I lusted after the Commander for years so finally popped the cork on a lightly used mini on BF. Was excited to finally get a grail knife. Got it and traded it away for a knife that cuts much better, looks much better, and is stronger. Mine came with very rough opening mechanics (that were not due to former owner abuse), obtuse edges (with factory grind), poor finish on the one side scales, and in general unimpressed with the execution. I was willing to give the brand another go until reading this thread. I refuse to support somebody that outright lies about the subject matter at hand, regardless of his connections- there is no way that his blanket statement in the OP can be known by him, and is therefore false (unless somebody provides a list of all members involved and an affidavit from each stating that the only cutlery they carried was Emerson). I will never understand fanaticism as is evident on this board (and many other manufacturer/maker forum), and it does shove people away (Strider, Busse are great examples of this). As owner, Mr. Emerson has the right to build as he sees fit, but his responses here to constructive criticism I feel was uncalled for, and his bravado about what he has done (OP) has absolutely nothing to do with people calling his fit and finish into question. Beating around the bush and treating people the way I perceive them is unbecoming of a man of his position. A simple "Thank you for your consideration, however 154CM best exhibits the properties that we are looking for. The level of fit and finish that we complete our product with is in line with our expenses and profits, and currently our business model works extremely well for us, and has in the past. Rest assured that our development department is always looking at ways to improve our product while maintaining the business profile that has led us to be successful for the past 20+ years. Thank you for taking the time to discuss your concerns with us, we hope your next Emerson knife is one that you will cherish for years to come, and beat the ever loving hell out of it as you do."
But I guess hardcores cannot be polite or considerate so must insult everybody that is not a hardcore fan, wants to ask a serious question or has some constructive criticism about how they feel the product could be improved.
I've always found the products to be overpriced, and once in hand I felt that the value for the dollar wasn't there. Now the over the top comments by the owner have taken this company into the "only if the trade is outstanding" category of adding to my collection.
My opinion, hate if you want, love if you want, but accept that it is my opinion based on numerous factors that I have used to determine how I feel on this matter. This thread did not help the manufacturer.