Since I'm new here, but have been a knife guy for years, I was wondering what was the biggest/most important lesson you've learned about knives since you started using and/or collecting them. I'm wondering what kind of wisdom you guys have to share. What is the one thing you've learned by yourself over the years that you think is an important piece of knowledge for anybody interested in knives?
About knives specifically (and also thanks to this forum), respect and appreciation for quality craftsmanship and the people behind the magic
The inexpensive ones work just as well as the expensive ones. I really like cold steel folders. That's two things I learned.
No doubt Define “work” They might cut as well as the expensive ones But that’s only 1/2 the equation now, isn’t it
Besides, the above I would say that if you get "that knife" that is just perfect in your eyes, try to hang on to her. There's a lot of temptation out there and sometimes the grass isn't always greener.
Can't decide which one I'd rank as "most important", so here they are... 1a) Put 10 of us together at a table at Blade Show and we'll come up with 12 different opinions about the same thing. And that's OK! 1b) Nothing's "best" for everybody, but each one of us has knives, sharpeners, lube, or techniques that are "best" for us.
Never to treat it as an investment. You will most likely be sadly disappointed. Buy what you like and use it!!
A sharp knife is still more dangerous than a dull knife (I know this is contrary to what many knife people say or believe).
I think the biggest thing I have learned is that I prefer to use thin bladed knives for almost every knife task. Only chopping requires thicker bladed knives.
Price does not equate to quality. A well built knife will bring a smile to your face and will serve you for a long time. If you use a knife for it's intended use, it will not fail you.