jd,

This year's model is a little different than last year. Last year, the nonskid coating on the grip was quite reminiscent of wet/dry sandpaper. Not quite smooth and a very effective non-skid surface. This year's model is the HM30R, with the R signifying a rubber coating on the grip. It is a smooth grip but somehow the rubber is still very effective as a non-skid surface. It is not at all soft. It's more like a rubberized paint. It is the same type of grip as on the Shimano Kozuka NT rods, and I have not had any complaints from people who bought them.

I still have some of last year's H30 which has the old style grip coating. The H30 feels like it has one more stiff section than the HM, so it is very definitely a tip action rod. (Last year's rods were imported when the yen was a lot stronger than it is now, which explains the higher price).