.
What I see is that you offered to do this, which puts you in charge of the process and the end result. Your request for input was valid and appreciated, and you paid close attention to the follow up opinions. A leader or executive in such a process should have the opportunity, based on the responses, to make adjusts that (s)he sees as possible improvement in the end result. One characteristic of quality leaders is that "leaders don't inflict pain; they bear pain." I learned this characteristic long ago in a leadership training seminar on one of my jobs. Your concern with the backlash indicates your concern about those who are offering opinions and input. That can put a responsible leader in a painful position.
OK. I voted for a nail nick. I'm good and quite satisfied if this is not a part of the finished product. In this case, I trust the executive-in-charge of a Buck knife creation. Go for it.
BTW, I just recalled a cool portion of your very first post on this project:
Your input is very important to us. So important, that we are doing a DRAWING TO GIVE AWAY THE FIRST KNIFE FROM THIS PROJECT. It is a big thank you to you all for your input and good advertising for us!
If I were the person to receive this first knife,
I would gladly become the owner with or without a nail nick!
Thoughts above are just my less than two cents worth......not overly important to the final Buck knife creation. But to once more express "thanks" for what you are doing for everyone.
I agree as well. I'd make an executive decision to scrap the nail nick, but I think the backlash would be too great since it wouldn't have "followed the poll exactly". I need to think on it some. More input is welcome!