Tom, I upgraded to the A1 from the SRK. I wanted a stainless blade for all environments, the extended tang hammer and no more epoxy to chip off or gum my hones. As I understand it, the "rubber" handles are susceptable to various solvents and extreme impact. Unless you drown your blade in oil, get doused with aviation fuel or beat on the handle I see no problem. I am slowly learning to maintain the Moran edge. I became familiar with the knife, but reserve it for emergency use, much like my Sparklite in my OH OH kit . Falknivens are available at considerable discount from -www.discountknives.com, and Barry may stock them.