Hi ZeroTurnDude,
Spyderco has a somewhat unique buinsess model that is based on a set of core values developed over many years of doing business. We have a network of makers that we've been working for many years. Quality, loyalty, constant improvement and fairness in all areas. We try to take good care of our staff, our customers, our vendors, community and country.
If we only made knives in the US, we would have far fewer knives to offer.
We began making knives in Japan after Al Mar introduced us to his maker. We were after quality steel and quality construction. Quality and materials we couldn't find in the US. In time we began a US factory and introduced USA made powdered metals to the knife market. As years went on, we added a few makers here and there that would meet our quality needs. We have 3 makers in Japan (2 we've been working with for 33 years and 1 for 26 years. 2 in Taiwan, 2 in Italy and 4 in China, though we don't do too much in China.
I agree that we need to build more in America, but not just knives. Our mfg base has diminished here in the US and I believe it is essential that we focus on mfg, education and honor more so than in curently being done. Just my opinion.
sal