Perhaps I should explain the handle a pinch more...
The gentle taper and the avoidance of any 'edges' or contouring was (obviously) done intentionally. As much as I wish to make aesthetically pleasing knives, I also want the knives to perform for their intended purpose. A fighter, in my book, not only needs to have certain blade-centric functions, but it's also got to be on ya when you need it! This one will be carried - by me, before it eventually goes to it's owner. I'm not talking about 'out for a walk in the woods' carry, but every day carry. I'll wear this - concealed - during my daily work and life schedule for a while. Bigger, more heavily contoured handles can provide spots that dig into my ribcage when I'm carrying them (on blades of this size). Simple tapers tend to glide across my side when I'm moving and working, so I'm not perpetually shifting it around looking for a comfortable angle for it - it kind of finds it all on it's own! I'm not certain that these are his thoughts or not, but my suspicion is that Mr. Bagwell's handles are made with little shaping for the same reason.
BTW, for those that don't know me or haven't seen me before, I'm 6'2" and 170lbs... not exactly an easy guy to hide 15" of blade and handle on. Yet I've done it countless times, in a retail environment, no less! I'm not promoting that anyone do this, btw - it's a perfect way to be fired if you don't have the approval of ownership. OR someone could report you to the police, and then your troubles just begin! Plus, you need to remember there are legal issues to contend with, besides the obvious ones. I didn't say you should do this, only that you can!
Hope this is good enough justification for an ugly handle!
