The sleeve may wear down and develop a little play over time, but it can be tightened back up. I have a St. Charles Pacific Yew selfbow with the sleeve that's 15 years old, and the brass has worn down some and it has a little play in it. Jay told me to install two brass screws into the brass sleeve, one at the top and bottom, then file them down until I get a tight fit. He said this would return it to like new condition and will last for many more years. I like my one-piece Hill bows with the wide waist straight grip, so the small takedown fits me very well. There is no difference in performance between the two that I can tell, however some people do like the extra weight the sleeves provide to steady the bow arm. Either way you go I think you will be pleased. Ken