Excellent restore. I knew the original blade was junk, I'm glad you were able to find a replacement.

I have not handled a LOT of Reapers, but the few I have, and a few others I came across that had scales that I believe to be from the same manufacturer, had less "cell rot" problems than they had cracking problems. They seem to get brittle more often than gassy. ( same cant be said for me) Just don't squeeze it in the center and you should be worry free for a long while (with any luck!)