I think as a whole, the knife community has been jaded by what they see in the magazines and on the net. By that I mean that the knives that receive the exposure are generally only the "cream of the crop" from the top makers. After being in this vocation for as long as I have, I can say without any doubt that even the top makers in the world do not make their living(s) off the "high end" pieces. We each have our "bread-n-butter" type knives, and without those we would likely not be full time makers for long.
As far as "snobbery" in the knife world, I don't really think that saying some are that way is a fair statement. Its all a matter of personal tastes in knives.
This reminds me of a situation that occurred years ago with me..... I had just procured my first Little Giant Power hammer, and was told by an individual, who was one of the top forged blade makers, that I wasn't staying true to Bladesmithing if I was using a power hammer. My reply was that if the individual had a power hammer, he would be using it too. Not long after the individual did acquire a power hammer, and now will be the first to tell you that he would not be without it.
Same thing with knives......Those who can afford to, and do own the higher end customs will often not give a low to mid priced knife a second glance. Its not being a "snob", its simply a human condition for an individual's tastes to become more sophisticated as they are exposed and/or become experienced with higher levels of quality, fit, and finish.
I don't mean this rudely, but the term "snob" in the knife world is often uttered in reference to a knifemaker by someone who is either unwilling, or unable to achieve a higher level of quality. If spoken in reference to a Knife Buyer, its generally from an individual who wants those higher end knives, but cannot afford them, or is unwilling to make any sacrifices necessary to acquire those types of pieces.
Not long ago, I was labeled as a "snob" on another forum where I had worked with the site owner to establish a Bladesmithing forum on the site, as well as a weekly knife chat session. Those who applied that label to me created very basic knives, with serious fit and finish issues... when asked, I offered advice and input as to how those makers could improve their work, without being rude or condescending. They were happy in their ignorance, and had no desire for constructive input....all they wanted was someone to stroke their egos, and when I did not do that, I became a "snob". I no longer visit or participate on that site...I have better things to do that try to help those who don't want it.
People are going to be people....all different levels, both of Makers and Buyers....and there is room for all of them.
I'd rather drive a Ferrari too
We get to drive some high end cars that we refer to as "benchmark vehicles" to calibrate our Acceptable Quality Levels.
Actually, Hyundia's a fine car and offers a LOT for the $$, but still if someone hands you a stack of Hyundia photos and Ferrari photos which ones are you going top look at?
