Are Chinese clone knives really all that bad?

Here is my argument, sure to polarize some folks... but I explain why I am fine with a clone. Not a counterfeit, but a clone. Big difference!
Links if you want to check them out...
1) The Sebenza clone: amzn.to/3LB8ZDm
2) The Medford Infraction clone: amzn.to/3y2WMUa
3) The Strider clone: amzn.to/3Fas24U
4) The Microtech DOC clone: amzn.to/3KPhgTf
5) The Medford Praetorian Scout clone: amzn.to/3MFjzt2

[@mikeborrelli193]

The biggest problem with clones nowadays is that they are so well made you feel like a sucker paying 5x the price for the branded version.

[@Daves_Man_Cave]

Some truth in that.

[@dubester1982]

Exactly this

[@TinFoilHatHobo]

@@mikeborrelli193 , cause they ain't clones....they are real, the American companies are lying to us!!!

[@ZoidbergMustache]

At this point the American made knives have gotten so expensive that most of the clones are at least 10x cheaper than the real deal. I just got a clone of the Kabar Becker BK18 for $9.40 on temu, the genuine BK18 goes for $160 on the Kabar website. That's 17x as much. Then I got a clone of the Spyderco Ronin for $6.50, it goes for $173 on their site. That's almost 27x as much. Both of them are built exactly like the real ones but with a mystery stainless and questionable heat treatment. For regular use they do just fine imo.

[@007NunyaBizNess]

Your analogy is spot on. I just bought several Bugout Clones. I spent 1/10th of the price of a Benchmade, for a knife that is very comparable. Minus the blade steel. Most likely 8Cr13MoV or D2, instead of CPMS30V. They didn't take any of my business away from Benchmade. Because, I was never going to spend $140 on a Benchmade Bugout. Even with CPMS30V steel...The Benchmade Bugout is not ten times better than the Bugout Clone. I dare say, it isn't even twice as good. The price vs the quality doesn't add up.

[@70ksingh]

Got that Praetorian clone. Up here in Canada they go for $1,024 total with taxes. The clone was $40. Works great and i am not spending half a months rent on a knife lol! Great video man. Well explained.

[@jacobcombs2269]

Half a month rent. Damn. Maybe 4 days

[@yourdad2389]

I got that one as well and been using it to pry up baseboards. Its badass.

[@Oysteims]

You are 100% correct - I just wanted a decent knife, and like it or not, the Chinese knives are definitely the best value for money. I don't collect them, I don't invest in them - I just wanted a (single) nice 50$ knife. I would never have been spent the (in my opinion) insane prices the American made knife brands are asking for a piece of sharp steel. And I don't care if it's made out of novel and exotic metals/materials or made out of common 1095 steel and 6061 aluminium...

[@Minecraftrok999]

Well I don't think that's the right conclusion for you though. Yes, US manufactured knives are too expensive, BUT if you just want some knife there are countless other really damn good Chinese options. And you will actually get a better performance out of them than with clones, because they have a reputation to protect. CIVIVI, Petrified fish and Kizer make absolute beasts of budget knives between 20 and 70 dollars. If your scenario truly is as you propose you would be better off with one of them. I'm not anti clone (in fact, I just ordered by first one) but I think you must really want to try out THAT one in order to buy a clone. If so you want is a good knife there are so many other more reliable options out there.

[@Minecraftrok999]

In short: You're making a false dichotomy with American made knives and Chinese knives, but 98+% of Chinese knives are not knock-offs or clones.

[@Oysteims]

@@Minecraftrok999 You need to re-read my comment because you're misinterpreting it. I never mentioned clones or knockoffs.

[@Minecraftrok999]

@@Oysteims sorry, yeah you're right. I've read a lot into it that wasn't there

[@curiouscat428]

I got myself the cheap browning greyscale and browning standard hunting knife that's a Chinese knockoff yesterday. Let's see if they're as good as original pieces. Because at the moment I can't afford too many originals 🥲. I want the mini free Benchmade with the red accent, but they expensive as hell. Edit: mini freek

[@geeknoid]

I am a web designer and just like every designer we see other websites and see elements we like and we incorporate them into our own design, this does not mean I stole their design

[@Vince_F]

That “cover band” analogy just changed my entire perspective on knife “clones”! 👍🏽‼️

[@Daves_Man_Cave]

Yeah, I feel like it works... So long as it's not a counterfeit, I don't mind a "tribute" that is clearly marked and priced as such.

[@bikedocteureast2156]

Finally an informative well spoken person making good points!! I actually want to talk knives with you!!

[@jamesreese7111]

Well said. As a knife collector I've gambled several time on high end knives and been disappointed. Spending $30-70 on a clone is a great way to see if you like the knife before spending the big money on the genuine item. Medford have several designs i like the look of but their no disassembly/maintenance warranty policy is a deal breaker for me personally. Come on a loose pivot requires sending it in for Medford to adjust is a stupid policy. Great video! I agree 100%.

[@Daves_Man_Cave]

The Medford is nice, but that warranty does seem over the top. I ended up giving mine away to my brother in law, as a wedding gift to him. He's a big dude, a sheriff's deputy and likes hard use knives.

[@blueeyeswhitedragon9839]

Especially if you have to ship the knife across international borders. You just might never see that knife again. In Canada, one of the largest knife dealers has discontinued all of their Medfords.

[@erickeating5709]

I recently bought the strider clones and they’re amazing. My first clones were of Bastinelli karambits and they are, as defense weapons, effectively the same thing as the original for me. The construction is impeccable and the steel takes and holds an impressive edge.

[@felixf5211]

Excellent video. I've also purchased a clone and then bought the real thing. Similarly, I'd purchased a clone and decided that it's not for me. Subscribed.

[@Daves_Man_Cave]

Yeah, I liked the Praetorian clone so I got the real deal, but I didn't like one of the other Medford clones... It was ok, but I can't see myself spending $600+ for their Infraction...

[@cwalker228]

This is by far the best US vs China knife video I’ve seen. You have a ton of great points. Love to buy US products when I can. Unfortunately, most of the US knives I like (they’re not that many designs I like to be honest) are priced entirely to high for me to be able to purchase. It costs a lot to live in America right now. So I can’t spend $500 on a knife. That’s way too expensive anyway. If I spent that much on a knife I’d be afraid to use the damn thing anyway. It sucks that if you live in the US, you can’t afford to buy US made products. It also sucks that the Canku C1136 in this video is no longer available because I would spend $30 on that. 😂

[@Daves_Man_Cave]

Thanks man, appreciate the feedback. I do appreciate WELL MADE knives made in the US, but if you want quality, good grinds and excellent fit and finish made here, under $100... It's hard to find. There are a couple, but when you can buy a truly decent knife for $30-$60 made in China, why not? I buy both and take a lot of hate from some folks who call me a communist... I guess they never watch all my other videos... pro gun, hate Biden, pro Israel, I rant about how the current Admin has messed up the country, rail against our current open border... pro cop and military... Yet somehow because I like a good bargain that is made by people who "don't look like us", I need to move to China... lol You can't make everyone happy, I guess. :-)

[@cwalker228]

@@Daves_Man_Cave absolutely! I love it when people are bitching about buying a quality affordable knife made in China from their $1,200 Chinese made phone. 🤦🏻

[@andrashavas]

@@Daves_Man_Cave That is funny! Communist???? I just watched the video Oppenheimer. There everyone who was not with the current government was a communist. Strange, I thought that was in the 40s... Don't tell me that America never learned a thing since then...

[@Daves_Man_Cave]

@@andrashavas Yeah dude, the hate and toxicity of some folks is kinda amusing... They just hate anything that's not "MURican", despite half the crap in their house coming from China, including whatever device they are whining at me, on... Not everyone wants to spend $300-$500 on a pocket knife. I spent some time discussing this topic on this weeks Ride with Dave podcast that went up this morning. Take a listen/watch and tell me what you think?

[@knuckles-3386]

That’s alright you’re supporting a country that uses slave labor comparing a cover band to the ccp is ridiculous the cover band has to have permission to use the music have you been paying attention to the DonHenley lawsuit.?

[@Dnd-wz9yn]

I agree. I never was super interested in OTFs. I bought a Microtech clone on a whim, played with it for a bit and then bought 3 more legit Microtechs than my wife wanted me to. Had I not bought a clone I would have never made the investments. Now I buy clones first to see if the blade/handle shape fits into my "intended purpose and functionality" idea and if it feels like a match: BOOM I buy the legit blade from the manufacturer.

[@Daves_Man_Cave]

Exactly. Cheap way to try before you buy! 🙂

[@Frederick-tq3zg]

I agree with your point. My issue is with the use of a knife in the field of self defense. I would be sick if I used a super expensive 3 to 4 hundred dollar 6:39 knife in a defensive manner and have it end up in an evidence locker when I could get the same results for a 45 to 65 dollar knife. If fact knowing the value of the knife may in fact prevent someone from using it when they absolutely need to use it.

[@andrashavas]

At the end of the day when you have a clone, you may want to try out the real one also. But in case of Extrema Ratio Fulcrum 2, the clone also had the advantage of having a blade half as thin, making it a smaller version an effective EDC knife. So I bought the Nemesis and the MPC, which is a bigger version of the Fulcrum 2. So the clone was a gateway and actually made me buy two originals, which would not have taken place had I not tried out the very good quality clone. Finally although it is a clone, the Fulcrum 2 knife sits along with the Real ones, because it is a design offshoot of the real thing, making it unique and a joy to take into the hand. So clones are not all bad. Good quality clones are a testament to the real products, and I believe actually help the original companies.

[@Daves_Man_Cave]

totally agree. So long as they are not outright counterfeits, trying to pass themselves off as the real deal, I don't have a problem with it. Anyone looking for a Chris Reeve Sabenza, is not going to even consider a $23 clone on Amazon, and the reverse is true. The guy that just sees a decent knife for $23 on Amazon, is not likely gonna be the kinda guy to spend $600 on a Sabenza... There really isn't any situation where one brand is stealing business from the other...

[@pauljosephbuggle3722]

Copyright laws are different in different countries. American companies abuse cheap overseas labour. I have mainly original knives but I have nothing against clones. It's a global econony FFS.

[@gradycowley5303]

Automobile reference was spot on....Greg was just trying to justify people paying $800 for a knife.

[@gregs7519]

The "big goofy handle" you mentioned is because that knife handle shape is optimal for the reverse grip for knife fighting. The thumb rests on the angled end of the handle, and it is extremely stable. Try it with that knife in your hand, and you'll see exactly what I mean.

[@badlaamaurukehu]

​@@chudleyflusher7132That's an awfully confident comment.

[@stevenicholas5651]

If gun makers can make reliable and durable AR-15s for a couple hundred bucks, then American knife makers included Medford can make their knives sub $100! ! I'm so tired of the, "its expensive because it's made in America" nonsense. We have automation to the point that basically a monkey could do the work required to make these knives! They are simple basic shapes that have tolerances that are so large when compared to something like firearms... CNC Machines could churn out thousands of these things a day... And you want a thousand dollars for one? When the raw materials, labor and overhead costs are like $5 per unit... GO TO HELL!!

[@jeffholton6587]

Your wrong the materials are a lot more expensive you also have to consider heat treatment and hand sharpening.

[@stevenicholas5651]

@jeffholton6587 Your joking, right?? Do you even have any idea how many processes and operations go into making an AR-15? How many components need to be held to small tolerances? Injection molded polymers. Magnetic particle inspection for the bolt, case hardening, barrel heat treating, hammer forging the rifling, or cutting the rifling. Just the barrel of an AR-15 probably has more manufacturing steps and procedures than this whole knife! The barrel needs to be cut from bar stock, turned to dimension in a lathe, deep hole drilled, then reamed, then the rifling needs to be cut, then the barrel needs to be chambered. Then the barrel goes through heat treating and multiple rounds of straightening through various stages in the process then the barrel needs to be turned in a latne to final dimension, the gas port hole needs to be perfectly aligned and then drilled. Then its chrome lined, and a multitude of different finishes are used in the outside of the barrel. That's not even including making the entire barrel extension! This is an entirely different component that requires a lot of machining and its own polishing, heat treating, finishing, and installation. Numerous different finishs go into the rifle as a whole. Barrels need to be chrome lined on only the inside, and then an entirely different finished is used on the outside. The receivers are aircraft grade 7575 aluminum and are type III hard coat anodized. There are about a dozen heat treated parts on an AR-15. From pins to the barrel to the bolt carrier, the trigger and sear, the barrel extension. Every single part requires some type of hand finishing. Then, every single part needs to go through numerous quality control checks. The Rifles need to be function checked, test fired, sighted in. The headspace needs to be held into a certain tolerance of a couple thousandths of an inch... It's not even in the same ballpark as this knife!!

[@Kris_Stiletto]

BUYING CLONES & COUNTERFEIT KNIVES IS HELPING THESE MANUFACTURERS, WITHOUT MORALS, ETHICS, AND VALUES, STEAL FROM THE ORIGINAL MAKERS!!! No Clones & Counterfeits for Me!!! Don't buy Clones & Counterfeits!!! :-) Peace, Stiletto :-)

[@Daves_Man_Cave]

I agree on counterfeits, not so much on clonish type knives. So many of us don't want to try the $500 real deal, not knowing if we will like it or not... So we try a clone, and if it isn't our thing we give it away or toss it in a drawer. If we love the design, we go get the real thing... The kind of person that spends $30 on a chinese clone, is typically not the same buyer of a $850 Medford... One isn't taking sales from the other, any more than a Aerosmith cover band at the local dive bar is taking away ticket sales from Aerosmith at Giant's Stadium...

[@TinFoilHatHobo]

@Kris_Stiletto more importantly, these manufacturers are lying about where their products are made and then jacking the prices up 300%...or making a product that simply isn't worth the money they are charging for them. I've owned everything from Benchmade to Gerber and my cheapest knives have always lasted longer, stayed sharper and been more useful.

[@SrChief24]

I have real Spartans, Spyderco, Benchmades, ZT, Microtech, Winklers and the Clones and counterfeits are my everyday users and I am very happy, because I'm not heartbroken if they get lost or broken. It is just ridiculous to pay today's prices. I also like knives from Civivi, Vosteed, and others that are a better bang for the buck.

[@Bogeyman1972]

If im going to spend hundreds of dollars on a knife its going to be on a full tang fixed blade knife

[@dayontapout]

I honestly feel the same way about clones. Weird thing is I got into Benchmade clones AFTER I had my genuine Bugout in m390. If I'm honest I kinda like the clones better in that specific case. Benchmade, even in their higher end steels like m390, has a real issue with putting on a proper edge and blade rock. I bought 3 of the exact same Clone just to make sure there was constancy and NON of the clones have either of those issues. IMO the standard Bugout is significantly overpriced for what you get. Outside of better blade steel, m390(original) 9cr(Clone), the clone beats it out. Don't get me wrong I still really like my Bugout but with Benchmade's QC I'd probably but a 4th clone before I'd buy a standard Bugout.

[@Daves_Man_Cave]

Yeah, I love my Bugout for its size and simplicity and light weight, but it really isn't a $140 knife. It's an $80 knife, at best, but you pay for the Benchmade name. My new Chinese Sitivien ST995 is a vastly superior knife to my standard bugout. M390, Titanium, Carbon Fiber and ball bearings, and it's half the price...

[@magouliana32]

Benchmade clones I’ve seen are all D2

[@mikeborrelli193]

​@@magouliana32 And well done D2 has better edge retention than 14c28, 9cr, or VG10.. its a bit less than S30v but not by as much as many believe.

[@Bladeshooked_Daniel]

I have the Canku 1136 and the Land 912 and both perform amazing for a fraction the price. I know that the originals are way way better, but also very expensive so I agree with you that I'm not the target audience for CR or Medford. Also, we have to understand that much of the best fit and finish are from China companies like WE and Reate and Twosun and US labour is just expensier. I own a Spyderco Smock made in Taiwan and it is amazing as well.

[@CutleryNovice]

I might have to get my hands on that Strider copy for review, could be interesting! Great video

[@andyhayward1261]

Recently I bought a Ganzo delica clone because I didn’t see the value of an FRN back lock for the price Spyderco charges. The Ganzo gave me a feel for the design and about 4 days later I bought an s30v delica

[@Daves_Man_Cave]

See, try before you buy!

[@cintage]

Totally agree. Thanks for this reasoning.

[@olafkliemt1145]

very nice video - thanks ! on the Eafengrow the thumb studs are actually the stop pin. try the hole to flip it ;-) nothing wrong with Chinese knives. they build decent stuff nowadays. The Land 910Plus is awesome, there is even an M390 and Titanium version. CH, Shooziz, Sanrenmu/SRM, Firebird - all decent knives with very good fit and finish and action. their D2 is decent, too. and they offer 12C27, 14C28N, very good 440C and others along with very good heat treatment. sooner or later people will think twice before spending 150 USD on a knife they can get for 30 with the same features and with some even superior quality. edit: these Chinese brands have their own knife designs. and they are not 3Cr13 gas station knives anymore. hmmm, if i am indirectly supporting Putin attacking Ukraine, then i support the attacks on Syria, Somalia, Libya, Iraq, Yemen, and homemade terrorism and and and and if i buy US knives ? maybe people don't know that many popular western knife brands have their knives made these very same Chinese factories. many US brands are with Sanrenmu for example. well, mainstream corporate media can do alot with people's minds ;-)

[@Rob_Fordd]

Agreed dude. It's been interesting seeing Chinese knife makers both in kitchen and daily carry spaces rapidly catch up to many us, japanese, german, etc... brands and make them sweat. It's been great for the market imo.

[@fredp1983]

You make a very valid point about the labour costs and iphones... its so obvious but it never crossed my mind in that way

[@Daves_Man_Cave]

Yeah, its something that a lot of folks don't think of. I see the occasional yahoo on here railing about China, while sitting in their house on their Chinese iPhone, surrounded by objects from China... But for whatever reason, knives are sacred and that's where they draw the line... lol

[@Brickz9uno5]

Your so right. I’m hard on my knives and sometimes I lose them and I would be super hurt if I spent $200- plus and lost my knife

[@ahilbilyredneksopinion]

I'm a father of 5 grandfather of 3 and husband of 1 when I'm not buying kid things I don't have 500 dollars for a pocket knife so....... clone away.

[@leodegas7731]

I think the reason clone brings up so much heat is because everyone one knows what the definition of clone means. To copy, duplicate identically. So that's why you see people in your comments that support your idea. Those knives are not clones. They are knives that have similar design cues that remind people of the original. If you and others found another word to describe these knives, there wouldn't or should not be any issues. Presently 2022, I did watch a video knife reviewer that said the owner of Spyderco got made at a designer that had a cut out in his blade, but it wasn't a hole. This was a blade show. I own 3 expensive Spydercos ( expensive to me). I bought them because I got a ganzo that looked like a Spyderco but had ganzo blasted all over the knife. I liked the Spyderco m390 steel and knife specs. That said the gonzo wasn't a clone. 440c written on the blade isn't pretending to be m390. But because of Spydercos attitude, I will never buy one again. 🤣🤣🤣 Now back to the video. I was only two minutes in.🤣 ✌️🦁 Edit. I thought this video was a few years old. Are people really making these statements still? I can't believe people are complaining about china made. Edit #2 I disagree in one point. In the 60's Greed was the reason for going overseas for making items. We as a country made most things we needed. Sewing machine, tools, cars, clothes. Instead of retooling factories to keep up with new tech and robotics one company started it. The second company had to do it too to not loose share holders. Instead of adapting, and taking a loss in profit for a year. Corporate greed went overseas. Like now, we are currently selling 300 acres of land to China, next to an American Air force base. We're doing it to ourselves. Edit 3. I think ( only in the knife business, because everyone needs knives in their home's ) If a American company really cared about America first, Maybe they could produce knives cheaply and didn't make a profit, but made enough to pay the bills and the employees. Maybe mass produce knives and sell at a price that will sustain the company. Maybe government can give them a tax break, maybe an American steel makers can give this company great low prices on steel because this company is trying to lead the way. I am just a old man pondering 🤔. But the knife community is large, but united enough that KZbin knife reviewers can influence companies and customers. I know, it's crazy. But so was the first crappy Toyota tercel in the 60s. The only Japanese car sold I think, at the time. Crazy can succeed. ✌️🦁

[@Daves_Man_Cave]

Well, some are clones in that they are exact copies, although the steel might be different. Others clearly use a popular knife as the foundation, but they change a few things and add their own flair... I use the term rather generically... When it's obvious that they just took someone else's design and made their own version of it. To me, that's the Cover Band. It's Aerosmith's song, but it's obviously not Steven Tyler's voice and they aren't charging $250 per ticket to see them play... It's a $20 cover charge... haha

[@leodegas7731]

@@Daves_Man_Cave 🤣 yes, the good ol days. 🎸. Yes, I only have one of those knives. I don't know the name of the original. It's the eafengrow. I think you said sowcom? I bought it when I first started. It looked cool, but I definitely knew it was an expensive knife. When I think of clones in retail sales , I think of Rolexs, Nike, jewelry that are trying to be identical in order to deceive and profit greatly. I guess some of the knives you have were doing that. So yes, I agree with you if that were the Chinese retailers intent. Be blessed, ✌️🦁

[@Daves_Man_Cave]

@@leodegas7731 Yeah, I mean if it is a straight up counterfeits with the original maker's name and logo, that's a different matter...

[@jeffkodiac]

I recently purchased a Vespa knife which is a clone of the Microtech scarab II. The steel is 154cm and the assembly quality is very good. I also own genuine OTF Microtech and the quality of the Vespa is almost as good, but there is one thing to think about, I would rather have a $130 knife in my pocket than a $600 knife.

[@Daves_Man_Cave]

Yeah, I want the Scarab II, but I am just not willing to spend that much to get it...

[@jeffkodiac]

@@Daves_Man_Cave Exactly !

[@SteppingR]

for losing at camping , a cheap copy is the best knife ever

[@olafkliemt1145]

EF225 detent update please check if your pocket clip puts its pressure 100% on the lock bar. if so, rotate it a little so that it rests 50% on the frame and floats 50% over the frame lock. this way it takes a lot of pressure off the detent and can function as an overtravel stop.

[@addictedtoblades2]

New subscriber brother, looking forward to watching more of your videos, I agree with you clones don't bother me ❤

[@matthiascarroll1924]

I've got the SMF clone in titanium and my detent was similarly stiff. To remedy this I filed a little ramp into the detent hole using a diamond file and made a detent ramp where the ball hits the back of the blade when it first starts to close. I don't know if this explanation was very clear, let me know if I can be of assistance. The action is better now, but still not ideal in my eyes.

[@jdaniel0907]

Thank you for this. I consider myself a moderate collector, who loves both premium and budget knives. I've got some relatively expensive knives, like the Bugout 535 CF in S90V, the Pro-Tech Malibu, the ZT 0470 Sinkevich, plus others. However, I am fascinated with the quality that exists in today's budget knife world and have many Chinese budget folders. If it weren't for the Canku C1136 I never would have known about Medford and the Infraction. So, in a way this cheap, Chinese clone brought another high-end manufacturer to my attention. Also, the Land10 taught me who Chris Reeve is and why this clone is everywhere. While I can't bring myself to pay +/- $600 for a knife, I may very well pull that trigger someday. I'm okay with clones, so long as they don't cross the line into counterfeiting.

[@Hungrybird474]

I ordered the 1136 a few days ago . How is it ?

[@landcruiserchewy]

I completely agree with your reasoning. I would love to find a cheap clone for the Microtech Stitch, just for the purpose of seeing if I actually would use it. Here in Canada, the MT Stitch is $600 CAD. I cannot justify that if I’m not going to use it or it doesn’t fit in my big hands!

[@Bogeyman1972]

I have a medford preatorian knock off that is a total beast,going on 5 yrs and still going strong

[@TweakRacer]

Link for Vespa OTF (Microtech Combat Trudon clone)?

[@Daves_Man_Cave]

Having trouble finding it... that knife I bought like half a decade ago, so links and websites change over time. Here is the company offerings on DHGate... scroll on through and see if you can find the one you like? www.dhgate.com/wholesale/store.do?act=sellerStore&searchkey=&suppliernum=20078986&cid=&couponCode=&dspm=&stype=down&sinfo=price&pt=1&stlprm=&searchSource=sort

[@MrFanntaz]

These are perfect knives for people like me, who are in poor EU contries. A Medford Praetorian Scout costs more than half my salary , you bet your ass I am not spending that much . Even if I wanted to delivering it to my country litaraly adds another 200 bucks on top . I can't even buy cheap 50$ knives ,cuz afer I get them delivered they cost 250-300 .

[@Daves_Man_Cave]

Ouch! What country are you in, where shipping costs that much?

[@MrFanntaz]

@@Daves_Man_Cave Bulgaria , they charge so high ,cuz our govenment (although they wont admit it ) still want us to buy mainly from Russia ,becuase we are ex-commie country .

[@blue6gun]

It all depends on what I'm planning on using the blade for. General EDC means I'm going to carry something that grips in the hand well, opens smoothly/quickly and fits in my pocket well. It doesn't need to be the strongest knife in the word with the best edge retention, it just needs to be robustly made and feel familiar. If I'm going to put a bayonet on my rifle (no lol) it wouldn't get anything less than a solid M9 or M7 which go for around 200-250 used for actual issued bayonets. I would rather invest in ammo/range time tho haha. If I'm gifting a pocket knife to one of my kids I have a small box under my work bench where I keep cheap/knockoff/cheesy pocket knives that are strong enough to be used safely but maybe have brittle edges/tips or something because I know theyre just going to lose it. I know Kershaw Leek's aren't super fancy but when my oldest lost the one I gave her I decided she was getting cheap stuff from then on haha

[@blue6gun]

Sorry what I meant to say is my oldest has a Kershaw Leek now because she lost a Kizer with a cleaver style blade I liked a lot. It wasn't super spendy but I don't like to spend 90+ dollars on a knife. My current pocket carry is a Harbor Freight Icon...its a knockoff but they made improvements to the original that make it better lol

[@BrianS1970]

My OK-81 with the red transparent scales is one of my favorite go to knives

[@Kyoko12345678]

I would argue that these knives actually help him. People try out the clone and then decide to save up for the upgrade.

[@Daves_Man_Cave]

Oh absolutely. I would bet money that it has accomplished that.

[@nameless-yd6ko]

It was once explained to me by Bill Moran (yes, hisself, personally) that "every good idea is copied". That is life. The only way to stay ahead is to constantly innovate and improve your own work! When they copy it, you are already on to a new 'height'! I forgot who said, though; "Truly great ideas are not stolen, you have to stuff them down people's throats!"

[@gregorygolden1296]

I went to a gun show the other day and bought a mini bugout for $60.00. has the carbon fiber scales, blue annadized thumb studs. Took it to a couple people who sell Benchmade knives to see if it was a knockoff. They could not tell. Said it probably was. But said it was very well made. I m going to carry it in my pocket as a backup to my For Sure COLD STEEL Recon-1 clip point. I damn sure would never pay the outrageous price Benchmade wants for a carbon fiber scaled mini bugout.

[@Daves_Man_Cave]

I have a legit Bugout with the normal grivory scales. It's a very nice little knife, but it doesn't feel like a $150+ knife, that's for sure..

[@gregorygolden1296]

@@Daves_Man_Cave I bought my son a mini Bugout 3 or 4 years ago. A legit one. Paid o think $ 130 plus for it. He loves it. Really enjoyed your video Brother. You are spot on.

[@broken1965]

Key takeaway casual people who buy knockoffs are Not going to spend $500 or even $100 on a flippin knife, never....

[@Daves_Man_Cave]

Or, some use the cheap ones as a way to try the design out, before dropping big money on the real deal.

[@olafkliemt1145]

reg the action of the EF225: try to loosen the first body screw after the pivot. mine runs like a charm now.

[@RamMyuay]

Medford is just a piece of metal. Yes very charismatic but just piece of metal. My opinion it’s nothing difficult to make the same copy. Medford original uses D2 and for Chinese copy is used same D 2 and there is very simple construction. I think the difference between them is quite small

[@Daves_Man_Cave]

I tend to agree, but there are two things that you have to consider that a spec sheet won't tell you. Does the clone use legit D2 steel, and did they take the time to harden and temper it properly? You know that Medford does, and the Chinese one might, but you just never know. To some people, that peace of mind is worth the $600 premium...

[@RamMyuay]

@@Daves_Man_Cave they just say D2 but really it could be 9cr12mov

[@RamMyuay]

@@Daves_Man_Cave but really I don’t understand the price 600$ only because of good PR and promoting

[@Daves_Man_Cave]

Some of it is that. Some of it is its way more expensive for US labor, higher taxes and the cost of doing business... And to be fair, I am sure that Medford does a better job of quality control

[@jeffcon123]

I just ordered a microtech sbd clone I don’t care about it not being the same quality… I want one shaped like the sbd to see if I’d actually carry it… So far all the clones I’ve carried have worked perfectly man!

[@fredp1983]

I agree with you completely...i left basically the same message on medfords rant video... the chinese started out with counterfeits and then over time realised its better to just go the clone route... the private people buying counterfeits and then passing them off ass the real deal are the worst... but the clone has its own market in the knife world... I believe it even adds more value to the genuine product... its the copying is sincerest form of flattery idea... there are many who have the genuine product and even go out and buy a clone so they can use it as a beater..

[@Wavester64]

Excellent Video! I used to get a lot of heat for reviewing clones years ago, but I tried to explain it like you did (except you did a much better job of it) but I still go the heat. Just found your channel and I hope you do more videos like this one 🙂

[@Daves_Man_Cave]

Thanks for the feedback. I know that China does some crappy stuff, but they also make quality stuff... You can't just write off an entire country because the people running it are sh*theads... If that were the case, half the world would write us off due to Biden, and the other half would have written us off under Trump. lol Counterfeits are a different matter, but none of these are that.

[@catmandu6776]

@@Daves_Man_Cave WHAT?! You know that China does some crappy stuff but screw it, they make some quality stuff too?! Can't write off an entire country just because of shitheads running it? I'm glad our grandfathers and great grandfathers didn't think like you. "I know that Nazi Germany does some "crappy" stuff but screw it, those Germans make some quality stuff!" If you don't care about global politics and/or the negative impact on the US and world economy due to the dirty trade practices of the Chinese government and all you care about is buying stolen ideas for cheap, then do you. But I'm sorry, your justification for doing so is willful ignorance bordering on stupidity. Just the fact that you need to give any justification or reasoning for doing so should be a big hint. I bought an Italian made knife a few weeks ago, a country with fair trade practices, respects intellectual property and zero genocide. No justification needed! It's one thing for people on an extreme budget to do so but it's an absolute shame to see collectors and KZbinrs spend hundreds or even thousands of dollars on Chinese made knives. But this country lost it's grasp of morality and standards a long time ago. Hence Joe Biden sitting in the Oval Office! After rewatching your video, I'm leaning towards willful ignorance. You understand the problem, you're just not yet willing to sit down to take your thoughts and what you know about the issues with China to it's logical conclusion. I like how you use American companies that make $500+ knives to say that they're not really being hurt by the Chinese knockoffs because that's true for the most part but do you know what companies are getting hurt? Companies that make knives in that $75-$200 range like Benchmade, Spyderco, Kershaw, Boker, Lionsteel and the list goes on. If I'm not mistaken a Benchmade Bugout use to cost about $105 and was made from 154cm when it first came out as a lot of their knives use to be. Now Benchmade has abandoned 154cm for more premium steels and the prices keep slowly rising for their products. They have versions of the Bugout that goes over $200 now. Why do you think that is? The American market used to make good budget friendly knives but that's all but gone now. The China problem wasn't created over night. It's been a slow grinding process over the last 30 or so years. So yes, it's gone on so long that some products made in China are unavoidable. But you say screw it, keep going until there's nothing left made in America! You're cover band analogy is off. What do you think would happen if a cover band released a cover album and started selling it at a discount to undercut the original album? Well, if it's a Chinese cover band then the answer is absolutely nothing. People like you would buy it up and sing praises about your savings! You ever heard of a "Mechanical License"? I'm assuming not, judging by your reasoning in this video. At least I hope you haven't. I'd go ahead and look it up if I were you.

[@jerrydonquixote5927]

​@Dave's Man Cave yeah you know the Chinese people I deal with are very courteous and kind and I like dealing with him I like mine out some them they even if things break they send me the parts next time I order from them they're nice people I like them the other government sucks so does our government they all suck but the people are decent people trying to make a living just like me. I'm a disabled veteran I don't live on a fortune you know. I'm not I'm not saying for me I get buy have more than I need but I'm not going to go out and spend $700 on an ugly Medford knife that's ridiculous I could buy an AR-15 for that and there's no way I'm going to buy knife most I've ever spent on a knife is about $550 and I've done that less than three times and I have spent a lot of time 350 but that's a big deal for me I typically like to spend about 150 or less on a knife in the Chinese can do that. I like your review to I was really scared about making my first review about Chinese clones but you know I don't really don't care what people think I'm going to do what I want to do this is a free country!

[@Eagle457-PS]

Great video, got a new follower today. I love videos like this. I never experiment with hundreds of dollars to see if I like something or not.

[@Daves_Man_Cave]

Same here... I start with clones or homages and then if I like, I work my way up. I am the same way with watches...

[@Eagle457-PS]

Which video review did you make for the upper right knife?

[@Daves_Man_Cave]

That's the homage to the SOCOM Elite or Bravo, I forget which. If you search my channel for SOCOM you will find it.

[@freman007]

No, most Chinese clones I've handled have been pretty good knives. Never too sure about the blade steel, or heat treatment, but for my usage they work well enough. Whatever your budget is you're spending money up to a certain amount. If you don't have $170 to buy a BM 533 Mini Bugout then you're not going to buy a Mini Bugout, regardless of what else you might buy. So it doesn't matter if you buy a Ganzo or a Chinese copy of the Mini Bugout. I don't really approve of copying the trademarked items, like the brand name, but it has already been ruled you can't patent a blade shape (excluding innovative shapes like the S-curve Spyderco used in the Civilian/Matriarch), and even the Axis Lock went out of patent a decade ago. So a knife that simply applies the axis lock to the RAT-1 knife, like the Ganzo G727M, is completely legit.

[@joshuadelaunay2980]

Yup. Got a $1000 Medford Praetorian T that I don't love at all, but it's a very worthy tool. And other similar scenarios with CR, etc. However i much prefer my Chinese Kevin John Venom pieces from China.

[@VMSelvaggio]

Just bought a Ganzo knife, arrives tomorrow, should be a winner, Also look forward to 2 other knives I've bought, 1 the Eafengrow , the other a Ganzo Firebird G704B-BK that I got with Amazon gift cards from Christmas! Sub-$40 seems like a really good knife market if you are selective and careful about Blade steel choice and read your reviews!

[@Al3x1066]

I actually got a no name brand multitool from Temu for £5ish it was a little blunt from factory but after a quick brush on a whetstone its sharp AF. Its a really solid knife and its actually been able to replace my Victorinox officer as my daily knife (my victorinox is the first propper multitool i brought so its sentimental)

[@murvinlcpeoples7408]

Looking at the Infraction. Really like the way it looks. Would like to get a clone but not available any more.

[@Daves_Man_Cave]

I like the design, but I am not willing to spend $650+ for one. I will poke around and see if I can find a clone

[@nathanhall9177]

I know you’re right. And I have some clones. But it always seems the fit and finish of American made knives is usually better. However I love me some Rike and Reate and Bestech and We. I wish we could all just get along.

[@Daves_Man_Cave]

Hey, I get along, I have all types of knives... haha

[@jlcougilljr]

H Dave, do you have the link for the Vespa OTF ?? i seen the links you mentioned you'ld put in here but i don't see the Vespa and am interested in it, thanks brother, i look forward to the link, jerry

[@Daves_Man_Cave]

www.dhgate.com/online-shopping/vespa-knives-online.html

[@jlcougilljr]

@@Daves_Man_Cave thanks brother

[@piperkennard1039]

Where did you find strider clone for 30 ?on Amazon it's 70 .. do you have a none titanium? Great video brother 👍

[@Daves_Man_Cave]

Price may have gone up since then? Amazon prices have been crazy lately. The motorcycle oil I was buying was $29, now a month later the same bottle is $44. The one I used to buy for $33 is now $25... Plus, they either lose or delay fully 1/3 of all my orders. They are on the truck for delivery, and suddenly they are lost or delayed... So who knows....

[@piperkennard1039]

@@Daves_Man_Cave I hear you brother I can't trust Amazon to buy knives anymore . I bought a petrified fish beluga last month and it was 2 day prime and here a month later still no knife. There really starting to go down hill. Now I just buy cheap knives from them. But I do love that knife I wished they'd make one that's not titanium get the price down a little. But it being titanium knife with d2 I guess it makes sense. Thanks for the info brother love your videos.

[@Daves_Man_Cave]

I love my Beluga! It's a bit large for EDC, but man is it a nice knife. Its probably one of the sharpest knives out of the box that I have owned, and the fit and finish is top notch.

[@scottjacobsen2889]

Hi mate. Just wondering if you think Amazon is the best place to shop for knives? I’m currently using EBay mainly. Would love your thoughts. I here Amazon mentioned on these reviews a lot.

[@Daves_Man_Cave]

I get a ton of my stuff from Amazon. I am a Prime member so I get free 2 day shipping on most items.

[@Patriot-rising]

I like what you have to offer.. Knife wise that is. The extra 30 minutes of rant I could have done with out. But I am hooked on the knowledge and have subscribed.. thank you..

[@Daves_Man_Cave]

Thanks. Sometimes I set out to do a short review and overview, but then I go down a rabbit hole and have a larger discussion...

[@broken1965]

I luv rants lol

[@victornishimoto6029]

I totally agree!!! People purchasing the cheaper clone, understand that, this is a Disposable knife. Use it and throw it out. People who buy Authentic Medford's Never think about purchasing Clones!! I own 2 Medford knives and Dont Need a cheap clone.

[@Daves_Man_Cave]

I might be the oddball then, because I tend to buy both... I like cheaper knives that I can use and not cry if I lose it, but I also appreciate having a real quality knife that I plan to keep a long time. I have the Medford, and it's amazing, but I just compared it to my new Artisan Proponent... and I am struggling to find where the Medford is worth 9x as much for the same materials, size, etc... I am happy with the Medford, but the Artisan is a tank, designed by Dirk Pinkerton...

[@aaronboo8172]

"disposible knife. use it and throw it out" it's funny how arrogant knife snobs are, for most people an 50$ knife isn't an disposible.

[@Kyoko12345678]

The clone knives are nowhere near as good as the real high end pieces but they are legit good quality knives and perfect for EDC. I am not proud of buying them but I often pick them up to try out a specific style

[@TheHeat55]

I'm old enough to remember that Japanese cars were considered cheaply made and a bad investment. The Chinese are taking over everything manufactured, knives included. Their production lines are extremely efficient and mistakes not tolerated.

[@Daves_Man_Cave]

Agreed. I have concerns about China trying to take over the world and all that... but at the end of the day, what can you really do? If the $50 Rough Ryder Reserve is 10x the Case knife, at half the price... am I as the consumer supposed to spend more money on an inferior product, because... "Murica"...? That's what many folks are saying, and I don't agree with that. My goal is that the Chinese doing what they are doing, will force America to step up its game, the way that the Japanese auto makers forced the Big Three to step up theirs... I am not gonna spend more money on an inferior product just because the people making it "look like me"... haha

[@TomKirkemo-l5c]

I have a LOT of knifes, my father is a knife smith, and I can make my own too. I have knifes from 5 USD to...I don't know. But I don't use the most expensive ones. What I carry on a daily basis is a Brualetto pocket knife, and a Brusletto in my belt. They are practical, good enough steel...and about 60 USD each. And if no one knows the brand, it's Norwegian. It's kind of where I live. ;)

[@culichi0776]

As someone who has owned originals and the so called clones. I would never buy an American knife ever again. Yes, the American version is superior but trust me its not that much superior. Ill pay $25 instead of $250.

[@Michael.A_333]

How is the cut quality and the blade edge retention?

[@Daves_Man_Cave]

They all seem fine.

[@CutleryNovice]

I also love the comparison to covering music since I myself am a musician, mind if I use that idea in a video of my own? Crediting you for the idea of course

[@Daves_Man_Cave]

Go for it. It's not like I can copyright an analogy... haha

[@CutleryNovice]

@@Daves_Man_Cave I always like to ask first! Great video, I enjoyed it alot

[@vincenzopolimanti4345]

I've been saying this for years. For everyday use, a good Chinese knife is a great choice.

[@erinsquirkychannel501]

Whats the names if thoses knifes and where'd u get each one at? at thank you would love to get them to see if want real thing thks

[@Daves_Man_Cave]

Dude.... All the links are in the description above... Does nobody ever read those things? haha Now, the video is 3 years old so some of the links might have expired, but they all came from Amazon.

[@bikedocteureast2156]

I had the same idea to buy a good copy/clone (no branding) of the OTF I wanted and carried it for a week to see if 5 ounces was too much for an EDC. I purchased the real deal and am now waiting for it. So in theory Microtech got a sale because China made a good copy. Did they ever think about those sales??

[@Daves_Man_Cave]

I think that rational people with open minds, that keep their ego in check, realize it. The problem are the "Knife Bro's"... They are like the hardcore Harley guy, or the Mopar Guy, or an Apple fanboi... The over the top person that attaches their ego to a particular brand name because they believe it gives them status. It's to help bolster a frail ego and lack of self esteem. In order for their them to have status and value, the products that they align themselves with have to have it... and in order for that brand to have it, they have to put all the other brands down. Having brand preferences is fine, its when one becomes a loyalist or a fanboy, that it gets annoying and obvious... I bought a few clones, and they in turn were the reasons why I went and spent lots of money on the real deal. The clones win, the legit brands win, everyone makes money... the only one being hurt is my bank account. haha

[@joepublic573]

nice review... regardless - good to see some "clones" and hearing your thoughts all round.

[@Minecraftrok999]

I love your points and video, I'm kind of sad you single out the Ccancu 1137 (Praetorian clone) as the only one feeling like a $30 knife. I'm still gonna get this one though. I've always wanted a beefy boy just like it but could never stomach the cost (because much steel = many expensive).

[@Daves_Man_Cave]

Its totally worth the money, I would go and get it. In the end I went and got the $450 Medford one, but its a very cool knife. If you want a large beefy knife that doesn't break the bank, get that, or better yet, the Artisan Cutlery Proponent. amzn.to/3Mz3Tc3 I did a review of that one, and its a MUCH better knife, and roughly the same size...

[@Minecraftrok999]

@@Daves_Man_Cave thanks, the proponent is a really compelling alternative. I've had to look a bit until I found your video (maybe putting the knife name in the tie helps? Idk), but it's a really good video and that screw lock just blew me away. Technically it's not legal to carry here in Germany, because we have a stupid ban on carrying a knife that locks AND can be opened with one hand (that's why I actually prefer it when a knife sticks enough that it can't be opened with one hand). Sadly it is relatively hard to find the D2 version in Germany, so I widened my search to Europe wide and after 40 minutes I finally found a somewhat acceptable price of ~95 USD (much better than the 135 I found in Germany), it's still kinda hard to convince myself to do it, but I think I will buy the beefy boy within the month at 93 Euros. The green or blue G10 also looks really good. Thanks again for the beefy boy suggestion.

[@Minecraftrok999]

@@Daves_Man_Cave In terms of usability the Proponent seems like day and night compared to this clone. Of course then it doesn't have the looks, but damn, that blade shape of the proponent seems fine too and it'll be awesome for camping and slicing potatoes.

[@Daves_Man_Cave]

Yeah, maybe having the name in the title would help. lol I updated that, its there now. Knife carry laws are so weird sometimes. I see one handed opening as convenience, and locks as a safety device, so that it doesn't close on your hand... I have an innate mistrust of a government that doesn't trust the people that elected them, to carry basic tools... :-(

[@Daves_Man_Cave]

It's a beast of a knife, and it's very well made...

[@Gothfield]

Part of what made American products so great to begin with was industrialization. If you think your knife is so damned great, make a machine that pumps them out! The buck 110 isn’t 60 bucks for no reason. CKRT, Kershaw, Gerber. There are plenty of USA made knives of fine quality that I don’t need to scrimp and save for.

[@Kyoko12345678]

I just have to comment again. You are 100% correct. I own budget and high end knives. Nobody is looking at knives and choosing between $40 or $600, these are different buyers but as I have stated before, the clone is a gateway to the real thing !

[@Daves_Man_Cave]

Yup. I never would have bought like 8 OTFs from Microtec, GT and Axial, Benchmade... unless I had bought a couple cheaper clones first...

[@Kyoko12345678]

@ me too! I have both

[@PeteLeong]

Great video and great points Dave! Got a new subscriber.

[@Daves_Man_Cave]

Thanks, and welcome to the club!

[@BrandonGavin_EDC]

I have that Land knife in titanium and VG-10, I wanna get the m390 variant too. Great knife. They have a carbon fiber front flipper with s35VN for $89 I wanna get sometime soon.

[@thepugilist4379]

The Land 802S, titanium frame lock w/S35VN steel for $85 is quite possibly the most impressed I’ve ever been by a knife. I did not expect the quality I received. The only and I mean only complaint I have is I wish it was bigger. Everything else was/is perfect.

[@thepugilist4379]

Thanks for the video, btw…👍

[@Daves_Man_Cave]

Where did you buy that model? I haven't see the Ti frame lock version on Amazon...

[@thepugilist4379]

@@Daves_Man_Cave Amazon. And, I’ve seen it on there as recently as a couple weeks ago. In fact, every time I scroll with those specifics it shows up. I’ll try and get you a link…

[@thepugilist4379]

@@Daves_Man_Cave Man, it appears to be gone. I just scrolled for a while, trying different search variations and nothing. Next best arguably was the VG10/SS. It’s been on there for months. First time I haven’t seen it.

[@Daves_Man_Cave]

@@thepugilist4379 Yeah, I have looked for that one for awhile, but I can't find it on Amazon. I think you have to go directly to AliExpress or DHGate...

[@dubester1982]

I love these knives! I tend to look at materials, and dont give a shit about brand history or any of that stuff. Bottom line, if an American maker can put out a product with similar materials for a competitive price, id happily buy them, but they often just cant. This also happens in the watch community. You can buy a Seiko dive watch for $800 or a chinese made homage watch with oftentimes better materials for sub $209, sometimes sub $100. Sure, qc can be spotty but this can be mitigated by buying from Amazon with their easy returns. Sometimes i like it so much i am willing to buy the real thing, but often i am happy with 85% of the look and function for 20% of the price. I wont wear or use actual counterfeits though in the sense that the brand name is also copied.

[@Daves_Man_Cave]

Yeah, counterfeits are one thing... Someone just borrowing the design, not a problem, especially when they add their own flair... It's expensive to do things here in America. I don;t mind paying a little extra, but I don't want to pay double the price and still only get half the quality, and that is often what happens with these things. If you are into homage watches, check out Pagani Designs...

[@mscno188]

Clone quality is improving.

[@Daves_Man_Cave]

It really is. I mean, if you have the right materials and a CNC machine, you can crank out just about anything...

[@-tzadakim-7805]

If the Chinese clone doesn’t have the real brand name involved with the clone then I’m okay with clones. Clones are only an issue when they try to trick people into thinking they are the real deal. Like if they try to sell the clone as an advertised real benchmade. But if you know you are buying a clone, I have no issue.

[@Daves_Man_Cave]

Exactly, clones aren't the same as counterfeit, just as monopoly money isn't going to land you in jail for counterfeit bills. haha

[@LarryReynolds591]

On the China point, there's a huge difference. There are alternatives for knives. There aren't alternatives for cell phones. There are no US made cell phones. Probably won't ever be. If you don't want to support the jobs of people in your own country, at least in some way, then you are pushing us further into dependence on foreign powers that may not always like us. Manufacturing requires skill and there's an art to it. We are losing that because people won't buy US-made. Thankfully most of us don't need $700 knives, but I can buy a Case for $60 instead of a Rough Rider for $15 or a Benchmade for $100 instead of some chinese brand for $25.

[@Daves_Man_Cave]

Some of us buy both. And my local knife stores sell both. If I go to Best Buy and purchase an LG washer, am I not supporting a US business? US dock workers, warehouses and distribution centers, US truck drivers, the employees at Best Buy that sells it to me, the local appliance guy that services it for me after the warranty expires. All of those US jobs are supported, even if the initial product itself originated in a different country. And Case quality control sucks. Their knives are very hit or miss. Why would I reward their shoddy product with my money? Just because, 'Murica?

[@richardvirchow3390]

I agree 100% with your philosophy about clones. And I take exception to knife reviewers who group clones and counterfeits as the same. I began knife collecting about 3 years ago with knives like Ganzo, Eafengrow, Free Tiger, etc. and they were all good quality knives. I love your selection of 5 knives and may buy 1 or more of them. Great video - I don’t know why I haven’t seen your videos before but I’m sure gonna watch for them now ( or subscribe ). Thanks!

[@moldveien1515]

About the everything being made in china bit, I think a great point to add to that aswell is that china is a massive exporter of steel, the CPC has been obsessed with steel production since Mao, famously making everyone have their own forges to make steel (didnt work out but yeah), so even if something was made in america it could have been made with chinese steel.

[@Daves_Man_Cave]

That's a good point. At this point, its really just a small handful of vocal FUDDS making static in the background...

[@TeohLieongChuan]

will really be funny if the clone turns out to be better made than the original

[@joshsiress4515]

I have that same Eafengrow Socom copy. Love the thing! Some of the grind lines doesn't match on mine though.

[@TheGhost00sm]

I don't mind buying knives from China, but I don't by clones. I prefer buying from companies like CIVIVI that design their own knives.

[@Daves_Man_Cave]

Fair enough. 95% of what I have from China, are legit original designs from Civivi, Artisan, CJRB, Ruike, Jack Wolf and others...

[@rickyhurtt5568]

I'm 54 and have toted a knife since I was 10. I've probably got 100 but there is no way I'd pay $300 for a knife much less any more than that. To each his own but I just don't think all this super steel is worth it. I don't mind a bit tuning my edge up every once in a while

[@marcelbruinsma]

I love knives but I would never ever pay the absurd prices the American brands ask. AliExpress is my friend ;)

[@CALBBB13]

the Strider clone is not $30, it is now $69.99

[@Daves_Man_Cave]

You do realize that this video is now 2 years old, right? ;-)

[@SmokeStackLightning.]

There's been clones in the gun world for ever. Any 1911 that's not a Colt is a clone. Once the patent has expired its far game and a nod to a good design.

[@Daves_Man_Cave]

Great point. And now we have Glock clones, Beretta clones, etc... And in the watch world, Rolex never patented their sub-mariner, for example. Their name and oyster logo, yes, but not the design of their watches themselves. So there is no legal reason not to clone it, so long as they don't use the name or logo...

[@Dnd-wz9yn]

Medfords rants ensure I wouldn't purchase his products. Ive watched a few interviews with I'm and he's not my kind of guy.

[@Daves_Man_Cave]

Yeah, he has strong opinions and I don't agree with all of them... However, he is passionate about his product and the quality is top notch... His knives are legit.

[@DJYukie]

Cover bands have to pay royalties to the songs creator or secured the rights to perform.

[@Daves_Man_Cave]

So all the bands at your local pubs, are sending checks to Poison and Bon Jovi?

[@dougthrower9750]

"Clone" is an inflammatory descriptor. To me most knives a re clone of another knife once you start describing the differences, it's apparent it isn't a counterfeit. I think the better question to take away from any comparison is, why are USA made knives so much more expensive than Chinese knives ? Why pay $300, $400, or more for a knife you can get for a fraction ? The marketing schemes of American companies have forced loyal customers into the arms of foreign mistresses. If you want to spend $400 plus on an Emerson or Microtech, that's your business, but not everyone can afford a car payment to support greedy knife companies. American companies need to look hard in the mirror and question, "where did we go wrong" ? If they aren't will, then they prove they knowingly accept they are the root of the problem. As a side note, there are many Chinese companies producing excellent knives at very reasonable prices for those on a budget, like myself.

[@Daves_Man_Cave]

Totally agree, man... I enjoy my US made knives from Medford, Hogue, MT, Guardian Tactical, Heretic, Benchmade, Axial Gear, GEC and others... But they cost a lot of money... And when I look at what you can get from CJRB, Artisan Cutlery, Civivi and others... I do often have a hard time justifying buying the US made knives... The materials are similar, the construction and fit and finish is similar, and what would cost $60 for a Civivi might be easily $150 for it to be made here... just so that I can puff up my chest and tell everyone how I am a patriot because I spent 3x for the same knife? Meh... Sometimes I will, if I like the company or design, but more often than not I am gonna go with the import. We did the same with cars in the 1980's because US cars cost more, and were inferior in quality to the Japanese imports. And like you said, not everyone CAN just go spend $300-$500 on a pocket knife whenever they want...

[@jors800]

Well said Sir. I completely agree with your argument.

[@johnhall4427]

Excellent vid! Well spoken and thought out. Am in total 100% agreement with everything you said. 👍👍

[@krystofmraz]

To be honest, these high end knives Are not Worth the money as knives. Its JUST pocket jewelery, work of art..... Some of these clones Like Vespa Are even better knives, but lets be honest, you dont buy microtech for Its ability to Cut....