Some good points are made in this thread; it's a shame that society forces us to be having this discussion at all, but, at least we are able to have this discussion...
I definitely wouldn't bring it up on a first date.
On the last first date I had, I actually did bring it up... it was the only date I had with her, too...

Ah, well, there are more fish in the sea. And, she's back with her old bf anyways, so maybe it wasn't me that drove her off, after all...
As far as the social aspects of having so many knives, when I discuss knives in public I refer to them as "pocketknives"
Ditto!! I think that "pocketknife" is a much less threatening moniker than "folding knife" or "EDC"... "pocketknife" conjures images of a gentle, fun grandpa or uncle who would take you out fishing as a kid... and, that's one of the primary uses of a knife, anyways, so it's not an inaccurate image!
At the university I'm either the benevolent wierdo, MacGuyver or a collector (depending who you ask)
Haha!

That's great, I especially like the "MacGuyver" answer, as I've been called that, too... it's actually a compliment, as I see it

Yeah, my friends see me as unique, but not malicious... I can live with that
As a rule, I am "sociable" about my knife interests - I don't go out of my way to either hide, or emphasize, them. If it comes up in the course of conversation, I see it as an opportunity to lessen the other person's miseducation and misperceptions. I always approach the issue from a non-confrontational, utilitarian point of view, and throw in a bit of my own wilderness survival training as a reference. As far as I can tell, I've had a good response. I've also met a new friend, out of the deal. I enjoy being able to broaden a person's horizons, even if only in a small way. I understand that not everyone has this freedom, and am glad that I do.
The most important thing in addressing this issue with someone is your own attitude and bearing. This will say more to the listener than the words you actually speak...