I’ve owned both a coated 1095 and a stainless Izzy. I neck carry it every day and use it for everything. Because it gets used for food a lot i prefer the stainless. I’m a huge fan of the 440c steel. In my opinion it’s a very good stainless. It’s not a super steel but it’s tough enough and keeps an edge pretty well...and I don’t need to spend an hour resharpening it. I think the stainless izula is the most underrated ESEE in their lineup. Pair it with 2 sets of scales from TKC...first buy the regular set of scales (I have orange and they feel great), then pick up a set of the extended scales. You can swap them out as needed and it basically gives you an Izzy and Izzy2 in stainless
I have two Izulas, one in black 1095 and one in stainless, both with TKC extended handles. I started with the standard black version, and used it with a paracord wrap for a while, then decided to get the extended scales for it. I picked up the stainless version and scales for that as well. The sheaths for the Izulas are great too. They are just awesome knives. Left to Right: Terävä Jääkäripuukko 110 Mora Companion Izula 1095 (w/ TKC extended scales) Izula Stainless Steel (w/ TKC extended scales)
I bought one of the first run Izulas. It has been a constant companion ever since on camping and kayaking trips. The knife takes a keen edge, and holds it. It hasn't shown any rust. I wear it as a neck knife.