As said above, the two DW 's are variations of spelling. As far as what sets it apart, from what I was told from a former employee of Rutland, is that when DW is laminated, it uses a proprietary resin, and it's put in a press, and heated in the oven. This is what gives it, it's density and hardness. There is another product out there called Spectra Ply. It is similar. That company that makes it, is a former employee from Rutland. I don't know how many colors he makes, but I do know a lot of the colors bear the same name as Rutlands colors. It is also not as hard. Still Hard, but not as much. Hope this helps clarify for you. Scott.