What qualifies as a counterfeit in the eye of moderators? Is there a set definition?

PURPLEDC

PURPLEDC

Joined
Apr 4, 2007
Messages
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Let me preface this by saying I am not really looking for the opinions of the members. I am posing this question directly to moderators as they are the ones to enforce the rules. Anyhow the reason I ask is because there seems to be a certain amount of discrepancy among members on just what is a counterfeit. We know if it is for sure a countefeit and people are warning about them then it is to go in feeback and the discussion is to remain on the topic of how to identify them. But what do the people who run this forum view as a counterfeit? I have seen people say that if you have to ask then its a good indicator. But I have seen posts where people say if the knife was obviously inspired by anothers design yet has no identifying marks then it doesnt qualify as a countefeit especially if the construction and materials are different.

As an example: Is the microtech matrix a clone? counterfeit? Homage? Off limits to discuss in any capacity other than idetifying it as such?

What about knives that are visually similar to another knife yet the materials, logos and the actual construction (integral vs. open construction with standoffs)

Is there any time frame in which afterwards the design becomes open source such as the death of the maker? We see makers copying loveless, randall and other popular works all the time yet often these knives dont come under scrutiny.

My standard for such things has always been if a reasonable person can visually identify a knife with similarieties as it not being the item its made to look like then its not a counterfeit. But this is the rule most people in guitars fall back on.

And the other question I have is if someone finds a thread questionable should they be pulling out the pitchforks and playing mod or should they be reporting the thread and letting the moderators decide what is to be done with it? We all bicker and argue and debate. I know that is inevitable. I am just trying to have a better understanding as I feel I personally have engaged in these discussions too much without knowing proper procedure.
 
Counterfeit knives are in the same as counterfeit money. Its a maker trying to pass off a copy as the original.

Knock off is similar but with the addition of they are not trying to pass it off as the real deal, just copying a design, still not acceptable.

Using copyrighted and/or Trademarked items are also unacceptable and in some instances will get you sued.

I know its a Readers Digest version, but I hope someone with a little more time can chime in? I have to jet out.
 
Thank you for your input. I know i have a tendency to be difficult. And lately I have noticed myself going off the rails a bit. Im trying to reel it in. But I am asking these questions as to stay within the lines.
 
Purple, your perspective and input is appreciated. You and I have had some disagreements in the past, but as long as the discussion remains civil, information is exchanged, and nothing gets taken personally everything should be fine. I cannot tell you what constitutes a fake or knock off in words, but I know it when I see it. Qmbiguity I kniw, but it's true.
 
RevDevil said:
Purple, your perspective and input is appreciated. You and I have had some disagreements in the past, but as long as the discussion remains civil, information is exchanged, and nothing gets taken personally everything should be fine. I cannot tell you what constitutes a fake or knock off in words, but I know it when I see it. Qmbiguity I kniw, but it's true.
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I appreciate your input rev. I guess to better explain why i ask its because i really do see a lot of things differently than the majority of people. Pair it with a tongue much like the knife i carry and i get myself into the thick of it. In the past (not here, in general) some have speculated that i purposely run againt the grain just to be on the opposing side of the majority. I trully dont believe this to be true (go figure right?) but how can one prove it? But its because i look at things so differently that i have to ask questions that many are left thinking "you cant be serious". And the only reason i know this is because of repetition of past events rather than any real ability to identify with certain people and views. But again thanks. I honestly think that i should just adopt the if i have to ask you probably know the answer approach and i feel i should also refrain from putting my opinion out there on the subject. As if most dont know it by now. I guess i am sorta having a conflict of the voice telling me i need to defend my position and the ability to identify proper time and place.
 
Rules For The Exchange & Discussion Forums

SECTION 5 - Miscellaneous -
Fakes/Homages-

As fakes and homage items are a legal gray area and obviously hurt the hobby, no fake or homage items may be sold on the Exchange. Members may not knowingly sell unlicensed knockoffs or counterfeit versions of knives (or any other goods) based upon the designs of their legitimate owner, manufacturer or custom maker. Additionally, members may not sell any knife or item known or suspected to be other than as described in terms of its lineage and authenticity.

FEEDBACK: The Good, The Bad, The Ugly!
Consolidated Sticky List

10) Counterfeits- The Truth of the matter

11) The Counterfeit Rule
 
Yeah I think I went through those resources and didnt find a set definition of what is considered counterfeit. Admittedly though I have terrible ADHD symptoms and while I can definitely be long winded I am not very good at weeding through threads to find the information if its peppered throughout. But thanks for the links. There were a few things that i missed.
 
Esav Benyamin said:
Those men are dead. No one is infringing on their businesses.
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So how about Randall homages, like Greg Wall makes? Randall is dead, his company is still there. Wall advertises that he is making an homage to Randall.

Is this $7 knife stealing from Chris Reeve? It is made with steel rather than Ti scales, and the clip and details are all different. They just share a general similarity in shape.

1TacHj.jpg



Those two examples really typify the problem that Purple is getting at. Neither example is a precise copy, neither violates patents nor trademarks. Arguably, Wall's products do take (a tiny) bit of Randall sales, but the Sanrenmu can't possibly be "competing" with $400 Sebenza.
 
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