Andre De Villiers Mini Impi (GEC 25 Rival?)

[Glenridgerich]

Hi Gents, just picked up a Andre De Villiers Mini Impi (on a recommendation from gazz98 of this board in response to my shout out looking for small high quality knives...Thanks gazz and others who also suggested interesting options). Anyway, I'm pleased with my purchase. I'd describe it as an alternative for GEC #25 lovers (like me). It is of similar size and weight as the 25. the build quality is there...Small, yet chunky...sort of punching above its weight class, some would say "overbuilt" which suits me fine. I got the spear-point version with rosewood. Check em out! *My one beef with it...While the quality is there, it is pricey for what it is. GEC 25 (when purchased first hand) run around $90-$100...This baby cost me $250! While happy with the purchase, I'm not sure why it cost this much? *Ya got look it up on your own...I can't post a pic at the moment.

 

[PirateSeulb]

It is more expensive as it is a custom, or maybe a midtech, while GEC are all production. I have had an interest in his knives but all the negative I hear about the maker has me not wanting to support him and the knives don't have enough draw to overcome that.

 

[JPD1998]

I bought a pocket butcher last year. The build quality is excellent.
The slip joints DeVillers makes are definitely different than regular traditional folders.

The only comment I can make on the price, is that the build quality/fit and finish is very similar to AG Russel's branded slip-joint knives. So if you want something like it but not at the high price tag, AG's are a good alternative.