I think part of what bothers me is how noncommittal it is for such a strong option - unlike Lightning Slice, it's barely punisheable even on parry in most situations. It's such a universally strong move, and any space it doesn't cover, Tome Slap now covers with only 4f startup. Pommel used to at least be a faster jab, but no more - since the update that reduced its startup, they clash.
The zoning character is incredibly good at every range now.