sign of the times

[Tom Hudson]

I'm thinking of closing the shop - The past couple of years I have only engraved knives & it's just not worth the effort - 100 quotes for 1 job & working for less than I ever have - For my old customers here drop me a note before shipping anything - Once I start thinking I normally go through with it - But I'll post when I do shut things down - I'm an old school slipjoint knife guy thats been in the business almost 40 years - the market has really shifted the past few years to Black knives & Black guns - just not my thing - all good things come to an end at some point & it appears my working days are about over - It's been a hell of a lot of fun - Another option I might do is to only sell out of stock & work on what I want when I want & not setting at the computer every night spending hours giving out quotes to 16 year old kids. Just the sign of the times - Tom

 

[Bastid]

Tom,

Take some time to make sure this is the best decision for you and yours. The slipjoint market is the hottest I have seen it in 25 plus years. I want what is best for you, but maybe there is some tweaking to what you are offering that could change your thoughts.

 

[Karda]

I think the economy is at a low and we are all feeling it. Things must get better. I think you are on the right track in limiting yourself for now to selling out of stock. But don't discount doing what you love and work on what you like and is profitable for you. There are still people out there who love oldskool instead of tactical. focus on them.

 

[puukkoman]

Tom,
I understand your frustration, especially since the internet has become such a primary networking resource while at the same time being overrun with those same "16 year old kids." But, like the two posters above me, I think that there's still plenty of room for your talent and work in today's markets!
Maybe you're right: a slight temporary shift will help you weather the storm. Sell your stock if you can, bring in the cash however you can, but don't give up! Spend more time over in the Traditional forum; like Gus says, the slipjoint market is blowing up right now. Hang out in the Buck forum; people over there are more mature than the General section, and there's lots of potential for custom engraving work. You could try linking up with some of the custom knife makers, for some collaborative work. Maybe you just need to approach the internet a little differently, be a little more selective. It can be a useful tool, once you weed out all the bullsh!t.
I'm raising my glass to you, and keeping you (and others in your shoes) in my thoughts. True craftsmen are fewer and farther between now than ever, and we need people like you to keep your arts alive.
Best,
Alex

 

[braillediver]

Can't really contribute much- But I did buy my first and second Slipjoints. The first since probably Boyscouts many years ago.

Best of luck to you and yours.


Mitch

 

[cj65]

It makes me sad when any stand up business person has to call it quits. All I can offer you is encouragement, and prayers for peace of mind and prosperity for any path you decide to take. I am envious of any self employed individual, it takes alot of courage, skill, and determination to make it even get past start up, sounds like you have done it for 40 yrs. Great work, and congratulations on all of your success.

I am 46, and prefer to buy a Browning Auto 5 12 gauge shotgun and pay more money for a used one rather than purchase a brand new black or camo'd shot gun with no soul. So, you are not alone. I do like slipjoints too! I buy 70's Case and earlier for example.

 

[Bufford]

Tom turn your business into a hobby, and like you stated in your post work and putter around in the shop on your own time and on your own terms. You will find that pleasure will return with the pressure off.

My knifemaking started as a hobby, but for about 15 years it ran as a business. While income increased I found less pleasure making knives until it became a chore. Bad health forced me into retirement, and knifemaking took a backseat and it still does. However I find pleasure in making the knives that I do still make and work at my own chosen speed.

 

[JC in SC]

I'm sorry to hear that Tom. I do hope that you continue to hang around and that once I make knife worthy of engraving you're still engraving and taking such projects from time to time. The best of luck to you in the future regardless of your path.