It's not like these are common consumer products - I'd bet far more people recognize the Glock brand name than Spyderco or ZT. If you want a cheap and good knife that will likely meet all of your usage needs, there are dozens - if not hundreds - of production knives under $40 that come with warranties and good materials and build quality.
Looking at ZT and Benchmade prices is like looking at Desert Eagles - you really don't need it, but you pay for what you want and are not looking for the cheapest thing that will work.
I mean, you can spend thousands on watches, jewelry, shoes, and accessories - that doesn't mean the prices reflect a practical advantage over the cheaper options. I carry expensive knives because I feel the prices are reflected in the materials, build quality, and/or design. I'm looking at dropping 80+ on a Buck Marksman when a Vantage of similar size and design would cost me less than thirty dollars. Why? Bearings, better steel, interesting lock and overall design, and I like the blade shape slightly better.
It's all about personal tastes and priorities. I'd be fine with a cheap Casio watch but will not often carry a knife that cost less than $100, where some people couldn't bear the thought of wearing a watch that didn't have tritium arms and DLC coating but carries a gas station knife the person is completely content with.
