Brass is back on the menu... GEC #44

[knifeswapper]

Very well done on GEC's part and thank you, Mike knifeswapper , for sending me such a stellar example.

Although, for my part, I would like to take credit; but I have been so covered up I didn't even notice I had already shipped yours....

 

[tmd_87]

Well, I just retrieved my #44 in Cocobolo from my mailbox. Oh my word, what a gorgeous knife! The wood is absolutely stunning, I am quite thoroughly impressed. An exceptional knife.

Very well done on GEC's part and thank you, Mike knifeswapper , for sending me such a stellar example.

Some shots highlighting the wood grain.

Still haven't received my shipping notification yet. But man these look like they are worth the wait...these are beauties!

 

[knifeswapper]

Still haven't received my shipping notification yet. But man these look like they are worth the wait...these are beauties!

Do not fret. With GEC trying to get ready for Rendezvous, they really have screwed up the production runs. They work on some cocobolo, then some Rendezvous knives, then some cocobolo, on and on. They are sending tiny little split-ships of cocobolo knives to dealers that ordered more than a handful.... It may be the week after Rendezvous before they get them all out the door.

 

[tmd_87]

Do not fret. With GEC trying to get ready for Rendezvous, they really have screwed up the production runs. They work on some cocobolo, then some Rendezvous knives, then some cocobolo, on and on. They are sending tiny little split-ships of cocobolo knives to dealers that ordered more than a handful.... It may be the week after Rendezvous before they get them all out the door.

Thanks for the heads up Mike! These knives are worth the wait.

I understand GEC and you as well are always swamped.

 

[dispatch184]

I used to think that their were simply two types of knife owners: Users and Collectors.

I am inclined to believe that are actually three types: Users | Collectors | Social Media Connoisseurs (for lack of a better term)

Users are folks who, despite being knife enthusiasts, still want a knife in the pocket to use for whatever needs that might come up. They treat their knives as tools and typically are more concerned with function and cutting abilities versus its aesthetic properties.

Collectors are folks who are not as concerned with function and/or cutting edge, but they do care about aesthetics, do not want blemishes, and treat their knives as more of an investment. I am putting this in simple terms for the sake of the conversation but the mind and desires of a collector can be rather nuanced and I do not want to disparage that in any way, shape, or form.

Social Media Connoisseurs are a weird hybrid of sorts and I think they reflect a bit of the "crossover" that Mike mentioned earlier. They typically go through a rather high volume of knives, they buy and sell A LOT. They care about aesthetics (first and foremost), construction materials are a very close second, and though they may never use the knife, they care a lot about its function and edge. Virtually every aspect of the knife is combed over, inspected, and judged accordingly. This gives birth to YouTube reviews, pretty Instagram pictures, Reddit discussions, and the like. There is nothing inherently wrong with this as I do believe this gives rise to a heightened enthusiasm and bolsters the knife industry significantly, as Mike has mentioned as well.

I am likely an amalgamation of all three. I use my knives, knowing that they are tools, but I like collecting and there are knives in my collection that I will likely never get around to using all that much. I also care about construction materials, I am mildly concerned with centering, good fit and finish, etc. and I appreciate excellent photography and well written posts.

On the flip side, I do not use my knives particularly hard (unless it is a stout fixed blade), my collection, though burgeoning, is not comprised of strictly mint knives, and I do not go through a large volume of knives and I keep my expectations reasonable.

I guess the point being: There is room in the knife hobby for all sorts of enthusiasts and though some of the complaints can become tiresome, they do contribute to an overall balance that can serve to keep us grounded.

***On a separate note, my Cocobolo and Brass is Out for Delivery and I am super excited***

I enjoyed reading your analysis and I think you hit all the boxes.

I would also consider myself a mix. My overriding goal/fantasy is that each knife would be a user at least occasionally. My hunt is fueled by my dream of finding the one, the one my kids and grandkids will recognize as “Dads/Grandpas” knife. The problem is there are so many fascinating options out there and I am still very much in the hunt and gather phase of experimenting. I tend to use the carbon steel blade knives more often cause I like the satisfaction of a slow earned patina, but also understand the piece of mind with stainless. I consider my knives to be a collection even used and reduced in value.. they are a collection because they bring me joy and satisfaction not really cause I can sell them, although I do buy and sell a good amount. And finally I really enjoy reading write ups, opinions, watching videos and drooling over Instagram/Forum pictures. Color me either a hybrid, scatterbrained or confused lol I just like traditional pocket knives. Also, eagerly awaiting my cocobolo from Mike. Who knows how I will like it, but they look amazing.

 

[Pàdruig]

I enjoyed reading your analysis and I think you hit all the boxes.

I would also consider myself a mix. My overriding goal/fantasy is that each knife would be a user at least occasionally. My hunt is fueled by my dream of finding the one, the one my kids and grandkids will recognize as “Dads/Grandpas” knife. The problem is there are so many fascinating options out there and I am still very much in the hunt and gather phase of experimenting. I tend to use the carbon steel blade knives more often cause I like the satisfaction of a slow earned patina, but also understand the piece of mind with stainless. I consider my knives to be a collection even used and reduced in value.. they are a collection because they bring me joy and satisfaction not really cause I can sell them, although I do buy and sell a good amount. And finally I really enjoy reading write ups, opinions, watching videos and drooling over Instagram/Forum pictures. Color me either a hybrid, scatterbrained or confused lol I just like traditional pocket knives. Also, eagerly awaiting my cocobolo from Mike. Who knows how I will like it, but they look amazing.

I can relate to everything you stated, very nicely said.

 

[JustinR]

I like to think of myself as a collector who isn't a fan of mint condition knives. I enjoy using them and adding my own character as much as I enjoy the collecting aspect.

I tend to have high turnover simply because my knife budget is finite. Also the means in which we have to procure GEC knives is that I sometimes have to put my name on something....just to find out if I will like it. I may not have a chance to buy one on the secondary market. A lot of my turn over is simply knives I didn't particularly care for after receiving them in hand.


With all that being said, I'm looking forward to receiving my stag 44 one of these days.

 

[JTB_5]

I like to think of myself as a collector who isn't a fan of mint condition knives. I enjoy using them and adding my own character as much as I enjoy the collecting aspect.

I tend to have high turnover simply because my knife budget is finite. Also the means in which we have to procure GEC knives is that I sometimes have to put my name on something....just to find out if I will like it. I may not have a chance to buy one on the secondary market. A lot of my turn over is simply knives I didn't particularly care for after receiving them in hand.


With all that being said, I'm looking forward to receiving my stag 44 one of these days.

Similar here, mate

 

[extrastout]

Get a leather slip .
I’m a lefty and normally just use my index finger to partially open it enough to pinch open the rest of the way . Works great on a knife with a bear trap pull lol . Although the 44 isn’t that bad after the first 1/4 inch or so it does firm up a bit .

I had the KSF leather slip...I just do not have room in my main pocket. They always end up sideways and uncomfortable. I only carry slippies in the watch pocket and with shorts my back pocket. Clip blades are all I will use in the main pocket...they stay put. Like I said, great knife just caught me off guard a bit. Made a return for shop credit today. See what comes out next

 

[extrastout]

If you’re looking for a watch pocket knife, you’re really better off with a smaller frame like a #14 pattern or a Peanut, IMO. Certainly not a full size Gunstock pattern like this #44.

the 35 churchill works fine in my watch pocket and its longer. But because its lighter and thinner it does not pop around, I forget its there. I had 56 Bird Dog which is dual spring 3.5" and I had no pocket problems with this blade at all. My Northwoods little bay covers the #14 pattern and likes the watch pocket.....The 44 just isn't for me. Great to look at and play with, but thats not what I'm looking for

 

[DelOro]

The long awaited #44 CocoBrass Buffalo just arrived ---> Wow!!!

 

[extrastout]

I used to think that their were simply two types of knife owners: Users and Collectors.

I am inclined to believe that are actually three types: Users | Collectors | Social Media Connoisseurs (for lack of a better term)

Users are folks who, despite being knife enthusiasts, still want a knife in the pocket to use for whatever needs that might come up. They treat their knives as tools and typically are more concerned with function and cutting abilities versus its aesthetic properties.

Collectors are folks who are not as concerned with function and/or cutting edge, but they do care about aesthetics, do not want blemishes, and treat their knives as more of an investment. I am putting this in simple terms for the sake of the conversation but the mind and desires of a collector can be rather nuanced and I do not want to disparage that in any way, shape, or form.

Social Media Connoisseurs are a weird hybrid of sorts and I think they reflect a bit of the "crossover" that Mike mentioned earlier. They typically go through a rather high volume of knives, they buy and sell A LOT. They care about aesthetics (first and foremost), construction materials are a very close second, and though they may never use the knife, they care a lot about its function and edge. Virtually every aspect of the knife is combed over, inspected, and judged accordingly. This gives birth to YouTube reviews, pretty Instagram pictures, Reddit discussions, and the like. There is nothing inherently wrong with this as I do believe this gives rise to a heightened enthusiasm and bolsters the knife industry significantly, as Mike has mentioned as well.

I am likely an amalgamation of all three. I use my knives, knowing that they are tools, but I like collecting and there are knives in my collection that I will likely never get around to using all that much. I also care about construction materials, I am mildly concerned with centering, good fit and finish, etc. and I appreciate excellent photography and well written posts.

On the flip side, I do not use my knives particularly hard (unless it is a stout fixed blade), my collection, though burgeoning, is not comprised of strictly mint knives, and I do not go through a large volume of knives and I keep my expectations reasonable.

I guess the point being: There is room in the knife hobby for all sorts of enthusiasts and though some of the complaints can become tiresome, they do contribute to an overall balance that can serve to keep us grounded.

***On a separate note, my Cocobolo and Brass is Out for Delivery and I am super excited***

edit: did not respond to the correct post ....Great points though

 

[Pàdruig]

Im a user and giving a review....I can't use a knife im not comfortable carrying and will fall out of my pocket. Im not hating on the knife. I'm saying why its not for me and im returning it. Wait for the next one to come along. You won't hear me talk about knives I like....because I'm happy and content. There is a reason why these knives end up on the exchange eventually...the blind love fades and they realize the knife really is not for them. All people want to hear is positive assurance on a investment or something they want. This knife was not for me for the reasons I stated. Slip joints are supposed to be pocketable and easy to get at to me. I don't want to carry a pouch on my belt, or deal with dragging the knife out of my pocket...then out of pouch. I rather carry a one hand opener with a pocket clip once I get to this point

I appreciate your comments. I would like to clarify though, my statements were not intended to be a criticism of you or anyone, for that matter. Simply observations on the different sorts of knife enthusiasts who frequent this forum and other platforms.

I have had knives that didn't do it for me and I moved them right along, why should I expect others to not do the same? The recent GEC #46 is a recent example. I was curious, bought one, discovered that I didn't really care for it and then decided to find it a new home.

Your criticisms of the knife here are perfectly appropriate for the forums here and even if folks disagree with you, it does not render your thoughts invalid.

 

[extrastout]

There's people in this knife hobby that will complain if hanged with a new rope!

The only thing worse than reading "positive" reviews and buying a knife (that you end up not liking), is reading "negative" reviews and passing on a knife you wanted to buy (then eventually regret not doing so).

One way offers a simple return and the other usually offers a much higher price on the secondary market.

Life is way to short to waste valuable time complaining --> Enjoy your pocket knives (yummy candies too! ).

Im a user and giving a review....I can't use a knife im not comfortable carrying and will fall out of my pocket. Im not hating on the knife. I'm saying why its not for me and im returning it. Wait for the next one to come along. You won't hear me talk about knives I like....because I'm happy and content. There is a reason why these knives end up on the exchange eventually...the blind love fades and they realize the knife really is not for them. All people want to hear is positive assurance on a investment or something they want. This knife was not for me for the reasons I stated. Slip joints are supposed to be pocketable and easy to get at to me. I don't want to carry a pouch on my belt, or deal with dragging the knife out of my pocket...then out of pouch. I rather carry a one hand opener with a pocket clip once I get to this point

 

[extrastout]

I appreciate your comments. I would like to clarify though, my statements were not intended to be a criticism of you or anyone, for that matter. Simply observations on the different sorts of knife enthusiasts who frequent this forum and other platforms.

I have had knives that didn't do it for me and I moved them right along, why should I expect others to not do the same? The recent GEC #46 is a recent example. I was curious, bought one, discovered that I didn't really care for it and then decided to find it a new home.

Your criticisms of the knife here are perfectly appropriate for the forums here and even if folks disagree with you, it does not render your thoughts invalid.

You beat me....I did not mean to post on your post. Great points!

 

[joeradza]

extrastout
What is it about this particular pattern that is different from others that makes it fall out of your pocket?

 

[extrastout]

extrastout
What is it about this particular pattern that is different from others that makes it fall out of your pocket?

heavier, wider and blockier. my pocket wapped around my 56 bird dog and 35 churchill. They also did not move when walking. The 44 keeps the pocket open and on top of the extra weight pops out when sitting down. I test walked up the street with it and it's just so exposed and shifty in the watch pocket (I wear regular fit jeans...I don't wear skinny jeans btw) . I wanted to like it, the blades are incredible....and a lot of blade for a 3.5" handle. I learned not to fool myself and move on to what will truely make me happy

 

[joeradza]

heavier, wider and blockier. my pocket wapped around my 56 bird dog and 35 churchill. They also did not move when walking. The 44 keeps the pocket open and on top of the extra weight pops out when sitting down. I test walked up the street with it and it's just so exposed and shifty in the watch pocket (I don't wear skinny jeans btw) . I wanted to like it, the blades are incredible....and a lot of blade for a 3.5" handle. I learned not to fool myself and move on to what will truely make me happy

To tell the truth I bought it for its looks. We'll see if it makes it into my rotation. I have the opposite problem that you do. I like them all no matter the size. But being retired and jeans wearing makes me more flexible. Glad to hear about good blade size. Thanks.

 

[JohnDF]

I have had knives that didn't do it for me and I moved them right along,

This! The #56 just didn't work for me. I loved the looks, it rode great in the pocket, but me and that particular spear blade just didn't work out.

 

[Old Engineer]

The long awaited #44 CocoBrass Buffalo just arrived ---> Wow!!!

Those Cocobolos are beautiful knives my friend . I have a few other Gunstocks and I like the pattern a lot and pictures like yours make me very anxious to get mine . Thanks for the great pictures Del.

Harry