I think comparing a SAK to a traditional is like comparing a passenger van to a limousine. They both do the same job equally well, but the limo is "prettier". The van actually does more, as one would not think twice about it getting scratched, dinged, dirty, etc. You can take the seats out and load it up, pull a trailer, and much more. Are these things you'd do with a limo? Hell no. Can a limo do more then carry passengers? Probably, but there is no way a limo can take the abuse, nor do the work, that a van can. A van is a dirty job vehicle. A limo is not.
I have a hard time buying a traditional because I just can't justify them. I go to the store, see a knife display, and start looking. However, I ask myself "Self, what can that knife do that your SAK can't?"
Nothing.
Then I ask myself "Self, what can your SAK do that these knives can't?"
And the list immediately starts to grow.
Drive screws, pull splinters, pick teeth, scrape, open cans/bottles, and on and on.
Finally, I ask myself "Ok, self, how about quality? Is the knife in this display better quality then your SAK?"
And the answer is invariably NO. As a matter of fact, regardless of brand, it's usually touch and go. Case, Buck, GEC, Rough Rider, etc are best bought in person, where you can go through the knives and pick the one with no gaps, the right pull, etc.
This is never an issue with SAKs. Well, I'm sure you get the occassional dud, but it is more the exception then the rule. You can pretty much grab any SAK off the hook and it's going to be good to go, perfect in every sense.
Also, it will last just as long, if not longer, then any other knife brand.
However, like a van, it is more functional then aesthetic.
But hey, different strokes for different folks. I find a great amount of both beauty and soul in a dependable, funtional tool. Like my uncle's old, beat up, rusty wrench. It has no bone, stag, or horn. It has no carbon steel. but it has a whole lot of soul.
Again, different strokes for different folks.
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