The whole "Buy from the Internet" vs. "Buy in person" dilemma

B

Belly

Gold Member
Joined
May 21, 2000
Messages
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I used to buy knives from the Internet all the time. I have about 2 of them left. Then, as I became more of a fanatic, I started to get real picky about the craftsmenship, fit/finish, and blade lockup. All but one of the knives I ordered via an Internet company had some small blade play. I sent many back, only to be disappointed that I could not find that knife at an actual store, not to mention the money one saves via Internet. Or, I would find them at a store, but they would be $20 -$60 more. Now I wish to buy a custom knife for $400, but I really need to hold/inspect it before I buy it. This does not seem possible, so I am kinda stuck on what to do?

Any suggestions?
Belly
 
If you are talking about the Darryl Ralph EDC you mentioned in your other post, I don't think you will have any problems.
-Josh
 
Save up and go to a custom show. While saving, surf the net to see which makers you'd like to dealw ith. Then at the show peruse and buy. That seems like the best solution to me.
 
Handling in person would be best. Or you could buy from a reputable dealer that will inspect the knife for you. You could also ask about return policy.
 
I have only been collecting for a short time, but I can share my limited experiences.

For the first year and a half of buying custom knives, I looked on the internet at pictures, read the forums, and talked to people on the phone. Based on these things I would decide what knife I would get from which maker. In nearly every case it was without ever seeing any example of the makers work - I was just depending on their reputation. This method was the best one, as I saw it, because I didn't incur the cost of flying to a show, paying for a hotel etc - more money for knives. However, I was left disapointed a few times.

I have since been to two shows, Eugene and BAKCA. I've decided that flying to a show is worth the expense. At a show you'll be exposed to a wide range of makers. You'll get to see first hand who lives up to their reputation and who doesn't. You'll also probably find a bunch of makers who aren't on the internet forums who are doing great work.

So anyway, if you feel you really need to see the knife first hand, save up and do so. Otherwise, buy it and take your chances - hopefully if it's less than you were expecting, you'll be able to sell it.

~Mitch
 
I think most custom makers and dealers have a 24-48 hour inspection/return policy. Ask first and if not, then don't buy!
 
Doing some research and then going to a show is a great idea at this point in time. There is a show in NYC on 11/2-11/4, seems like a lot of members are going to show up for some part of it.
 
Yeah come to the New York show, you'll be like a kid in a candy store. I know Darrel was planning to be there, but even if he wasn't, you won't have a problem with a knife from him. ;)
 
Like PhilL says, a show would be the best way. In my area, there are no knife shows, only gun shows with a few knives. Never been able to meet any of the big names or handle any of their knives. :(

On the other hand, I have developed a good relationship with a couple internet dealers, they will inspect and send the best they have and usually will take things back that are not to my liking.

Custom knives are harder. I usually email and follow up with a call or calls. Every maker is different, as are their blades. Some love to talk, some do not.

Good luck,


Steve-O
 
I'll also be at the NY show. I think most internet dealers will check out the knife if you ask them.

As far as the custom makers, I don't see it as much of a problem. The most prolific makers active here like Kit Carson and Darrel Ralph who have substantial internet presences are going to be consistent, steady providers of top quality pieces. They can hardly keep up with the demand for their output.

Look forward to see as many as possible at the NY show.
 
Mate,
Here in Australia there are very few knifedealers and the choice is usually confined to:
A dozen Kirshaws, A few dozen Victorinox, a motly collection of no name brands of unknown origin - usually china (made in a hurry - keep out of direct sunlight!).
If you really hit the jackpot there many even be a Buck, Gerber or Yes, can it be -----, not one, but two - a whole two Benchmades!!!!!

I am not being sarcastic - this is seious business.

I just surf the dealers on the net and hope for the best.

Believe it or not, but Africa is even worse.
 
Being a NEWBIE and living in NH, there just seems to be a lack of shows. I NEVER owned a REAL Custom until Yesterday (thanks again COPFISH) and when it fell into my hand it was this feeling of AWE. But what do I do. I am planning on a very special custom from a hell of a Knife maker in Maine who is going to make me something very special to my heart, but how do I buy Randalls, or knives from Jerry Hoosum, or Tom Mayo (Et Al.) without driving? There does come a time when you have to put faith in that "unknown" and hope and pray that the shop/Dealer/SELLER is honest. But Frankly, If its here on BF, I am pretty comfortable just doing it via E-mail. naive? Trusting? I think all of your records stand on themselves. So In MOST cases, I turn to you folks and buy from the dealers and individuals that post on BF. I just believe 99.999% of the time you cannot go wrong.......wolf
 
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