KnifeCenter FAQ

[@waylonwade1203]

My recommendation for getting over using an expensive knife is to decide what you will use it for and what you won't. Make it your box breakdown knife and only use it for that. After a while you'll find how much longer the edge lasts or how good it feels in the hand and you will be looking for excuses to use the knife.

[@Samofsung]

For work, I carry the Recon 1 mini tanto and the small thin Gerber box cutter. Nice to have an option and most of the time use the box cutter. When I'm just going out I'll carry just a nice quick flipper and use it if necessary but will carry the box cutter also on most occasions and still end up using it over the flipper.

[@Gterr1971]

I've been using a gerber multitool for over 20 years.ive broke it and gerber have been great about fixing it free.put new blades on or replaced the entire tool a few different times.

[@charlescollier7217]

Happy New Year, Mr. Andersen & Thomas! I have a tough time imagining NOT using my knives. The more expensive ones I own are expensive because their blades are made of some high-performance steel, like Magnacut, K390, or Rex-121. In other words, I got 'em to cut things, so yeah, I definitely fall in the use 'em camp.

[@robthompson8285]

Benchmade is becoming like Eric Cartman from South Park. "Put S30V and an axis lock on it and make it expensively lame!!!!"

[@yankee23a]

S30v Ho hum boring.....thats like bringing your 90's clothing out the moth balls and thinking it'll be in fashion again 😂

[@Edcreviewer]

Lol go look how much 90s clothing cost and how popular it is again... S30v is plenty enough to open your chip bags and cut some Amazon tape. People don't understand how foolish they look when steel snobbing when they don't even come close to using said steel to its capabilities.

[@Legato-2057]

My Grimsmo Norseman has been part of my EDC rotation for a few years. Along with a UK Penknife, Demko Shark Cub, Opinel no. 8 Garden, Para3 and a Bastinelli “Piemontes” Dragotac. My collection is all over the place.

[@kwongyeang]

Yeah.... Being afraid to use a safe queen knife is how I really got into the budget (budget-ier) knives for EDC and use. And I really appreciate and can get excited about how good the budget sector has become with QC, design, variety and steel performance. If I want to EDC a "luxury" knife, I can still totally enjoy carrying, using and showing off my Civivi Elementum in Damascus and gold/shred CF handles. Cost just $145 Aussie dollars (roughly $80USD at the time).

[@highstrangeness2396]

I love knives and enjoy collecting and knowing that they will not get damaged, when it comes to use, I just allow myself one nice edc at a time and I do use beaters at home for cutting a lot of things I like looking at them and fidgeting more than using them.

[@RobvanWees]

Yup, that sounds like me 😂

[@PandaFPV]

Dude just get a work sharp sharpening system and you’ll be ok using them

[@Deibodese]

My number one personal rule is I never buy a knife that I’m not willing to use to the fullest extent it’s capable of. That includes limited edition collector’s knives.

[@peterlandbo2726]

You mean in the kitchen of course ...😑

[@Gringorican]

Buying users to use is just as valid as buying art to just keep around and appreciate. Some of us do both ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

[@thomaswilliamson625]

@@Gringorican, it is truly amazing people can’t understand this sentiment. I own several $1,000+ knives… I own them to admire the machining, hand polishing, materials, etc. not to use them like I use my $250 Spyderco and bench made beaters.

[@Deibodese]

Gringorican I don’t mean to imply that I look down on those who collect purely for the admiration of the art or technical skill that goes into making a knife. That’s just not how I personally am built. Also, I don’t recklessly abuse my knives, unless they are specifically made for abuse (such as my ESEE Izula). And even then I keep it within the limits of what that knife is actually made for.

[@johnniewalker33]

Why ruin $1000? That's what $100 knives are for.

[@davidsmith4645]

I have a couple of knives that I won't use. Benchmade Narrows First Production Run is an example. But, otherwise I try to use them all.

[@TheKJMalice]

As a person who likes to collect, I do own things I don’t intend to use (gold-class bugout, boker sherman) mostly due to either cost of replacement or if I can even replace it in the first place. That said, I do have a few that are expensive that I will still use anyway. My advice: use what you want, but don’t shy away from leaving something be if you don’t want to use it

[@BornRandy62]

Itypically carry 4 folder blades. An Ontario RAT 2, A spyderco I forget the name, An original Superknife replaceable cutting edge utility, a Victorinox One Handed opening I forget the name multi tool. The two used more often is the Spyderco for clean tasks and the Ontario for Dirty tasks. Cutting cardboard I use the Superknife. I have the industrial utility blade inserts installed so that I can resharpen when required. The victorinox for when I do tasking that involves tools away from my toolbox. I had the RAT 1 but found it too large to carry around. Subjective and personal preference

[@geoffcaldwell6648]

One of my first EDC was Microtech manual mini socom elite. I still have it but retired it 5 years ago after carrying it for almost 20 years. Carrying a great blade daily helps create a love for the hobby and an appreciation for the workmanship that goes into those blades. Not to mention giving you steer cred for being a blade snob😂

[@sakerminter]

I can sympathize with the first question, when i got my first benchmade after having nothing above 50 or 30 dollars for that matter, i was afraid to use it much. Before getting into the knife world a $200+ knife seemed astronomical. Now i own many knives of varying costs and have gotten proficient enough at maintaining them that i can appreciate premium knives and use them for everything. Youll also decide which ones ones you're comfortable abusing to extremes.

[@blondhairblackstrat]

I have two categories for my knives: Ones I actually use--"beaters", and self-defense/EDC knives that remain as sharp (or slightly sharper) than the day I got them--they will never touch a cardboard box or Amazon package! None are expensive--nothing over $100.

[@TheScoundrel70]

Ill argue that one nice feature of high carbon steel is how it patinas with use (if you let it). Its like the knife is creating a 100% personal, custom finish based on your history together. It encourages both use and care.

[@AllenSchubert]

HAH!! I love this question!! I used to be a runner and would go through something similar when buying new running shoes (back when going above $50 was expensive). The problem was to avoid stepping in a puddle or a muddy spot and get your new shoes dirty! (For me, after avoiding some puddles, I'd either accidently step in a puddle or finally decide to stop messing around and step in a puddle!) ... And a good knife can last!!! Back in the mid-90s, I got a Spyderco Delica (with integrated clip in handle) and it still works great!!! So, like you said, a few extra dollars is worth it (30 years and counting with that old Spyderco!)!!!

[@davidgarrett5671]

Getting running shoes dirty is besides the point and you don’t have to quit using them because they got dirty. It is how well the shoes hold up and how many miles you run in them. 400 miles is about the farthest you should go and then replace them, they wear out.

[@gladeshunter8796]

With the exception of a few safe queens that can’t be replaced I use all my knives . Pretty much the whole reason I purchased Esee’s because I planned on working them hard . The warranty is added peace of mind .

[@gyffesme]

Yes, they're tools. And in re: the barrage, I gifted one to a friend and he accidentally dropped it, snapping the tip. Benchmade wasn't going to honor the warranty, assuming he'd abused it, but when he sent it in they saw the clean snap and replaced the blade. They also spiffed the knife up, and even replaced the clip, which was showing a lot of wear. Benchmade prices are ridiculous right now, but that level of service *might* be worth it.

[@dutchanimal010]

Another thought for the lefty Africa-knife... if they're looking for a leather sheath option, or have a preferred knife but don't the sheath, JRE Industries sheaths can be a great pairing. Didn't see much in stock for JRE sheathes on KC website at time of comment but they make ones that fit the SRK-6 and ESEE-6 in this video, for example.

[@michaelschaffer9165]

The handiest and most used knife is the one that's always in my pocket. An old Spyderco Ladybug. I have 2 of them haven't used the backup one for 10 years. Number one sharpens well.

[@JimJanowiecki]

I inherited a 1 of 500 Benchmade Osborne 940. I plan on carrying it and using it, but I'll have a 2nd knife for heavy use.

[@CamDuncan-l7s]

I completely understand. I’m also a lefty and these days Chris Reeve doesn’t drop nearly as many lefties as they used to. However not using a Sebenza to work is like buying a Hell Cat and not doing over 45mph.

[@danmcpherson1068]

I looove the esee 6 Got myself a pm2 instead recently and I’m glad I did

[@jeremyshackelford8080]

I carry all of my folding knives. Some to work, some on the weekend, some to church on Sunday

[@peterlandbo2726]

Your pants must hang really low

[@jeremyshackelford8080]

@peterlandbo2726 🤣 I own a really good belt

[@muskyman1018]

I purchased 4 very nice fixed blades from Behring this past year, mainly for my grandchildren to inherit someday. But I intend to use them while in the outdoors, but not as everyday carry. One I broke in processing a bear, the other an elk. Haven’t had the chance to break in the other 2, hopefully next fall.

[@AllAhabNoMoby]

I have noticed that a lot of guys are completely clueless on how to get their knife sharp again. They'll use a new knife until the factory edge is gone and then they're screwed. 😄 This makes them not want to 'spoil' the edge of their precious new knife.

[@lag1791]

I was like that too for a bit. Until this year I bought a Hapstone R2 with a CBN stone set. Now I get a factory sharpened knife and not happy with most of the edges. Knife sharpening is a hobby w/in itself and makes knife collecting all that more interesting and fun.

[@AllAhabNoMoby]

@@lag1791 Yeah I think it's like that for all of us who like to take it further. I had a Spyderco triangle, an Apex Pro (still awesome) and now I mostly use a Worksharp Ken Onion, it's fast, easy and effective. For reprofiling, the Apex Pro.

[@roycesjourney37]

My most expensive knife is a tactile Archer, it’s also my second most carried, right behind ironically my RAT 2 in D2. Next year I’ll be buying a Kase Turbo and i absolutely will carry, use, and sharpen it.

[@2thehat]

DCA and knife center compatriots I have an old Schrade Walden 147 with the synthetic handle. The handle has started rattling on the tang, and due to having inherited it from my grandpa I don't want to remove the handle and make a new one. I've been struggling with finding a replacement for it and I'd like to find something with as similar a profile as I can but with decent steel, high carbon or good stainless. Most of what I find currently available is in 440 and that's just not good enough for a camp knife in my opinion.

[@PeterMinearo]

Africa survival knife.......TOPS Steel Eagle has a sheath that just fits in between the supports of a Mystery Ranch Terraframe pack. I have both and it works fairly well (though I do wish TOPS had a rectangular sheath that was built for this frame). Essentially you get a scout carry, but the blade weight is on the pack and not on your belt. If you plan on having a pack with you at all times, this might be a good option. Also, the TOPS Steel Eagle is still a good option by itself. Though.....you may want the carcass splitter if you are big game hunting. 😉😂

[@charlesperry1051]

I buy things to use. I have expensive watches and I wear them. My normal hiking/backpacking watch is a Swiss automatic. I have collectible rifles that I use for hunting. I use my knives. There is one exception, in my 20s and 30s I bought a dozen or so Case three blade mini-stockman pocket knives with different handles. They are just to look at. I do use a few of them. My daily carry knife is a Microtech MSI, not a cheap knife. I have the original Gerber out the front multitool. Mine does not have the relief cuts in the handle and it is VERY easy to pinch your hand bad when using the pliers. I just received a Leatherman Free P4 for Christmas. Can't wait to put it through its paces. So far I like it.

[@tazman66gt18]

the Becker also is set up to carry the BK 14 Remora. so, bigger knife for big tasks, little knife for smaller tasks.

[@cybercanal5319]

also philosophy is 3 blades: the edc fixed blades (esee, bradford, wrkt, etc) are for fudging up and beating the snot out of aka sharpened pry bars; the folders in nice steels are for flexing and being gentlemen-ly; and the multitools (sak, leatherman) are for in the inbetween where you dont want to spook people and restraint is called for, actual tools needed. sometimes just throw a rat 1 or tenacious in the pocket and call it a day.

[@FriedPi-mc5yt]

My most expensive knife was around $300. I carry it occasionally and use it. I don’t think I would buy a knife I wouldn’t use unless it was a serious collector type knife like a G&G Hawk OTF. But I would probably still carry it and use it after the shock of actually getting my hands on one sinks in.

[@KatotownUSA]

A little tip on the slide out Gerber multitool… If you get a standard cheap plastic mag carrier for the belt… It will grip those sides and automatically deploy it when you pull it out… At least mine does

[@jasonmedcalf2707]

Also if you grab it towards the rear and flick it like youre trying to fling the font off, they work better. And some gun oil helps.

[@odinson7429]

I've worked mine like that, and they slide out with a quick wrist flick, so I can open and close with one hand, which is key for me when doing work.

[@LeoDodier]

Yes…me too. Especially the few hand made custom pieces!

[@LAG3]

I have no problem buying a new fire arm and going right to the range with it. I used to have a collection of knives I didn't carry or use. I sold almost all of them. I consider my more premium Spyderco knives as an investment in quality. But I carry and use them. I have a few handmade/custom fixed blades. I bought them to get a better product. I am happier having a few things that I really love. I'd rather spend money on things I need and will use. I have habitually carried a SAK or small lockback as a real beater. I'm not going to cut shingles and sheet metal or baton wood with a Military 2 or Bodacious that cost about $250.

[@unpretty7112]

I would say that I'm using all my knives for cutting paper, cardboard, zip ties etc. but for wood/garden work I rather use these that I can easily replace

[@PaulLeMay3218]

Good afternoon Gents. Two questions today. Does Knife Centre ship to Canada. 🇨🇦. And…….what knife either fixed or folder would you suggest for someone that likes to sit and “whittle” wood. Either tree branches or an actual piece of cut lumber. This is not a question for wood carving which is , to me, something different altogether. When I was very young I used to sit with my grandfather and watch him whittle, mostly tree branches. Thank you both for all that you share. Take care, Paul Le May. 🇨🇦

[@scottbenson8105]

I have all 4 versions of the WE Primoris and the wooden handle version of the WE Snick and use those lightly but I use all my CIVIVI knives as my everyday knives

[@NorthStarKnifeReviews]

Use it or don’t use it: it’s your knife; you can do what you want. 🤷‍♂️

[@dauayub1395]

I”d also look at the Lionsteel T6 for the survival knife. Mine is a brute, chops well, and is versatile.

[@jmar7762]

I’m pretty rough on all my tools. I have some expensive slip joints most of which are in a carbon steel. I use them as much as possible but I do carry them in a slip. Mainly so they don’t end up all scratched up. I don’t mind them getting patina or scratches on the blade but I don’t like my bolsters and covers getting all beat up. The rest of my knives I use them to their limit and sometimes beyond.

[@danielcox5849]

I only have one knife in my fairly large collection (about 150) that I don’t use. It is a limited edition WE Makani with flame anodized scale inserts. It is an exceptional knife and I want to retain its value. That being said, I will probably wind up using it on a limited basis.

[@sproutpits]

Re: Left-handed survival knives, the TOPS M-PAT sheath can be configured for left-handers.

[@ArtelindSSB]

I don't buy anything unless I intend on using it, knives or otherwise. I've used my Sebenza for impromptu yardwork (clearing briars, pruning small branches, that sort of thing).

[@dougmanter8002]

Use it. I admit to having a couple of shelf queens. But, mostly users.

[@evolutionglitch4739]

I use my large Sebenza Insingo hard and its great! Use your good knives.

[@Coffreek]

A (nearly) $200 CQC-7 was the tipping point, for me. It was a bonus, so it wasn't even "my" money, and Emersons are made to be used: I couldn't do it. Even worse, I started looking at the (then new) Southern Grind Spider Monkey. My eventual realization was that I wasn't going to enjoy a knife just because I spent more money on it. My next purchase was $11, and I set myself a limit of $150 for any knife after that. I've been tempted more than once, but I haven't gone over. Yet.

[@chrisjosekuehl]

For the survival knife. Fallkniven A1, has a completely ambidextrous sheath and is still the best survival knive for the money.

[@CaseyFloridian]

Like my hand tools I'll buy the best as far as durability and efficiency and spend that extra money now rather than buy cheap stuff that makes work slightly more time consuming etc. Personally I'll use them without a second thought. It's a mindset most people have naturally to "safekeep". Early on I realized it's much more enjoyable to use what you like as advertised, if it breaks it breaks, if you really can't afford it to break on you it's probably best you bought a cheaper option in the first place.

[@johnkc413]

I like to use my higher price knives strictly for cutting, and the less expensive knives for cutting and other tasks that sometimes a knife shouldn’t do? I will mostly have my Benchmade in one pocket and a Swiss Army multi tool in the other. This way I have a tool for many or most situations.

[@TerentiusD]

That question made me think about my Japanese kitchen knives that I use every day. I have probably two thousand dollars worth of Japanese knives and they were made by serious knifesmiths to do serious work by serious chefs. As long as you treat it respectfully you'll be fine. I don't take them near bones, that's what the softer German knives are for. My every day pocket knife is a benchmade mini-bugout that I've put titanium scales on and use every day.

[@lancewatson2839]

I have 2 Jack Wolf knives and have used them both a lot. They are made of strong materials and are meant to be used. It seems like a waste not to use them and I think it adds character when they show use

[@mikeD1234]

The Dr. Disrespect comment definitely could go down a rabbit hole of social commentary but I don’t know how much overlap the two communities have. It’s best that you said what you said about not knowing and don’t get “in the weeds” on this one.

[@Digspig]

A little overlap, but enough for a couple of us. Agreed.

[@Bigdaddyslasher]

I spend big money on fixed blades and I don't use them because I collect them. Some of the big customs I have used but not many.

[@jugajones]

Cheaper Tanto blade for work. It gets used and sometimes roughed up. At least where I work it seems the people that use knives the most carry the cheaper options. Just an observation.

[@jimb9283]

Rrally like the look of that ESSE six might have to add that collection. Really like the handle and tough sheath for use on the farm

[@didgemonkey]

For the knife going to Africa, i feel that the Joker Nomad 6.5 doesn't get anywhere near enough love... Brilliant knife at a very affordable price... See Dutch Bushcraft Knives video... I got one and I love it!

[@jacklivingood2201]

I'd say work up your tolerance for using your expensive(whatever expensive means to you) knives. I started out in boy scouts with 12$ knives that were the peak of my enjoyment, and carried them till the pivot screw wore down the threads on its receptacle. When I went looking for a nicer knife I was afraid to use it at first, so I did the smart thing and bought a 25$ knife which was still double the price of my original knife but much more manageable than a 50-100$ knife. Believe it or not knives still do the job they're meant to do regardless of if they are the bottom of the barrel cheap, or the top of the line expensive they still cut. Once you get comfortable knowing your knife will cut, and do its job you'll be more comfortable using it for it's job.

[@michaelburda5631]

I totally understand where the gentleman's comment comes from. Top tier knives have gotten way too expensive for me. $200 is my limit and even that seems crazy expensive.

[@mattawomkeag]

If I was going to Africa and wanted to bring a knife as a one tool option the Tops Silent Hero would be a good choice! The design of the knife has a good story behind it!

[@yankee23a]

Which country in Africa specifically, they aren't all the same......and Africa is a continent not a country. Unless you are going with a registered hunting outfit, licensed to provide hunting services for the specific country of choice... I dont think you'd fare well going through some of the customs officers carrying your tactical/ combat knives, they have seen it all and relish giving the white boys with their 'wanna be mercenary/ blood diamond' lookalike molle/ tactical clothing, backpacks etc a hard time......push back and see what happens 😅....from experience I'd say get a non descript paring/ fruit knife, make a sheath for it and wrap the handle for more girth/ grip.....you won't have so many smirks and attitude getting through the various customs and country borders that way

[@Errcyco]

Lucky for me I'm kinda poor lol. So my nicest knife cost $70.. aaaand I still don't use it much. I mostly use my Spyderco tenacious and Kizer Squidward. Both I got on sale and both are pretty amazing. I really want to get a Hogue deka and a Ritter at some point. They last forever.

[@alexaraza3917]

Question- seems like a lot of the frame and liner lock knives I buy in budget and mid range, the detent grinding against the base of the blade eats up some of the opening and closing action even with lube. Is the extra friction necessary for a detention ball? Do some knives use a caged bearing or roller pin to make the action smooth?

[@timtitus2532]

I use all my knives to some degree. My Benchmade 940 (which I consider a Safe Queen) gets carried and used occasionally. My Presidio ll, one of my latest Benchmade knives, gets carried, and today, I'm carrying my Bugout and Bailout. Don't feel like just because these knives are a little pricey they should be kept on a pedestal, untouched, they are tools built to be used. So use em.

[@lyndonmarquis414]

I have a first model Presidio I use all the time - 20 years and still going strong. Hope you get the same mileage out of the II!

[@timtitus2532]

@lyndonmarquis414 I had a Presidio I, a couple years ago I gave it to one of my kids, missed it enough I got the II to replace it. I think I like the handle on the II a little better as far as grip.

[@gladius1275]

I actually have the solution to this problem. I used to have knives in the $200-$350 that I would never use, then after beginning to buy knives in the $350-$500 it allowed me to be comfortable making those cheaper knives users. The answer is to buy more expensive knives. Viscous circle I know, but it’s the only answer. 😆

[@frankmcmanus5142]

Im a man on a budget.....I have a buck 212 i picked up a couple years ago and its a beautiful knife . I just cant let myself use it.......yet . I carry a victorinox explorer my kids gifted me last Christmas and i never leave home without it .

[@TheKJMalice]

Hey DCA and crew, I have a question for you: I’m looking to consolidate my EDC from 2 knives and a Victorinox Classic SD to one hard-use folder and a more full-sized SAK. I’d prefer a locking blade, but the website doesn’t have blade lengths for Victorinox blades. What is the smallest locking SAK blade that Victorinox offers? Perhaps do any of them have a pocket clip option, even if it’s a separate purchase?

[@Zareh_tou]

Hello Nessmuk DCA, Reverse tanto Thomas and Spydie Seth. Can you explain what Magnacut is without using the following words: Edge retention, toughness and stainless!! Love the videos Happy New Year

[@Digspig]

Drop point David, perhaps?

[@MLightstone]

I love making custom delica 4s for friends (I make my own scales for them) but other than flytanium I don't see any companies making metal replacement backspacer parts for it. Is this the case? What are the choices?

[@chrischips1732]

Hey DCA! I need the spark back… I have 100+ knives in my collection and I will always carry one, but I need the excitement back! What do you see coming this year that brews enthusiasm? Cool locking mechanism? New material? Cool features? Help me find my knife mojo again! Cheers gents 🤘

[@stevendunnuck]

Kansept gravity folder coming

[@maxwell2.2]

What are your favorite ones?

[@clintwalker2698]

I carry a microtech.Also I carry an Otto Messer k55k for basic use

[@josecintron85]

Hopefully a question for a future show... Can you recommend some ceramic blade knives for EDC that do not break the bank (let's try < $150)?

[@RagingUtai]

Some look beautiful like jewellry or art peices, i wouldn't use it except for like opening light packages or taking out of a display to admire. Then there are those that look made to be used and make mayhem with and get shit done.

[@Gankinu]

6:54 Blessing the rains

[@Biketunerfy]

2 better option than all of them are Bark River and Falkniven. The bravo series for the Bark River and for the Falkniven the S series. Convex grinds and edges are far more better in large knives as they are stronger and cut far more efficient and deeper than V edges and are very easy to sharpen. They cut wood far more better than any V edge and the life of the blade lasts longer. I always go convex with knives over 3 inches that are not folders. Go with convex you will not regret it.

[@SMS2884]

I had someone say something to me the other day. Unless you have kids to pass down your really nice knives to, use them. Use them all. I don't have kids. So I'm using even my most expensive knives.

[@NotYourGrandpasEDC]

I just covered a video over expensive knives this week. Very interesting to discuss the topic of being scared to use a knife 👍🏽

[@geraldroberts4721]

Watched and commented on your vid and real close to subscribing. Solid content.

[@NotYourGrandpasEDC]

@ thank you

[@klausheisler5014]

The more it costs the more I use it. If I'm paying premium prices I want to know it can take a bit of a beating. Fixed blades that is. Folders aren't getting used for harder camp tasks. Featherstick at most.

[@tommymccombs4309]

I see he recommended a Cold Steel SRK. you could also look at the Cold Steel Recon Scout and the Trail Master. they are really nice.

[@mac-y.n.v.-me7043]

I use any knife I buy. I just don’t abuse the expensive ones.

[@Rugaard_DK]

hi DCA I have an issue, I want a para 3, but what steel to choose CPM-15V, CPM-SPY27 or CPM-S45VN, it needs to be a G-10 handle black with a satin or stonewashed blade, have been pondering this for a long time, hope you can aid me in my choice, keep up the excellent work.

[@billydodd8457]

I personaly don't know how many knives I have......I only have one which has never been used. A camel bone handled damascus folding knife that my favorite neice got for me one year as a Christmas present. It's still in the box, on display at all times. I have several Benchmade knives including a costom crooked river. Bought my wife a set of benchmade kitchen knives made od damasteel for something like 2400 dollars.....They all get used, some every day. What good is it if you can't use it?

[@odinson7429]

I use almost everything, whether I should or not, lol. Only a few blades made for display escape that fate, but if push ever came to shove, they'd get put to work, too.

[@MikeyD8716]

Personally, I carry a cheap 2nd knife for the things that may ruin my good knife. My favorite was the Reate EXO-U which was great for my left pocket (until I lost it). Otherwise I throw a cheap slip joint into my pocket as back up.

[@turtlepurple9304]

Hey guys . Before I learnt to sharpen well I was worried about using my cold steel SRK san mai lll, too hard . I would choose a bigger ( cheaper) knife. How ever now I can make it shave hairs I use it a lot more .

[@brandiwynter]

I don't really own a knife that's super expensive but being of limited means, I think yes, I would be hesitant to carry $200+. I'm not adverse to using them but carrying one in my pocket as an EDC would probably not happen. That's just because I've had knives somehow extricate themselves from what seemed like a secure spot clipped in a pocket never to be seen again. So use, yes but carry... maybe or no.

[@dlysachev]

13:05 is that a SINGLE glove package😮? No wonder why they are not that well known...

[@hillbillyfromtheswamp6223]

My most expensive blades were probably my Esee 5 and my junglas. At least expensive to me ...and nope. Not afraid to beat them with a hammer if needed.

[@Barry-ji3wf]

6” knife = Guardian 6 in CPM-3V

[@DF-iv7td]

Happy New Year, DCA and crew! Quick question for those of us in jurisdictions that have loosely defined gravity knife laws. What do you consider to be the most "finger safe" lock that can't be deployed with a wrist flick. Compression lock knives are my favorite, but I stopped carrying them when I realized they might get me in trouble. Any guidance would be greatly appreciated!

[@davidgarrett5671]

If they are compression locks and over a year old they are Spydercos and have the spider hole for deployment which means they aren’t a gravity knife.

[@DF-iv7td]

@davidgarrett5671 isn't it? They can be deployed by centrifugal force or gravity after pressing down on the lock button. Same with pulling back on an axis lock, or pressing down on a button lock.

[@davidgarrett5671]

@ Yes, but so can a button lock with a flipper. The only one I saw questioned was the first Elementum II which only had a button lock.

[@DF-iv7td]

@davidgarrett5671 you are debating the semantics of what constitutes a gravity knife, not answering my question. I want a finger safe, one-handed locking mechanism that can not be flicked open. Everyone watching this channel knows what an authentic gravity knife is. As I stated, though, the laws around gravity knives in my jurisdiction are not that clear. Any knife that can be deployed by centrifugal force or gravity after engaging a button, tab, or other mechanism is illegal to carry here, period. And I'm not trying to have an expensive knife confiscated or have this debate with a cop.

[@davidgarrett5671]

@ By your definition your states laws are like in Europe and prohibit knives that open with a flipper, thumb studs, or other type folding knife. A compression lock is just a liner lock on top with a tap to activate it. I’d suggest you contact a lawyer in your area and see what their take is on this.

[@antimatter2380]

Unless it's super rare or super sentimental, i.e. not replaceable, use it but don't abuse it. Also if the gift giver would more more upset that you aren't using it, use it.

[@Woodzy-5326]

I make and sell custom knives as a side hustle. I try to make knives that are as beautiful as they are useful. I have a rule, though. I will not sell you a knife if you don't plan on using it. I have gotten comments from time to time when customers say this so pretty I don't want to use it. Though it is nice to hear, it is, in a way, insulting because I'm proud of my work and put a lot of time in each blade. The best compliment you can give me personally as a knife maker is telling me you use the knife I made all the time and it's indestructible. But that's just me.

[@RagingUtai]

I'm thinking of getting the esse 5/6, just to have to work with and work in the backyard. Is there a better work knife?

[@MarkRVillano]

There are so many different knife laws in so many different jurisdictions that it's all but impossible to know with any degree of certainty that you will be in compliance if you venture outside of your own city, town, or state while carrying a knife. These laws are purposefully byzantine, obtuse, and confusing; often written in such a way as to make uniform compliance all but impossible. It is for this reason that I no longer lust after expensive knives that I would more than likely leave sitting on my dresser out of fear that carrying one of them could put me in legal jeopardy, or result in its confiscation. In contrast, concealed carry laws for firearms, (at least as they apply within any given state) are more or less uniform, and easy to understand and comply with. For instance, in my home state of Michigan, it is illegal to carry a concealed pocket knife longer than three inches in length, illegal to carry any knife with more than a single cutting edge, or an OTF automatic knife of any length whatsoever. And the rest of the laws as they apply to fixed blades are written in such a way as to allow law enforcement to interpret them in any manner that they see fit. By contrast, living in an open carry state, and also having a concealed carry permit, with few exceptions, I can go anywhere I want, with any weapon I choose to carry as long as it's not fully automatic, and was legally purchased. It's insane that I can legally walk around carrying a semi-automatic pistol with 10 rounds of 9 mm ammo in my pocket or strapped to my hip, but could be arrested for carrying a three and a half inch slip joint pocket knife in the exact same location. That said; it makes the choice a rather easy one for me.

[@davidgarrett5671]

Knife Rights has a list of various knife laws on their site. Except for states that haven’t passed laws for making statutes in understandable English ( and there are very few that haven’t) most of the knife laws are clear and easy to understand. If you think in your state laws don’t comply contact Knife Rights and contribute to them so they can carry out their lobbying for…well knife rights. And no most knife laws were not written to be obtuse, etc. The problem is so many of the state’s laws were written out of fear after people watched Blackboard Jungle and other such fiction and they didn’t want these gangs to be carrying switchblades. Especially the Latino ones. Too many of these laws have not been updated. Until recently no automatics were allowed in Michigan. You can thank Knife Rights for the that. As DCA says many times 3” seems to be the average length allowed which is why so many EDCs are just below that. I’ll have to look up the knife laws in Michigan to see if what you state is true. I live in Texas where anything is allowed, including a sword. So copy the Texas section of the penal code and send it to your representatives and say change it like this. But whenever you are going to travel you need to check before hand to see what laws you are going to encounter before going to those places. Thanks to the internet this is a lot easier to do now. Some people also need to do the same for their vehicles.

[@MarkRVillano]

@@davidgarrett5671 These laws need to be universal, and applicable in all 50 states.

[@davidgarrett5671]

@ So you aren’t a believer in states rights? I’m not sure SCOTUS would allow such a law.

[@steeltrident]

What makes a steel like magnacut so much more expensive than, say D2, 420hc, etc. Is it the “ingredients”, processing, quality control? Thanks!

[@brianyonts5745]

Hey DCA is the Spyderco Paramilitary 2 legal to EDC in Virginia I also would like to know when the Spyderco Paramilitary 2 salt series with black and yellow handle is going to start shipping.

[@gm5216]

It should be. But it might also depend on a local ordinance. You should double-check things where you live. The last time I checked for VA, there aren’t any statewide restrictions regarding knives and carrying them.

[@seanf5760]

I use every knife I buy. They're a tool that's made to be used, and none of the ones I buy are safe from carry and use. Even ridiculous and oversized ones like my CKF Krokar, aesthetically nice ones like my green anodised Spartan Harsey Folder full size plague doctor, all the way down to tiny ones like my TRM Nerd or Isham Bladeworks Blackstar V2. I bought it, so I am going to use it.

[@cylentone]

Actually using an expensive knife can be seen as a flex, but if it is good as a tool, why not use the best tool you can afford? I don't know any craftsman that buys expensive tools and then just looks at them. I wouldn't use a knife only if it was collectable and I intended to sell it or possibly gift it to somebody later, same as my watches. As to left-handed survival knife options - I can recommend the LionSteel M6, you can swap the belt loop to either side of the Kydex sheath which has loads of lashing points as well.

[@drews8585]

I have a significant anniversary with my close group of friends coming up next January (25 years). I would love to hear about where I can have some sort of custom commemorative knife, built to hand out to each of my friends. Can you make any suggestions? I hope a year is long enough to figure this out.