Is it ok to post a link in your thread to direct a person somewhere?

G

Golden Gate Bridge

Joined
Oct 13, 2014
Messages
131
Suppose you are trying to show somebody something. Is it ok to post a link to show them where to go to see what you are talking about in the thread?
 
If you like to an auction site, counterfeit sellers site, or anything else that violates the rules, no. I get the feeling you are blatantly ignoring the multiple links to the rules you've been sent.

Rules For The Exchange & Discussion Forums - (All Rules Apply Site-Wide)
http://www.bladeforums.com/forums/announcement.php?f=699&a=98
Solicitation:
Asking a member to click on a link, subscribe to a channel or website, provide feedback, donate money or goods, or “Like” a page on Facebook is considered solicitation. Our members should not be subjected to this type of spam especially under the guise that they may win something. Spark (Site Admin.) does occasionally authorize solicitations for carefully selected causes. Persons seeking such an exemption MUST apply to Spark and MUST wait to receive that authorization before making any such posts.
Click to expand...
 
Last edited:
RevDevil said:
If you like to an auction site, counterfeit sellers site, or anything else that violates the rules, no. I get the feeling you are blatantly ignoring the multiple links to the rules you've been sent.
Click to expand...

Is AliExpress or ExDuct considered a counterfeit site? I'm not sure, but I think they sell many of the Chinese manufactured and shipped knives like Sanrenmu, Enlan, Ganzo and maybe counterfeit knives. I don't know. I'm not an expert in this field and I've have not taken notes.

How is a person supposed to know if a knife is a counterfeit or authentic? If you go to AliExpress and type in Chris Reeve Sebenza, that's what they will show you. The seller does NOT state that they are selling a counterfeit knife so how would a person be expected to know?

How about a copy knife? What defines a copy knife? How much different does a knife have to be before it is not a copy knife? How is a person supposed to know whether the knife is a copy or an original. Again, nothing in the sellers ad stating whether or not they are in violation of copyright/patent laws. If you don't know what the original knife looks like, how would you expect to know that it is a copy?

I tried to ask these questions in a thread, and it was closed down by a moderator. I think it's a valid question that should be discussed, not censored.

I'm not trying to be argumentative, just stating the facts.
 
You know full well the answer. Read more post less. Your persistence is is going to be the end of your time here. If your posts keep getting closed by moderators, and you keep hearing the same thing over and over again, why are you not getting the hint? If you want to discuss that topic, you should find somewhere else to discuss it.

You were told again and again, you need to consult legal advice to get an answer to your questions. Your fixation with Chris Reeve counterfeit items is disturbing, I asked you to email or contact them as they would be the authority on how they define copyright violation, infringement, and what they do to such sellers. If I was not abundantly clear earlier, no the links to the places you asked about is a strong, resounding no.
 
Golden Gate Bridge said:
Is AliExpress or ExDuct considered a counterfeit site? I'm not sure, but I think they sell many of the Chinese manufactured and shipped knives like Sanrenmu, Enlan, Ganzo and maybe counterfeit knives. I don't know. I'm not an expert in this field and I've not taken notes.

How is a person supposed to know if a knife is a counterfeit or authentic? If you go to AliExpress and type in Chris Reeve Sebenza, that's what they will show you. The seller does NOT state that they are selling a counterfeit knife so how would a person be expected to know?

How about a copy knife? What defines a copy knife? How much different does a knife have to be before it is not a copy knife? How is a person supposed to know whether the knife is a copy or an original. Again, nothing in the sellers ad stating whether or not they are in violation of copyright/patent laws. If you don't know what the original knife looks like, how would you expect to know that it is a copy?

I tried to ask these questions in a thread, and it was closed down by a moderator. I think it's a valid question that should be discussed, not censored.
Click to expand...

Even if the knives were legit, you cannot link to dealers that are not listed dealers here, dealers who support this site.
Don't overthink it; if people get annoyed and moderators shut it down, you're very likely on the wrong path. ;)
 
RevDevil said:
If you like to an auction site, counterfeit sellers site, or anything else that violates the rules, no. I get the feeling you are blatantly ignoring the multiple links to the rules you've been sent.
Click to expand...

Is it accurate to say that in that link, ttp://www.bladeforums.com/forums/an...php?f=699&a=98

Section 3 applies to what can be posted in a thread?

Here is everything in that link:

Thank you for choosing BladeForums.com. These rules have been compiled based on over a decade of experience, user feedback and inter-forum cooperation. If you have any questions about how rules apply to your situation, please address the moderation staff in the Tech Support Subforum. Please bear in mind that all rules apply site-wide unless stated otherwise. Honesty, integrity, and clear communication is expected from members here on out.

SECTION 1- Membership Levels Defined:

BladeForums.com is supported by members who have paid subscriptions. These different subscription levels offer various perks and benefits. As such, only certain membership levels may advertise items and services for sale on this site. Below are some general guidelines as to what priviledges each membership has within this area. Put it another way, without the appropriate level of paid subscription, you may not advertise or sell on this site. Period. No excuses.

MANUFACTURERS - Manufacturers & their designated moderators may offer items for sale in their dedicated Hosted Manufacturer Forum. Manufacturers are encouraged to contact us regarding a Hosted Manufacturer forum.

DEALER / MATERIALS PROVIDER - Dealers are defined as anyone who purchases at wholesale pricing, or purchases items with the intent to resell (flipping). Other terms for dealers include purveyor, broker, reseller, etc. Materials Providers offer raw materials such as steel, handle materials, or other items related to knifemaking in general as typical stock for sale to the forum members or to the general public via their own store front or website.

KNIFEMAKER / CRAFTSMAN / SERVICE PROVIDER (hearafter referred to as "Knifemaker") - Knifemaker's are allowed to sell items that they have personally created or modified in the KnifeMaker For Sale forums, or their own Hosted KnifeMaker Forum. If you are a knifemaker or craftsman and would like your own Hosted KnifeMaker Forum, please contact us.

PLATINUM or GOLD - Platinum or Gold members are allowed to post in any of the Individual For Sale or Trade forums. They may sell items in the For Sale By Individuals, and can list items for Trade as well.

BASIC MEMBERS - Basic members are not allowed to post items for sale. You may post items for Trade in the Wanted To Trade Forums, or post requests for items to purchase in the Wanted To Buy Forums.

REGISTERED USERS - The first level of membership. If you have not purchased a paid subscription, you are by default a Registered User. As such, you are very limited to posting areas in the Exchange. You may respond to threads where you mean to purchase an item, or trade. You are not allowed to create threads for Selling or Trading (but you may respond to existing ads). You do have the ability to create Want To Buy threads.

*The only members who may promote or display their personally built knives, their products, or services in the discussion threads, signature, home page listing or their user profile are "Manufacturers", "Dealers", and "Knifemaker/Craftsman/Service Provider".*


SECTION 2 - Rules/Procedures for Selling, Buying, Trading, & Offering Services:
The implementation of common sense is strongly encouraged beyond this point. This applies directly to the persons involved in the transactions.

Sellers/Selling -
Be 100% sure that you want to sell the item, have it in your possession and clearly list the selling price. There is no "testing the waters" or "gauge buyer interest".
No sales for third parties. If your "friend" wants an item sold, they must create their own account and list it themselves.
Activate/Enable your ability to receive email and private messaging, from members, moderators, and administrators; you must also display your correct membership level.
When describing your items, be honest and provide an accurate & detailed description of the item. Don't forget to mention defects, blemishes, new, used, or other problems. When in doubt, be pessimistic with your descriptions. If you have a problem being honest, upfront, and are unable to honor your word then you do not belong here.
Provide as many photos as possible, in the best lighting possible. It's always nice for buyers to see what they are going to get. Threads with pictures sell items faster than those without.
Be specific with all details of payment. There is no eBay style auctioning allowed. If you want to entertain trade offers, say so in your sales thread (For Sale Or Trade); it is allowed.
If you have a Gold or higher membership you may list currently active threads in your signature space. Please, no giant billboards and no links to eBay.
Consolidate your threads. If you have multiple knives to sell, post them in a single thread. Or you can do different threads on different days. You are only allowed 1 sales thread, per day, per forum. Let's keep it fair for everyone.
You must wait 14 days (2 weeks) to relist an item for the second time. So once you list an item for sale, that item cannot appear for a second time in a sales thread until 2 weeks have passed from the date of the original thread.


Buyers/Buying -
Be 100% sure that you can financially afford to purchase the item before offering to do so. If you cannot commit 100% to buying the item, then move along. Be responsible and use your best judgement.
Ask any questions needed before the deal is agreed upon, make sure you want the item being sold and that the price is affordable to you.
Be prompt with your payment. The seller has the right to determine how they want payment and if they will work with you.
Provide an accurate shipping address. Make sure the seller has that shipping address. Open and clear communication via email or Private Messaging is encouraged between the parties involved for every detail of the transaction.
Do not post in a person's thread unless you have an implicit interest in buying the item. Posts like, "Nice knife!", "Why is the price so high/low?", "I wish I had funds" are not allowed. This means absolutely no commentary or feedback in someone's sales thread. Seriously, if you stomp on someone's ad, your account can and will be locked. The only exception to this is in the Knife Makers Market areas (if the maker/craftsman requests and welcomes feedback)
Malicious Buyers will be permanently banned from the forums. Repeatedly flaking on deals and buying items only to turn around and complain is also not a good idea. Don't waste our time.
If you must back out of a deal, it is YOUR responsibility to communicate with the other person WHY you are unable to complete the transaction. Make sure this happens BEFORE any money or items have been exchanged. Problems should be attempted to be resolved between the persons involved, before Feedback threads are started.
Warning: You as a buyer are responsible for using Paypal as it was intended, according to their Terms of Service. Using the "Gift" option revokes any buyer protection you may have if something goes wrong and makes it easier to get scammed. Be smart and protect yourself, if you use gift and get scammed don't come crying to us about it as you've already been advised.


Service Providers -
Be sure that you can offer the service you specify in the time frame agreed upon, for the price you have offered.
Provide as many photos as possible, in the best lighting possible.
List your prices and terms clearly in your threads or website, don't make potential buyers guess.
Keep your customers updated. If you have personal or other that arise unexpectedly, communicate that to your customers and keep them informed within reasonable time frames as to when the work will be completed. Failure to do this can lead to your account being locked.
Do not attempt to sell or ship illegal items using Bladeforums as an intermediary.
Choosing to ignore these responsibilities can result in a locked account and suspension of privileges.
Repeated failure to communicate, deliver on time, or provide acceptable services can result in infractions leading to a locked account.


Traders/Trading -
Be honest and provide an accurate and detailed description of the item. Forgetting to mention defects, blemishes, or other problems is not acceptable. When in doubt, be pessimistic with your descriptions.
Provide as many photos as possible, in the best lighting possible. It's always nice to see what you are about to trade for.
If you choose not to use insurance to save money, any repercussions will fall on you (Shipper). Insurance is there to protect you, use it.
Package and ship your items in such a way that they are safe to handle, will not arrived damaged, and will reach their final destination intact.
Do NOT post cash value equivalents in your trade threads.
Communication is key, honor your word. If you say you will do something, then do it.


Want to Buy Knives or Gear -
Make it clear in your thread the item(s) you want. List the condition of the item you are looking for (New in Box, Used, Refurbished, etc.)
If you have a Gold or higher membership you may list currently active threads in your signature. Please, no giant billboards.
Activate/Enable your ability to receive email and private messaging, from members, moderators, and administrators.
We strongly recommend that both parties quote the agreed upon terms to each other via email, private message, visitor message so both parties understand their obligations.
Communication is key, honor your word. If you say you will do something, then do it.


Dealers/Selling -
You must have a current DEALER membership to sell on this site.
You are allowed to have any other level of membership and take part in discussions, but unless you have a DEALER membership you may not:
Mention or link to your business in any way (not applicable to Knifemakers)
Use private messaging to sell to members
Include your business name in your username
Use your signature or avatar to promote your business.
Take part in any discussions involving your business OUTSIDE the Feedback forum.


SECTION 3 - Rules for Everyone -
If any rules seem contradictory, the more stringent rules apply. Whenever there is doubt, ask the moderation staff.
Selling on this site is restricted to the appropriate designated forums. Don't list sales threads outside the Exchange, especially without the appropriate membership.
Do not list items or offer services that are illegal. This includes counterfeit, clone, and knock off items. We don't want them here, period.
THREAD NECROMANCY IS HIGHLY DISCOURAGED. Do not bump threads that are older than 120 days. Send the seller a message instead via their profile page.
Make sure your threads are posted in the correct sections. Posting a watch for sale belongs in "Gadgets & Gear", not in "Fixed Blades", and so on.
These forums operate on honesty and integrity. As such, we have a dim view of people who act dishonestly. Your actions in the community have consequences, even if they happen elsewhere., something to keep in mind.
Duplicate/shill/returning banned members can be banned upon discovery. If you need accounts merged, simply start a thread in Tech Support requesting such, you will be provided instructions on how to proceed.
Sellers can keep or delete the prices in their thread, it is their prerogative.

SECTION 4 - Rules for Feedback -
All feedback on sales or trades must be kept to the Feedback Forum and/or iTrader.
It is not mandatory to leave feedback, but it is highly recommended. It serves an important purpose sharing your good and bad experiences with the community.
We will not edit feedback for you unless it's an obvious error (ie negative rating). You can report it using the black triangle button on the iTrader page.
Retaliatory negative feedback ratings can earn you an infraction. Getting pissed off because a deal didn't go though is no reason to try and ruin someones rep. You are expected to conduct yourself in a mature and responsible manner.
If a deal did not happen, there is no iTrader Feedback to leave.
Threads started in the Feedback: G, B, & U section should contain facts that support your reason for starting a thread. Remember there is a difference between opinion and fact. Keep your topic civil or hold off posting until you've composed yourself. Complaining about a person that has exercised their rights as a seller or buyer does no good, and it may backfire on you.

SECTION 5 - Miscellaneous -
WHAT IS MY KNIFE / GADGET / SPATULA / TUNING FORK WORTH ?!?!?!?!
In order to curtail potential abuse of membership privileges associated with the forums, questions regarding valuation of knives and collections are limited to those with a membership level which permits selling on this site. Accordingly, registered and basic members may not start or post in threads with such requests whether with the intent to sell or for informational purposes only. This rule applies throughout the site.

Fakes/Homages-
As fakes and homage items are a legal gray area and obviously hurt the hobby, no fake or homage items may be sold on the Exchange. Members may not knowingly sell unlicensed knockoffs or counterfeit versions of knives (or any other goods) based upon the designs of their legitimate owner, manufacturer or custom maker. Additionally, members may not sell any knife or item known or suspected to be other than as described in terms of its lineage and authenticity.

Solicitation:
Asking a member to click on a link, subscribe to a channel or website, provide feedback, donate money or goods, or “Like” a page on Facebook is considered solicitation. Our members should not be subjected to this type of spam especially under the guise that they may win something. Spark (Site Admin.) does occasionally authorize solicitations for carefully selected causes. Persons seeking such an exemption MUST apply to Spark and MUST wait to receive that authorization before making any such posts.
 
Section 3 is a good one.
So is this link Click Here.

The first section here is also good: Click Here

Straight from the fingers of the site owner, the ultimate authority here also the last and final word on the matter.
If this doesn't make sense or somehow fully clarify things for you, I don't what will: Click Here
 
stabman said:
Even if the knives were legit, you cannot link to dealers that are not listed dealers here, dealers who support this site.
Don't overthink it; if people get annoyed and moderators shut it down, you're very likely on the wrong path. ;)
Click to expand...

If linking to a dealer violates the rules here, I think it would be a good idea to put in section 3 so a member knows what is and what is not allowed. It is unreasonable to expect members to read the minds of the website administration.

I think you "do" need to think about it. If your thread gets closed by a moderator, I think it would be a good idea for the moderator to state why it is being closed, if it violated a rule etc. If you don't do that, you can only speculate on why the thread was closed. You cannot run a successful business on that principal. You write policies and procedures that are reasonable and easy to understand.
 
Last edited:
RevDevil said:
You know full well the answer. Read more post less. Your persistence is is going to be the end of your time here. If your posts keep getting closed by moderators, and you keep hearing the same thing over and over again, why are you not getting the hint? If you want to discuss that topic, you should find somewhere else to discuss it.

You were told again and again, you need to consult legal advice to get an answer to your questions. Your fixation with Chris Reeve counterfeit items is disturbing, I asked you to email or contact them as they would be the authority on how they define copyright violation, infringement, and what they do to such sellers. If I was not abundantly clear earlier, no the links to the places you asked about is a strong, resounding no.
Click to expand...

I don't know why the thread was locked/deleted, that's why I'm asking. I post the question "What does a Knife Maker own in regards to the design of their knives?" The thread was on topic about knives, correct forum, no hate speech, no vulgarity etc and it gets closed or deleted without notifying the author of why it was deleted. How am I supposed to know what I wrote was wrong, if I violated a rule...? Here is that thread if you want to review it: http://www.bladeforums.com/forums/s...-own-in-regards-to-the-design-of-their-knives
If I had control of the thread, all the comments that did not contribute to the topic, I would have deleted them and you would see the thread stay on topic and evolve into something educational. Instead, it degraded because people were posting without contributing anything to the subject.

Regarding the Chris Reeve topic. I use Chris Reeve as an example because he makes a premium grade $400 knife that is counterfeited/copied by Chinese knife manufacturers and sold for $50-75, then the buyers make youtube videos on them and the viewers learn something. It's helpful to use examples when trying to explain something. Would it be appropriate/inappropriate to ask Chris Reeve in his manufacturers forum or should I do this through my own email? If I use the forum, others would learn from it. If I sent him a personal email, I would not expect him to take his time to answer me.

Regarding the links of AliExpress and ExDuct. Are they not allowed because they are not listed as one of the dealers on this site and/or because they sell counterfeit/copy knives or both? Another comment was that because they are not listed as a dealer on this site.

I've run numerous businesses and had many employees and many customers/clients. I found that the more time I spent in the beginning clearly writing policies and procedures, the less problems I had to deal with later. Section 3 which is supposed to define what you can or cannot do in posting threads, comments seems to be lacking all those fine details which help the members and the staff.

Just my thoughts and thankyou for letting me be a member.
 
Last edited:
Golden Gate Bridge said:
If linking to a dealer violates the rules here, I think it would be a good idea to put in section 3 so a member knows what is and what is not allowed. It is unreasonable to expect members to read the minds of the website administration.
Click to expand...

The link below is BladeForums FAQs: Posting Rules.
http://www.bladeforums.com/forums/faq.php?faq=faq_rules_posting#faq_faq_deal_spotting

Aliexpress is not an supporting dealer and they also sell mostly (all?) counterfeits.

As for people being able to tell the difference in a real or counterfeit the only way to tell is by knowledge.

To gain this knowledge, go to the manufactures sites and read and look at the details of the items and see what they usually go for from authorized dealers.

To use the Sebenza example as previously mentioned, brand new from an authorized dealer they will usually run from $350 and up. On the exchange here you can find newish ones for a little less and used sometimes under $300. If you ever see a brand new Sebenza (usually on eBay or from overseas dealers) for $50-$150 that should be a huge red flag that something is up.

Read up and be an informed consumer.
 
RevDevil said:
Go and ask Chris Reeve.
Click to expand...

For clarification, you saying as a moderator that it is ok for me to ask Chris Reeve those questions through his forum on this web, correct? I won't be violating any rule here, correct? I don't mind asking him. I don't like to waste other peoples time and since I'm not a current customer or knife owner of his brand, he has no obligation to respond to me, other than being polite or wanting to get his view out there.
 
Be my guest, You can even go so far as to email or call him. All the contact details are on his website.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top