Utilitarian vs. Utopian: Are High End Knives Worth It?

maybe also quantity Vs Quality ?
If you add up all the cheaper models you have, it might exceed the price of one or more expensive knife mentioned.

Personally I like the higher end ones because of the mechanism, finish, materials. I love CRK Mnandi and Sebenza and prefer them over my WHKs.

I am into slipjoints lately. They do the job well but the smoothness and finish is nothing compared to a nice CRK.

There is some added value to a high end knife. To me, I am happily paying for the mechanism, smoothness, fit, finish, and design. I do not feel I need to compromise my budget with quantity. A handful of good ones is much better suited to my needs.
 
I used to have alot of knives that were mid ranged in price like spydercos. But I have started to give away my collection and trading for more quality but less quanity. Of course $500 is a different spectrum.

I want to have the best possible knives because in my line of work, I need to be able to heavily use my knives without worrying about failure because my life could depend on it. I wont hesitate to buy the best, but the price has to because of its utility and toughness, not because of its looks and precious materials. I guess the knives that I have are not too outragous in price, especially the RD9, but the XM-18 and Busse are pretty up there, but dont quite hit the $500 mark.


I have only two folders now (Spyderco Manix, and soon a Hinderer XM-18). I carry a folder and swisstool everyday in uniform. One mid sized fixed blade (Busse ST-56) which I carry when I am in the field. A large chopper in my ruck (Ranger RD9) incase there is a need for one.

Of course I have assorted SAKs in different places like my desk, car, kitchen, and bedroom.
 
KCkc said:
maybe also quantity Vs Quality ?
If you add up all the cheaper models you have, it might exceed the price of one or more expensive knife mentioned.

&

There is some added value to a high end knife. To me, I am happily paying for the mechanism, smoothness, fit, finish, and design. I do not feel I need to compromise my budget with quantity. A handful of good ones is much better suited to my needs.
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I agree 110% ! :thumbup:

I started out slow and did more research about knives than actually purchasing them. When I did buy a new one, I typically sold off or traded what I was using prior. Gradually, over time, I developed a small stable of knives that fit my EDC tastes and requirements. During this time, the quality and price both rose exponentially with every new purchase.

I'd like to say that I'll never buy a knife for the sole purpose of having it sit in a safe or drawer, but I'm young and absolutes usually change over time. :)
 
I've bought several that sit in the drawer---for now----when I really like something-I buy 2 or 3 duplicates---just in case the style changes or they stop making them. I like what I like.

If I lose one or wear it out---I'll pretty much have one of my favorites with me down the road---if I don't wind up using it in 20 years or so---well then I'll have one of the few NIB pristine examples remaining.

Have several SAK's---Endura's and Griptilians just socked away----just in case.
 
The most I have spent on a knife is about 115.00 bucks for a Benchmade 941.And I thought that was alot.Dont get me wrong I love it.With that being said, I would be very happy with the 60 dollar Mini grips or 20 dollar Doziers.
 
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