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Hello metal complex. My name is Brian and I a fan of good knives lol. I recently started collecting two years ago. One of my personal Grail knives is the Protech Dark Angel. With that being said they are completely sold out everywhere at least that I know of. I have a birthday coming up and would love to receive that knife for my present from my wife. Do you know anyone or any other site that I may be able to find one and purchase one? Don't mind if it has light use. Any help would be much appreciated. Thanks for all the videos and knife content as well keep it coming!
Got one myself on 2ndary market, loved it. Never had an issue w/action or play. But that might just be me getting lucky. Sold it for $50, which is what its honestly worth 😅😅
I have also never had a problem with my Carter. VG-10 is one of my favorites and G10 is the best handle material IMO. The ergonomics are perfect, blade shape and size are great for EDC anywhere. James Brand gets a lot of shit because the knife community is largely the opposite of hipsters: a bunch of redneks and tacti-cool knife collectors. Anything they can see as modern or hipster they will automatically hate. They'll say its because of cost/value but then they'll pay ridiculous costs for even worse knives or guns. Don't believe the hate, the James Brand Carter is an amazing knife. Overpriced? Probably, but that doesn't mean anything as far as popular knives go.
@@jawaring4367we pay more cause the machining and material cost not just cause we like to pay more... The problem with James brand as a whole is that they are WAY too expensive compared to other knives with similar materials no matter how you slice it. Like a joke level overpriced. Also, they use shit materials and overcharge for them. VG10 was an acceptable steel for the price like 10 years ago when there weren't as many premium powder steels for fair prices like there are now
@@jawaring4367bb b bb bbbbbb b b b bbbbut u can’t say u like a James brand products all the neckbeards will get rly upset because they’re so sensitive that the though of one making a purchasing decision outside of what they would personally buy makes their asses hurt rly bad. Poor lil sensitive babies ): thats why they have to have mommy check the closet for James brand products before they get tucked in to bed
It’s Brand, James Brand. Thanks for reviewing this piece. I’ve been on the fence because it’s a beautiful knife for pocket jewelry and I love the axis style lock, but have heard so many negatives. Hope they upgrade this Carter without raising the price.
I've been carrying the Carter for a year (or two?) and it's a great EDC. I don't see any real upgrades that are needed. Don't believe all the hate from the tacti-cool crowd.
If that were reasonably priced, I'd buy it. I actually very much like everything about it. But it's almost twice what it's worth. If Kizer made it it'd be $70. I have no problem with Chinese manufacturing, but I do have an issue being charged US made prices for a Chinese knife.
I own quite a few knives in this category Ritter hogue mini Presidio mini2 hogue Deka and others but at this price point I totally agree that an import at that price and quality should be around the 70-80 price. I currently try to make majority of my knife purchases US made just feels like the right thing to do.
I saw the Carter on Blade HQ and I laughed at the price. I was about to mention the Ritter Hogue absolutely destroys this knife but you did it for me 7:45 Bro, did you get demonetized again? Because I will be pissed. My membership paused. MC, I'm scared
12:37 uhhhhhhh that's going to be a no. $160? That's going to be a f*ck no. There's almost an endless amount of knives in that price range that I'd buy before that.
Feel the people who can’t afford these prefer sitting on dildoes if “knife people said it was cool “ most of you betas buy like 60 spyder co knives to cut open your gr checks
James Brand is one of those brands that I like to watch reviews on because it lets ne know I can trust the reviewer. I do the same with Pen reviewers for Big Idea Designs. These are essentially marketing companies that design and outsource knives/pens/watches.
I was gonna say that a lot of benchmades prices have dropped a good bit. The grips with great steel can be had for very reasonably priced now. I love my mini grip with awt scales. The action didn’t change, the they improved the feel of the knife completely imo.
@@Old_School69 This entire wall if text is based on an assumption you made that I didn't even elude to. 1. I never said Benchmade was overrated, I said they are overpriced. You can't deny that they are generally 10-20% higher than other respected brands equivalents. Then add in that they "have been addressing" the QA/QC issues for what a decade now? There is really no call for it. 2. You prattled away about half a dozen or so other benchmade models and even other Hogue models. As if I had said anything other than a comparison between these three knives. What, you think I don't know about the Bugout? I've got two in my knife box right now, but this wasn't about the also overpriced Bugout now was it? I fet it you like Benchmade, I just suggest you sort the emotional response next time necause it lead you on a fool's errand.
@@Sleepy_spartan717 Have they, or are local dealers having to compete with online retailers so the local price is normalizing? The mainstays of the Benchmade linup have not changed MSRP in years, just local dealers can no longer force you to pay them. In the end, the price is too high for the number of lemons the company lets slide. It's too high when you consider other makes offerings.
Heyyyyyy! They upgraded to VG-10 for FREE last year... from 9Cr - so this knife was the same price but with 9Cr. They are 100% a "lifestyle" brand. My cousin introduced them to me after seeing The Carter on some tech blog, so, as others have said, they are definitely marketing to people who don't know much about knives. I bought a couple last year before I learned way more about knives - I won't be buying any more of them. Oh! The micarta handles are new... they are selling them as an upgrade from all their G10 scales, so of course they are more money. These are the serrated knife blade of the tech crowd.
I paused 1:09 because something caught my attention. you said that the blade is longer than the cutting edge. the blade being 2.75 and the cutting edge 2.65 just got 20 more minutes of this to go.
8:31 i’m not a fan of thumb discs either but of the knives I have which have the disc all of them I can wave open. I bet it you tried then this james brand would be one slick chevy
I really like their one with satin blade until I seen it VG10! I’m pretty sure my Hogue Ritter has S30V or 20CV for roughly the same price with way better action. But I do know folks who lo VG10 so? And that clip😳 and centering on at least ceramic bearings Great honest review as always
I had the Folsom, just wanted to see what the fuss was about. White g10, black blade; pretty handsome looking knife, but that was about it. I think it was $70? But with bd1 steel, and the fit and finish, it was probably worth $30. Nothing coated, all painted, and looked cheap AF in person. Had it 2-3 days and sold it. Definitely one of those "fashion over function" brands where the box is often nicer than what's inside. For some folks, that's their thing. Just not for me.
Great and honest review... I still really like the Barnes , but as you and others have already put forth...I just don't have $600+ taxes and shipping for a knife right now. Now this i would never buy. In fact the Barnes is the only knife that they manufacture that I actually would buy if I could get a good deal on one...
I mean, how many times you change the pocket clip on a knife? That's how chicago's work. So if you don't have the basic skills to handle them:improve! Axel, Aircraft Maintainer
I've wanted one of these for a while just because my son's name is Carter. But that price for Chinese vg10 I can't do it. Also I'm pretty sure it was released about a week before he was born.
I think if they could get their prices down to Kizer levels (where they belong) these knives would be super popular. I love the look of a few of them, but would never grab one at the current price model.
Has anyone else's membership to MC been paused? I have never seen this before.... Oh, and the Carter looks nice but it is just too small and too pricey for what it is in my opinion.
MC won't say it, but I will: James Brand is marketed to the bougie outdoorsman. The person who is compelled to look the part without actually ever getting themselves dirty. James Brand owners wear Patagonia to protect themselves against the windy downtown sidewalks. They buy a Jeep Wrangler with off-road tires to tackle the rugged terrain of the Starbucks parking lot. They have a Rolex Submariner to hazard the waist-deep surf off Hilton Head Island. They pose with an impressive fish off the coast of Montauk, then immediately give it to the charter mate because those things are slimy. Then, when they're done with their day of rugged adventuring, James Brand owners make a beeline right back to the resort for a shower because, ew, it's gross outside.
What would you say about using a Nick Shabazz accent when you compare the knife sizes? The way he says Ontario Rat Numba two is permanently in my head.
I bought a blacked out one used and don’t hate it. It’s the kind of knife I carry when I am dressed up and don’t expect to need to use a knife and shouldn’t be fidgeting with one either… but when I break it out it’s dressed for the part. As a novice to knives, I would tell other newbies who aren’t afraid to spend some money but do hope for some value to not buy a bunch and save for something like the Peña X series. It has a similar vibe but is way fidgety and the quality blows The James Brand away
I can't get my Carter to open quickly and smoothly either. I wonder if the coating is to blame? Does anyone have a non-coated Carter? I'd be curious to hear the results.
I honestly wish you got the better looking version and color of this knife. ie black with green. The selling point of the knife is its sick aesthetic but you probably got the least aesthetically pleasing version. Imo while yes there are other knives with similar materials being sold for $60, they don't hecking look like this knife and if you get the right color (not this one) it looks so sick. People will mention the Civivi Elementium but honestly that knife doesn't look nearly as good, nowhere near at all as this knife. ie it looks so sick in black.
I think this is an interesting opportunity to try to reconcile the times when we say that "we shouldn't be paying $X much for only Y materials," and the times that we say the opposite, "Guys, don't get hung up on the materials here, that's not what this is about." There's an unreconciled bias there and I don't know what it is. This brand seems to be unrecoverably stained in that respect though and will never get the amnesty treatment while others will.
I think they updated the carter. My carter has an oval cutout in the pocket clip that allows you to reach the screws through the clip. Mine came centered with zero blade play. Was super tight though so I had to loosen the pivot a tiny bit and then it was super smooth. Design and aesthetics means a lot to me so I'm loving this knife. I got the black G10 + satin blade with green thumb disc. The white bone + black blade looks awesome too. Definitely overpriced though, and I only bought it because of a promotion. I think the G10 versions are 140 normally. That pocket clip is my favorite so far. Its got that clean, solid look and feel of a milled clip, but with the flexibility of a traditional clip, plus its super deep carry. Also, the thumb disc is totally flickable, you just have to use your nail part instead of the meat part of your thumb/finger. I get it with like 90% success rate with thumbnail flick or middle finger reverse flick, no wrist action needed. Still not as versatile as a thumb stud, but I do find it more comfortable than a stud for slow rolling. My only complaints about this knife, aside from the price, it's that the optional lanyard attachment is too sharp, and that there's no extra parts available for purchase. I doubt anyone's making custom scales for this. I tried emailing their support to purchase extra thumb discs and an extra pocket clips but they said nope, whatever extra parts they got were reserved for warranty.
One word ‘ overpriced’ , you can get far better steel on a spyderco or benchmade, which are far better built with flytanuim micarta or carbon, g10 scales at amuch much cheaper price.
Awesome review. I wanted to buy a new knife. “The James Brand” sounds really cool! The styling of the “Carter” is hot! The mic Arya and satin blade for 140.00$ looked like a great deal. I could not buy the knife fast enough. In there marketing they are selling a lifestyle! Like cool people use our knives! Now I see your video and learn about the poor workmanship! Oh well. At least it was only 140.00$. Awesome review. Your content is getting better and better! Thank you
I like the looks of the Carter; just never made it around too it. I’ve never handled VG-10 (typing before watching hope it doesn’t bite me back) but for the price range these hit its a little ridiculous so i’ve heard.
I have a Carter and I have to say that although the knife looks pretty good, for what it is it's very overpriced. Pulling the knife out of the pocket, the clip gets stuck. Side to side blade play. I do like the knife but not impressed
Cracks me up when people get pissed about James Brand prices. Don't like it? Don't buy it! Companies get to decide what they think they're products are worth. I've bought a few James Brand knives - all on eBay. And for the criticism of "selling a lifestyle" - literally all knives do this. Hell, damn near ALL products being sold to us do this. Some more than others but, it still happens. To say that they're not a good knife that doesn't "cut it" is just silly.
Ya... but as a knife reviewer I'm gonna point it out. You're right. If you don't like it, don't buy it. But James Brand takes both the "overpriced" thing AND the "lifestyle" thing to a whole new level. So far, imo, this is a company most knife enthusiast should flat out avoid until they get their head out of the clouds. Beyond that, other than The Barnes, their models seem have very subpar F&F.
They’re not catering to the people who buy 60 spyder co knives to say they got them but never use them lol , I agree don’t like the price don’t buy them
That sure is alot cash for a knife with that many issues. I pulled out my Benchmade Northfork Axis lock knife, because it looks a little like that 'James Brand' and compared it as I listened and watched your review. All I could do was roll my eyes, not at your review, but that knife itself. My Benchmade cost me $161.00 plus tax at my local hardware store here in West Florida, and it's made in the USA. 🙂 Hmmmm,🤔 I'll admit that 'knife' you reviewed is 'nice looking' but 600 bucks? 🤨C'mon!!😲 I could buy a couple more Zt's Hogues, Spydercos, Benchmades, or a nice Chris Reeves or Hinderer knife. Go figure!
I dig something like Spyderco’s DLC, but that semigloss black looks painfully cheap in every context I’ve seen it. It feels like I’m viewing a Cutlery Corner piece plus micarta
There stuff sells out all the time personally I have a couple knives they’re fine I use my carter for work everyday with no issues. I like buying stuff I can use and they have a lot of that . To many complainers in the knife world
You can literally get the same exact quality, same materials, same functionality, same country of origin, same everything for less than half the price these days Carlos. This company has taken you for a ride. You didn't get anything special for your money.
Bought one awhile back. I love it! Really only use it for backyard BBQ parties in urban settings. It's an accessory piece. I have other knives for bushcraft, camping, and other use but they don't go well my outfit when I'm not in the woods. 🤪
Love your channel, but Couldn’t be more wrong on this knife. Not sure what the owner did to the knife before you got it , but I have the green micarta version, out the box been perfect. No centering, blade or lock up issues after two years of use. Actually has beautiful action. May not be a heavy user but it is a beautiful, quality EDC
Can't bring myself to spend money on this brand. Demographics, politics, and the line of work I'm in, kill it for me. On top of them over pricing their shit!! This is a solid review!
Just save yourself some disappointment buy a bugout or a para 3 or Houge decka . The more I see from the James Brand the less I like their stuff . It's like they are trying to be the hipster version of Prometheus design works and shooting themselves in the foot with price point and quality
I’ve had this since it came out and have had zero issues with it , ya I agree on the price but aside from knives they make other awesome products . I think think the hate they get is from people who just follow the “knife guy” sheep mantra they complain about the price of a knife that’s 120 bucks but spend 90 bucks on a ti lanyard bead or 300 on a box cutter made In the USA 🇺🇸 that they ordered on their phone made in china 😂 . Sheep will sheep 🐑 benchmade , spyder co and now houge is the only knives you can by to be knife 🔪 people . I’ve had numerous knives over the years including James brand that work perfectly fine for what what they are made for . Most people on here use them as a fidget spinner or to feel masculine 😅 get over it .
450-475 is reasonable price for a user grade pocket knife? Guess we live in different realities, as I sit here fidgeting my titanium framed, micarta handled, M390 blade, timascus clipped, ball bearing pivots, Chinese made $125 dollar with shipping edc knife. These are stupidly priced.
Maybe I got lucky, but I've had 0 issues with my Carter knife. I opted for the G10 variant, perhaps that made a difference. All James Brand products are overpriced, but its "branding". If you're strictly a tool guy, stay away.
It ALMOST makes the mini bugout seem like a reasonably priced product... But it does not. People would make LINES to get this kind of design from the butterfly. Vg10 to sv30 is not that big of a jump performance-wise. From this side of the fence, in the land of the crkt, civivis, kizers, even the victorinoxi... I don't see much difference between this one and the bugouts. Sure, the qc of the James brand is sheet. But BM has not been impecable to the point where I would buy a bm from a place with anything but outstanding return policy.
Oh yeah, Metal Complex....you have now experienced the hot garbage of James Brand: Subpar materials with terrible action for prices that are embarrassing. I had the liner lock version, and it was solid garbage just like your version today.
Lol, for all those people who don't really know much about knives, there's nothing namby pamby about it. It looks similar toa. rat or a kabar something or other...😮 I don't get why anyone would think this was "stylish". It looks super ordinary, nice looking, sure, but stylish? That's just hype
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Hello metal complex. My name is Brian and I a fan of good knives lol. I recently started collecting two years ago. One of my personal Grail knives is the Protech Dark Angel. With that being said they are completely sold out everywhere at least that I know of. I have a birthday coming up and would love to receive that knife for my present from my wife. Do you know anyone or any other site that I may be able to find one and purchase one? Don't mind if it has light use. Any help would be much appreciated. Thanks for all the videos and knife content as well keep it coming!
Just got a refund from you tube regarding your channel. What's up?
Got one myself on 2ndary market, loved it. Never had an issue w/action or play. But that might just be me getting lucky. Sold it for $50, which is what its honestly worth 😅😅
I have also never had a problem with my Carter. VG-10 is one of my favorites and G10 is the best handle material IMO. The ergonomics are perfect, blade shape and size are great for EDC anywhere. James Brand gets a lot of shit because the knife community is largely the opposite of hipsters: a bunch of redneks and tacti-cool knife collectors. Anything they can see as modern or hipster they will automatically hate. They'll say its because of cost/value but then they'll pay ridiculous costs for even worse knives or guns. Don't believe the hate, the James Brand Carter is an amazing knife. Overpriced? Probably, but that doesn't mean anything as far as popular knives go.
@@jawaring4367we pay more cause the machining and material cost not just cause we like to pay more... The problem with James brand as a whole is that they are WAY too expensive compared to other knives with similar materials no matter how you slice it. Like a joke level overpriced. Also, they use shit materials and overcharge for them. VG10 was an acceptable steel for the price like 10 years ago when there weren't as many premium powder steels for fair prices like there are now
@@jawaring4367bb b bb bbbbbb b b b bbbbut u can’t say u like a James brand products all the neckbeards will get rly upset because they’re so sensitive that the though of one making a purchasing decision outside of what they would personally buy makes their asses hurt rly bad. Poor lil sensitive babies ): thats why they have to have mommy check the closet for James brand products before they get tucked in to bed
@@jawaring4367no its bc James Brand over charges for basic materials to people who don't know any better. That's why they get shit.
It’s Brand, James Brand. Thanks for reviewing this piece. I’ve been on the fence because it’s a beautiful knife for pocket jewelry and I love the axis style lock, but have heard so many negatives. Hope they upgrade this Carter without raising the price.
I've been carrying the Carter for a year (or two?) and it's a great EDC. I don't see any real upgrades that are needed. Don't believe all the hate from the tacti-cool crowd.
@@jawaring4367 agreed
If that were reasonably priced, I'd buy it. I actually very much like everything about it. But it's almost twice what it's worth. If Kizer made it it'd be $70.
I have no problem with Chinese manufacturing, but I do have an issue being charged US made prices for a Chinese knife.
100% agreed
$70 and the action would probably be a lot better
Kizer does make a life like this, it’s the T1.
I own quite a few knives in this category Ritter hogue mini Presidio mini2 hogue Deka and others but at this price point I totally agree that an import at that price and quality should be around the 70-80 price. I currently try to make majority of my knife purchases US made just feels like the right thing to do.
I saw the Carter on Blade HQ and I laughed at the price.
I was about to mention the Ritter Hogue absolutely destroys this knife but you did it for me 7:45
Bro, did you get demonetized again? Because I will be pissed.
My membership paused. MC, I'm scared
Same here. Membership paused.
He posted on Instagram that he got demonitized again😢
@@janjimpson240 WTH? Hipsters that like James Brand Carter and got their feelings hurt?
Yeah he got demonetized under the firearms policy again.
12:37 uhhhhhhh that's going to be a no. $160? That's going to be a f*ck no. There's almost an endless amount of knives in that price range that I'd buy before that.
I feel like people who cut with this knife do so with their pinkies extended much the same way when they drink.
Feel the people who can’t afford these prefer sitting on dildoes if “knife people said it was cool “ most of you betas buy like 60 spyder co knives to cut open your gr checks
Ok boomer
Idk...because I buy some expensive ass knives.
I feel like the people who cut with this probably are just yuppies who don't know knives.
do you have mommy check the closet for James brand products before she tucks u into bed?
Either you must think the same thing about the rat and dozier or you just drank the JBhate kool-aid
I'm just sitting here impressed that they actually sell these things at their prices 🤣
So am I it they used a better blade steel it would be good.
The marketing in the ad is really good! It’s like they studied Apple or something. “The James Brand is the knife used by cool people!”
James Brand is one of those brands that I like to watch reviews on because it lets ne know I can trust the reviewer. I do the same with Pen reviewers for Big Idea Designs. These are essentially marketing companies that design and outsource knives/pens/watches.
Diggin’ the knife ,Not the price. But I do want to hear your opinion on their Folsom.
I was seriously considering getting a James Brand Carter but , after seeing this review now I really want the Doug Ritter RSK 😅
I would rather a Ritter over the Carter. Even some of the grip/mini grips offer more for the money and we can all agree that you pay for the 🦋.
I was gonna say that a lot of benchmades prices have dropped a good bit. The grips with great steel can be had for very reasonably priced now. I love my mini grip with awt scales. The action didn’t change, the they improved the feel of the knife completely imo.
@@Old_School69 This entire wall if text is based on an assumption you made that I didn't even elude to.
1. I never said Benchmade was overrated, I said they are overpriced. You can't deny that they are generally 10-20% higher than other respected brands equivalents. Then add in that they "have been addressing" the QA/QC issues for what a decade now? There is really no call for it.
2. You prattled away about half a dozen or so other benchmade models and even other Hogue models. As if I had said anything other than a comparison between these three knives. What, you think I don't know about the Bugout? I've got two in my knife box right now, but this wasn't about the also overpriced Bugout now was it?
I fet it you like Benchmade, I just suggest you sort the emotional response next time necause it lead you on a fool's errand.
@@Sleepy_spartan717 Have they, or are local dealers having to compete with online retailers so the local price is normalizing? The mainstays of the Benchmade linup have not changed MSRP in years, just local dealers can no longer force you to pay them. In the end, the price is too high for the number of lemons the company lets slide. It's too high when you consider other makes offerings.
Ever since the Barnes, I do question their value. Still looks amazing, we’ll see
Their designs are good, their pricing is way too high. Petition to change their name please (my suggestion: The Bill Brand).
Heyyyyyy! They upgraded to VG-10 for FREE last year... from 9Cr - so this knife was the same price but with 9Cr. They are 100% a "lifestyle" brand. My cousin introduced them to me after seeing The Carter on some tech blog, so, as others have said, they are definitely marketing to people who don't know much about knives. I bought a couple last year before I learned way more about knives - I won't be buying any more of them. Oh! The micarta handles are new... they are selling them as an upgrade from all their G10 scales, so of course they are more money.
These are the serrated knife blade of the tech crowd.
I paused 1:09 because something caught my attention. you said that the blade is longer than the cutting edge. the blade being 2.75 and the cutting edge 2.65 just got 20 more minutes of this to go.
8:31 i’m not a fan of thumb discs either but of the knives I have which have the disc all of them I can wave open. I bet it you tried then this james brand would be one slick chevy
I really like their one with satin blade until I seen it VG10! I’m pretty sure my Hogue Ritter has S30V or 20CV for roughly the same price with way better action. But I do know folks who lo VG10 so? And that clip😳 and centering on at least ceramic bearings Great honest review as always
The first time I saw the James brand people in a bladehq convention interview, I knew they weren't knife people.
I had the Folsom, just wanted to see what the fuss was about. White g10, black blade; pretty handsome looking knife, but that was about it. I think it was $70? But with bd1 steel, and the fit and finish, it was probably worth $30. Nothing coated, all painted, and looked cheap AF in person. Had it 2-3 days and sold it. Definitely one of those "fashion over function" brands where the box is often nicer than what's inside. For some folks, that's their thing. Just not for me.
Great and honest review...
I still really like the Barnes , but as you and others have already put forth...I just don't have $600+ taxes and shipping for a knife right now.
Now this i would never buy.
In fact the Barnes is the only knife that they manufacture that I actually would buy if I could get a good deal on one...
I had a good time with your review. I got burned by the James Brand folder quite a few years ago.
Yea I have to agree with you I haven't seen a James brand knife that works for me
I mean, how many times you change the pocket clip on a knife? That's how chicago's work. So if you don't have the basic skills to handle them:improve! Axel, Aircraft Maintainer
I wonder if over the last 2+ years, they worked out all the issues, maybe its better now than that one... curious 🤔
It’s a good looking knife, but this whole company has been a joke since the beginning.
I've wanted one of these for a while just because my son's name is Carter. But that price for Chinese vg10 I can't do it. Also I'm pretty sure it was released about a week before he was born.
I was so excited to hear you opinion on this knife
For some reason I picture a guy wearing a fedora talking about how great and cool this knife is. I don’t know why 🤣
Seems like theyre targeting people who like knives but don't know much about knives. Kinda like Mtech but priced like Apple products.
I think if they could get their prices down to Kizer levels (where they belong) these knives would be super popular. I love the look of a few of them, but would never grab one at the current price model.
Has anyone else's membership to MC been paused? I have never seen this before.... Oh, and the Carter looks nice but it is just too small and too pricey for what it is in my opinion.
He got demonetized again.
MC won't say it, but I will: James Brand is marketed to the bougie outdoorsman. The person who is compelled to look the part without actually ever getting themselves dirty. James Brand owners wear Patagonia to protect themselves against the windy downtown sidewalks. They buy a Jeep Wrangler with off-road tires to tackle the rugged terrain of the Starbucks parking lot. They have a Rolex Submariner to hazard the waist-deep surf off Hilton Head Island. They pose with an impressive fish off the coast of Montauk, then immediately give it to the charter mate because those things are slimy. Then, when they're done with their day of rugged adventuring, James Brand owners make a beeline right back to the resort for a shower because, ew, it's gross outside.
You need to check out the New West Knifeworks Glory Folder!
Mildly entertained? I was thoroughly entertained ;)
I mean the knife looks fine for me. I actually like the aesthetic. Idk about the price though.
What would you say about using a Nick Shabazz accent when you compare the knife sizes? The way he says Ontario Rat Numba two is permanently in my head.
I bought a blacked out one used and don’t hate it. It’s the kind of knife I carry when I am dressed up and don’t expect to need to use a knife and shouldn’t be fidgeting with one either… but when I break it out it’s dressed for the part. As a novice to knives, I would tell other newbies who aren’t afraid to spend some money but do hope for some value to not buy a bunch and save for something like the Peña X series. It has a similar vibe but is way fidgety and the quality blows The James Brand away
you can easily flick the knife open by holding down on the lock buttons.
I can't get my Carter to open quickly and smoothly either. I wonder if the coating is to blame? Does anyone have a non-coated Carter? I'd be curious to hear the results.
I've got a non coated version and mine is quite smooth. Drops shut with very minimal blade play.
This brand is the skinny jeans of the knife world.
I honestly wish you got the better looking version and color of this knife. ie black with green. The selling point of the knife is its sick aesthetic but you probably got the least aesthetically pleasing version. Imo while yes there are other knives with similar materials being sold for $60, they don't hecking look like this knife and if you get the right color (not this one) it looks so sick. People will mention the Civivi Elementium but honestly that knife doesn't look nearly as good, nowhere near at all as this knife. ie it looks so sick in black.
I love James brand! and they have great materials for the price!
-No one, ever
The Sog Terminus XR at $55 or the Sog terminus xr in S35VN for $94 I would choose either one over the James Brand Carter.
Better to find a Bugout on sale and add some scales if you want micarta. I got a Benchmade Bugout for $99 at a local shop and I'd rather have that.
I think this is an interesting opportunity to try to reconcile the times when we say that "we shouldn't be paying $X much for only Y materials," and the times that we say the opposite, "Guys, don't get hung up on the materials here, that's not what this is about." There's an unreconciled bias there and I don't know what it is. This brand seems to be unrecoverably stained in that respect though and will never get the amnesty treatment while others will.
Finally I have been wanting to see a review on this.
I think they updated the carter. My carter has an oval cutout in the pocket clip that allows you to reach the screws through the clip. Mine came centered with zero blade play. Was super tight though so I had to loosen the pivot a tiny bit and then it was super smooth. Design and aesthetics means a lot to me so I'm loving this knife. I got the black G10 + satin blade with green thumb disc. The white bone + black blade looks awesome too. Definitely overpriced though, and I only bought it because of a promotion. I think the G10 versions are 140 normally.
That pocket clip is my favorite so far. Its got that clean, solid look and feel of a milled clip, but with the flexibility of a traditional clip, plus its super deep carry.
Also, the thumb disc is totally flickable, you just have to use your nail part instead of the meat part of your thumb/finger. I get it with like 90% success rate with thumbnail flick or middle finger reverse flick, no wrist action needed. Still not as versatile as a thumb stud, but I do find it more comfortable than a stud for slow rolling.
My only complaints about this knife, aside from the price, it's that the optional lanyard attachment is too sharp, and that there's no extra parts available for purchase. I doubt anyone's making custom scales for this. I tried emailing their support to purchase extra thumb discs and an extra pocket clips but they said nope, whatever extra parts they got were reserved for warranty.
One word ‘ overpriced’ , you can get far better steel on a spyderco or benchmade, which are far better built with flytanuim micarta or carbon, g10 scales at amuch much cheaper price.
“Event Horizon” 😂😂😂
Awesome review. I wanted to buy a new knife. “The James Brand” sounds really cool! The styling of the “Carter” is hot! The mic Arya and satin blade for 140.00$ looked like a great deal.
I could not buy the knife fast enough. In there marketing they are selling a lifestyle! Like cool people use our knives!
Now I see your video and learn about the poor workmanship! Oh well. At least it was only 140.00$. Awesome review. Your content is getting better and better! Thank you
The action on mine was crappy too. I held on to it for a few months but then I sold it.
Much better value IMO than the Ad20.5...
Send it to me...I'll do a Garbage or Gold video on it.
It’s not MC’s knife so he’s not gonna do that
@@micahv9365 Yup. Got that =)
I like the looks of the Carter; just never made it around too it. I’ve never handled VG-10 (typing before watching hope it doesn’t bite me back) but for the price range these hit its a little ridiculous so i’ve heard.
This is the apple of knives.
Interesting comments, tend to put things in there places sometimes , like now . Thanks….
I have a Carter and I have to say that although the knife looks pretty good, for what it is it's very overpriced. Pulling the knife out of the pocket, the clip gets stuck. Side to side blade play. I do like the knife but not impressed
Cracks me up when people get pissed about James Brand prices. Don't like it? Don't buy it! Companies get to decide what they think they're products are worth. I've bought a few James Brand knives - all on eBay. And for the criticism of "selling a lifestyle" - literally all knives do this. Hell, damn near ALL products being sold to us do this. Some more than others but, it still happens. To say that they're not a good knife that doesn't "cut it" is just silly.
Ya... but as a knife reviewer I'm gonna point it out. You're right. If you don't like it, don't buy it. But James Brand takes both the "overpriced" thing AND the "lifestyle" thing to a whole new level. So far, imo, this is a company most knife enthusiast should flat out avoid until they get their head out of the clouds. Beyond that, other than The Barnes, their models seem have very subpar F&F.
They’re not catering to the people who buy 60 spyder co knives to say they got them but never use them lol , I agree don’t like the price don’t buy them
That sure is alot cash for a knife with that many issues. I pulled out my Benchmade Northfork Axis lock knife, because it looks a little like that 'James Brand' and compared it as I listened and watched your review. All I could do was roll my eyes, not at your review, but that knife itself. My Benchmade cost me $161.00 plus tax at my local hardware store here in West Florida, and it's made in the USA. 🙂
Hmmmm,🤔 I'll admit that 'knife' you reviewed is 'nice looking' but 600 bucks? 🤨C'mon!!😲 I could buy a couple more Zt's Hogues, Spydercos, Benchmades, or a nice Chris Reeves or Hinderer knife. Go figure!
When civivi and cjrb are putting out knives with better action and micarta, these boutique brands need to step up their game
Maybe it’s non knife people who mostly buy the James Brand. Maybe people see the ads and buy into the image that the James Brand is selling.
I dig something like Spyderco’s DLC, but that semigloss black looks painfully cheap in every context I’ve seen it. It feels like I’m viewing a Cutlery Corner piece plus micarta
If it’s to expensive then just ignore them and don’t patronize them . They will either sell them to others or have to lower their prices.
There stuff sells out all the time personally I have a couple knives they’re fine I use my carter for work everyday with no issues. I like buying stuff I can use and they have a lot of that . To many complainers in the knife world
You can literally get the same exact quality, same materials, same functionality, same country of origin, same everything for less than half the price these days Carlos. This company has taken you for a ride. You didn't get anything special for your money.
With a 20% discount would they be worth it?
Bought one awhile back. I love it! Really only use it for backyard BBQ parties in urban settings. It's an accessory piece. I have other knives for bushcraft, camping, and other use but they don't go well my outfit when I'm not in the woods. 🤪
How has the Ritter hogue for sale?
@@jimdobbs1861 fucking spellcheck. I got it nvm
I love the pocket clip, that’s all I have nice to say
Love your channel, but Couldn’t be more wrong on this knife. Not sure what the owner did to the knife before you got it , but I have the green micarta version, out the box been perfect. No centering, blade or lock up issues after two years of use. Actually has beautiful action. May not be a heavy user but it is a beautiful, quality EDC
I have a Carter XL and I love it. None of the issues he had with his.
If I'm going to start looking at $600+ I'm going to be over drooling at a Dew Hara.
My thoughts exactly on the james brand knives
Dang wish I would’ve seen this video before I bought mine
If they bring hipsters into the knife world, it’s a win for all of us.
Ugh, no.
@@JustIn-op6oy the more people in the hobby, the better.
Can't bring myself to spend money on this brand. Demographics, politics, and the line of work I'm in, kill it for me. On top of them over pricing their shit!! This is a solid review!
It's odd that RUclips is still playing ads on your videos after demonitizing your channel for a second time.
James brand is over priced in my opinion for the materials you get. Mainly the blade steel and action in my experience is always lacking.
Ps… I still want a mini shaman.
@@russtibbs9216 yes please
That thumb disc is like pouring perfume on a turd. Especially on such a nice looking knife.
Did Emerson and Benchmade had a adopted a hipster grandchild from China?
Just save yourself some disappointment buy a bugout or a para 3 or Houge decka . The more I see from the James Brand the less I like their stuff . It's like they are trying to be the hipster version of Prometheus design works and shooting themselves in the foot with price point and quality
….I’m seeing a reoccurring theme with the James Brand….🤔….🤑🤑🤑
Meanwhile I found a Hogue EX-01 for $50 on clearance at Gander Outdoors...
I’ve had this since it came out and have had zero issues with it , ya I agree on the price but aside from knives they make other awesome products . I think think the hate they get is from people who just follow the “knife guy” sheep mantra they complain about the price of a knife that’s 120 bucks but spend 90 bucks on a ti lanyard bead or 300 on a box cutter made In the USA 🇺🇸 that they ordered on their phone made in china 😂 . Sheep will sheep 🐑 benchmade , spyder co and now houge is the only knives you can by to be knife 🔪 people . I’ve had numerous knives over the years including James brand that work perfectly fine for what what they are made for . Most people on here use them as a fidget spinner or to feel masculine 😅 get over it .
The mTech and James brand collaboration lol
I closed my eyes and pretended this was the review for the Demko AD20.5 and now I respect you again. LOL
They make Benchmade seem like a value brand lol
VG10 for kitchen knives.
I've read through . . . I need a new pocket clip knife . . . . This or the bugout ??
US Made Mini RSK in 20CV for $140. This thing got SPANKED.
Lol. Marketing is a powerful thing. 50 to 60 buck knife and people will pay 160 for it
Great review as always MC! big fat NOPE for me on james brand ! 🔪
160? I'll just get 2 Civivis on their higher end of the spectrum. Heck I'd rather have 3 on the regular ones..
No joke, I have 2 elementums and the odium. All three are great knives and they are what I used to learn how to disassemble and maintain my knives.
450-475 is reasonable price for a user grade pocket knife? Guess we live in different realities, as I sit here fidgeting my titanium framed, micarta handled, M390 blade, timascus clipped, ball bearing pivots, Chinese made $125 dollar with shipping edc knife. These are stupidly priced.
Maybe I got lucky, but I've had 0 issues with my Carter knife. I opted for the G10 variant, perhaps that made a difference. All James Brand products are overpriced, but its "branding". If you're strictly a tool guy, stay away.
Deep carry? Naw, we got *negative* carry.
Just got an email that you have been "paused" again
My Carter has no problem with action. I think you got a lemon
Mine has no blade play
Heck yeah
It ALMOST makes the mini bugout seem like a reasonably priced product... But it does not.
People would make LINES to get this kind of design from the butterfly. Vg10 to sv30 is not that big of a jump performance-wise. From this side of the fence, in the land of the crkt, civivis, kizers, even the victorinoxi... I don't see much difference between this one and the bugouts. Sure, the qc of the James brand is sheet. But BM has not been impecable to the point where I would buy a bm from a place with anything but outstanding return policy.
Oh yeah, Metal Complex....you have now experienced the hot garbage of James Brand: Subpar materials with terrible action for prices that are embarrassing. I had the liner lock version, and it was solid garbage just like your version today.
Lol, for all those people who don't really know much about knives, there's nothing namby pamby about it. It looks similar toa. rat or a kabar something or other...😮
I don't get why anyone would think this was "stylish". It looks super ordinary, nice looking, sure, but stylish? That's just hype