The shaft comes with a new SE-8 or SE-9, being sold through Nielsen's. Don't know if its true but being from Nielsen's I bet it is:
"Improvements (advantages) of the new 314-2 shafts
Joint collars are now solid and more durable.
New ferrule on 314-2 is a titan ferrule and is stronger.
Shaft comes standard with an Everest laminated tip.
Ferrule is bored differently reducing deflection and is stronger.
Deflection is 5% less than the previous 314 shaft."
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dl...ssPageName=MERC_VI_RSCC_Pr4_PcY_BIN_Stores_IT
"Improvements (advantages) of the new 314-2 shafts
Joint collars are now solid and more durable.
New ferrule on 314-2 is a titan ferrule and is stronger.
Shaft comes standard with an Everest laminated tip.
Ferrule is bored differently reducing deflection and is stronger.
Deflection is 5% less than the previous 314 shaft."
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dl...ssPageName=MERC_VI_RSCC_Pr4_PcY_BIN_Stores_IT