Avoid This Bark River Knives Mistake At All Costs

[@Noevad]

I have a lot of Bark River knives currently (15 or so) and I’ve probably traded or sold just as many in the last six years. It used to be that their quality control was top notch, but after the pandemic, I noticed their quality took a steep nose dive. I’ve noticed that for me to make sure that I have a good version of whatever knife that I like I have to buy more than one just so that I can choose which one is better and either sell the other one or send it back. For me it usually comes down to the handle. Some handles are thinner with a more pronounced Coke bottle shape so those are really comfortable in my hand where some of them feel like blocks of wood. They have very little Coke bottle shape and they’re a lot thicker. And remember, these are knives coming from the same exact batch. I’m just tired of having to buy multiple just to make sure that I get one that I actually like. I bought a strikeforce 2 not that long ago, and I ended up buying three of them because I was going to give one to a friend of mine. All three handles were different and none of them were what I would consider a well shaped handle for a knife that was designed to be light and nimble. It was one of the bulkiest knife handles that I’ve ever seen. I bought that at least six months ago and usually the bark river knives sell out relatively quickly. I just checked and there’s still a bunch there for sale so that tells me that they’re not moving off the shelves like they used to a year ago. I think they’re finally finding out what their lack of quality control is doing for them. Also, their sheaths have been Incredibly generic lately. I know on the bark river Facebook page, Mike kept complaining that everybody else was complaining about the sheaths so he decided to just give all of them crappy pouch sheaths.

[@knifetimestory]

That’s a bummer, it sounds like you’ve had some bad luck.

[@Jaybird-oo3ih]

Last BRK I bought was about 3 years ago. It was very nice knife ( 4” bowie style knife) they did an awesome build on my particular piece but sent a pancake style sheath with very thin belt loop that have stretched to the point that it flops around on your belt and has virtually zero retention! I’ve stopped carrying the knife because of the sheath and I’ve been shopping around for a nice custom sheath for it. I do agree that for what we pay for their products the sheath that it’s carried in should reflect what we’re paying for.

[@knifetimestory]

I agree, it's a shame they don't pay more attention to the sheaths, they are a crucial part of a knife.

[@Peteyrich93]

I have a BRK canoe on preorder and have already gotten a sheath commissioned so I don’t have to use the one included. I’ve owned a couple Bark Rivers and carry one nearly everyday for work, but I also had a sheath made for them because I didn’t like the ones that ship with the knives. I’m glad I’m not the only one who doesn’t care for their sheaths

[@knifetimestory]

It's great to hear that you're customizing your gear! A good sheath can make all the difference in usability and comfort. Enjoy your new canoe!

[@ArtofHunter]

I have several BRK but unfortunately I've had almost half of them come with issues some were major issues that I had to fix extensively myself. I now don't get any BRK's but instead have went to LTWK's. Every LT has been perfect for me.

[@knifetimestory]

Ahhh. Another dissatisfied customer. There are more of you out there than BRK is willing to acknowledge.

[@MRGoods89]

I really want a cub 3v knife. But every time i think about buying, i remember the peaks and valleys of BRKs reputation and not sure if i want to roll the dice on a possibly defective knife. They just have an aesthetic i like and i don't find many, or any, similar knives with handle materials i want. Everyone uses g10 or micarta, and i just want a good ironwood handle or something similar. Any suggestions for knife makers would be appreciated.

[@knifetimestory]

Excellent question and concern. Yes, BRK has a nice-looking lineup. No doubt. That being said, perhaps you should give LT Wright a try. You can get awesome handle materials like Ironwood and a nice variety of blade steels, properly heat treated, and a finished product that is worthy of the price.

[@stewycalifornia06]

Honestly, watching feedback and seeing comments about Bark River always gives me a lot of Anxiety. Your video was informative and funny. The intro was really funny. The company has had a lot of ups and downs over the years. Sheath styles have changed due to customer demands and feedback. I will make sure Mike sees this. Maybe we can take another look at our sheath designs and make some improvements. Thank you for posting this. All feedback is an opportunity for growth.

[@knifetimestory]

I am glad my video made you laugh! Thank yo for watching and taking the time to comment and add further to the discussion.

[@turtletruth]

I bought three Bark River Puukko knives and here is my only complaint! The problem is with the leather sheaths. The leather sheaths are rather short for the size of the Puukko. (The knife keeps falling out!) The Puukko's are the only knife I cannot safely carry because of fear of losing the knife... (Bark River leather sheaths suck.)

[@knifetimestory]

THANK YOU! Glad you commented. Seems some of the fan boys and others that really don't understand the role of a sheath can't grasp just how poorly BRK sheaths are made and designed. Thank you for watching and commenting. It means a lot.

[@darksi226]

I got one for Xmas, from my amazing wife. High expectations, low results. Soft 3v, crap sheath, and slippery handle. It was not a user. This was about 4 or 5 years ago. The sheath was another buckle style, but even worse. The two belt loops also had snaps and would unsnap whenever I would set down. If that wasn't bad enough... while sitting down, it would also come right off of my belt once the snaps came undone. It was so bad I reached out to bark river and, to their credit, they did replace with a pouch style sheath. Free postage to me and free to return the turd one. I've never bought another. Much prefer LT Wright.

[@knifetimestory]

I totally agree with your very detailed and thoughtful comment. Thank you very much. I believe my next knife will be an LT Wright. I haven’t had one of his since he split off and started his own company. I used to love Blind Horse Kives.

[@kanukkarhu]

+1 on the LT Wright. I've several of those and they are GOLDEN. FAR better bargain, superior knife, and I've had zero QC issues. Sheaths (JR Industries, I believe?) are excellent too. If you don't like an LT Wright knife - AND sheath - well, that's a "you" problem.

[@knifetimestory]

I actually have not heard of any negative in relation to LT Wright. I'll definitely be buying one in the not to distant future.

[@MarkJSage]

​@@kanukkarhuI've gotten two LT Wright knives with blade steel issues. I stopped buying them.

[@richmichaud85]

YOU are 100% correct. I stopped buying their knives after the last one that I received was crap. Had to be returned. Uneven plunge grinds and not sharp at all. Couldn't cut a sheet of printer paper. Not to mention the shitty sheath....Their goal now seems to be, turn out as many as you can as fast as possible and charge twice what they are worth. I'm sure you'll hear from all the BRK fanboys though.

[@knifetimestory]

Glad to know I’m not alone. Actually it’s unfortunate that this is the case though. Thank you very much for watching and for your awesome comment. And yes… I am prepared for the fan boys. But they never bother me.

[@mrglock2313]

I was a fan boy until today when I received a classic drop point hunter that was absolute trash. My older bark river knives are great, I have no complaints about the knives they made when they were trying to make a name. Now??? Mike Stewart need to have a meeting and straighten this dog shit out.

[@chuckhiccox8086]

I bought a Bark River Canoe Knife . The sheath is perfect and it’s also ambitious , I really like it

[@knifetimestory]

Ambitious? Do you mean ambidextrous?

[@chuckhiccox8086]

@@knifetimestory damn typo , yes ambidextrous .

[@knifetimestory]

😂 No problem. I thought wow, now that sounds like an interesting sheath!!

[@pstaehlin]

Funny, my Classic Drop Point Hunter came in a great pouch sheath. By the way, I LOVE Bark River knives. I own many. I'd had ZERO issues with any of them. You might take advantage of their amazing customer service before you blast the company.

[@knifetimestory]

The Classic Drop Point does come with a pouch sheath. I have one. I'm talking about the Bobcat. As far as you having zero issues, one of two things is happening here, one, you should consider yourself lucky, or two, your standards are not as high as the slew of people experiencing crap quality from BRK. I've been in contact with them on issues with other knives but to no avail. So, I'm done going that route. I'm enjoying the knife now that it is up to snuff and fixed up really nicely with a killer edge, but the sheath is going to be a dog chew toy in the not-to-distant future. Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment.

[@dispmonk]

@@knifetimestory you’re just being spiteful. Personally, I was canceled from the bark river community because I unintentionally insulted Mike’s ex-daughter in law. Regardless, any issue that you have with a knife or sheath based on a quality function, will be resolved by the company 100% of the time. I have well over three dozen. They’re all users, and only three had issues that were purely visual. Never any issues with the function of the knives.

[@hillbillyfromtheswamp6223]

Definitely appreciate you calling out the garbage. Keep true sir! American needs more of you.

[@knifetimestory]

Wow! That’s a heck of a compliment! Thank you very much. I will do my best.

[@Gil-X47Lapua]

Have you used the knife? I enjoy bark river knives. The biggest problem I've head is getting one with handles that are too thin. The handle thickness can vary greatly between different knives of the same model.

[@knifetimestory]

Thank you very much for watching. Yes… I have been using the knife since I put an edge on it. So far I am pleased with how it performs, slices, the weight of it and the comfort of the handle. And now that it’s in a pouch sheath, it’s actually a nice little combo.

[@jhtsurvival]

The one that I bought had multiple issues. For the money you pay these issues shouldn't be there

[@ROE1300]

I just purchased a Bark River Kitsune knife through DLT Trading. Beautiful knife with dark amber stag scales, mosaic pins, red liners, and CMP 154 steel. Performed really well making a tent stake and feather sticks. Feels very well in the hand. I have only had it for 2 hours so more “testing” needs to be done. But, the part you will most interested in is the sheath, it is actually a pouch style sheath. It is pancake not taco; however, closer to a pouch sheath than we have seen in a while. Mike Stewart must be watching your videos! 😄 Excellent work! Thank you.

[@knifetimestory]

Glad you liked the video and are as of yet, happy with your purchase. I doubt he watches my stuff, but I'm certain he has heard of me. There are enough BRK fanboys our there that someone has reported back to him about some guy on KZbin speaking the truth errrrr, I mean slamming BRK.

[@ROE1300]

@@knifetimestory 😂😂😂

[@ROE1300]

@@knifetimestory The really great thing about Bark River Knives is they never drill holes in their blades. 😳

[@knifetimestory]

Ahem...what are you implying my friend?

[@ROE1300]

@@knifetimestory 🤔 Skeletonized handles can be a good thing (reduce weight without reducing durability). Skeletonized blades, not so much a good thing. Spyderco is famous for putting holes in their blades (the Spyderhole) and even Victorinox does it on their one-handed opening knives. Bark River has thus far resisted the temptation to skeletonize their blades. Yes, I am a bit of a Bark River/Mike Stewart fan-boy. 🤷🏻‍♂️

[@CLa-wb5vj]

Does anyone else have issues with their BRKT cpm 3v spines becoming easily marred from using ferro rods? Is this typical with other cpm 3v or is this due to being heat treated on the softer side?

[@knifetimestory]

I never used one for that particular task. So I can’t be of any help. Sorry. Thank you very much for watching though!

[@shroomsrus5116]

Marred as in scratched up?

[@LanningKann]

Are you sure it’s marred? I had one that looked marred, then realized it was Ferrero material left on the blade.

[@Gman1024]

I've wanted one for a while, but every time I get around to thinking about saving for it, I see the sheaths, and it turns me off. Especially when you have things like the black mule bowie, which ships with a sheath that looks like it costs more than the twenty five dollar knife that rides in it. Thanks for mentioning this, because I've been on that ledge so many times and lust after many blades and handle designs, but after briefly shopping for aftermarket sheaths for them, I say, meh, and move along till next time.

[@knifetimestory]

Well, if this video swayed you in any way to not buy them...they you are welcome!! And thank you for supporting my channel and watching and commenting. I hope enough people watch this and learn a little something and save themselves a bucket of cash and heart break.

[@robdufficy4924]

Send it back bud. They clearly included the wrong sheath with the knife. That said, it is the saddest BR sheath I’ve seen them do. Mine from them are all really nice full grain leather and proper fitting. Bummer!

[@knifetimestory]

I thought about doing that, but because I had a replacement I just went with that. The sheath is somewhere in the landfill now.

[@JackpineEvergreen]

Not saying the sheath is any good but I think that protruding leather is to protect the snap from getting snagged and coming undone. Snap the knife in right around the handle and the leather sticking up will cover the snap? Just guessing here of course.

[@knifetimestory]

I appreciate your comment. I really do. It is a garbage design. So it’s really not worth doing the gymnastics and jumping through hoops of fire to try and make this thing work. The best place for it is in the landfill.

[@bigjsknives]

This video had me rolling laughing.. I've purchased 5 of their knives, one came with a huge divot in the Micarta Handle(DLT sent replacement quickly), the other came not sharp at all, and i know it's convex and different but it literally couldn't slice jack shit. I quickly sharpened it and thought it was ok but then you hear of all the other horror stories so i haven't purchased any more.

[@knifetimestory]

Ahhh. Another dissatisfied BRK customer. Welcome to the growing list. Glad you liked the video and appreciate my style, or lack thereof. Thank you for watching and taking the time to comment and participate in the discussion.

[@GoodDaySir]

I have this knife, you do have to stretch the snaps (wet them a bit first) and then it's a perfect fit. However, I agree the single rivet at the back and the belt loop is crap.

[@knifetimestory]

Nope, not stretching that baby. Too far. You missed the point of the video though. It is not just the fact it will only hold a pencil. The design is horrible and should never be made again. Pouch sheaths are the only way to go. Just ask the true hand makers out there that make knives for people who are actually going to be taking them outside and using them.

[@GoodDaySir]

@@knifetimestory Did you try? My clasps were not touching either, they now fit. Barkriver probably should fit these to stop people getting confused with what to do or at least drop an instruction card in the box. As for the design, as I said I agree with you it is pretty crap.

[@randallleonard1249]

I agree. I have 3 and all the sheaths are worthless. The answer I got from Bark River is sorry but that is the sheath we provide.

[@knifetimestory]

Yep. Pretty arrogant of them.

[@karlmadsen3179]

Mike Stewart knows that he just cranks out iterations of the same garbage and charges outrageous prices for them. I was sucker enough to buy a couple of bark river early on. Sold them all. Their sheaths are garbage. The only worse garbage sheath I ever got was the original sheath that I got with my benchmade Bushcrafter 162.

[@knifetimestory]

I too fell into that trap. Now every one of them is gone. I won't ever own one.

[@richardvisneski506]

After watching this video I won’t be keeping Bark River on my wishlist of knives. Not because of the sheath, but if the edge and the handle scales are ground poorly I’m not going to spend that kind of money on one of their blades.

[@knifetimestory]

Thank you for watching. The more and more I think about this fiasco and the 20+ others I've had that all had some sort of issue, some small, some major, I get angrier about the whole thing. The prices they charge and I gave them sooooooo many chances. I'm mad at myself. Well, they will not get another penny from me. That is for darn sure.

[@MountainLife1]

Thanks for taking the time to make this video. I have 15 Bark River Knives, but will not buy anymore. I like their designs, choice of handle materials, and variety of steels to choose from, but I am tired of overlooking poor craftsmanship. If you get one of the good ones, it will be an excellent knife, but it is just a shot in the dark to try to get one without problems. I believe they just crank out the knives and figure they can warranty the ones that get sent back. A better plan would be to make only excellent knives and pair them with excellent sheaths.

[@knifetimestory]

Fantastic. You get it too. I really like how you describe their modus operandi. Thank you. Thank you very much for watching and taking a time to leave such a thoughtful comment. I do appreciate it!

[@JonCox-fn3hn]

SAME HERE! I have 10 BRK's! Finally got a POS Cub that was totally garbage and BRK's Mike Stewart acted like I was a little B@tch for complaining about it! No big deal, send your $320.00 POS BACK and we will grind a butt load of metal off and make it right! GOODBY BRK! Mike Stewart IS the Problem! Then talks DOWN to the customer like hey, YOU'RE the problem, not my POS $400-$500 junk knife I sold you! Not, "I'm so sorry" you got a knife that was not up to par, he has a condescending attitude towards his customers! Up YOURS Mike! Will not be buying another of you high priced junk knives until I see a MAJOR turn around, but as long as HE is still driving the SHIP, I won't be buying any more BRK's! He's a JERK!

[@jhtsurvival]

Great video. I want to love BRK. They look great online but the QC issues should not exist at the price

[@knifetimestory]

Thank you for the kind words about the video. I do appreciate it. It is a darn shame about BRK. They look good on paper, when you get them in your hand, there are just too many issues.

[@Airik1111bibles]

I'll never buy a BRK ... I do like the look of their Gunny and Bushcrafter, but I've seen way too many complaints about crappy grinds and sheaths . $200 to $300 is a price range where your knife should be near perfect....That's why I will never buy another Benchmade either. If I ever spend $200+ again on a blade, it will be an LT Wright or Battlehourse knife. ... Better yet, I'll save money and just buy another Tops or Esee to play with.

[@knifetimestory]

Praise the Lord! Another smart man! I totally agree with you. For that kind of money… It needs to be perfect. I wish more people would stop falling for whatever it is that makes them buy that stuff.

[@woodsman132]

I have two bark River knives great knives total pos sheath.

[@knifetimestory]

Bummer about the sheath! But...not surprising. At least the knives are awesome, right? Too bad BRK has not learned how to properly design or match a sheath with a knife.

[@The66Leadfoot]

I have knives I use, and knives that get treated like grandma's plastic-covered sofas.

[@knifetimestory]

Do those knives squeak?

[@Wolf_K]

I’m going back even 10+ years ago and their QC has always been subpar. Burnt edges, terrible heat treatments, ruined tempers, warped blades, grinds _so_ thin that they class cutting a bamboo skewer as knife abuse to justify it. Their “spa” treatment has left handles looking like they would fit in a child’s hand. Terrible QC, low morals, greedy hearts, and a list of excuses a mile long. That said, they’re good designs and so I will give credit where it’s due. I own some of their knives but I won’t play BRKT Lottery again. LTWK did have some issues at one time with a specific steel and it’s heat treat but they sorted that out. I like their knives and have a bunch of them, also Battle Horse Knives.

[@knifetimestory]

It’s true, quality control has been an ongoing issue for quite some time. It’s frustrating when designs are great, but execution falls short. Glad to hear you found some brands that work for you, though!

[@gillbates999]

You should let Mike Stewart know... on a Saturday afternoon.

[@knifetimestory]

Why Saturday?

[@SWORD1-cm4vb]

Bark River makes a great knife, I own a ton of them. I have a box literally full of BR knife sheaths that have fallen apart, stitching loosens blade snags it when sheathing and it’s over. Belt loops also just come undone. I’d still buy the knife without a sheath. Drop price of knife 50 bucks and sell them blade only. I found the solution, Patriot Leather Sheaths, give them a look. It’s a shame that the sheaths are so bad, but they are and good on you KTS for calling them on it. Bad sheaths do not change the fact that the Bravo handle and Aurora handles and the Bushcraft 1 and 2 handles, and the scandivex grind that BRK applies is top notch. All and all, my favorite knives are Bark Rivers. BTW I’m taking a BRK Sheath while I type this 😂

[@knifetimestory]

Great comment. Thank you for being in my corner. I like your solution. I've had a Patriot sheath and really liked it. Unfortunately, I feel that BRK quality and QC is going in the wrong direction. Too many odd ball defects on the last knives I've purchased from them. Too expensive for that silliness. So I won't be buying any more of their knives. It's a shame. I like some of their designs.

[@dukevonflankenheimer9430]

LOL, ok you got a fine lookin pencil/pen sheath? Thanks!!

[@knifetimestory]

Thank you very much. I’m the only kid in my school that has one!

[@knifelore1647]

I love Bark River Knives, I however received a Highlander Special I purchased from Amazon. Very sharp, but the blade is like ⅜ " bent to the left!

[@knifetimestory]

Did you contact BRK about it?

[@hillbillyfromtheswamp6223]

Hahahaha. Personally I never understood the hype of Bark River knives. And definitely wouldn't ever pay what they want for a blade. Too far out of my comfort zone. Great video man

[@knifetimestory]

Well said! They are officially out of my buying zone as well. I’ve been burned too many times by them. I’m done.

[@talonhueston1506]

100% true . Recently purchased a poorly ground knife , when I mentioned it mike Stewart almost had a heart attack in fb. The quality has dropped

[@knifetimestory]

Sure has. I'm kinda surprised I've not heard from them. I mean, I really don't pull any punches. All of the knives I've gotten from them are decomposing in a landfill.

[@wildfree4203]

I haven’t made it buying a single knife from Bark River!! Always thought they’re overpriced for what they are! I’d take any Esee I have over any of their knives.. And I’m yet to find a small knife that’s better than my Izula! I have five of them!

[@knifetimestory]

Could not agree with you more. I've never had an ESEE let me down. I've had dozens. Every one of them perfect and a top performer. Bark River is dead to me.

[@Elamori]

In my opinion Bark River is not worth the price. I paid 430 euros for my Tope Recon and it was poorly finished, especially the blade grind. Especially in that price range, that shouldn't happen. I also had the same problem with the sheath, but I finally got it working. I put a lot of leather grease and oil on it and started twisting the leather strip to make it stretch. Fortunately Tope Recon sheath had a hole at the end of the leather strip, so I was able to stretch it further with the help of paracord. Without that hole, it would have been impossible to make it work in any way. I tried stretching with water first, but that just made the leather stiffer and harder to stretch. So I could assume that leather grease or oil is better for that purpose. The whole thing felt like a DIY project right out of the box. It's hard to support a company that doesn't want to fix an obvious problem with quality control. However, I understand the popularity of Bark River, they make good looking and fascinating knives.

[@knifetimestory]

I couldn’t agree with you more. I am so “done“ that I don’t even look at any of the sites that may have them anymore. For fear of being tempted and lulled into possibly giving them yet another chance with my money. They all wind up in the trash or given away.

[@danielbossis2939]

YES !!!! Thanks !!! The best knives in the entire industry! The ugliest cases in the world!? What for

[@knifetimestory]

Best Knives? Hmmmm.

[@danielbossis2939]

@@knifetimestory i think your'e right ! this time i see the complete video ! sorry. I have a lot of knives but not Bark River!

[@knifetimestory]

Thank you for watching the entire video. I appreciate it. Hopefully I've saved you some money.

[@joepublic573]

don't think BRK is the only one that has that big loop ... had to sew up a shrade one too into a tighter configuration. had a DPH at one time; nice piece; couldn't bring myself to use it.. so let it go. still like the shape etc, but .....

[@knifetimestory]

I hate the design. Obviously. And you notice how Schrade went out of business. Only to have the license sold to China. Maybe that is what Mike Stewart is going for.

[@jimshort9266]

@@knifetimestory … everyone has to have a plan for retirement so that notion doesn’t sound so crazy. I assume you were being facetious though and I watched a factory tour video and his “hands on” Son was in the video and would think he’s poised to take over. Thanks for the insight though. I’ve been attracted to Bark River but believe I’ll pass now as there are many other quality options. Thanks.

[@knifetimestory]

I'll have to look for that video. Thanks. Still, the bottom line is crap is being sold and people are becoming more and more aware of it and if they don't change their mission statement, or at least adhere to a good one, they may find themselves looking for something else to do someday.

[@gladeshunter8796]

I look at bark rivers every time I visit Smoky Mountain knife works . I promptly hand them back too . I’ve yet to see one that meets my expectations for the money .

[@knifetimestory]

Wow. Did not know they were in Smoky Mountain. All of mine have had one issue or another. No more for me. I'm done!

[@larrymarkowitz8386]

Did you give the maker a chance to replace the sheath? Or did you just put up a video like one of the kids?

[@knifetimestory]

First thing I did was flop down on the floor and fly all around kicking my feet and pounding my fists on the floor. I will do cries of anguish a couple of times. Then after I compose myself I had a bowl of ice cream and made the video. If this was a one off incident, I would’ve contacted them and sent it back. But, As it obviously is not, I just stuck it in a different sheet. I resigned myself to the fact that Barbara is she’s suck, and their knives are incredibly inconsistent in quality, and therefore after about 20 of them, I’m done. Thank you very much for watching. I appreciate your comment. Comments like that always add levity to the whole thing and make it fun.

[@larrymarkowitz8386]

@@knifetimestory I gather, after all that, the answer is, “no, I did not afford the maker that courtesy.” I gather you were too busy making your video, to act like an adult. As the kids (you emulate) say, “whatever.”

[@knifetimestory]

@@larrymarkowitz8386 Hey you’re pretty sharp. Unlike Bark River Knives (more often than not). Even through my sarcasm you picked up on the fact that it is a “no”. The last three times I’ve had an issue with either a sheath or a knife, Bark River has replied in such a way that it was clear they didn’t care. Three strikes they are out. And I actually gave them way more than three strikes. But enough is enough. They let a lousy product out the door, they know it, they try to get away with it, so I called them on it. Maybe they will get wind of my video and read some of the comments and see that what I am expressing is not a one off. There are a whole lot of people feel like I do. Thanks again for your insightful comment. I appreciate it.

[@shroomsrus5116]

@@larrymarkowitz8386act like an adult and say something to Mike only for him to blame you😂 nah Mike Stewart is a joke, can’t say dealing with him is like a child, it’s an insult to children

[@drunknnirish]

It still boggles my mind that people purchase BRKs new. Lets see if we can have a running tally of reasons not to Junk heat treats Burnt edges Horrible grinds Terrible sheaths

[@knifetimestory]

Asymmetrical handles Shrinking Micarta (did a video about that one) Dull Dull and wonky edges. Thank you for starting the list. Let's see if it continues to grow.

[@shroomsrus5116]

@@knifetimestorysteel cross contamination, mislabeled steels, workers don’t wear ppe😂

[@zanedclark]

I have not bought a Bark River and now don't think I would. In various forum sites it seems that there is a love-hate for BR. Thanks for a good vid. zane

[@knifetimestory]

Hi Zane, thanks as always for watching. I sincerely hope you do not buy one. I think they need to get their act together and prove that they are capable of making a consistent quality product. I know for sure I’m not buying any until that proof is in the pudding.

[@timkelly9535]

I agree and it is worse now they make this pouch style sheath for virtually every knife and it sucks

[@knifetimestory]

Glad you agree. I really am done with them. But, to be completely fair, I hate to admit it, I like the knife now that I've fixed it. Works like a charm and feels good in my hand.

[@HoangNguyen-jg8hq]

Sorry to hear that you don’t have the Loveless knives anymore. Hope you passed them on to your kids or made a handsome profit. 😀

[@knifetimestory]

Yes… I realized that they should be in the hands of somebody else who may enjoy them. Because as I’ve said before… Someday I’m going to die and I have visions of those very expensive knives being on the five dollar table at the estate sale.

[@tibortoth2043]

Fuck Man, I totally agree with you! I just had a big fight with them about the same issue ! I think Uncle Badger Mike run out of breath and thats why he let is out that piece of shit sheath !Or he took it out from a Badger mouth and send it to us !which should void warranty right away! my one, the rivet was scratching the handle and I post to be buy a bloody mole skin on it! like buying a new car without seat, but if you go to nearest hardware store you might can buy some plastic chairs and good fucken luck try fix it and drive it! WHY??? WHY???

[@knifetimestory]

Wow. Well put. Love the analogy. Thanks for watching, commenting, and being one of the smart people who have seen the light regarding BRK.

[@michaelbaldwin6543]

I bought one of their knives and I do love it, but I didn't like the sheath at all so I bought a custom kydex sheath. The price of the knife warrants a top level sheath. Instead we are given a marginal product. Very disappointing.

[@knifetimestory]

Excellent observation and comment. Join the "Disappointed in BRK" club.

[@MO-vr1jg]

I like the knife but I can’t come close to snapping the sheath closed either…

[@knifetimestory]

Well you know what that means. You and me both lost our man cards. We’re only half man I guess. At least that’s what some of the comments have alluded to. Hope you find a nice replacement.

[@MO-vr1jg]

@@knifetimestory I wet the snap strap and the top of the sheath and got the snap closed…I agree that that you shouldn’t need to do that on $300.00 knife..

[@JonCox-fn3hn]

I don't even unwrap my BRK sheaths! I buy a NICE, high quality Patriot Leather Sheaths for my BRK's! What a shame to have to spend an extra $120.00 on a quality sheath that should have come with the knife in the first place!

[@knifetimestory]

It is a darn shame isn’t it. And it’s to the point now, where there are knives really aren’t worth plunking down the extra $120+ for a sheath.

[@JonCox-fn3hn]

@@knifetimestory Mr Stewart said it was no big deal, send it in and they would file te Jimping! Said the grinds being off was normal, they are hand ground! NOT THIS BAD!

[@WanderingBobAK]

You think a Bark River knife should come with a $120 custom sheath for the price you pay? Crack me up.

[@joshuagenovese36]

Your choice and Opinion. I absolutely Love Bark river Knives and every knife I've ever received has always been razor sharp and able to handle what it was intended for. That being said if toy didn't like the blade, or their was a defect. Their warranty would of covered it. Yes , their leather sheaths ain't for everyone but other than that, they have never done me wrong. I remember breaking a blade and was able to send it in for free and get it fixed. Mike Stewart and the rest of the gang are like fam to me. Anyhow, thank for the review. We all have a right to our opinion ❤

[@knifetimestory]

Well, you are very lucky. Seems I am not alone when it comes to receiving a knife that is substandard and with a sheath that is basically a dog chew, in the shape of a crappy sheath. I've had 20+ BRK knives. Notice that was is past tense. All are given away or rotting in the landfill. Guess my standards are just too high. I'm now buying LT Wright knives and have yet to get something less than 100% perfect.

[@joncox9719]

I wish they would lower the price and exclude the sheath! I'd rather spend my hard earned money on something more suitable to ME! Let's face it, sheaths are not a one size fits all needs, some like Kydex, some danglers, some like bushcraft style with ferro rod, I personally like danglers, many hate them!! So why do they even try to make a one style fits all sheath when it won't suite the buyer? About all we can hope for is for Mike to retire and let his son take over. His son LISTENS! When I received my brand new Cub, the Jimping was so screwed up, a blind man could do a better job! All I got from MR MIKE Stewart was there is nothing wrong with it, just send it back and he would make it right, he would NEVER acknowledge there was a problem and talked down to his customers, very arrogant! I saw about 2 months later, his SON put out a video acknowledging there WERE QC problems and HE was working hard to fix it. His HONESTY won me back! Mike's time with BRK is over, his arrogance and the way he talks down to his customers will be the end of BRK unless he goes! You know, how about saying, Oh, man, I am so sorry it came to you in that condition, please, we will send you a shipping label FREE and will do a one day turn around and have it back to you within 7 days! Instead, Mike tells you, it's nothing wrong, but YOU PAY the $30 shipping on a custom knife you just paid $400 bucks for and if you don't like it, buy a Gerber! That ATTITUDE!

[@knifetimestory]

Fanfreakingtastic comment! I am glad I’m not alone. It does seem that more and more people are starting to catch on that BRK cranks out a bunch of crap. I hope his son can turn things around. It would take one heck of a miracle to win me back though. And people wonder why my BRK knife collection is now zero.

[@cliffmitchell5451]

There are quite a few who make outstanding knives and then trip and fall at the finish line regarding their sheaths.

[@knifetimestory]

That is a great way to describe it. Trip and fall. I like that. Thank you for commenting!

[@Lazzoboy]

BRK needs to slow down. To much crap leaves the productionline. Now looking at other companys, sad to say..

[@knifetimestory]

I totally agree!

[@markaugustin1862]

I'm still wondering how you really feel. 😜

[@knifetimestory]

You got me... there’s a lot of nuance here!

[@barkeater123]

Been blasting bark rivers sheaths for years. I love their knives but their sheath game leaves alot to be desired

[@knifetimestory]

Glad to hear it! I knew I wasn’t alone.👍🏻

[@barkeater123]

@@knifetimestory yeah. Its a shame. I have 5 of their knives and use them all extensively as im an avid outdoorsman. The aurora, bravo 1, bravo squad leader, aurora 2.....all great in the field. Ive bought an aftermarket sheath for all but 1.

[@augustus63]

Bark Rivers are truly embarassing

[@knifetimestory]

Yes...yes they are!

[@cast1450]

Some guys know nothing about leather

[@knifetimestory]

I know right! I’ve been making knives and sheaths for close to 40 years. My pouch sheaths are perfect and custom for each knife! Too bad BRK can’t do the same thing.

[@larrykoroush6995]

Hell, even I can think of better designs. If I put a snap strap on a sheath, I never have it where the edge can slice it also.

[@knifetimestory]

Bingo! Since you do have thoughts on superior designs, then you can’t work at Bark River Knives. Don’t even apply!

[@joshuagenovese36]

I honestly don't mind the sheaths. Though some models have better sheaths than others ..lol

[@knifetimestory]

To each his own. 👍🏻

[@jdm8577]

If I recall the guy that owns bark river used to own a knife company in Illinois and his offices got raided and he was shut down. Seems like a crook to me. You couldn’t give me one of their knives!

[@knifetimestory]

I heard just about the same story, and think maybe it happened twice? Not sure. Blackjack knives was the first, then they were making Marbles knives, then up and moved to the top of the country and started Bark River. My interaction with him was brief and cordial back in 1995. So, it was still Blackjack then.

[@jdm8577]

@@knifetimestory Blackjack knives was in Effingham, Illinois about 30 minutes from me. I’ve also heard that he will state a knife is made of a certain steel when it’s actually made of a steel that’s much cheaper. I can’t say because I’ve never owned a Bark River. I’ve had no experience with them and I never will. He sounds like a crook to me.

[@jdm8577]

@@knifetimestory you pay $300 for a knife it should be flawless and the sheath usable and of good quality.

[@knifetimestory]

I agree that a $300 knife should be flawless. I also think there is more to Mike than anyone really knows. I don't get a good feeling about him or BRK that is for sure.

[@kanukkarhu]

I have a BR Aurora. Its sheath sucks too. I'd never buy another NR knife. And here's the thing - people keep paying big money for these knives. So tell me, why should they change a thing? (Besides the desire to sell a great product...) They get get full money for their poor product now, so what's their incentive (besides personal pride of work.) It's simple economics.

[@knifetimestory]

You are sooooo right my friend. Until people (myself included) stop falling for the pretty pictures and promise of a great knife, they will continue to do the same thing over and over again and not feel the sting of sales hitting rock bottom. I don't like to see anyone go out of business, but I am in favor of reorganization and accountability. BRK is dead to me.

[@wazzeradk9398]

I would ship it back and demand a different sheath or get a refund! That’ll make em take notice.

[@knifetimestory]

If I ship it back, then I won’t be able to do a follow up video!😂

[@Erik-sq8nz]

i bought what i thought would be an amazing, but my bravo 1.25 had the most garbage sheath i’ve ever seen, and the knife itself was decent but the handle is pretty poorly made

[@knifetimestory]

It’s a darn shame isn’t it. I’m gonna do a follow up video. I hate to admit it… But after modifying the knife, I am actually beginning to sort of kinda like it.

[@Godmaceplus1]

Bark River suuuuuccckkksssssss

[@knifetimestory]

Could not agree with you more!

[@ricardodafonseca9043]

the intro was brutal

[@knifetimestory]

As intended! Glad you appreciated it. thank you for watching and letting me know your thoughts.

[@Mo.89.]

I haven’t met Mike, nor have I seen their operation, but his response to any criticism, or even someone just asking about a flaw, says to me he really has no interest in quality. He continually points to their great warranty - fine, but you shouldn’t need to use the warranty on a product the moment it leaves the package! That “pancake” sheath too, it may work but it too is awful and for the price they should be providing so much more. If you look at what TRC Knives offer for a comparable price, working out of Lithuania, there’s absolutely no excuse for Bark River to be sending out such garbage.

[@knifetimestory]

I completely agree with you. It’s one thing to have a fantastic warranty, it’s another thing to actually make a great knife. That probably will never require that warranty. Mike has lost sight of that. I am very disappointed. Thank you very much for watching. I really appreciate that and appreciate you taking the time to leave a nice comment.

[@rossginn1171]

Well,,,,,, even as a newbie to fixed blades and the various sheathes that go with them, I agree with you. Pride in craftsmanship is passed down to those of us that take pride in ownership of these items.

[@knifetimestory]

Glad to see someone who gets it. Craftsmanship is getting harder and harder to find. Too much crap is being shipped from BRK. I'll never buy another and to be honest, the knife and sheath are now living out eternity in the local landfill. That is how done I am with them.