I didn't realize there would be such a discusion about all this.
I am a newbie when it comes to knives, whether custom or factory. Until recently, I never carried a knife, other than when hunting or fishing. My job now pretty much dictates that I carry a knife, or at least have one handy during the day. And since I have been carrying everyday, it has now carried over into my off hours. I honestly never realized how much I use it at times when I am not at work.
Now that I am using it more, I find myself looking more deeply into knives, trying to figure out what I like, and what blade type suits my needs. I also have seperated my 'work' knife from my 'carry' knife (although that has changed this week- I was unhappy with the Kershaw Cyclone). I have decided that I would like to have something a little more fancy during my off hours, so I have decided to look for something with a bit more flair and quality, along with being useful. Hence my order to Mr. Fraley.
I have never handle any of his knives. Nor have I seen any at the few shows I have attended. I ordered it because it was visually pleasing,was a flipper, and had a useable blade shape. I read the article on him, looked at his site many times, and finally made the decision to place the order. There is high probablitity that my tastes will change by then, and if the knife turns out to be far from it at that time, I will deal with it then. I don't think it would make a difference if it was a year wait or four, that is a possibility. Selling it would be an option, and the fact that it is a quality piece would definitely help in that area, but that was not in my thinking when I placed the order.
Yes, my tastes will change over the course of 4 years. I think thats true of anyone. Yes, I will find myself more scrutinizing as I become more educated about the product, whether custom or factory.
There is no doubt that I will purchase a custom folder from another maker before I receive Mr. Fraleys work. After all, isn't that the way a collection starts?
I have to admit that it took me a day to settle down and write this. I didn't expect all the interest or the opinions that have shown up, and at first I was a little put off. But I had to come to reality that I opened myself up to all of it by posting. Your comments and opinions are greatly appreciated.
A Smith
