Well... professional tip replacement is a problem unless I send the shaft away. I have done my own tips on snooker cues for years and I have no concerns about doing the tip myself other than what I perceive as a potential weakness with the design. If you need to keep the wafer under the tip then I had better lay in a supply of wafers as well as tips.
As far as the splinter problem... I have heard a number of stories about that. Some found it so serious that they could not wear a glove because it was catching on the splinters. I do not wear a glove but I do like a smooth feel on the shaft. That is why I am asking if it is still an issue.
