Recommendation for an absolute newbie to knives

[craytab]

Because I said "knife makers" or just because they're two different spectrums of people?

That and the difference in quality of their overall content.

 

[miso2]

For folder knives, you can take a look at the book "Tactical folding knife" by Bob Terzuola. Good resource for how a modern folding knife is made.

Miso

 

[justjed]

Immerse yourself in the forum. Read. Ask questions. That part is easy. But I recommend shows, where you can talk to the makers, and learn from them why they do what they do. You can usually fondle the merchandise, get a feel for what you like, and make new friends. It doesn't take long to learn to recognize the level of quality that you're willing to pay for. And most importantly, you'll know WHY you paid that much, so when your friends jaw drops, you can explain it...