Drainage Valve On A Gas Water Heater

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I have an A.O. Smith gas water heater in my garage. Bought it in 2001 for my Condo. Had to replace the old one. Every 3 months, I drain about 5 or so gallons out of it, into a 5 gal bucket until the water's clear. Doesn't take too long for it to get clear. After 1 or so gallons, it's clear, but I drain approx 5 gals out anyways. Ever since I started draining it on a regular basis, I've noticed that the "plastic drainage valve" drips. I hand tightened it more, and it had always stopped dripping completely. 2 days ago, I drained it, and this time, it still has a very very slow minor drip, but a drip. Hand tightened it as tight as I could get. Question: Is it better to just replace the plastic drainage valve with a metal ball valve, or put a plastic cap on with a rubber gasket? I read at a site that these cheap plastic drainage valves can snap off. Any suggestions?