The BAD is a great knife. I don't think the question is about holding an edge. It's fairly thin and the "not intended for being abused" means potential tip damage or the like. I wouldn't worry about it though unless you are going to stab or pry. The Combat Grade AD has a thicker stock and the tip is much thicker and can be used hard. By the way, I sold my BAD, got a Yark Keeper and haven't looked back. Saved a few hundred bones in the process..