Theres been a couple threads started lately describing knife deals that went bad between collectors, a dealer and a maker.
Im very fortunate considering the quantity of custom knives I buy and sell in that I have never had a problem that was not resolved to both parties satisfaction. As a matter of fact, I purchased a knife recently that I was more than a little disappointed with. I sent it back to the dealer and after much communication (before and after delivery), the dealer and I are perhaps on even better terms now in that we understand each other better.
Yes, communication is the key to the success in any business deal or transaction. No matter how many issues or defects; productive communication can usually resolve the situation to each partys satisfaction.
Theres usually risk to purchaser and seller in varying degree in any business/purchase transaction. IMO, both need to realize and accept this. The risk can be mitigated by effective communication and by the method in which the transaction or purchase is conducted.
Custom knife purchase via Knife Show:
This is obviously by far, the most gratifying and least risky as the buyer can examine/handle the knife, communicate, ask questions and visit with the maker. Its not as easy as purchasing on line from your computer. I dont charge off show expense to the price of the knife as I do shipping charges and such in calculating total acquisition cost, however one could argue that knives purchased at a show should carry this expense just as dealers and makers have to price show expense into their knives. So my point is that show knives could be more expensive than with some other methods of purchase.
Custom knife purchase via Custom Order:
Can also be vary gratifying in dealing one on one with the maker in creating a knife that reflects your, taste, preferences and personality. However with much more risk. This risk can be greatly reduced by dealing with makers you are very familiar with, who have good reputations, by your degree of overall custom knife knowledge/design skills, and most importantly COMMUNICATION. Neither buyer or maker should assume anything but communicate both verbally and in writing. I will always e-mail specifications, design ideas and such to the maker in addition to speaking to him. Some makers only want to make their style of knife which is OK as long as its communicated. Buyers should get best value for dollar spent purchasing via this method.
Custom knife purchase via Dealer and/or On-line:
Again, can be very gratifying in having a great selection to choose from, being able to deal with a very knowledgeable and reputable dealer and requires the least effort from buyer of all methods. However again, more risky. All buyers should enter this type of transaction willing to accept and deal with this risk. Risk can be greatly reduced by only dealing with reputable purveyors that have established good relations over time in the customs industry. And of course, communication is also extremely important here. IMO, you should never buy anything on-line from anyone that does not offer a FULL 100% Refund policy. Some dealers also offer a trade-up policy which can give the collector future flexibility in building/adjusting your collections. Dealer purchases can be the most expensive method; however can still offer good overall value in acquiring the best knives. Remember dealers deserve a profit for services rendered just as other merchants do and they have access to knives that you may not.
The above is just my opinions and views based on my experiences and I invite varying opinions and challenge to my points.
My goal in presenting this thread and initiating discussion to such is to try to eliminate or at least reduce dispute and mis-understanding between makers, dealers and collectors in regard to custom knife purchases.
So please participate in giving opinions, advice, share experiences that may help.
