Good point from ZK. I am referring to the original Kestrel. To be specific, I have owned the original Kestrel, the Kestrel Hot Rod, The Kestrel II, and the Shearwater Hot Rod. Of those four models the Kestrel II, while the most attractive, is my least favorite. I sold my Shearwater HRs when we moved into a small apartment while a home was being built. I would purchase another pair if I could find a pair within driving distance.
As for the difference between the original Kestrel and the hot rod version, I could live with either.