I've got several crkt's and have had no problem with rust, and I'm a fat guy that sweats like a hog. If you're having a problem with the m-16 you should contact crkt and at least give them a chance to fix the problem. I think you'll be pleased with the customer service. As far as the steels being downgraded yes that sucks but they didn't make it a secret and so far my experience with aus 4 has not been half bad. good luck, ahgar