Structuraly, there is hardly any difference between a ZT, Reate, Shiro etc. Ask yourself this, what is the proof that one is worth more than the other? Have you had a floor walk of their factory? Do you know their steel is more chemically pure? better heat treat from extensive scientific testing? better fasteners? better milling etc.? The reality is that 90% of all opinions are based on cosmetic design. A shiro looks more elegant than a ZT, subdued muted colours and finishes that look very classy. ZT have a much more loud and experimental look, but their machining is almost always flawless also. I don't own ZT's any more but I had for years and i'm a structural design nazi. I inspect every spec of every fastener and design choice on knives cos I enjoy it.
Cosmetics make a huge difference in an asking price. Shiro came to the market with a simplistic design and look similar to CRK, offered high end steel out the gate and didn't over-do it, they have a bit of mystery to their asking price and their lesser known Russian heritage. I personally would never buy one, because i've inspected them first hand inside and out, for me and my needs i feel CRK knives are built far better, the fasteners and washer design alone leave Shiros for dead in the build dept imo... but Shiro does use a higher end blade steel if that's your thing. End of the day people will buy what they want if they have the cash and like the look, to each his own. Frame lock flippers are just completely soul-less to me these days, the top brands all look and feel the same.
