So...for years, I've known people that raved about Microtech knives. Most of them military folks. I never felt compelled to check them out...as all the ones that I saw were autos...which I'm not interested in. When I ran across the Socom Elite...and it's manual action, I decided to finally see what the hubbub was about. I have to say that I'm impressed. This particular version features a bead blast finish on the blade, aluminum handles with proprietary screws...and carbon fiber inserts. Overall, the fit and finish is quite nice...and the knife came as sharp as any factory blade I've owned. My one complaint is that there is a glass breaker on the handle's pommel. And it's loose in the aluminum handle...and "rattles". I'll probably contact Microtech about this. Other than that. this is a really nice knife.