Personally, I don't think removing a layer would have any impact on the strength of this tool. That comes from the springs and especially from the solid aluminum slabs that form the handles.

I would be more worried about mods to a "standard" SAK. Those plastic/nylon handles add a lot of stability to the whole tool, and if they aren't reattached properly, the knife could be mangled by a twisting motion.

Keep in mind that modifying a SAK will wipe out the warranty; and if the rivets don't hold, noone is responsible for the consequences but yourself. ($20 isn't a lot to risk, though.)