Custom Copies

[alexanderkbaker]

Is it possible to have a custom made copy of a production knife? Is it legal? I have a Gerber Applegate Mini-Covert. I like the design but not the materials used, can I get a better copy?

 

[Keith Montgomery]

It's probably an infrigment of copyright, but I doubt that Gerber is going to be concerned about one copy being made. You will probably have trouble finding a maker willing to do it though. None of the makers I know would be willing to make a direct copy. They may be willing to use the Gerber design as inspiration, but wouldn't make a direct copy.

 

[alexanderkbaker]

Is it considered a copy if you change materials, thicknesses, and possibly locking mechanisim?

 

[Kohai999]

Is it considered a copy if you change materials, thicknesses, and possibly locking mechanisim?

A copy is a copy....however....something like this case, you could PROBABLY have Butch Vallotton make you exactly what you want....and it isn't going to be anywhere NEAR inexpensive.....well over $500.00 US....if that is too rich for your blood, you are probably not going to be able to find what you want.

Best Regards,

STeven Garsson

 

[Keith Montgomery]

Is it considered a copy if you change materials, thicknesses, and possibly locking mechanisim?

It is the overall look of the knife that makes it a copy. If the changes that you want will make the knife look like it was inspired by the Applegate, but not a copy of it, then it wouldn't be considered a copy.