Right Outta' The Market...

[Shorttime]

I suppose that it's a natural progression, from knowing hardly anything about knives, to developing specific ideas about what you want and don't want, in a knife.

But lately, I feel like my preferences are so specific, that nothing on the mass-produced market quite fits.

I'm sure this has happened to others, and I'm curious to see the knives that "did it" for you. Whether they are production, mid-tech, or you had to go full custom. Post 'em!

 

[Charlie Mike]

I've felt this way for years. That's why I started modifying stuff. That pushed me into becoming a maker. It also pushed me into buying customs. Custom is the way to go.

 

[sutherland]

I started with production knives and slowly progressed up to customs. Custom knives are fantastic, especially if you have input with the maker on the materials and design. I got into customs a little late and that results in playing the very painful and pricey secondary market. I've owned a few custom Mosier, Anso, and Southard knives, but ultimately sold them as I couldn't bring myself to use or carry them. I found that a knife that I have absolutely zero hesitation to use results in the greatest pride of ownership.

My favorite knife is the Strider SNG CC:
- easy to carry
- great ergos
- a stout blade in a surprisingly light package
- great utility blade shape for general and outdoor use
- fantastic edge retention and easy maintenance

A few honorable mentions:
- Benchmade 940
- Spyderco Slysz Bowie

I agree with Charlie Mike on modifying knives as it helps you identify what you truly like and dislike (and what can be done to increase its personal value). I am taking those first steps now with a Kershaw Skyline:
- learning how to make scales
- improve action
- work with files for contouring, jimping, etc.

 

[craytab]

This CPK Field Knife is making it hard for me to keep any other knife in this size range:

 

[gazz98]

I've been that way too. My solution? Learn to adapt to a production knife that meets your general needs. Why? It mostly comes down to money. I like knives. I own a few knives. I've never paid more then $120 or so for a knife. That is my self imposed limit. I'd rather spend my money on another firearm then a knife.

If you really can't find what you want in a knife, you can always PM/email one of the makers in the Knifemaker area and see if one will work with you to make your vision become a reality.