I have a couple stainless steel rods from Shooter's Choice that are easily 30 years old
Same experience here. I have tried the new coated rods and they allow residue to embed on the rod surface. Total PITA. The stainless are stronger and flex less. My go-to rod from now on.
For a field cleaning rod kit, I use the M1 Garand/M14 sectioned rods because they are so compact and super strong. I have never had to clean a rifle in the field but I did miss a chance on a second doe last season due to a cartridge sticking and the extractor not able to pull it out of the chamber after the first doe was shot. That is the first time in over 50 years of hunting that has happened. I see the cleaning rod in the field being used mostly for clearing accidental bore obstructions like snow or mud and tapping our stuck cartridge cases. Anyway, that's what I carry from now on. Super compact and will last forever.