Build quality is okay, it's sharp, cuts great, we'll see how it holds up over time. The handle fits well in the hand. A plus are the holes, which will someday allow the knife to be easily wrapped with paracord if the handle gets worn. The exposed blade has its pros and cons; it's a bit harder to grip, but I'm choosing this knowingly because of its functionality. Honestly, I chose this knife because of the smaller and more flexible sheath compared to those that knives usually have in this price range.