- Joined
- Jan 4, 1999
- Messages
- 3,000
Normark said:
Ooops. Camillus makes a good percentage of the Cold Steel knives so we may need to delete them from your list.
Now I ask you, Eric, since you made a sheath for one of my Cold Steels (Black Bear Classic) you have to agree objectively that this Japanese made knife is attractive and features near perfect fit and finish. The AUS-8 steel is tough enough to handle anything you would give it this side of abuse. The micarta scales are even shaped for an ergonomic fit to the human hand. The only fixed blades I own personally that I think are better than this knife are my Chris Reeves.I'll side with those who suggest dealing with the company on a product by product basis. Some Cold Steel knives (like my Black Bear) or the original tantos are great - even oustanding - products. Others are acceptable and some are even unacceptable. But all in all, I think you should look past Mr. Thompson's marketing enthusiasm and judge the products. You will find many gems in the lineup.
I often judge products by their return rate. Returns are mostly caused by dissatisfaction for one reason or another. The return rate for Cold Steel knives is so far below 1% I can't really measure it. It is down there with Spyderco, another company whose products satisfy our customers almost every time.
On the other hand, some "cool" and popular brands talked about on this forum have return rates as high as 5% which, for a low margin dealer, is on the verge of unprofitability. There are some fine products in the Cold Steel line. Look for the ones that are made in Japan.