I was a late-bloomer to the knife. Though they were issued to Special Forces Qualification Course graduates while I was still in the Army, it seemed weird to jump through the hoops to get a registered and serialized version since they started the program long after I graduated.
Later, when my best friend from my first Team died - I got his knife (he had the sense to get one) and the SF Museum graciously allowed his serial number to be shared by both of us once I established my bona-fides with them.
Now, backing into one in the manner in which I did, I wish I had gotten a serialized one sooner as well as a less collectible non serialized for beating around.
I've heard of goof-balls breaking them and seems they eventually get around to admitting to *battoning* with them which I feel has less to do with the activity itself and more to do with doing it incorrectly.
The weight/heft for the size is nothing short of BRILLIANT for me though I'd have preferred a flat, pounding pommel over the fighting angle... for a field knife.
I could do without the serration though do not on necessarily find them detrimental. They do get through a 3/8 rope quite nicely.
The sheath, while well made would NEVER have gone to the field with me as-is. The material is not loud to scratch against as many synthetics and kydex sheaths are but DAMN.... that mile of velcro!
I'd like the pouch smaller - along the lines of a classic Leatherman but it's a small matter.
The rebated handle material is another point of brilliance in my opinion. What may look un-finished or badly applied is in fact just this side of perfect.
Todd.