Why

[strategy9]

You do a lot of guessing...

There have been quite a few threads I've read here about someone taking a leap into high-dollar knives for their "first".

I agree that generalized statements of "anyone" or "everyone" are typically in bad taste, but one thing to remember is that Bladeforums members are a vast vast minority among the average everyday consumer.

Most people buy knives at their local big box store, the same place they buy most of their general goods period. Yes, there are quite a few out here here who leap right in and buy a high quality knife as their "first"... But I know every time I go to the flea market, the knife selling tables always have a small crowd admiring the TacForce and MTech crap scattered about. The outdoor section at Walmart almost always has someone trying to decide whether to buy the $8.99 Ozark Trail, or spend the extra $5 - $10 on a Gerber. And compsnies like Frost and BudK are no where near going out of business, whereas Canal Cutlery just joined the ever growing list of quality knife makers closing up shop. I know most people, friends and family included, when asking what made my knife worth x amount of dollars, and I start talking about n690 and 440c and s30v and 8cr13mov, they look at me unenthusiastically like I'm speaking some secret code they are not privy to. We are not the "average" consumer, most of us here on BF. We are the exception. Some of us, (myself included), were the average consumer not all that long ago, and I feel liberated the amount of ignorance regarding knives I have overcome. But the "average" consumer is still quite ignorant, in many categories regarding many products, from frying pans to tents, Cars to TV's and cpu's, to knives.

 

[Cutlover]

I agree that generalized statements of "anyone" or "everyone" are typically in bad taste, but one thing to remember is that Bladeforums members are a vast vast minority among the average everyday consumer.

Most people buy knives at their local big box store, the same place they buy most of their general goods period. Yes, there are quite a few out here here who leap right in and buy a high quality knife as their "first"... But I know every time I go to the flea market, the knife selling tables always have a small crowd admiring the TacForce and MTech crap scattered about. The outdoor section at Walmart almost always has someone trying to decide whether to buy the $8.99 Ozark Trail, or spend the extra $5 - $10 on a Gerber. And compsnies like Frost and BudK are no where near going out of business, whereas Canal Cutlery just joined the ever growing list of quality knife makers closing up shop. I know most people, friends and family included, when asking what made my knife worth x amount of dollars, and I start talking about n690 and 440c and s30v and 8cr13mov, they look at me unenthusiastically like I'm speaking some secret code they are not privy to. We are not the "average" consumer, most of us here on BF. We are the exception. Some of us, (myself included), were the average consumer not all that long ago, and I feel liberated the amount of ignorance regarding knives I have overcome. But the "average" consumer is still quite ignorant, in many categories regarding many products, from frying pans to tents, Cars to TV's and cpu's, to knives.

Can relate to this, with knife talk, headphone talk (nobody cares what a CCAW voice coil, dual dynamic, balanced armature, hybrid, aluminum, low pass filter, electrostatic, etc. means, as long as it sounds good)

 

[The Aflac Duck]

I agree that generalized statements of "anyone" or "everyone" are typically in bad taste, but one thing to remember is that Bladeforums members are a vast vast minority among the average everyday consumer.

Most people buy knives at their local big box store, the same place they buy most of their general goods period. Yes, there are quite a few out here here who leap right in and buy a high quality knife as their "first"... But I know every time I go to the flea market, the knife selling tables always have a small crowd admiring the TacForce and MTech crap scattered about. The outdoor section at Walmart almost always has someone trying to decide whether to buy the $8.99 Ozark Trail, or spend the extra $5 - $10 on a Gerber. And compsnies like Frost and BudK are no where near going out of business, whereas Canal Cutlery just joined the ever growing list of quality knife makers closing up shop. I know most people, friends and family included, when asking what made my knife worth x amount of dollars, and I start talking about n690 and 440c and s30v and 8cr13mov, they look at me unenthusiastically like I'm speaking some secret code they are not privy to. We are not the "average" consumer, most of us here on BF. We are the exception. Some of us, (myself included), were the average consumer not all that long ago, and I feel liberated the amount of ignorance regarding knives I have overcome. But the "average" consumer is still quite ignorant, in many categories regarding many products, from frying pans to tents, Cars to TV's and cpu's, to knives.

The same situation can be used in regards to high-end knives. BladeForum users are not the only people keeping CRK, Hinderer, Strider, etc. in business.

The first gun I bought was a $1,100 1911. I walked into the gun shop, saw said gun, and bought it because I really wanted it. I didn't read any gun forums or read any reviews, love at first sight. Now, imagine all the people that walk into a brick-and-mortar knife shop and are immediately drawn to a $400 Sebenza. They don't need to read all the hype about CRK on the Internet, if they really want that knife, they'll drop the cash. Again, love at first sight

 

[bladeboss]

Can relate to this, with knife talk, headphone talk (nobody cares what a CCAW voice coil, dual dynamic, balanced armature, hybrid, aluminum, low pass filter, electrostatic, etc. means, as long as it sounds good)

The other day, I was showing one of my friends whom I rarely see, my Sebenza.
He said "why does it cost $350?"
I just laughed and said "we don't have enough time to discuss it all."
My other friends who already know, laughed.

 

[craytab]

BoyHowdy, people sure get their underwear in a wad about other people owning expensive things. I mean, feel that way, fine. Talking about it publicly? Don't you have something better to do?

 

[Quiet]

I am guilty of this, 100% and I'm good with any judgement passed my way. My most expensive knives, if I cut anything with them, it might be to open an envelope or snip a thread off a shirt and that's about it. When I carry them, I carry them because I am taking pleasure in being able to carry such a beautiful knife. If I'm going out in the woods, or doing something where an edge might take damage? I have plenty of less expensive knives that can do those tasks, and I carry those to do it. To be candid, I carry multiple knives every day: one very expensive, beautiful knife, and one less expensive "work" knife. Is what it is. I am fortunate to have and exercise the choice to do so.

 

[Quiet]

Your first mistake was comparing impact wrenches to knives. Your second mistake was assuming nobody ever used Sebenzas for dirty work.

Though I must agree, not sure why people would keep a Sebenza in near-safe queen status by not using it. It is a utility knife, not one to look at. Superior functionality, but aesthetics aren't really its strongpoint. Now, if it was a marfione, that'd be a different story, even though I would never buy one LOL

$6000 is a bit crazy (says a guy who spent $500 on his third knife)

Who are you to judge what others find beautiful? Some folks on this board really need to take this to heart: "You do you, and let others do them."

 

[strategy9]

The same situation can be used in regards to high-end knives. BladeForum users are not the only people keeping CRK, Hinderer, Strider, etc. in business.

The first gun I bought was a $1,100 1911. I walked into the gun shop, saw said gun, and bought it because I really wanted it. I didn't read any gun forums or read any reviews, love at first sight. Now, imagine all the people that walk into a brick-and-mortar knife shop and are immediately drawn to a $400 Sebenza. They don't need to read all the hype about CRK on the Internet, if they really want that knife, they'll drop the cash. Again, love at first sight

You obviously have good taste, and I wasn't implying Bladeforums members were the only people buying high end knives; sure, there are a bunch of knife enthusiasts and collectors who are not online, but still those who actually appreciate finer Cutlery are the vast minority among the masses... It can be evidenced by the shear production numbers and wide varieties that companies like boker magnum, frost brands, taylor brands, mtech, tac force, gerber, buck, sanrenmu, and the likes there of, are putting out by the tens of thousands annually, with lucrative contracts to the major retail outlets, when compared to companies like CRK and MicroTech and companies of their ilk, producing vastly limited quantities of limited design varieties by comparison, often only available through specialty outlets.

Even in house, Kershaw vs. ZT.
What was it, 20 some new full sized knife designs released under the Kershaw moniker, all except 4 (the 3 launches and bw-alum-serr link), msrp'd at $60 or less;
But
Only 6 new Zero Tolerance models released for 2016, all msrp'd at over $200, (one of which is the cf version of a top seller the 0450)

Same reason standard Buck 110's are still mass produced, whereas the improved (pricier) alternatives are typically seen as limited production runs, dealer exclusive (bulk) orders, or available through the custom shop upon request.

That right there gives you a good glimpse into the overall spectrum of the knife market in general, amongst the "average" consumer, (the millions), most of whom wouldn't even think about spending more then $150 on a folding knife. Folks like you, who have no problem making that sort of purchase on a knife, and folks like me, who can easily justify the price of said knife, but just have a hard time saving the funds due to other impulsive purchases along the way, (and/or justifying it with their with the misses), are still the minority of knife consumers, or else companies like kai would not invest 3x's the marketing, research, and development resources on expanding their lower end kershaw line then they do on their higher end zero tolerance line.

 

[marcinek]

What's wrong with Marci? All he did was tell the truth!

I guess some folks can't handle the truth. I suppose for them the Ignore feature might come in handy at some point.

 

[22-rimfire]

But marcinek's posts just critique other without offering his own justification or ideas in a beneficial way. It is probably only a problem with me, but he reminds me of that narcissistic teacher that everyone hated in high school. Always critiquing, never helping. I've been around too many people like that to know that there is no salvation.

Welcome to the real world and college. Most college professors could care less if you pass or fail. They are god and you abide by their rules. Professors are looking for the especially bright students and the ones who will further the "science". Most of us do not fit that mold.

I generally have no problem with Marcinek's posts. He usually speaks the truth as I often see it. Let it just roll off your back and go on.

 

[hatchettjack]

There are so many answers to this ?
I think the main reason is people buy these knives knowing they can't really afford them and are going to have to sell them at some point!
Some folks are just rich!
Some folks are so rich the hired help cuts everything for them!
Some folks want to have more toys than you do!

There is no wrong answer and to each their own!

 

[Charlie Mike]

I'm not at all close to being rich... (36k/year) I own less than 20 knives, the average price being $700... spanning from $60 to $1300. At one time, I EDC'd and used unsparingly a $2200 and $1800 customs.

 

[Quiet]

There are so many answers to this ?
I think the main reason is people buy these knives knowing they can't really afford them and are going to have to sell them at some point!
Some folks are just rich!
Some folks are so rich the hired help cuts everything for them!
Some folks want to have more toys than you do!

There is no wrong answer and to each their own!

Wow, the envy dripping from this post is telling.

 

[The Aflac Duck]

You obviously have good taste, and I wasn't implying Bladeforums members were the only people buying high end knives; sure, there are a bunch of knife enthusiasts and collectors who are not online, but still those who actually appreciate finer Cutlery are the vast minority among the masses... It can be evidenced by the shear production numbers and wide varieties that companies like boker magnum, frost brands, taylor brands, mtech, tac force, gerber, buck, sanrenmu, and the likes there of, are putting out by the tens of thousands annually, with lucrative contracts to the major retail outlets, when compared to companies like CRK and MicroTech and companies of their ilk, producing vastly limited quantities of limited design varieties by comparison, often only available through specialty outlets.

Even in house, Kershaw vs. ZT.
What was it, 20 some new full sized knife designs released under the Kershaw moniker, all except 4 (the 3 launches and bw-alum-serr link), msrp'd at $60 or less;
But
Only 6 new Zero Tolerance models released for 2016, all msrp'd at over $200, (one of which is the cf version of a top seller the 0450)

Same reason standard Buck 110's are still mass produced, whereas the improved (pricier) alternatives are typically seen as limited production runs, dealer exclusive (bulk) orders, or available through the custom shop upon request.

That right there gives you a good glimpse into the overall spectrum of the knife market in general, amongst the "average" consumer, (the millions), most of whom wouldn't even think about spending more then $150 on a folding knife. Folks like you, who have no problem making that sort of purchase on a knife, and folks like me, who can easily justify the price of said knife, but just have a hard time saving the funds due to other impulsive purchases along the way, (and/or justifying it with their with the misses), are still the minority of knife consumers, or else companies like kai would not invest 3x's the marketing, research, and development resources on expanding their lower end kershaw line then they do on their higher end zero tolerance line.

I definately didn't mean to come across saying that you were implying anything. I was just making an example of all the high-dollar knives that are bought "blind". I hope that makes sense

Anyways, you make very good points (as usual) and I completely agree with the above statements:thumbup:

 

[22-rimfire]

Some folks are just rich! Some folks are so rich the hired help cuts everything for them!

And some people are poor. And some just squeeze their money a bit tighter than others. My co-workers years ago would say that I squeaked when I walked.

People come in all sizes and shapes with varying financial abilities. They like all kinds of knives.

 

[The Aflac Duck]

I'm not at all close to being rich... (36k/year) I own less than 20 knives, the average price being $700... spanning from $60 to $1300. At one time, I EDC'd and used unsparingly a $2200 and $1800 customs.

We're pretty much in the same boat CM. I make under 40K a year, own some $1k+ knives, and am doing alright. Being single is great:thumbup:

 

[bdmicarta]

Nobody buys a $200 impact wrench to look at and use a $50 one for work.

There are only a few things that people buy and like to look at, knives are one of them. Of course they could still use them but that gets them dirty and scratched and not as nice to look at.

I've bought a lot of custom knives to collect and look at with no intention of using them, but my folders are bought to be used. That doesn't mean I have to use every folder for the dirtiest of jobs. I have different knives for different uses.

I have a set of SnapOn tools that I bought many years ago. At some point I decided they were worth too much to carry around in my car so I kept them at home and bought some cheaper Craftsman tools to carry around. But I still use the SnapOn tools at home in my garage.

 

[blade dude]

There are only a few things that people buy and like to look at, knives are one of them. Of course they could still use them but that gets them dirty and scratched and not as nice to look at.

I've bought a lot of custom knives to collect and look at with no intention of using them, but my folders are bought to be used. That doesn't mean I have to use every folder for the dirtiest of jobs. I have different knives for different uses.

I have a set of SnapOn tools that I bought many years ago. At some point I decided they were worth too much to carry around in my car so I kept them at home and bought some cheaper Craftsman tools to carry around. But I still use the SnapOn tools at home in my garage.

Thanks for that answer it makes some more sense now. Great comparison. Same reason I have harbor freight crap wrenches in my Camaro. Lose one at night oh well good bye one dollar, lose or have more snap on wrenches or even cheaper craftsman wrenches stolen and that's money away from different hobbies.

 

[killgar]

I'm guilty of not reading this entire thread before posting. But can you blame me? After all, I've read it all before, over and over again. I've been reading this same thread here for the past 13+ years. The question stays the same. Only some of the names change.

I think I might die of shock if an entire week went by without someone on this forum asking "Why do people buy expensive knives?", or "Why don't people use their expensive knives?".

Yeah, I could ignore this thread. But if I did that I wouldn't be able to post my smart-ass comments. And where's the fun in that?

Personally, as long as people aren't breaking the law, I couldn't care less what they are doing with their knives, or not doing with their knives. I don't need to understand how other people enjoy knives.

 

[strategy9]

I'm not at all close to being rich... (36k/year) I own less than 20 knives, the average price being $700... spanning from $60 to $1300. At one time, I EDC'd and used unsparingly a $2200 and $1800 customs.

We're pretty much in the same boat CM. I make under 40K a year, own some $1k+ knives, and am doing alright. Being single is great:thumbup:

Damn kids.... (Can't even blame the wife so much, she actually bought me some nice knives).