Going to Taiwan and Spyderco manufacturers knives there

D

Dingle1911

Joined
Nov 28, 2005
Messages
755
Good Morning all,
I will be travelling to Taiwan to adopt my daughter this summer and Spyderco happens to manufacture knives there, so pretty cool ones in my opinion. Does anyone know if the plant there is open to the public? I wouldn't mind touring the plant or purchasing some knives while I was there, especially if they are a little cheaper. I have been doing some research on the laws as well and I think I will be okay on that front. Any help from those who have traveled to Taiwan or live there would be appreciated.
 
Most manufacturers here do not open plants to the public for a variety of reasons. In fact, much manufacturing is kept secret - even from overseas buyers. So, I doubt that you'll be getting to see the plant. As for buying the knives here at a cheaper price, unfortunately, I don't think that will happen either. The retailer here that sells knives made for U.S. companies charges two to three times more than you'd pay for the same knife from an online store in the U.S. I'm not faulting them for this. Property prices are high and there are other issues that keep prices up. The only exceptions I've seen are sometimes a knife will be on sale or knives made here that aren't U.S. brands are cheaper. Some of these latter ones are not bad knives for the money. Other than that, some night markets (not all) have some interesting items.

Oh, and if you do somehow get to see where Spydercos are made here, please report back
 
I would not think they would allow random people off the street into a factory like that. I also doubt they would sell you any knives there either. It makes sense that they are licensed to built a product, selling it is a whole different story.
 
You will be so busy with the adoption process and will not have time for any factory tour.

Big congratulations on the adoption of your daughter.
Take lots of photos as they grow so fast!!
I went through the process with my daughter 8 years ago.
 
Yes indeed, congratulations. I should have said it earlier, brst wishes for a smooth process and safe trip home.
 
Taichung is a nice place to go and only a couple of hours (perhaps 3) from Taipei. Very big, modern, and industrial, with lots of high tech companies. I went to Tawian for business a few times and all I can say is that the Taiwanese are just about the best hosts I've ever met. Besides work, Taiwan was just a gastronomic experience after another. What a great place to visit, and what a great people to befriend.

Dingle, there's no telling what may happen until you try. First, you have to find out who the manufacturers are and their contact information. I guess the best way to find out is to give Spyderco a call. Then, call the factories and ask. The worst that can happen is for them to say no, but I would venture to guess that they would be delighted to have you there and would treat you very well. If you go, make sure you bring presents.

Good luck and congrats on your adoption.
 
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I'm very curious. Did you ever contact Spyderco on this? If you're going see the factory and don't mind company, I'd love to go along - assuming I'm not tied up. I drive, can translate, and know good places to eat.
 
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