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I think what did it for me was what my friend told me. For a long time I was hesitant to use my expensive knives. Then he said why? Who are you saving your knives for? You don't have any kids. Nobody to pass them down to. Enjoy them. Use them. I have, and it's awesome. No they aren't abused. But it's much more satisfying to use and carry a knife then to let it sit. I think unless your knives are going to be passed down, use them. Cause when it's over, they'll probably just be thrown away.
@Warsmith_Honsou I'll agree. I was in that collector mindset, not user. They are different things. Some people have a hard time justifying the use of $500+ knives. I think it's more due to loss than anything else. I've lost a Leatherman ARC at work. That sucked.
If they are being passed down, wouldnt it make even more sense to use them? Like, wouldnt you want your grand children to say "oh thats the knife granddad always carried" instead of finding a pristine knife in its box, sitting in a closet that they have no relation to or memories of? The latter sounds like it will just end up on craigs list the moment you are gone haha
@@kvernesdotten Well like you always have that ya. But you also have collector knives too. I mean I don't think MC uses his 1 of a kind Arch Nemesis to open Amazon boxes. I mean 🤔
"I make my knives as tools to be used. I try my best to make them beautiful, but they ARE tools first and foremost. If you don't want to use your knife, buy a picture. It'll be cheaper." A japanese knifemaker I had the absolute pleasure of meeting once told me that, when I expressed hesitation about using such a beautiful knife. It really changed my perspective. My daily kitchen knife is a $3000+ honyaki. People always incredulously ask me "How could you use something so beautifully made!?" And my response is always "How could I not? It was born to be used." I'm not rich, by any means, I just highly value quality (and a little bit of luxury). I've saved for over 3 years for some of my knives. If I just let that sit on a shelf, or in a box... what was the point? If I paid $500 for a knife, and I carried it, used it, loved it for 100 days... did it bring me 5 buck's worth of joy each day? Almost certainly yes. And unless you are someone who regularly loses their keys, or their phone, or their wallet (not misplaces, but actually loses and has to replace), then why would you worry about losing your knife? Don't treat it as something expendable and replaceable, and you won't have to replace it.
@@LadyEmilyNyx The moment you said that somebody shouldn't buy a knife if they don't want to use it I stoped listening to you. The unjustified superiority complex you have just because you use a pocket knife is insane 😂
You need to do another poll for those who own and use knives over a $1000. I’d be curious to see where the flip occurs from user to collectors. I have numerous $500-$600 knives and I use some, but others I do not as I don’t want to mess them up. Some knives lend themselves to being used at that price while others are more about aesthetics.
Now that people understand how he used the 3rd category more people will lie in order to influence the poll. How he did it was clever because the people trying to counter his point this time were drawn to say “I don’t buy those knives” to really drive their point home. If the last couple decades have taught us anything it should be that online open polls aren’t a good data collecting technique. He did sneak this one through the cynicism though
@@tyarnold4088 karrol edmw (everyday modified wharny), mac doom, mac outlier, mac crusade, krein alpha, doyle jpsj, rjc bbm, bergman brew tool/brewt and uc, nell nevada jr and tons of others
MC. Most of my 25 or so folders are in the 150.00 to 500.00. Most I don’t use. I spend my money responsibly. I have no apology’s. My collection makes me happy. Have a great day MC.
I think a sweet spot is 300$ for a user. I have about 4 knives in that price range that I do normal knife tasks with. But I use to think I would never do that.
I think that's a fair price. My most expensive is $350, and it's in my rotation, but it's like a half inch of M390. I do not think it will get all that hurt 😂
I’ve found that I have had a better experience using my $500+ knives! There is a legitimate increase in the quality of use. Plus there’s just a really satisfying feeling when I get to pull it out to use it 🤙🏻
as the price goes up on a knife, it does make me a little more careful with it, but the "special elements" that make knives cost that much also make me more excited and eager to see that knife every day. i recently bought the artisan cutlery boa in full timascus off kickstarter with full awareness that it would be pocket jewelry, but it's that same "luxury" status that ensures that it would be absolutely put in my pocket regularly.
People like me hunt for the perfect knife to carry that fills every role we decided is important to us. Some of us sell a knife that doesnt check the boxes like we hoped, some keep them because its a sample of a respected company. After 6 years of grail hunting, it's getting much harder to find something that blows me away. The number one reason im buying knives still is partly to find the perfect knife for me. Build, steel, and design all play into this. I use my most expensive knives which are in the 800 dollar range. I rarely buy a knife under 200 dollars.
I do this too some. I know it's out there. I just ordered the knife center catalog so I can browse for what I want in my free time. Some type of one handed opening or closing without crossing the blade, 3.5 to 4.3 inches, good jimping. not too tall (no para2), useful blade shape with a belly and a point, no metal handles, deep carry clip, good ergos for cutting, and stabbing, etc...
Just taking a look at some of my $500+ knives, is that they are some of the best build knives out there imho. Chris Reeves Zaan, Shiro F95, Oz Rosie, SPK Lamia, Skiff Fugitive, and Koenig Arius are all built so well and are perfect for EDC.
I actually carry and use my $3000 custom Demko AD22 fairly regularly. (And answered that way on the poll) when I’m not carrying a custom then the knife I’m carrying is still in the $300 to $800 range and I use them all.
I'm kind of the mindset that whether someone's safe queen is a buck, a spyderco, an Oz or a Rwxford, I didn't buy it lol. So whether they drag it down the driveway or house it in a hyperbaric chamber with beethoven playing in the background, I'm cool with either 😅 I own a Norseman and I own an Ozark Trail. I use or do not use them how I see fit for what I'm doing/how I'm feeling that day. Would I carry my norseman to the oil refinery and scrape gaskets with it? No. Would I think twice about scratching the finish on the Ozark and messing up the resale value should i ever sell it?....mmmm no. Would I put down on someone who pryed with a Norseman or safe queened the ozark...absolutely not! Live and Let live!
At some point early in my collecting I said to myself, "I will always use my knives, and I will not buy knives that I won't use". In fact, I would have never called myself a collector. I stuck to this for several years - as my knife purchase prices increased - until I purchased my first Jess Horn, a maker who passed in 2016 and whose knives are irreplaceable. I still cannot bring myself to use it! Since then, I have actually become more comfortable keeping safe queens even if I still use most of my +$500 knives. (The Horn was $3500 btw)
I haven't so far bought a knife costing more than $200. If I did, I don't know if I would be able to bring myself to put it in the pocket every day - knowing it could be damaged, lost, or stolen. Maybe, maybe I could see keeping it in pockets just for around the house... but I couldn't see myself taking it out into the world, risking something that costs so much. I definitely couldn't see myself taking a $500 knife out into the world, ever. I don't knock anyone buying knives that cost that much. Some of them that cost so much seem really, really silly to me - but I'm happy for the folks that like getting them. Do whatever you want with what you spend your money on. It's not my money, not my life. I even like watching this channel, and seeing what all is out there. Taking a firearm out into the world & driving an automobile are different categories for me, because there isn't a $150-ish or less equivalent I could use instead. But for me, a knife costing $200 or more - I couldn't see myself wanting to take it out, use it for stuff, and risk any damage to it. I feel like I would feel weird even flashing one in public. I don't wear expensive watches, have an expensive phone or car, or wear expensive clothes - so I wouldn't want to flash an expensive knife. One caveat I could see - if I buy a $150 knife, but then put some aftermarket scales or something on it, costing total $200 or more with upgrades... somehow feels like I could see myself using that. Maybe.
It’s all relative…if you end up buying a $300 knife then you would use your $200 knife. If you bought a $500 knife now your $300 now might be your user. I’m not rich but own a few $200-300 knives. I use them but try to keep them nice. If I had a million dollars in the bank I might just say what the fuck ever and if I damaged it just buy a new one. …it’s all relative
A lot of us have been there. Benchmade autostryker changed my view back in 2003. I used it as my carry knife in uniform for my entire career. When I started buying knives again in that price mark and above, it was still difficult to use those knives. Then slowly I started buying higher priced knives and then knives in the 200-400 range were in my pockets more and more. I wouldn't carry a fancy knife at work though, because I was more prone to abusing a work knife.
@@nachoisme That's a very good point. Since I haven't dived that far in, I haven't seen it from the other side yet - but I can totally see that happening deeper into the pool.
Talk about nailing this topic. I used only $20-40 knives, abused them. Lost them, never sharpened. Said I’d never buy an expensive knife. Ended up with a pm2 and a bugout. Learned to sharpen and take care of them. Now I have a huge collection ranging from $20-1000+
Well I only own one knife that costs above 500. It’s my mini crossroads knife by Kirby lambert in zircuti and damasteel. Rarely leaves my case and it’s my grail; so I voted no as in my situation I don’t. If I was in a financial situation to own 10+ knives that cost $500 or more I’m sure I would use them sometimes though!
@ It’s awesome. I saved up for mine and it was definitely worth it. I’m not sure if they have anymore available but I highly recommend it. I did a review of it on my channel if you wanna see it in detail.
@ there’s one left on cranes I’ve been thinking about it for like 4 months 😬 I have the regular non dressed version and it’s got such a great action. Great user profile too
@ Yeah it’s 100% my favorite under 1000 knife I’ve ever seen dressed out so I had to pull the trigger. Actions just gotten better with time as well. Reate are the masters in the production world for sure!
At first when I bought $2500 Swarovski binoculars I considered not taking them sea duck hunting. Then I said to myself “there’s no point in owning nice things if they’re ‘too nice’ to use them for what they’re made for.
Yes I only own 1 in the $500 range and will never edc it , there's no point , i do use it around the house , and I'll bring it to dinner every once and while. I also regret that $500 purchase I might add. I do carry my knives in the 200-300 range. By the way , microtech started releasing colored aluminum ram lock stitch , saw a blue and red one !
Thank you for being the only honest person here 😂😂😂 every time I've ever spent more than $300 on a knife I have always looked at my family and thought wow I could have taken y'all on vacation😢 or maybe put that aside for Christmas presents. It's not even a matter of being able to afford it it's just a matter of "wow, I just spent $450 on a CRK LG 31 in magna cut... I suck"
Thats most the knives I see online. High end knives look new / barely used. Tell MC and takes it to heart😂 they ain’t using high end knives as work beaters
@@KNIFEBOYPRACTICAL You need to realize that we all have different life experiences. Through a very cruel twist of fate, my wife and I couldn’t have kids and missed my window to adopt. I rolled with the punches and I dug in and made very smart career and financial choices and have more disposable income than I know what to do with. I just got done breaking down a stack of Amazon boxes with a $750 MachineWise Sonora. I have at least 8 $500+ knives I EDC. Would I trade with your situation, hell yes. But that’s not an option so don’t call my integrity into question and judge my choices because they aren’t right for you. We could all use to have a bit more compassion, objectivity and understanding and stop policing each other’s lives. Don’t rub your family in my face and I won’t rub my collection and how I use it in yours.
interesting topic. I prefer using my more expensive, $500ish knives. I have plenty of $200 to $350 knives that I rarely use, but I can't get rid of them because they're too cool to sell. So they've become the collector knives that don't get used, lmao! BUT, past maybe $700, that would be a collector knife for me, aka, unused
I always carry each of knives for awhile. My most expensive is a Herman, and I EDC'd it for months after I got it. Now it's just waiting for it's turn in the rotation.
I've carried a Shiro 3 bear (3M) F95 for the past 3 yrs. Forget precisely, but $11 hundred neighborhood. 2 or 3 more identical in the box, still in R1 white paper overwrap. Naturally the one I carry is my fav. Similar to my wife. World is full of beautiful women, but mine is my favorite. Not wealthy, just a garden variety engineer that loves (for most of my life) having a butcher sharp blade handy at all times. Meaning in the kitchen and right front pocket. Great show tonight MC!
Purely anecdotal, but my absolutely most used knife is a Manix 2 XL crucarta that started its life as a 230 dollar knife. I loved it so much that I got new scales, upgraded hardware and aftermarket ball cage, its now a 4-450 dollar knife. 500 easily if you count taxes and shipping, which is money spent directly on that knife. That knife I have used for everything from whittling wood and breaking down cardboard to using it as an improvised rockwool knife. I really dont baby it, but theres pretty far from babying to outright abuse. It still looks pristine though (apart from some scratches ofc), because like you said I care about it so I actually clean, sharpen and maintain it.
I've been carrying my M4/micarta Shaman alot over the last few weeks (about $250), I use it just like every other knife I carry. Tomorrow I should have my 3.5" XM-18, and I'll carry and use it often - with financing it comes to just over $500.
It really did silence essentially everyone who assumed otherwise. Even under the poll. Its great for 2 reasons: 1. They learned the truth. 2. We don't have to see the big long annoying paragraphs about "real" users and expensive knife collectors as often. When we do, there is content to point to that corrects the assumption
I own approximately 60-70 knives. Most of my collection falls between $100-$300 price range. I do have some knives that exceed $300 like my two Microtech Stitch’s or knives below $100 like my Kizer Assassin or Kizer Militaw. I use most of my knives but I do have some safe queens that my wife or kids purchased for me for a special occasion.
Missed the poll, but I will add my count. 168 in total, 70 are rotated in edc of which they range from $50 - $1400. Price range is the same for those that I don't carry, either because they are duplicate for later pass down or should fiscal reasons call for letting them go. The non edc also includes those that are not practical, like those that are extreme built, or they are not allowed for carry. My wallet knows you well, at least 75% of my collection is because of watching your unboxing & reviews.
Carry what you love. I think for me it took a while of trying different knives to see what was out there and what I personally liked carrying and using. Now it takes a lot for me to buy a new blade because I realize it has to be better to me in some way to find pocket time. Novel isn’t enough anymore. My most carried and used are my paysan, shaman, evo, and zaan. Even after many years these are still the ones I’m drawn to and what I’ll pick up off the nightstand in the morning.
I’ve just recently gotten into knives and currently only have a few, with my most expensive being $250. I carry it all the time. That’s why I bought it. Good discussion Metal.
I use almost all my knives, a third of my knives are over $500 , they may get less use but they are all used to some degree. I have only a couple that are safe queens that just are never used.
When I received my Phil Harvey piecemaker, I immediately buried it into some of my unprocessed firewood for beauty shots. I carry it more than any other custom, because it is so absurd and entertaining. I get hilarious reactions when using it to cut the cap off of my cigars 😆.
Hey MC, my most expensive purchase is a Varga VBR, and I've carried and used it almost every day since I bought it over a year ago. I also own a Terzuola handmade that I bought used, and was offered $700.00 for that I also carry and use quite often. I used to have safe queens, but now I use everything I own so I can fully enjoy the design and materials.
I agree 100% I personally don't abuse any of my knives,I use all of mine, of course I own nothing more than a $180 knife. But hey, if I had something more expensive I'm sure I'd use it because I try not to spend money on anything I don't use. That goes for all my EDC gear, not just knives.
There are arguments of diminishing returns for expensive knives but depending on the company you may actually get more from the purchase than it first appears. CRK knives are simple in look and construction but they are very good, very solid, and very supported for the long term. Do you want it to look new again? Send it in! Mess up the hardware? send it in and they'll fix it. Did the lock wear too far in or do you need a blade replacement? send it in! there may be a charge for some of the services but they do a lot better than Benchmade in making sure your knife is "Yours for life". And they don't care if you are the first owner or the 20th owner.
I switch up between my Rosie, holt haptic, arius, sng, zaan, and full ti xm18 build. It’s like buying snap-on over harbor freight. But I usually don’t buy under $300 anymore and ALL of my knives get carried and used. But to each their own
If after market parts count then yes. AD20 with OG ti linerless scales is in my pocket every work day. Two more that I can't carry (no autos where I'm at currently) but did before the move.
I have 14 knives costing between $35 and $1000 Canadian dollars, there is only one that I don't use because it is polished from one end to the other, this one I take like a work of art but in my head when I buy a knife I always have the idea that it is a tool made for the primary purpose of being used regardless of the price...and I use them
I own 3 knives over 500, 2 right below 500 (450-475), and every other knife i own is between 125-300 bucks, i would definitely consider myself a collector, so i pretty much exclusively use my most expensive knives at home opening packages and mail and such (especially the shirogorov) but there is an exception to the rule, whenever i don’t find myself carrying my para 3, im probably carrying my ram-lok stitch, but more often than not, i carry my 550 dollar shadow auto stitch with a fully serrated edge, i use that knife to no end at work and that serrated edge is pretty perfect for what i need it for. i still consider myself a collector first, but i do not baby that stitch.
My most expensive knife is the winterblade factor v2 475$. it turned out to be the only knife i had when i was on a Halloween float and at the end we needed a few zipties cut off the frame. While hesitant the knife worked fine and was undamaged. I still only carry that one when i want to be fancy. But its something im glad i carry so i can enjoy it. I don't enjoy things locked in a case as much as i like takeing them out.
I did vote. I voted for the 3rd choice, because I dont own anything over 500. I do own a PM2. Thats the most expensive I own. But that PM2 does get daily driven. I wont use it for the lesser tasks like gardening or stuff like that. Which most knives I use, get used in these ways. Cardboard, Plastic cutting, Plastic or Polycarbonate breakdowns. Breaking down 3d prints. Debranching saplings. Gardening, Cutting open mulch bags, cutting open water softener bags, and I get it. My usecase if possibly abusive to my knives but... Sometimes there is no right tool at the time. Now having said this, Do not worry about my knives, if they break, then the only one to blame is me. But I have never had a knife break on my for the last 6 years (Mainly because I have matured and learned to have respect for tools and not just use it till you lose it.) But just like how I have MY collection that I also use, YOU have your collection. I didnt choose your's, and you didnt choose mine. So let them do them, and let us do us. This is why I keep coming back to MC.
I didn’t vote because at the time I didn’t have any knives over $500. But as of today the loctite is dry after installing the ti scale on my XM-18 I now qualify. I definitely bought it to use it. I can’t speak for everyone but, I buy expensive knives and can’t wait to use em. I have “safe queens” but to me that means only open packages and things like that. They all get use though.
There is a similar mentality in the guitar space. Many people who don’t, can’t, or just will not, buy expensive guitars derogatorily call those who do ‘blues lawyers’ or ‘dentists.’ They’ll claim it’s not derogatory but they are making assumptions from the start.
Yeah buddy I've got close to 300 pocket folders and prices range from $30-$1150 and I use every single one of them. Some more than others like Chaves, Hinderer,Demko,Spyderco,We, and Chris Reeves to name a few. 🤘
My only knife over 500 is a Sebenza. It gets used regularly. Still looks great. The only thing about it that would keep me from using it would be the damned thumb stud!
I've carried a Medford slim midi s90v for a year straight. I've used it as a prybar, scraper, screwdriver, hammer even. It's held up just fine, it's gotten probably over 20 sharpening's on it from all the cardboard I cut at work and how much metal I have to cut against. I carry basically 3 folding knives, and they are all over at least $220. What I always say is, if you're buying a very expensive knife because it should be a better product and a better tool. Then why are you not using it if will last longer and be a better cutting tool in the long run.
Although I have a lot of knives above the $200 price point that I edc, I also have a half dozen or so in the sub-$50 category that I regularly carry. If I don't enjoy a knife, I sell it or give it away.
If your expensive knife is well made and you use it for normal (non-abusive) knife tasks there is no reason not to carry it and use it daily. You get to spend more time with your knife and enjoy it that way. I carry my Inkosi daily and love doing so.
Own a couple knives over $400 and a couple over $500. I use all my knives. I love the craftsmanship and the art of a well made knife, but oh boy do I love using them as well.
You are so accurate! Just got the civivi vision fg and kizer cormorant. Had them a month at least and never cut a thing with either lol! Love them both, but there not a safe queen.
I carry a $175 (priced from manufacturer) knife every day for at least 10 yrs now and it's seen all types of use. Price doesn't stop me from using a knife, my budget limits the ones I can buy.
About one third of my knives cost more than $500. I use them all, except for a Skiff Accomplice with Fafnir Damasteel Blade and Black Timascus. I carefully use 2 other Skiffs and my other fairly pricey knives
Did I mention that I blame you for me having to buy several of my $500+ knives? Probably use the Rockstead Higo II the most, but I'm sure that my new all-DLC Excaliber will surpass that for actual in-pocket use.
Im a noobie collector. I think my most expensive knife is only $220. It's a Towser K in fat carbon and Elmax. My "rotation" is my "premium" Towser K and my maxace Mamba. I rarely carry or use my "budget" (to me) knives. Stuff from civivi, cjrb, and the like. I use my folders for very light use. If I want to "hard use" a knife I use my Cold Steel master Hunter (among other cold steel fixies) fixed blade. BPS knife. There are some expensive ones (for me) that I don't use but not because they cost more. Where will I use a Lynn Thompson Ti Light with a 6-inch blade? LOL And one thing my farming grandfather beat into my brother and I and even his wife's head was "Take care of your tools and they will take care of you.". 25 years after his death my grandma was still a stickler for cleaning tools. It didn't matter the tool. Once he used it was almost always cleaned almost immediately. So I do the same with my knives because I'm not obtuse.
And yeah. EricasEDC uses primarily handmade American fixies. More expensive than what I pay for a knife. But she uses the heII out of them. Her favorite thing to do is sharpen her knives. And she pays or trades for everything she uses. She even refuses to monetize her channel.
@metal_complex I think for many of us, it depends. I use my Rask, Inkosi, Norseman, XM-18,etc, but won't use my Lesbar, lottery Shiros, etc. Now that I know I am so harshly judged by some people maybe I have to rethink my life 😅
I have one knife over $500 plus, a Medford. I carry it from time to time, but not frequently. I work in the field dropping it and losing it would hurt a bit.
Time stamp. I just bought a knife that cost over 500€ and i bought it with the intention of using it. I do own knives that are cheaper, and I use them all. Although there is a piece (in the 700€ range) that i might get that isn't gonna see much hard use. Cutting paper and packaging? Sure. Pocket time? You bet. Taking it outdoors into the forest and whittling and stuff? Nah, too precious. But that's just my little opinion and it matters only to me. Which is perfectly okay. Toodaloo
I have many expensive knives I use regularly and many expensive and less expensive knives that I don't use at all. I regularly carry my rockstead higo 2, it's in my pocket now. I have a few that I only carry for special occasions. I have a few slipjoints over 100 yrs old that I carry from time to time and some I dont.
I think what made me a user was the mechanic in me. I have a lot of tools that are stupid expensive that I use everyday, some I even abuse….Im a mechanic, everything is a hammer. If I buy it, I’m going to use it. Granted I have only 2 that or over 500, most are 50-100. I use them all the same, I cut things, open boxes, etc. I don’t buy them to save, sell, or trade. I try to do my research to spend my money carefully. If I don’t like it, I usually gift it to someone else that will.
I put a knife into my pocket daily mostly because I like it., Sometimes it's a custom, sometimes it's something that is higher end production knives. Most of them are in the $300-600 territory. Sometimes it's a lot higher,. but fairly rarely, but mostly because I like barlocks and sharklocks, for EDC, and there are just not that many barlocks and sharklocks above $800 or so (Gold Class and Limited edition Benchmades, WIlkin Leafstorms, are exceptions. even Ti scaled Demko AD20s are $650 at retail). Occasionally lower (WE has put one bangers in the $200-$300 range recently.) I will use them for most uses that come up during the day. If I am anticipating e a hard task, day. I will put a hard use knife in my pocket - using a Demko G10 AD20 or AD20S,, and those are $425 and $450.
I find these results somewhat hard to believe! However, my opinion is based on what I believe the knife would be used for. Thinking different tool quality for different jobs, I'd like a poll on what these knives are actually used for and what the users do. (EDC) could be work, and if work benefits from that higher quality tool you get what you pay for. ex. Snap-On socket set vs. a Walmart Hyper-Tough socket set, that's easily explained, not that anyone has to justify how they spend their money.
I have carried and used every single knife in my collection, no matter the cost, from $5 to $500+. I actually make a point of carrying and using each knife for at least two weeks before going into a case. For me, it was my wife that said to me why buy it if I am not going to enjoy its capabilities and purpose.
Hey MC. I like to stare at my damasteel WE knife while gently wiping it down every day. I think I paid $550 or something. I can’t convince myself to use it 😂😂
I'm not dropping 500 on something to look at it. Like I said in the poll. I edc an ultra tech till I left it on the frame rail of a tractor trailer. only to find it in the driveway a month later crushed to unusable. Now I'm carrying the 23 blade show exclusive ultatech till I can talk myself into buying another traditional blade style ultra tech. The bayonet blade doesn't really fit my needs, so I'm carrying my liner lock snap on knife for those needs. But I'll never go back to not having an otf in my pocket. It's really convenient on the farm when a lot of the time I only have one hand. I've been looking at the combat troodon, I will use it.
I own and use Protechs and Benchmades and I tend to get more enjoyment from wringing every cent of value out of cheap knives simply because they are cheap and easily replaced. Case in point: I did the Preparinator challenge for Zac in the Wild and Best Damn EDC at Blade Show West 2023 and went through the entire thing with a Victorinox Tinker and Leatherman Rev. 26:25/26:59
I don't spend that much on knives, but I would use them if I did. The only reason i wouldn't use a knife i bought is if i ended up not liking it. I don't own it because i think it's crazy, but I've played a $70,000 guitar before. The owner said, "go ahead, it's was built to be played". Same thing.
at the end of the day, every hobby like this is just a hobby. there's going to be a bunch of genres and scenes, but we're all part of the same niche collective of enthusiasts
I own about 32 slip joints,mostly Case,and about 62 folding knives with pocket clip and most expensive is the Spartan 3.25. I am wanting to get a small Sebenza 31 with the insingo blade and the black canvas micarta.
I haven't spent over $200 (pre-tax) on a knife but I do carry them. The cheaper they are the more likely they are to get used for what they probably shouldn't be used for. But they do get carried and used for knife things no matter the price.
26.35. I have a very limited number of knives over £409, which is 500 US dollars at todays exchange rate. probably 5 out of a collection of maybe 50. I regularly use them all...although tape residue on them really boils my piss 🤣🤣. and FYI, YOU have made me buy all of them you Horrid Horrid man 🤪🤪
Once you start using them regularly, the price don’t seem so important at all. All tools pay for themselves once used Buy what u like and use it how u wanna. My go-to is a CRK Inkosi and I use and beat it. Was afraid at first till I took it to work one day. Now I can’t work without it
I think it just depends on how well people are off financially. If somebody can afford to buy a bunch of knives that are $500 or even more, the tendency will be much greater that they use them. People who only are used to own knives in the $100 range or even less and then splurge once to buy a grail piece in the $500 range for them, they probably won't be using it.
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I think what did it for me was what my friend told me. For a long time I was hesitant to use my expensive knives. Then he said why? Who are you saving your knives for? You don't have any kids. Nobody to pass them down to. Enjoy them. Use them. I have, and it's awesome. No they aren't abused. But it's much more satisfying to use and carry a knife then to let it sit. I think unless your knives are going to be passed down, use them. Cause when it's over, they'll probably just be thrown away.
It's good that you have a friend who can think logically.
@Warsmith_Honsou I'll agree. I was in that collector mindset, not user. They are different things. Some people have a hard time justifying the use of $500+ knives. I think it's more due to loss than anything else. I've lost a Leatherman ARC at work. That sucked.
If they are being passed down, wouldnt it make even more sense to use them? Like, wouldnt you want your grand children to say "oh thats the knife granddad always carried" instead of finding a pristine knife in its box, sitting in a closet that they have no relation to or memories of?
The latter sounds like it will just end up on craigs list the moment you are gone haha
@@kvernesdotten Well like you always have that ya. But you also have collector knives too. I mean I don't think MC uses his 1 of a kind Arch Nemesis to open Amazon boxes. I mean 🤔
@@SMS2884 Haha true true, I was just offering an alternative pov
"I make my knives as tools to be used. I try my best to make them beautiful, but they ARE tools first and foremost. If you don't want to use your knife, buy a picture. It'll be cheaper."
A japanese knifemaker I had the absolute pleasure of meeting once told me that, when I expressed hesitation about using such a beautiful knife. It really changed my perspective. My daily kitchen knife is a $3000+ honyaki. People always incredulously ask me "How could you use something so beautifully made!?" And my response is always "How could I not? It was born to be used."
I'm not rich, by any means, I just highly value quality (and a little bit of luxury). I've saved for over 3 years for some of my knives. If I just let that sit on a shelf, or in a box... what was the point? If I paid $500 for a knife, and I carried it, used it, loved it for 100 days... did it bring me 5 buck's worth of joy each day? Almost certainly yes.
And unless you are someone who regularly loses their keys, or their phone, or their wallet (not misplaces, but actually loses and has to replace), then why would you worry about losing your knife? Don't treat it as something expendable and replaceable, and you won't have to replace it.
You get it. Take care.
@@LadyEmilyNyx The moment you said that somebody shouldn't buy a knife if they don't want to use it I stoped listening to you. The unjustified superiority complex you have just because you use a pocket knife is insane 😂
You need to do another poll for those who own and use knives over a $1000. I’d be curious to see where the flip occurs from user to collectors. I have numerous $500-$600 knives and I use some, but others I do not as I don’t want to mess them up. Some knives lend themselves to being used at that price while others are more about aesthetics.
Office boys. That's who.
Now that people understand how he used the 3rd category more people will lie in order to influence the poll. How he did it was clever because the people trying to counter his point this time were drawn to say “I don’t buy those knives” to really drive their point home. If the last couple decades have taught us anything it should be that online open polls aren’t a good data collecting technique. He did sneak this one through the cynicism though
Just curious. What are some of those knives over 1000?? Are you talking Ron Best level everyday users?
@@tyarnold4088 karrol edmw (everyday modified wharny), mac doom, mac outlier, mac crusade, krein alpha, doyle jpsj, rjc bbm, bergman brew tool/brewt and uc, nell nevada jr and tons of others
Use it or lose it I have a few knives over 500 and all are in a regular rotation and get used that's why I bought them
I know that’s right ✊🏼💜😁
MC. Most of my 25 or so folders are in the 150.00 to 500.00. Most I don’t use. I spend my money responsibly. I have no apology’s. My collection makes me happy. Have a great day MC.
this is the way
@ agree, I have spoken.
Nothing wrong with that. Live however you want to live. Good luck to you on your future endeavors.
This is the way.
I think a sweet spot is 300$ for a user. I have about 4 knives in that price range that I do normal knife tasks with. But I use to think I would never do that.
I think that's a fair price. My most expensive is $350, and it's in my rotation, but it's like a half inch of M390. I do not think it will get all that hurt 😂
I’ve found that I have had a better experience using my $500+ knives! There is a legitimate increase in the quality of use. Plus there’s just a really satisfying feeling when I get to pull it out to use it 🤙🏻
100%. If the 'extra' money delivers better performance and a better experience then you are actually getting better value out of the knife. Take care.
as the price goes up on a knife, it does make me a little more careful with it, but the "special elements" that make knives cost that much also make me more excited and eager to see that knife every day. i recently bought the artisan cutlery boa in full timascus off kickstarter with full awareness that it would be pocket jewelry, but it's that same "luxury" status that ensures that it would be absolutely put in my pocket regularly.
THIS! EXACTLY! I use almost all of my knives-with “use” being the operative word. Thanks MC! ☮️
100%. Use and not abuse. Take care.
People like me hunt for the perfect knife to carry that fills every role we decided is important to us. Some of us sell a knife that doesnt check the boxes like we hoped, some keep them because its a sample of a respected company. After 6 years of grail hunting, it's getting much harder to find something that blows me away. The number one reason im buying knives still is partly to find the perfect knife for me. Build, steel, and design all play into this. I use my most expensive knives which are in the 800 dollar range. I rarely buy a knife under 200 dollars.
That’s how I ended up with all these knives.
@@orendz7740 I have plans on breaking the 1k mark this year, but we will see. The last two years I put massive dents in my knife wish list.
@@craigrj232323 that’s a lot of knives! I probably have 100 or less so far.
I do this too some. I know it's out there. I just ordered the knife center catalog so I can browse for what I want in my free time. Some type of one handed opening or closing without crossing the blade, 3.5 to 4.3 inches, good jimping. not too tall (no para2), useful blade shape with a belly and a point, no metal handles, deep carry clip, good ergos for cutting, and stabbing, etc...
@@orendz7740 i have less than 100 knives as well. I have about 50-60 that are over the 200 dollar mark.
Just taking a look at some of my $500+ knives, is that they are some of the best build knives out there imho. Chris Reeves Zaan, Shiro F95, Oz Rosie, SPK Lamia, Skiff Fugitive, and Koenig Arius are all built so well and are perfect for EDC.
There is definitely a price where a knife becomes art instead of user, but it’s more than $500. I’d say it’s closer to $1000 and up.
I would say this is definitely where you start to see it way more often 👍
I have 654 knives,40$-900$ and i only use up to 150$.
I actually carry and use my $3000 custom Demko AD22 fairly regularly. (And answered that way on the poll) when I’m not carrying a custom then the knife I’m carrying is still in the $300 to $800 range and I use them all.
I'm kind of the mindset that whether someone's safe queen is a buck, a spyderco, an Oz or a Rwxford, I didn't buy it lol. So whether they drag it down the driveway or house it in a hyperbaric chamber with beethoven playing in the background, I'm cool with either 😅 I own a Norseman and I own an Ozark Trail. I use or do not use them how I see fit for what I'm doing/how I'm feeling that day. Would I carry my norseman to the oil refinery and scrape gaskets with it? No. Would I think twice about scratching the finish on the Ozark and messing up the resale value should i ever sell it?....mmmm no. Would I put down on someone who pryed with a Norseman or safe queened the ozark...absolutely not!
Live and Let live!
I love the way you chat dude. You make so much common sense. Great videos.
In my knife safe there are no queens. ONLY KINGS
At some point early in my collecting I said to myself, "I will always use my knives, and I will not buy knives that I won't use". In fact, I would have never called myself a collector. I stuck to this for several years - as my knife purchase prices increased - until I purchased my first Jess Horn, a maker who passed in 2016 and whose knives are irreplaceable. I still cannot bring myself to use it! Since then, I have actually become more comfortable keeping safe queens even if I still use most of my +$500 knives. (The Horn was $3500 btw)
My CRK Sebenza and full Ti Hinderer Eklipse both get used more than the dozen Civivis I have
I haven't so far bought a knife costing more than $200. If I did, I don't know if I would be able to bring myself to put it in the pocket every day - knowing it could be damaged, lost, or stolen. Maybe, maybe I could see keeping it in pockets just for around the house... but I couldn't see myself taking it out into the world, risking something that costs so much. I definitely couldn't see myself taking a $500 knife out into the world, ever. I don't knock anyone buying knives that cost that much. Some of them that cost so much seem really, really silly to me - but I'm happy for the folks that like getting them. Do whatever you want with what you spend your money on. It's not my money, not my life. I even like watching this channel, and seeing what all is out there.
Taking a firearm out into the world & driving an automobile are different categories for me, because there isn't a $150-ish or less equivalent I could use instead. But for me, a knife costing $200 or more - I couldn't see myself wanting to take it out, use it for stuff, and risk any damage to it. I feel like I would feel weird even flashing one in public. I don't wear expensive watches, have an expensive phone or car, or wear expensive clothes - so I wouldn't want to flash an expensive knife. One caveat I could see - if I buy a $150 knife, but then put some aftermarket scales or something on it, costing total $200 or more with upgrades... somehow feels like I could see myself using that. Maybe.
It’s all relative…if you end up buying a $300 knife then you would use your $200 knife. If you bought a $500 knife now your $300 now might be your user.
I’m not rich but own a few $200-300 knives. I use them but try to keep them nice. If I had a million dollars in the bank I might just say what the fuck ever and if I damaged it just buy a new one.
…it’s all relative
Not true tons of low-cost guns now 😢
A lot of us have been there. Benchmade autostryker changed my view back in 2003. I used it as my carry knife in uniform for my entire career. When I started buying knives again in that price mark and above, it was still difficult to use those knives. Then slowly I started buying higher priced knives and then knives in the 200-400 range were in my pockets more and more. I wouldn't carry a fancy knife at work though, because I was more prone to abusing a work knife.
Out of curiosity, do you feel the same way about your smartphone?
@@nachoisme That's a very good point. Since I haven't dived that far in, I haven't seen it from the other side yet - but I can totally see that happening deeper into the pool.
Talk about nailing this topic. I used only $20-40 knives, abused them. Lost them, never sharpened. Said I’d never buy an expensive knife. Ended up with a pm2 and a bugout. Learned to sharpen and take care of them. Now I have a huge collection ranging from $20-1000+
I've been looking at that High Fin in the middle there for awhile. Probably my next knife.
Well I only own one knife that costs above 500. It’s my mini crossroads knife by Kirby lambert in zircuti and damasteel. Rarely leaves my case and it’s my grail; so I voted no as in my situation I don’t. If I was in a financial situation to own 10+ knives that cost $500 or more I’m sure I would use them sometimes though!
I’ve wanted this knife for suchhhh a long time
@ It’s awesome. I saved up for mine and it was definitely worth it. I’m not sure if they have anymore available but I highly recommend it. I did a review of it on my channel if you wanna see it in detail.
@ there’s one left on cranes I’ve been thinking about it for like 4 months 😬 I have the regular non dressed version and it’s got such a great action. Great user profile too
@ Yeah it’s 100% my favorite under 1000 knife I’ve ever seen dressed out so I had to pull the trigger. Actions just gotten better with time as well. Reate are the masters in the production world for sure!
At first when I bought $2500 Swarovski binoculars I considered not taking them sea duck hunting. Then I said to myself “there’s no point in owning nice things if they’re ‘too nice’ to use them for what they’re made for.
Yes I only own 1 in the $500 range and will never edc it , there's no point , i do use it around the house , and I'll bring it to dinner every once and while. I also regret that $500 purchase I might add. I do carry my knives in the 200-300 range. By the way , microtech started releasing colored aluminum ram lock stitch , saw a blue and red one !
Thank you for being the only honest person here 😂😂😂 every time I've ever spent more than $300 on a knife I have always looked at my family and thought wow I could have taken y'all on vacation😢 or maybe put that aside for Christmas presents. It's not even a matter of being able to afford it it's just a matter of "wow, I just spent $450 on a CRK LG 31 in magna cut... I suck"
Thats most the knives I see online. High end knives look new / barely used. Tell MC and takes it to heart😂 they ain’t using high end knives as work beaters
@@KNIFEBOYPRACTICAL You need to realize that we all have different life experiences. Through a very cruel twist of fate, my wife and I couldn’t have kids and missed my window to adopt. I rolled with the punches and I dug in and made very smart career and financial choices and have more disposable income than I know what to do with. I just got done breaking down a stack of Amazon boxes with a $750 MachineWise Sonora. I have at least 8 $500+ knives I EDC. Would I trade with your situation, hell yes. But that’s not an option so don’t call my integrity into question and judge my choices because they aren’t right for you. We could all use to have a bit more compassion, objectivity and understanding and stop policing each other’s lives. Don’t rub your family in my face and I won’t rub my collection and how I use it in yours.
interesting topic. I prefer using my more expensive, $500ish knives. I have plenty of $200 to $350 knives that I rarely use, but I can't get rid of them because they're too cool to sell. So they've become the collector knives that don't get used, lmao! BUT, past maybe $700, that would be a collector knife for me, aka, unused
I always carry each of knives for awhile. My most expensive is a Herman, and I EDC'd it for months after I got it. Now it's just waiting for it's turn in the rotation.
I didn't realize how much MC talks with his hands until seeing them in the reflection on that knife with a mirror finish.
That last category is probably a shock to some in the community that think everyone is spending $500+ on a knife.
I've carried a Shiro 3 bear (3M) F95 for the past 3 yrs. Forget precisely, but $11 hundred neighborhood. 2 or 3 more identical in the box, still in R1 white paper overwrap. Naturally the one I carry is my fav. Similar to my wife. World is full of beautiful women, but mine is my favorite. Not wealthy, just a garden variety engineer that loves (for most of my life) having a butcher sharp blade handy at all times. Meaning in the kitchen and right front pocket. Great show tonight MC!
Purely anecdotal, but my absolutely most used knife is a Manix 2 XL crucarta that started its life as a 230 dollar knife. I loved it so much that I got new scales, upgraded hardware and aftermarket ball cage, its now a 4-450 dollar knife. 500 easily if you count taxes and shipping, which is money spent directly on that knife.
That knife I have used for everything from whittling wood and breaking down cardboard to using it as an improvised rockwool knife. I really dont baby it, but theres pretty far from babying to outright abuse. It still looks pristine though (apart from some scratches ofc), because like you said I care about it so I actually clean, sharpen and maintain it.
I spy a We High Fin XL... Looking forward to your thoughts on that one. 👍
Same here! I seen a video yesterday on it and it's really got my attention!
Use it and enjoy!!
I've been carrying my M4/micarta Shaman alot over the last few weeks (about $250), I use it just like every other knife I carry. Tomorrow I should have my 3.5" XM-18, and I'll carry and use it often - with financing it comes to just over $500.
The way you worded this was perfect in this particular case. It isn’t repeatable now that people know what the 3rd category did for you.
It really did silence essentially everyone who assumed otherwise. Even under the poll. Its great for 2 reasons:
1. They learned the truth.
2. We don't have to see the big long annoying paragraphs about "real" users and expensive knife collectors as often. When we do, there is content to point to that corrects the assumption
I own approximately 60-70 knives. Most of my collection falls between $100-$300 price range. I do have some knives that exceed $300 like my two Microtech Stitch’s or knives below $100 like my Kizer Assassin or Kizer Militaw. I use most of my knives but I do have some safe queens that my wife or kids purchased for me for a special occasion.
My full dlc Excalibur will be here tomorrow! I'm damn sure going to be using it
Missed the poll, but I will add my count. 168 in total, 70 are rotated in edc of which they range from $50 - $1400. Price range is the same for those that I don't carry, either because they are duplicate for later pass down or should fiscal reasons call for letting them go. The non edc also includes those that are not practical, like those that are extreme built, or they are not allowed for carry.
My wallet knows you well, at least 75% of my collection is because of watching your unboxing & reviews.
Carry what you love. I think for me it took a while of trying different knives to see what was out there and what I personally liked carrying and using. Now it takes a lot for me to buy a new blade because I realize it has to be better to me in some way to find pocket time. Novel isn’t enough anymore. My most carried and used are my paysan, shaman, evo, and zaan. Even after many years these are still the ones I’m drawn to and what I’ll pick up off the nightstand in the morning.
I’ve just recently gotten into knives and currently only have a few, with my most expensive being $250. I carry it all the time. That’s why I bought it.
Good discussion Metal.
My Heretic Cleric II was $540 and i use it quite often. Even wore off the black coating on the blade.
I have a Hinderer that I use all the time.
I use almost all my knives, a third of my knives are over $500 , they may get less use but they are all used to some degree. I have only a couple that are safe queens that just are never used.
When I received my Phil Harvey piecemaker, I immediately buried it into some of my unprocessed firewood for beauty shots. I carry it more than any other custom, because it is so absurd and entertaining. I get hilarious reactions when using it to cut the cap off of my cigars 😆.
good to hear your voice getting back to normal lol
Hey MC, my most expensive purchase is a Varga VBR, and I've carried and used it almost every day since I bought it over a year ago.
I also own a Terzuola handmade that I bought used, and was offered $700.00 for that I also carry and use quite often.
I used to have safe queens, but now I use everything I own so I can fully enjoy the design and materials.
For text, the vision fg will cost $170 Canadian and about the same for the other
I agree 100% I personally don't abuse any of my knives,I use all of mine, of course I own nothing more than a $180 knife. But hey, if I had something more expensive I'm sure I'd use it because I try not to spend money on anything I don't use. That goes for all my EDC gear, not just knives.
There are arguments of diminishing returns for expensive knives but depending on the company you may actually get more from the purchase than it first appears. CRK knives are simple in look and construction but they are very good, very solid, and very supported for the long term. Do you want it to look new again? Send it in! Mess up the hardware? send it in and they'll fix it. Did the lock wear too far in or do you need a blade replacement? send it in! there may be a charge for some of the services but they do a lot better than Benchmade in making sure your knife is "Yours for life". And they don't care if you are the first owner or the 20th owner.
I switch up between my Rosie, holt haptic, arius, sng, zaan, and full ti xm18 build. It’s like buying snap-on over harbor freight. But I usually don’t buy under $300 anymore and ALL of my knives get carried and used. But to each their own
The Sebenza 31 is used. I only use the Randall made knife when camping. I don’t edc my Rockstead or my G&G model C
If after market parts count then yes. AD20 with OG ti linerless scales is in my pocket every work day. Two more that I can't carry (no autos where I'm at currently) but did before the move.
I have 14 knives costing between $35 and $1000 Canadian dollars, there is only one that I don't use because it is polished from one end to the other, this one I take like a work of art but in my head when I buy a knife I always have the idea that it is a tool made for the primary purpose of being used regardless of the price...and I use them
I use some expensive knives, some I don't.
My money, my collection, my choice.
Exactly! 🙌🏼💜
My edc now is $130 Spyderco. My grail and wish is a CRK and they are definitely built to be used every day.
Mini Sebenza, Large Inkosi, Harsey. Those get used. That’s what they’re made for, and they never disappoint.
I own 3 knives over 500, 2 right below 500 (450-475), and every other knife i own is between 125-300 bucks, i would definitely consider myself a collector, so i pretty much exclusively use my most expensive knives at home opening packages and mail and such (especially the shirogorov) but there is an exception to the rule, whenever i don’t find myself carrying my para 3, im probably carrying my ram-lok stitch, but more often than not, i carry my 550 dollar shadow auto stitch with a fully serrated edge, i use that knife to no end at work and that serrated edge is pretty perfect for what i need it for. i still consider myself a collector first, but i do not baby that stitch.
My most expensive knife is the winterblade factor v2 475$. it turned out to be the only knife i had when i was on a Halloween float and at the end we needed a few zipties cut off the frame. While hesitant the knife worked fine and was undamaged. I still only carry that one when i want to be fancy. But its something im glad i carry so i can enjoy it. I don't enjoy things locked in a case as much as i like takeing them out.
I did vote. I voted for the 3rd choice, because I dont own anything over 500. I do own a PM2. Thats the most expensive I own. But that PM2 does get daily driven. I wont use it for the lesser tasks like gardening or stuff like that. Which most knives I use, get used in these ways. Cardboard, Plastic cutting, Plastic or Polycarbonate breakdowns. Breaking down 3d prints. Debranching saplings. Gardening, Cutting open mulch bags, cutting open water softener bags, and I get it. My usecase if possibly abusive to my knives but... Sometimes there is no right tool at the time.
Now having said this, Do not worry about my knives, if they break, then the only one to blame is me. But I have never had a knife break on my for the last 6 years (Mainly because I have matured and learned to have respect for tools and not just use it till you lose it.) But just like how I have MY collection that I also use, YOU have your collection. I didnt choose your's, and you didnt choose mine. So let them do them, and let us do us. This is why I keep coming back to MC.
I didn’t vote because at the time I didn’t have any knives over $500. But as of today the loctite is dry after installing the ti scale on my XM-18 I now qualify. I definitely bought it to use it. I can’t speak for everyone but, I buy expensive knives and can’t wait to use em. I have “safe queens” but to me that means only open packages and things like that. They all get use though.
There is a similar mentality in the guitar space. Many people who don’t, can’t, or just will not, buy expensive guitars derogatorily call those who do ‘blues lawyers’ or ‘dentists.’ They’ll claim it’s not derogatory but they are making assumptions from the start.
Yeah buddy I've got close to 300 pocket folders and prices range from $30-$1150 and I use every single one of them. Some more than others like Chaves, Hinderer,Demko,Spyderco,We, and Chris Reeves to name a few. 🤘
My only knife over 500 is a Sebenza. It gets used regularly. Still looks great. The only thing about it that would keep me from using it would be the damned thumb stud!
That Chris Reeves Umnumzaan is such a good looking knife
I've carried a Medford slim midi s90v for a year straight. I've used it as a prybar, scraper, screwdriver, hammer even. It's held up just fine, it's gotten probably over 20 sharpening's on it from all the cardboard I cut at work and how much metal I have to cut against. I carry basically 3 folding knives, and they are all over at least $220. What I always say is, if you're buying a very expensive knife because it should be a better product and a better tool. Then why are you not using it if will last longer and be a better cutting tool in the long run.
Although I have a lot of knives above the $200 price point that I edc, I also have a half dozen or so in the sub-$50 category that I regularly carry. If I don't enjoy a knife, I sell it or give it away.
If your expensive knife is well made and you use it for normal (non-abusive) knife tasks there is no reason not to carry it and use it daily. You get to spend more time with your knife and enjoy it that way. I carry my Inkosi daily and love doing so.
Own a couple knives over $400 and a couple over $500. I use all my knives. I love the craftsmanship and the art of a well made knife, but oh boy do I love using them as well.
You are so accurate! Just got the civivi vision fg and kizer cormorant. Had them a month at least and never cut a thing with either lol! Love them both, but there not a safe queen.
My current bubble is 200~250
I almost broke it for the excalibur, but thankfully there is a lower cost version coming
I carry a $175 (priced from manufacturer) knife every day for at least 10 yrs now and it's seen all types of use. Price doesn't stop me from using a knife, my budget limits the ones I can buy.
About one third of my knives cost more than $500. I use them all, except for a Skiff Accomplice with Fafnir Damasteel Blade and Black Timascus. I carefully use 2 other Skiffs and my other fairly pricey knives
Did I mention that I blame you for me having to buy several of my $500+ knives? Probably use the Rockstead Higo II the most, but I'm sure that my new all-DLC Excaliber will surpass that for actual in-pocket use.
My Neons, F3NS, and like five CRKs all get used as frequently as I can given how some knives have to wait around while others get used.
There’s like 18 total knives that fit the category in my collection, but some definitely get used more than others
Im a noobie collector. I think my most expensive knife is only $220. It's a Towser K in fat carbon and Elmax. My "rotation" is my "premium" Towser K and my maxace Mamba. I rarely carry or use my "budget" (to me) knives. Stuff from civivi, cjrb, and the like. I use my folders for very light use. If I want to "hard use" a knife I use my Cold Steel master Hunter (among other cold steel fixies) fixed blade. BPS knife. There are some expensive ones (for me) that I don't use but not because they cost more. Where will I use a Lynn Thompson Ti Light with a 6-inch blade? LOL And one thing my farming grandfather beat into my brother and I and even his wife's head was "Take care of your tools and they will take care of you.". 25 years after his death my grandma was still a stickler for cleaning tools. It didn't matter the tool. Once he used it was almost always cleaned almost immediately. So I do the same with my knives because I'm not obtuse.
And yeah. EricasEDC uses primarily handmade American fixies. More expensive than what I pay for a knife. But she uses the heII out of them. Her favorite thing to do is sharpen her knives. And she pays or trades for everything she uses. She even refuses to monetize her channel.
@metal_complex I think for many of us, it depends. I use my Rask, Inkosi, Norseman, XM-18,etc, but won't use my Lesbar, lottery Shiros, etc. Now that I know I am so harshly judged by some people maybe I have to rethink my life 😅
I have one knife over $500 plus, a Medford. I carry it from time to time, but not frequently. I work in the field dropping it and losing it would hurt a bit.
Time stamp.
I just bought a knife that cost over 500€ and i bought it with the intention of using it. I do own knives that are cheaper, and I use them all. Although there is a piece (in the 700€ range) that i might get that isn't gonna see much hard use. Cutting paper and packaging? Sure. Pocket time? You bet. Taking it outdoors into the forest and whittling and stuff? Nah, too precious. But that's just my little opinion and it matters only to me. Which is perfectly okay. Toodaloo
I have many expensive knives I use regularly and many expensive and less expensive knives that I don't use at all. I regularly carry my rockstead higo 2, it's in my pocket now. I have a few that I only carry for special occasions. I have a few slipjoints over 100 yrs old that I carry from time to time and some I dont.
I think what made me a user was the mechanic in me. I have a lot of tools that are stupid expensive that I use everyday, some I even abuse….Im a mechanic, everything is a hammer. If I buy it, I’m going to use it. Granted I have only 2 that or over 500, most are 50-100. I use them all the same, I cut things, open boxes, etc. I don’t buy them to save, sell, or trade. I try to do my research to spend my money carefully. If I don’t like it, I usually gift it to someone else that will.
I put a knife into my pocket daily mostly because I like it., Sometimes it's a custom, sometimes it's something that is higher end production knives. Most of them are in the $300-600 territory. Sometimes it's a lot higher,. but fairly rarely, but mostly because I like barlocks and sharklocks, for EDC, and there are just not that many barlocks and sharklocks above $800 or so (Gold Class and Limited edition Benchmades, WIlkin Leafstorms, are exceptions. even Ti scaled Demko AD20s are $650 at retail). Occasionally lower (WE has put one bangers in the $200-$300 range recently.) I will use them for most uses that come up during the day. If I am anticipating e a hard task, day. I will put a hard use knife in my pocket - using a Demko G10 AD20 or AD20S,, and those are $425 and $450.
Don't forget Dutch Bushcraft Knives. They have a video of them batoning with a Rockstead.
Hell, they SHOT a Rockstead. Granted, it was an air rifle that’s less powerful than a .22lr, but they still shot it.
I find these results somewhat hard to believe! However, my opinion is based on what I believe the knife would be used for. Thinking different tool quality for different jobs, I'd like a poll on what these knives are actually used for and what the users do. (EDC) could be work, and if work benefits from that higher quality tool you get what you pay for. ex. Snap-On socket set vs. a Walmart Hyper-Tough socket set, that's easily explained, not that anyone has to justify how they spend their money.
I have carried and used every single knife in my collection, no matter the cost, from $5 to $500+. I actually make a point of carrying and using each knife for at least two weeks before going into a case. For me, it was my wife that said to me why buy it if I am not going to enjoy its capabilities and purpose.
Thanks
Hey MC. I like to stare at my damasteel WE knife while gently wiping it down every day. I think I paid $550 or something. I can’t convince myself to use it 😂😂
I think the most expensive knives that I actually use are in the $300-400 range. My Arius sits on my display.
I'm not dropping 500 on something to look at it. Like I said in the poll. I edc an ultra tech till I left it on the frame rail of a tractor trailer. only to find it in the driveway a month later crushed to unusable. Now I'm carrying the 23 blade show exclusive ultatech till I can talk myself into buying another traditional blade style ultra tech. The bayonet blade doesn't really fit my needs, so I'm carrying my liner lock snap on knife for those needs. But I'll never go back to not having an otf in my pocket. It's really convenient on the farm when a lot of the time I only have one hand. I've been looking at the combat troodon, I will use it.
I own and use Protechs and Benchmades and I tend to get more enjoyment from wringing every cent of value out of cheap knives simply because they are cheap and easily replaced. Case in point: I did the Preparinator challenge for Zac in the Wild and Best Damn EDC at Blade Show West 2023 and went through the entire thing with a Victorinox Tinker and Leatherman Rev.
26:25/26:59
I don't spend that much on knives, but I would use them if I did. The only reason i wouldn't use a knife i bought is if i ended up not liking it.
I don't own it because i think it's crazy, but I've played a $70,000 guitar before. The owner said, "go ahead, it's was built to be played". Same thing.
at the end of the day, every hobby like this is just a hobby. there's going to be a bunch of genres and scenes, but we're all part of the same niche collective of enthusiasts
That mirror dlc is shining in the background 😅
I’ve got a lot of knives from $20 -$300 and use them all for EDC. I bought them to use them??
I own about 32 slip joints,mostly Case,and about 62 folding knives with pocket clip and most expensive is the Spartan 3.25. I am wanting to get a small Sebenza 31 with the insingo blade and the black canvas micarta.
I haven't spent over $200 (pre-tax) on a knife but I do carry them. The cheaper they are the more likely they are to get used for what they probably shouldn't be used for. But they do get carried and used for knife things no matter the price.
26.35. I have a very limited number of knives over £409, which is 500 US dollars at todays exchange rate. probably 5 out of a collection of maybe 50. I regularly use them all...although tape residue on them really boils my piss 🤣🤣. and FYI, YOU have made me buy all of them you Horrid Horrid man 🤪🤪
Once you start using them regularly, the price don’t seem so important at all. All tools pay for themselves once used
Buy what u like and use it how u wanna. My go-to is a CRK Inkosi and I use and beat it. Was afraid at first till I took it to work one day. Now I can’t work without it
I think it just depends on how well people are off financially. If somebody can afford to buy a bunch of knives that are $500 or even more, the tendency will be much greater that they use them. People who only are used to own knives in the $100 range or even less and then splurge once to buy a grail piece in the $500 range for them, they probably won't be using it.
My entire collection ranges from 100-300 and I used them all. If I went for a 500 dollar knife I’d certainly use it though