Yes, I generally agree, which is why you see a lot of overwraps to the arms in these matches rather than stick grabs. The tomahawk video you see a bunch of grabbing of the haft because they are tomahawks.I really like video #2. And I miss this kind of sparring.
The one thing of note I will mention is the 'weapon control' comment. My Tuhon (Bill McGrath) was more of a realist about this. While it is the lesser of two evils, grabbing a sharp blade was taught to me as a last resort movement. There was more emphasis on getting inside or outside the member and taking control of the wrist.
If not done with care, padding up can very much give a person a false sense of security that can transfer.
Great post.