I could understand the cost if the steel was a superior, proprietary formula that only they could forge. But it's just Cerakoted tool steel, right? Do they have access to an exclusive steel alloy that no one else can have? Same with the handles. They're not rhino horn or elephant tusk. Just G10 scales. As for how it's manufactured, I can't say for certain, but I'm willing to bet that it's not made on demand by the world's greatest bladesmith working by himself in a small shop using only heirloom hand tools. But since its arguably the best you can buy, the price won't come down as long as people are willing to pay for it.