The reality of your knife

[The Grendels]

I certainly don't need all the knives I own, but just like any crow I like shiny things. I just like shiny things that are sharp and pointy. I've owned and carried knives since I was a kid, but over the last decade have gotten increasingly interested in them on another level.

How much I've been willing to spend on a knife has changed a lot over the years. A few decades ago, I balked at spending over $40 on a knife. Then it was fine if it was under $100. Now I don't think much about spending over $200 on a knife, but I haven't stopped buying ones that are less expensive. I occasionally will buy something that's over $300, but rarely anything over $400. I've spent a lot of knives in recent years, but compared to what a watch collector spends it's pretty tame.

 

[fullswing]

As someone who has acquired many premium knives over the years, the primary driving force for me is an appreciation for outstanding craftsmanship. There's just something special about using a tool made with exceptional materials and care - from the balance and durability of the blade to the artistry of the handle.

Ultimately, it's about going the extra mile to have the very best, even when it exceeds practical needs.

 

[TheRealLeoGreer]

I've purchased knives from $7 to over $1000, but the ideal range seems to be in between $40 and $300 for my personal tastes. Below $40, I stop enjoying the use of a knife so much, and above that $300-$350 mark I stop using the knife for fear of lowering resale value, should I ever need/want to sell.

I sold my Shiro Quantum Gen 2 not for dislike of the knife (it's an amazing folder, as some of you know), but for the knowledge that as soon as I put a single scratch or blemish on it, the value would go down $100 or more, so it felt to me like tossing money out the window to use.

My most used knives are my Civivi Baklash, and my Kunwu Large Tao. Both were picked up for under $200 ($35 and $150 respectively), both have beautiful, satisfying actions, both cut extremely well, both are quality knives with great F&F, and they cut pretty much the same when it comes down to it (the hollow grind on the Baklash is pretty wicked).

Nowadays, I will very occasionally spend money on a new knife if my squirrel brain starts acting up and wanting the shinies, but I'm content with the half dozen blades I have for the most part. They span the range from tool to luxury, but I can tell you that my Baklash gets more use than my Reate Torrent does.

 

[marchone]

By now I gather, most of you have super premium knives --- whether the price of the knife is mostly in the handle, or the steel, or both; and some of you, I'll bet, spent 1,250 + on a single knife --- so what's my point? (Ha)
I will wager that most of our true cutting needs can be satisfied in a knife costing $75.00 USD and under. SO!
Prompt: what's the primary driving force that makes the final step to purchasing your knife? Everything is welcome, Including pictures

Kitchen knives are my work tools. At least they were until my retirement. Now I enjoy using nice tools at home and in the field. From kitchen and food prep knives to folders and axes.

If I had to streamline I’d still have a dozen or more. You can’t skin a salmon with a paring knife. A 9” slicer will do double duty as a carving knife. A 10” Chef’s knife is essential for cutting board coverage. If you’re scared of big knives get a Nakiri. Petty or utility knives come in different sizes and shapes. I like 6” drop points. And you need at least two axes if firewood is a regular chore. A pocket knife or two is necessary. I EDC a Laconico EZC and a SAK.

And not least, having two homes spreads the wealth.