After looking at the links posted earlier, I emailed their customer service and asked specifically where production takes place. If/when I hear back, I'll post here tomorrow.
Okay - not only did I hear back today, but a VP (Tom Johnson) actually called me at home; he filled me in on some questions from my email.
Short story: most of the Camillus-branded products from Acme United will be imported. A little disappointing, but, in the larger [economic] scheme of things, understandable.
Long story: T
hey (Acme United) are making a concerted effort to make sure quality is on par with the old Camillus brand. To that end, one of their other VP's (VP of technology) is spending a good deal of time traveling to various manufacturing facilities to keep an eye on things, and to help make improvements where possible.
So, that being said, PLEASE - let's not make this political.
According to Mr. Johnson, Acme United is a manufacturer of various products, such as Westcott scissors, etc. They have a small mfg. operation in Arkansas with 40 employees, apparently for scissors; with the Camillus brand, they hope to eventually manufacture as much as possible domestically.
Right now, their steel is made in Japan, and the bulk of their mfg. is done in Taiwan. I'm assuming some manufacturing will be done in China when they feel production costs make it necessary. They are looking at having some lines manufactured in the UK as well.
I had a 10-15 minute conversation with Mr. Johnson, and one point I made rather strongly was the disappointment many felt in the quality of the 'Taylor-made' Schrades that were re-introduced to the U.S. Market after the Schrade closure in 2004. (This of course is my opinion, but I think many here on BF agree.) He assured me that Acme United/Camillus is going to do their best to keep their fit & finish, and quality of materials, where they need to be to compete here.
They seem to be pretty excited about getting the brand back to market, so we'll see what shakes out. I wish them all the best, as they have a tough crowd to please here.
thx - cpr
ps - I didn't ask about the situation where a couple of their patterns & styles seem to be copies of other well-known makes here; if I get a chance later, I'll ask Mr. Johnson his thoughts on that.
