The only complaint I had with the bag was that the zippers on the back of the bag (when standing) broke off within a few months from plane side checking it and them probably just launching it in the cargo hold. I think they addressed this issue as we as putting metal corners on the exterior of the bag - the exterior of mine at those corners is showing some metal...so they fixed that.

As for the handle - it's telescopic; however when it's all the way down it fits within the shell of the bag, so it doesn't stick out or you have to secure it with a strap - it locks into place and I've never had an issue with it locking all the way down or either of the two extended positions. The handle is a thick rubber - mine is worn a bit (5 years of use). Majority of the parts are replaceable on their website. but I have yet to do so on my bag. The wheels still rolls smooth and quiet.

I'd recommend a strong bag to anyone, and I will purchase another one to replace this one.