In reply to ralphio:
If price is your only factor I'm sure that you could find a pro shell jacket for the same money as an active shell.
They are quite different things though, not just in terms of durability. Active shells have less features, fewer pockets, etc as part of Goretex licensing the "Active" shell to them.
Will it wear out from wearing a rucksack? No, not anytime soon anyway. My active shell was returned because it was wetting out all over (after 18 months). A common problem with the original ME firefox as far as I am aware. This was replaced under warranty after testing by Gore.
In that time I used it for MR training exercises, my ML training, all the classic scrambles in the Lakes and Pinnacle ridge on Skye, it's seen me up Needle Ridge and other classic climbs in the lakes. No problems with it. I wouldn't body belay with it (using my pack to protect my jacket instead) and I try not to run ropes over it when training, but these would damage all but the toughest of jackets on the market. I did put a hole in it with careless use my trekking pole, but the tips of my BD poles would put a hole through most things!
It has never, ever let a drop of water in and is exceptionally breathable.
Would I buy one just for Scottish winter use? No, but that's as much because of the lack of features as it is the material.
Would I use it for Scottish winter climbing? I will be in a few weeks, so yes.
Hope that helps.