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- Jan 5, 2011
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- 6,194
Can a Manufacturer’s Warranty Overcome Aversion to Steel Choice or Minor Fit & Finish Issues? 
I recently picked up a Chinese-made Buck Nobleman in 440A with fake carbon fibre print. I bought it because it’s the right size, looks good, and I like the blade shape and grind—and it was extremely affordable. I realise that 440A pales next to super-steels like S30V or VG-10, but it seems decent enough for EDC and takes a good edge quickly and easily. Now, the blade doesn’t centre very well, despite making adjustments to the pivot and scale screws, but it doesn’t rub and is serviceable enough. I suspect the cheap finish on the handle will be long gone before the actual knife gives up the ghost. I’m okay with that.
Although I’ve been very fortunate and never had to send a knife back to the manufacturer, I’m confident that as long as I don’t abuse my knife, a company with a solid warranty, like Buck, will remedy any problems I encounter. I’m thinking that my Nobleman will last as long as my more expensive folders… at least in an EDC role.
So, how important is the manufacturer's warranty to you when considering buying a new knife? Does it make it easier for you to take a gamble on lower-end product lines?
I recently picked up a Chinese-made Buck Nobleman in 440A with fake carbon fibre print. I bought it because it’s the right size, looks good, and I like the blade shape and grind—and it was extremely affordable. I realise that 440A pales next to super-steels like S30V or VG-10, but it seems decent enough for EDC and takes a good edge quickly and easily. Now, the blade doesn’t centre very well, despite making adjustments to the pivot and scale screws, but it doesn’t rub and is serviceable enough. I suspect the cheap finish on the handle will be long gone before the actual knife gives up the ghost. I’m okay with that.
Although I’ve been very fortunate and never had to send a knife back to the manufacturer, I’m confident that as long as I don’t abuse my knife, a company with a solid warranty, like Buck, will remedy any problems I encounter. I’m thinking that my Nobleman will last as long as my more expensive folders… at least in an EDC role.
So, how important is the manufacturer's warranty to you when considering buying a new knife? Does it make it easier for you to take a gamble on lower-end product lines?
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