I tend to find myself deep into fanatical, low incremental return for the dollar territory with hobbies. Honestly, that's when it gets real fun. This sport has lots of opportunities with both practical function and esthetic aspects at play.
I've found knives to elicit an almost primal jealousy response from guys that appreciate it but aren't in the tall weeds as a hobbyists. I've all but stopped sharing new acquisitions with those around me for the most part.
Embarrassingly, even look around to see who is in sight before taking them out to use occasionally. As this will inevitably end up with them asking questions to show interest, then walking away rolling their eyes afyer hearing about why it's a special piece to me.
It seems they tend to default to whispers and judgment about what I choose to do with my money and effort. Rather bizarre how folks justify this to protect their own ego's. As if demeaning others personal choices, puts them on the high road.
We just can't share our passion without being labeled as a show off. No matter how many times I explain that it's a tool, whether it costs a dollor or a million, all that matters is that it does what you need, and you feel it's worth it.
For me, this is the only bright spot outside of my Father, Wife and Sons. Here, people understand the sickness and seem to have a level of respect that the genpub doesn't. Trying to show off in these circles would certainly only humble most of us.
All these words to say, I really appreciate this place and all of you knife folks.
