I got one of these in an order along with a few other bits and pieces, i thought why not, especially considering the good press they get. It cost me the equivalent of around fourteen dollars and is well worth twice that amount of money. I sharpened it on my Sharpmaker to a twenty degree per-side angle up to the flats of the white stones, this was a very easy task and the blade became very sharp very fast, it sails through cardboard and pulls hair easily, and has a high performance blade profile. The wooden handle is functional, though the opening and closing of the knife is very stiff, even when oiled. The locking ring is quite well designed in that it can be used to lock the blade closed as well as open, simple but effective. The 'carbon steel' blade forms a sort of surface tarnish easily, i left it after cutting an orange for a couple of minutes and a few small dull-coloured areas are apparent, i knew there was a danger of this when i left it, and did so anyway to assess how non-corrosion resistant the blade really is, it's important to remember that surface marks won't effect the performance of a knife. I would be happy to use this knife as an EDC if i wasn't spoilt on pocket clips and one-handed opening, though i've been considering a few modifications along those lines. If you're thinking of getting one of these as an around-the-house or garden beater, do yourself a favor and go ahead, it's not going to break the bank! 
.., in a "life/death" situation anywhere.., I'd want the best knife I had for defensive purposes, and not worry about the price! Far better to throw $750 in the nearest sewer and run like hell, than me getting thrown in the sewer. 
