Do "collectors" hurt the quality of knives?

[2knife]

.......

 

[Joss]

Is functionality the goal, or is it the flare.. a knife "fashion"-sense.

Flair, flare is something else.

Note that the ABS does not test for "performance". It tests for the ability to reach specific pre-determined results. The question of whether their testing matches well the challenges of knife use is an open one.

 

[R.Coon-Knives]

Second, blueing also alters the quality of the heat treatment.

Please explain how blueing alters the quality of heat treatment. I have never heard this. The Brownell's Oxynate process that I use only calls for a temperature of 292 degrees F, well below the tempering temperature for the steels I use. I think maybe nitre bluing calls for higher temps, but I am not sure.

Thanks,

Raymond Coon
http://www.damascusknife.com

 

[Joss]

This is also what Bailey says, so maybe I'm mistaken.

 

[RMLamey]

Makers should test there own knives.
Ive learned over time to test EVERY knife that i make now (used to test only about 1 in 4).

From a collectors stand point i would not consider buying a knife from a maker that didnt test there knives, and make performance knives to some degree. I would at least, even on a "art" knife, want to know the heat treat, blade geometry and ergonomics were there... if not it becomes something other than a knife IMO.

 

[Keith Montgomery]

Nitre Bluing is done at a temperature of 575 degrees. It can definitely affect the heat treat of a knife.