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"byrd" line of knives
- Thread starter Sal Glesser
- Start date
- Joined
- Apr 27, 2003
- Messages
- 5,738
Finally got curious enough about a month ago to pick up one of the Byrd Harriers. Must say Sal's description of the quality is quite accurate (why am I not surprised). Will say that the Harrier feels nice and solid in my hand. I find the heft similar to the Schempp Persian, although the Harrier is a bit smaller, it is a bit thicker. Opening is reasonably smooth, but does require more effort that the Persian, perhaps due to less leverage (hole is closer to pivot), and feels a bit rougher. Grinds are nice and even and both sides match, but a spanish notch might be a worthwhile addition and improve apperance, as they end about 2mm shy of the kick. Fit and finish are really pretty good considering the price point. Only time you know you're looking at a lower cost knife is when you view it from the top, the fit between the bolsters and liners, and between the liners and the backstrap and lockbar are considerably more visible than they are on Spydercos of similar construction. There is a minor amount of blade play in both directions, but I've felt worse on knives that sell for a lot more.
While the Shempp Persian is superior in every way, when you consider that the Byrd Harrier can be found for around a quarter of the price, I am sure there are those who would be willing to overlook its mostly cosmetic flaws.
While the Shempp Persian is superior in every way, when you consider that the Byrd Harrier can be found for around a quarter of the price, I am sure there are those who would be willing to overlook its mostly cosmetic flaws.
hmm, i've noticed the Byrds on the Spyderco website. can't say that i like them.
for what it's worth: i think these are the kind of knives that will be bought by non-knife nuts. example: non-knife-nut enters sports/outdoor-store, wants to buy knife, sees Spydie-display case, likes knives, look at price-tags, says "WTH!? $60-$160 for "just a knife" ?! , notices Byrd-line directly next to the Spydies, thinks 'look OK too', appreciates lower price-tag, buys Byrd-knife.......
one advice Sal, if there was to develop only a single hint of problems with Byrd-knives in case of quality, drop the line immediately then so you won't compromise Spyderco's excellent brand-reputation. be careful with that new line and keep a VERY close eye on what's going to happen with it.
just my 2cts.
dennis
for what it's worth: i think these are the kind of knives that will be bought by non-knife nuts. example: non-knife-nut enters sports/outdoor-store, wants to buy knife, sees Spydie-display case, likes knives, look at price-tags, says "WTH!? $60-$160 for "just a knife" ?! , notices Byrd-line directly next to the Spydies, thinks 'look OK too', appreciates lower price-tag, buys Byrd-knife.......
one advice Sal, if there was to develop only a single hint of problems with Byrd-knives in case of quality, drop the line immediately then so you won't compromise Spyderco's excellent brand-reputation. be careful with that new line and keep a VERY close eye on what's going to happen with it.
just my 2cts.
dennis
- Joined
- Mar 26, 2004
- Messages
- 24,580
I did a google search to see what the heck the knife was (I too missed seeing the thread originally--guess I wasn't a Spyderco fan yet), and I saw that quite a few sites were offering the 2 for 1 deal with the Harrier.Neko2 said:Looks like they sold out already...
N2
It's an interesting idea for a venture, and I hope it's working out. It does seem weird though, almost like a officially sanctioned knock-off. Spyderco Delica/Endura knock-offs are everywhere. You can buy them at Ace Hardware for $5, or on ebay for a penny. It looks like Spyderco is giving an alternative knock-off for not-that-much more, but about 1000X the quality. AUS6 isn't the latest ubersteel, but it's far better than the un-heat treated pot metal the knock-offs use, and the lock won't give from a 5mph spine whack.
How well is the line doing, Sal? It'd be cool if you could give us an update.
Sal Glesser
Moderator
- Joined
- Dec 27, 1998
- Messages
- 11,668
If you are considering a byrd knife, I would look at the "Cara Cara" and "Meadowlark". The original "Harrier" did not meet our standards.
The "Cara Cara" and "Meadowlark" in fit & finish, out of box sharpness, as well as action will impress.
sal
The "Cara Cara" and "Meadowlark" in fit & finish, out of box sharpness, as well as action will impress.
sal
- Joined
- May 1, 2004
- Messages
- 1,240
Hello Sal,
I think they are nice designed, but i am curious about the quality of manufacturing.
I hope it will be better than Kabar imported knives or other brands that started to do more imports like manufacturing and developing their own models.. Wish you a lot of luck by the first customers, hopefully Byrd knives will find its "nest" on the market.
Best Regards,
Jano
Slovakia
I think they are nice designed, but i am curious about the quality of manufacturing.
I hope it will be better than Kabar imported knives or other brands that started to do more imports like manufacturing and developing their own models.. Wish you a lot of luck by the first customers, hopefully Byrd knives will find its "nest" on the market.
Best Regards,
Jano
Slovakia
- Joined
- Sep 27, 2004
- Messages
- 8
Saw the knives at the show in NY gave Sal my input thats the end good luck spyderco. But for gloockman99 semper fi. What the hell are you talking in circles? Who gives a rats ass, real marines thats who. Like you said taking away american jobs.So you know what i say? When there is no more work in USA try and eat your knife. I'm done with you
- Joined
- Sep 27, 2004
- Messages
- 8
the reason i got from sal why the line is called byrd. Because over time the only specie that has servived was the bird
Happy New Year Sal when you see this can you tell me if you looked at the harpy i sent to you
Happy New Year Sal when you see this can you tell me if you looked at the harpy i sent to you
Simona said:So, im going under my massage shower (Taiwan), and i will wipe my body with nice blue towel (Taiwan), i will jump to my color slippers (Taiwan)
...........and! now i switch on my Sony notebook (JAPAN) and i will see, what time is, Rolex (Swiss), and maybe, when you will pester, i will cut you with my Spyderco Gunting(USA) ...
LMAO
I think the Byrd line is a great idea!!! I love Spydercos and want to see the company stay successful and solvent.
To cut costs, companies like Buck have compromised by making things in Taiwan but still marking them under their name. This has made many Buck fans mad (just go to the Buck site in BladeForums and see). I believe that Buck has vision and cutting costs increased their market share, which is why they probably haven't gone belly-up yet (like Schrade).
I think Sal's idea of making a lower cost knife under a different name should prevent discontent (or in theory should) among die hard Spyderco fans. It will for me. I guess that's why Sal's the Pres. Kudo's again Sal. I hope the Byrd's fly.
Mike
To cut costs, companies like Buck have compromised by making things in Taiwan but still marking them under their name. This has made many Buck fans mad (just go to the Buck site in BladeForums and see). I believe that Buck has vision and cutting costs increased their market share, which is why they probably haven't gone belly-up yet (like Schrade).
I think Sal's idea of making a lower cost knife under a different name should prevent discontent (or in theory should) among die hard Spyderco fans. It will for me. I guess that's why Sal's the Pres. Kudo's again Sal. I hope the Byrd's fly.
Mike
If you can't beat them join them. What Spyderco is doing is no different than GM and Ford buying parts from the world market. It's a money issue. Profitability is the main driving force of any company. Don't assume that loyalty to the US plays any role in the quest for profits. If that were the case, US manufacturers would buy more US made product and US consumers would walk past the cheap products and stick with "Made in the USA". The reason China is a player is the US consumer "consumed" the cheaper products with no regard to manufactured location. Not everone did but the majority did and it has put a huge hurt on US manufacturing in general. You can complain that Sal's selling out somewhat, but after browsing this thread, the "majority" of you are more than willing to buy the cheaper product. Don't blame Sal, he has to be profitable. Don't blame the government, they don't control China's economy. Look in the mirror.
Hi Sal,
I think you have cahunas (sp? -
to be as straightforward about this as you are being. There's no doubt about the quality and integrity of Spyderco products and the people behind them, but the USA remains a capitalist country (thank God), and economics 101 demands that Spyderco acknowledge the trends, and, what you need to change to remain financially solvent.
I wish you the best of luck with this new slant on selling knives. I will definately check out one of these new knives, and come to my own conclusions as to their quality vs. price comparison for my needs. I look at it as if these were merely different Spyderco models that I either like, or don't - for whatever reason.
In any case, I'll remain a loyal customer.
edb
I think you have cahunas (sp? -
to be as straightforward about this as you are being. There's no doubt about the quality and integrity of Spyderco products and the people behind them, but the USA remains a capitalist country (thank God), and economics 101 demands that Spyderco acknowledge the trends, and, what you need to change to remain financially solvent.I wish you the best of luck with this new slant on selling knives. I will definately check out one of these new knives, and come to my own conclusions as to their quality vs. price comparison for my needs. I look at it as if these were merely different Spyderco models that I either like, or don't - for whatever reason.
In any case, I'll remain a loyal customer.
edb
- Joined
- Jun 6, 2000
- Messages
- 3,625
The range is no aimed at hardcore Spyderco users, obviously.
Tonyknives, why the bad attitude? We are all friends here.
Tonyknives, why the bad attitude? We are all friends here.
- Joined
- Sep 27, 2004
- Messages
- 8
Bad attitiude why not .Nothing against spyderco all the capitolist are doing it. I am union all the way and the next step is our jobs here. When we have nothing i guess i'll go to china and i am sure i can get work their. We give our jobs away in this country and send our manufacturing over seas . Help every one else with their problems by giving our money and our lives. Is it helping us here?
Sal Glesser
Moderator
- Joined
- Dec 27, 1998
- Messages
- 11,668
Thanx for all of your comments. Appreciate.
The "byrd" line is a cost effective alternative to Spyderco models. Toyota just introduced their Scion. It is their "byrd".
We must be loyal to the needs of our customers. I too feel the "crunch" and all of the ramifications of oursourcing. But I will be honest with you about it.
We are still increasing production in our USA plant. We will make as many USA made knives as our capacity permits and the public will pay for. We are also an international company with many customers overseas that we service.
As a small company, we have to be broad in our offerings.
Not too many companies out there can make a Kiwi, Persian or Kopa. (Maybe William Henry). The craftsmanship is approaching art.
Our "Tacticals" will compete with the "best" out there.
Our basic line, "Endura, Delica, Native, Dragonfly, etc. will continue to evolve, be refined and be made with the best materials to the highest standards.
Our "byrds" will be well designed, by Eric, myself and some custom makers. Spyderco will control quality, materials, ergonomics and makers. We'll dull 'em, break 'em, rust 'em like we do Spyderco knives. They will be as good as they can be. They will not match Spyderco because the materials like VG-10 are simply not available there. I expect "byrds" to have good offerings at affordable prices with innovation and quality. Let's "hide 'n watch". We'll extend our best effort to impress you.
In the knife industry, many of the industry's makers have shifted to "semi-legal" knives (balisongs, assisted openers, autos, very large folders, etc.).
Many like Buck, Kabar and Gerber are already in China.
We're beginning to make bali's, We're making "byrds".
And if we're lucky, we'll be able to continue to provide a small group of very astute knife aficianados and larger group of "working people" a good variety of high quality knife products.
Hi Tony, I feel you concern. I was born and raised in Brooklyn (Stone & Dumont) and the Bronx.
I have family and friends in New York and I understand the unions. I don't have an answer. But I do know that part of the answer is to survive. As wages are affected, price becomes a big issue, which in turn drives down wages, etc.
As Satrang mentioned, many Americans can not or choose not to buy the more costly American made products. Watch the auto makers and airlines. Even the "big" industries are affected.
I did get your knife, thanx. I'm looking into it.
Hey Edb. It is the Spyderco way. Our "core values" are consistent. One goal is to be "transparent" and "fair". That is how to build trust. Another goal is to provide "real" value. That is how to attract intelligent and repeat customers.
sal
The "byrd" line is a cost effective alternative to Spyderco models. Toyota just introduced their Scion. It is their "byrd".
We must be loyal to the needs of our customers. I too feel the "crunch" and all of the ramifications of oursourcing. But I will be honest with you about it.
We are still increasing production in our USA plant. We will make as many USA made knives as our capacity permits and the public will pay for. We are also an international company with many customers overseas that we service.
As a small company, we have to be broad in our offerings.
Not too many companies out there can make a Kiwi, Persian or Kopa. (Maybe William Henry). The craftsmanship is approaching art.
Our "Tacticals" will compete with the "best" out there.
Our basic line, "Endura, Delica, Native, Dragonfly, etc. will continue to evolve, be refined and be made with the best materials to the highest standards.
Our "byrds" will be well designed, by Eric, myself and some custom makers. Spyderco will control quality, materials, ergonomics and makers. We'll dull 'em, break 'em, rust 'em like we do Spyderco knives. They will be as good as they can be. They will not match Spyderco because the materials like VG-10 are simply not available there. I expect "byrds" to have good offerings at affordable prices with innovation and quality. Let's "hide 'n watch". We'll extend our best effort to impress you.
In the knife industry, many of the industry's makers have shifted to "semi-legal" knives (balisongs, assisted openers, autos, very large folders, etc.).
Many like Buck, Kabar and Gerber are already in China.
We're beginning to make bali's, We're making "byrds".
And if we're lucky, we'll be able to continue to provide a small group of very astute knife aficianados and larger group of "working people" a good variety of high quality knife products.
Hi Tony, I feel you concern. I was born and raised in Brooklyn (Stone & Dumont) and the Bronx.
I have family and friends in New York and I understand the unions. I don't have an answer. But I do know that part of the answer is to survive. As wages are affected, price becomes a big issue, which in turn drives down wages, etc.
As Satrang mentioned, many Americans can not or choose not to buy the more costly American made products. Watch the auto makers and airlines. Even the "big" industries are affected.
I did get your knife, thanx. I'm looking into it.
Hey Edb. It is the Spyderco way. Our "core values" are consistent. One goal is to be "transparent" and "fair". That is how to build trust. Another goal is to provide "real" value. That is how to attract intelligent and repeat customers.
sal
these are very interesting knives, great styling and such. I probly wont buy one unless a lefty friendly one comes out, and then I am still trying to keep my knife buying down to something soundly justifiable.
As for chinese quality, thats not an oxymoron. Here is an example, Abit is a Tiwanese company that makes computer parts, technically they market them. They are made in China by a "different" company, confusing stuff. Bottom line is though, they have some of the best quality controll. I think its great that you are expanding to these knives, they may sacrafice some in quality of the blade and some materials, but you can get a reasonably functional, great looking knife for less money.
As for chinese quality, thats not an oxymoron. Here is an example, Abit is a Tiwanese company that makes computer parts, technically they market them. They are made in China by a "different" company, confusing stuff. Bottom line is though, they have some of the best quality controll. I think its great that you are expanding to these knives, they may sacrafice some in quality of the blade and some materials, but you can get a reasonably functional, great looking knife for less money.