Custom ordering question??????

B

Bo

Joined
Aug 12, 1999
Messages
351
I am fairly new to custom knives. I have aquired several nice pieces but most have been made by the maker and not made to my specs.

I have recently starting ordering to my specs and have noticed the some makers are represented by one or more dealers of custom knives who will also aid in the ordering of custom made knives.

Is it better to go through one of these dealers or direct to the maker. I ask this because I have had a couple orders not go smoothly due to time delays and forgotten specs and so on. Does the dealer help keep things on track?
 
I haven't got lots of experience but i think it's best to speak directly to the maker. Just make sure you both agreed on the specs.
 
I have been collecting custom knives for 30 years. I always follow up my conversations with a letter to the maker detailing what I think I have agreed to with the maker. This generally results in no problems, but not always. I always feel it is better to deal with the maker than a dealer. For me, the discussions with the maker is the fun part along with the waiting. I would find it very boring to just buy a knife from a dealer. When I get the knife and it meets my expectations, its on to the next thing!
 
I sell my knives through one dealer. Kevin Pensinger at www.theedgeequipment.com. Kevin knows my line and capabilities as well as I do. He can put together a custom order, provide great customer sevice and send both myself and customer confirmation. I'm sure the other makers that Kevin represents would also agree.
Kevin's Emailed specs are also easier for me to read than my own handwritten ones
wink.gif

Neil

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Talonite???Stellite!!!
Knives in STOCK!!


blackwoodknives.com
 
Hi Bo,

There is the case to be made with working directly with the dealer.

As George pointed out "one less link in the chain to cause errors".

However, there is a case to be made with working with a dealer in this area. Especially, if the work is in demand.

Dealers by their very nature will have more input with a maker than the average customer.
In some cases dealers will spend Tens of Thousands of dollars a year with a maker.

Also, dealers will get the knife first. If something is not right, they can send it back and have it corrected before you ever see it.

Another advantage in working with a dealer (some dealers to be specific) is that if you decide to trade or sell the knife you can go back to the dealer. Most makers I know do not take trade in's.

So the arguement can be made either way. But as many have suggested, get it in writing. That way everyone is literally on the same sheet.

Good Luck.


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Les Robertson
Custom Knife Entrepreneur

http://www.robertsoncustomcutlery.com
 
Thanks to all. I think my error was explained. I talked with them on the phone and sent email but I never sent snail mail. I will do that next time.
 
Dealers can be very helpful, especially on pieces where it's not possible to get it from the maker directly. However, whenever possible I get it directly from the maker. One of the joys of a custom knife is the direct connection to the maker. It makes it more personal. Whenever I meet or talk with a maker I've bought from, there's a special feeling there. There are some makers that will more readily service a knife that's bought directly from them. On the other hand, in certain cases, the added clout of a dealer may come in handy. Enjoy them where ever they come from!
 
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