Is it the equipment?

[Eric Kidwell]

When I was 13 a friend and I started skating. We skated with each other everyday and learning tricks was super difficult because we didn't know what we were doing or even what we should be doing.
A bit later we started hanging with guys who were really good and our skill level took off.
Isn't that what we are all doing? We are hanging out with Nick Wheeler, Bruce Bump and so many creative minds its unreal.
Every thing is changing at a much faster rate because of the availability of information and the awesome people who are willing to share what took them much longer to acquire.

Thank you.

 

[PT Doc]

It's the internet.
It's You Tube.
And an unending array of high quality materials.

Help is only a Google search away.
With phone numbers.

Karl, I just stopped by your site. The pieces are truly beautiful. Wood, guards and steel blend so well. Stunning.

 

[HallHandmade]

I think before the Internet, sharing information meant either writing a book/guide, or lots of one-on-one time with an individual, or maybe teaching a class. Even for folks that enjoy sharing and teaching, it can be a huge time sink. The Internet has made it so that a pro can drop a single golden sentence in about 30 seconds, and help a thousand people with it. Much more attractive for a guy that would otherwise be using that time to work a backlog, put food on the table, etc.

 

[Omega Leather Works]

Well this is more than I expected. Looks like you guys have thought about this like I have.

(Warning, rambling below. Summary questions at bottom of post)

One other thought/question.

How do you think the proliferation of good/great up and coming makers have impacted the old masters? Meaning, do you think it takes from their business potential, or maybe there are just more buyers, buying more custom knives?

I wonder about this because, as I see it, there are no, more sharing with time, expertise and information, than knifemakers in general. Really, things like hammer-ins and easy contact by phone or even an invite to ones shop is different from what I've seen in other hobbies or professions. It's quite inspiring.

I've seen people offer free services like pro heat treat, and even materials. I've seen blades profiled for new makers that have caught the eye of some. But back to my question, does that impact a business, having untold options from (new) quality makers?

It isn't just in the realm of true customs. I've seen a number of guys transition from production knife "pimping" to makers themselves. Usually these knives are deemed customs, when in reality they are closer to productions. Some are even collaborating with the big manufacturers. Others are being called out for offering custom knives that are ground from kit blanks. (clarification- I see everything right about it so long as it's all up front)

I also wonder how many aspire to a MBS designation. If you can cnc or stock remove enough knives to turn out excellent quality blades, while making a living, do you still find it relevant to jump the hoops, learn forging, travel to Atlanta, etc?

I'm just curious about your viewpoint really. I've got no horse in the race so to speak. I guess there is room for all of it when I think about it. Things are changing, but that doesn't mean that everything must.

Summary-

Is there less room for high end customs when there are so many quality options?

What's your take on (maybe just my perception of) the new crop of makers that share very little in common with the traditional method of knifemaking?

Are you still interested in the Blade MBS designation?

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P. S. Sorry I forgot to respond to your email

No sweat, just get to it when you can. No rush.