Perceived "long-term durability" is a very subjective idea, and doesn't prove anything.
The only way to really tell is to subject the new knives to the same routine as the old ones, and that would take a while. But while I'm at it, let me throw an anectodal piece of information onto the pyre of flame bait:
I carried an older-version Recon 1 with the G-10 scales and a tanto blade. I wouldn't say that I voided the warranty with what I did with that knife, but it's seen some use. By and large it shows signs of use, but is still ready for more. HOWEVER, it has developed a small amount of radial blade play due either to pivot pin wear or to locking surface wear. No amount of steel liners or Aluminum back spacers would have prevented it.
In the end I got A LOT of use out of that knife, and I still do. But I also think that Lynn Thompson and crew over at Cold Steel are going down the right track with the new 2010 G-10 handled folders. They are acknowledging the fact that other parts of the knife will wear out faster than the handles will, AND that G-10 will hold up to more abuse than human strength can deliver.
I've been carrying and using a 2010 clip point Recon 1 for the last few months, and it continues to surprise me at every turn how well-built and extremely functional it is. My impression of this new line is that LT & crew took away everything from the old line that didn't add any value to the knife, and kept everything that did. An excellent example of functional evolution.
Just because the knife has a lighter weight doesn't mean that it's by any means less durable or less capable than the old version. Get one for yourself, and be amazed!
-nate
