Jay, kudos for thoroughly considered and well expressed posting. As a new guy myself, I join in your appreciation for the build threads and I share your concerns and questions about wood handles.

In addition to "hoping for the best" appearance wise (and I'd venture that even customer supplied wood does not always turn out as expected or desired), how durable are wood handles on user knives?

Micarta seems almost indestructible and has been my handle material of choice for a knife that I intend to use.

Wood, while vastly more beautiful and appealing on many levels, seems to present a risk of denting, chipping or splitting.

Are these appearance and durability concerns unfounded? What say you more experienced RMK collectors (and users)?