I've got an E2D, L4, E1e and up until last week an E2E. Of them all I use and rely upon the L4 the most, its got a nice scalloped bezel (unlike my older style E1e), the LED is GREAT for indoor, it has 'acceptable' (to my preference) throw outdoors, and as icing on the cake it runs on Pila 168S rechargable batteries! As far as 'bashability' the scalloped end coupled with the narrow diameter bezel still give it substantial impact if used in the same way as the E2D.
I love my E2d but to be honest it was a shelf queen until I got a non-crenelated bezel from Darell. Even now the only time I carry it is when i'm in a black suit (maybe part of the reason is I want to keep it looking shiny! because it looks so good
). The rest of the time it is either the L4, or the E1e with a rechargable lithium battery and the KL4 bezel from the L4 on the E1e.
Like has been said, you can't go wrong with the E2D! Me personally, I find alot more versatility (and more durability from the LED being shock impervious and won't burn out) in my L4.
Would I sell my E2D? Never! Would I have preferred a crenelated black Really Bright LED head on it? If I had the money i'd buy the black KL4 from the Scout light and use that. Then i'd have the perfect E2D!
Just to add something else into the mix I'm even using my L1 again. After the KROMA talk, i've got a red filter on my L1, so i've got two stages of red or white light off one lithium battery
But as far as brightness, it pales in comparison to the E2D.
One more thing, as has been said, if you want to carry it in your pocket, the bezel may/will tear your clothes and other pocket contents. If you carry it in a pouch etc, she'll be a beauty!