I've narrowed down my choice to either the Next Generation (440A Stainless) or the D2 Fighting Knife.  

Which would you choose and why?

D2 unless you really need the rust resistant qualities of 440A, as in you are diving in the ocean.  D2 might be a bit harder to sharpen, but till will hold an edge a lot longer then 440A, should be able to be honed to a sharper edge.  It can be honed to a finer angle without losing strength like 440A can.
440A is the lowest of the 440 series of stainless steel.  Poor edge retention, and doesn't really take that great of an edge.  For a chopper or throwing knife, it would be fine since it's more likely to just roll the edge instead of chip though.  And it is very rust resistant.

Thanks, Unicorn.  That helps quite a bit.