Nick's take on Materialism in the Gear World

[@MetalEffort]

Them: "Why do you need a knife?" Me: "Because it's an interesting mix of form and function that gives me joy when I discover a piece that exemplifies a good blend of both of those design philosophies. Them: "Huh?" Me: "I like to cut things."

[@mc3129]

Arthur Schopenhauer - 'when you're buying books, you're optimistically thinking you're buying the time to read them.’

[@catv9085]

As someone who's lost a parent, I really advise against the "give it to your grandchildren" thing as a motive to spend big money. I've inherited a lot of my dad's EDC, and I even have many of the same general interests he did, but here's the thing: some of it doesn't fit me, some of it is outdated, and some of it just isn't my style. And even if none of that were the case, I don't like leaving the house with his stuff because if I lost it, I'd be devastated. So, end result? None of my dad's stuff ever leaves the house. The majority of it doesn't get used much either, even inside the house. And my experience is that most of the people I know who've lost a parent experience the same thing. What winds up happening is that most of it just gets sold off very slowly, over the course of a decade or so, and what little remains just kind of collects dust because it's too nostalgic to get rid of, but too dated or nerve-wracking to actually use. So, just buy stuff for yourself. Chances are, even if it's still working, your kid's not gonna use it anyway, for one of a million different reasons, and that's ok. It took me several years to realize that it's ok for me to prefer my own stuff to my dad's.

[@zadotterazo690]

Cat V I think you are missing the point of passing stuff down. Giving your child a tool you used throughout your life is to give the piece of yourself that braved through many obstacles after your physical body dies. Where you get to pass down in a materialistic way the blood, sweat and experience you have endured. Yeah we would want you to use it but the use isn’t the reason.

[@glenbuyer8738]

Zadott Erazo I think perhaps you are missing the point of the comment actually, don’t buy things with the intention of “passing them down” buy things that are practical and will serve you well, if they happen to last and you pass them down then great, but don’t make it a motivation in your purchases cause it likely won’t play out the way you imagine. I really appreciate this comment and it’s actually so clear to me what you are saying, thank you very much.

[@SaSpursFan]

Great comment

[@SaSpursFan]

Zadott Erazo nah your missing the point of the comment

[@carolpascua1848]

Wise words. My immigrant parents have a habit of saying, "When we die, all this will be yours." This infuriated me growing up because what I like and what they liked are totally not the same. Yet to this day, my father says, "Why did you buy that? I have something like it just sitting in the basement." I appreciate that they want to provide for me, but what am I going to do with all the ceramic religious statues that my father is literally guilting me to not ever sell because he's had them since 1972? (He's an Old World Catholic) And yet, I secretly hope my own children will appreciate my Swiss Army Knife collection and not just throw away, give away, or undersell all the knives, watches, and firearms I've amassed in my life. Or maybe, they'll pull a stunt like I did and gift me things they secretly want to inherit one day, like how I piece-mealed my future crystal collection by making a a point to buy my mother specific pieces of a set each Christmas. Regardless, they're all just possessions anyway. I've gotten old enough to find that the best legacies to leave are the ones you can't buy, so yeah, just own the reasons and buy the stuff for yourself.

[@CedricAda]

Knife blade steel upgrades do a great job of trying to obsolete our knives. I’m trying to be better with that, and more aware on it. Trying! This video so perfectly addresses the guilts I get from being a review guy. Sometimes I wonder if the public manifestation of my addiction is causing a negative to the world on the whole. I like to think that peoplr having free will gives me an out, but maybe thats to help me sleep at night too! I think the best thing we can do, (guys like you, and I, Nicolo,) is revisit stuff from years back and re-review them, to perhaps give folks an idea to look at their things already on hand and enjoy them a second time.

[@ToxicityAssured]

I really like the idea of a 2nd, or in rare cases a third, review of the item. I always click on the "long term update" or "one year review" videos as I love to see how opinions change and materials wear. If you reviewers are anything like me, your opinion will change if you use the item often over many months. Always used Spyderco and Benchmade, just kept a large 21 for idol reasons. I started using the sebenza and now it's all I carry and use. My one month review is awesome safe queen fidget toy. My one year review is a beautifully worn hard working tool. 2nds PLEASE!

[@ElliotDrinksWater]

I kinda had to struggle with the whole steel thing, and learn to accept "lesser" steels. Which on glad I did because it has allowed me to enjoy some amazing pieces and frankly it allowed me to enjoy and buy the Gerber Strongarn my only fixed blade. And it's frankly an amazing blade despite what I generally consider a subpar steel. I hate when I see people comment things like "eh this would be a good knife is it was in M390 instead of S35VN" like what. I wish people would drop the pretense and just enjoy the gear. That's my 2¢

[@ElliotDrinksWater]

@@ToxicityAssured yes, i think Pete used to/still does "long term reviews" on certain items in his permanent collection. I for one love to watch these for that reason. It's interesting to see

[@MetalEffort]

I think that is why it is so important to review the knives that aren't gems, because that is when you are helping to save people from buying something that might not be worth it. I know you are a positive force in the community. Money by itself isn't worth anything. Money is worth what you can buy with it. You are helping people to make their money go further. Most people just spend their money on drugs, booz, and one time events. All of which don't have anything to show for themselves afterwards. At least at the end of the day, I have a sharp pointy thing that helps me cut things.

[@misterbaker9728]

Cedric & Ada Gear and Outdoors your right. Sometimes I have to avoid reviews bc I can’t buy every knife out there. I have almost 50 knives on my bladehq wishlist.. That’s ridiculous I tell myself that I do that so if there’s a sale I’ll have an excuse to buy it but still I really don’t need 50 blades

[@Jashue]

Nick- you are a gift to us all.

[@Heizenberg32]

I don't have a lot of money to spend on gear. Tweaking, tuning and modifying what I have to get the best performance possible is where I get my joy (and no small amount frustration.)

[@Keith_the_knife_freak]

I find the most joy from my beautiful wife. And second from good friends.. tsking time out of our busy lives and have a cup of coffee... that brings me joy.. however A good knife in the pocket never hurts.

[@Mattebodra]

Nick, I watch your channel because of your ability to put things in prospective. You made me buy the Parker stainless Steel jotter and you got me into wet shaving for they convenience and beauty. So thank you for not being a gear snob while being in contact with such fine gear. A fan from Italy.

[@mgmmaze]

Wet shaving is great

[@ElliotDrinksWater]

Same, wet shaving was a fucking revelation

[@Thisguydoesstuff]

Thank you so much for making this video Nick. I had actually been struggling with coming to terms with the fact that I WANTED some new gear, even though the items I have serve my needs and more. Hearing your thoughts on the matter helped give me some perspective. I have since decided to take the funds I was going to use to buy more unneeded gear and put them aside, to put a lasso on my itchy credit card finger. Thanks again for being a positive force in the community!

[@misterbaker9728]

I used to use drugs for along time. Since I’ve got clean I have got into knives and edc.. ( was always into guns ) it drives my girl crazy but it’s still better than what I was doing before. Least I won’t die from my knife addiction love your videos love the knife scene other than the USA snobbery over where the knife is made

[@NickShabazz]

Well done on keeping yourself clean. Much respect. And I agree, if you’ve got a choice between drugs and EDC, knives aren’t so bad!

[@ohioknifelover]

Keep on it! There’s also a plus to being addicted to knives...the knife community! We embrace everyone with open arms but sadly sometimes lefty carriers are left out. Help us to end lefty sufferers!

[@jacobdaus3835]

I used that thought process to justify smoking weed after I kicked the junk. Yes, weed is not as "bad" as opiates but; that doesn't mean smoking weed is "good", just means it's not AS bad. I realized that I want to hold myself to a higher standard then that. If all I'm setting out to do in life is just "not shoot dope" well then, I'm not aiming very high, am i? Most every one my age are starting to look at buying their first homes and my main goal is "dont do herion"..... thats no life to live. I wanna set higher goals then THAT. Relating this to EDC gear, yeah, blowing 250$ on another Spyderco (which I already have 9) is not as bad as buying 250$ worth of drug X, but that doesn't make it o.k. Its kind of like if you were on a road trip, blew a tire out and instead of putting on a donut and limping to a shop to get it fixed, you just take the blown out tire and switch it with another tire off the same car and put the blown out tire in its place.... ya, things are different but the problem isn't fixed

[@jacobdaus3835]

Are we trying to be the best version of ourselves possible? Or just not the worst?

[@jacobdaus3835]

Matt Baker good job on getting clean tho too, I should've opened my rant with that lol

[@kiltymacbagpipe]

I love finding the best gear at the lowest prices. Finding a gem that’s attainable for a father of three like me that has real quality and value is the part of your channel I appreciate the most. Going camping with a $20 Mora fixed blade and having it do as much or more than knives ten times as much is where I find joy.

[@bigB6flyer]

When you started talking about handing down watches, I couldn’t help but think of the watch scene with Christopher Walken in Pulp Fiction.

[@MrAwesomeEngineer]

It’s just like you read my mind Nick! „There is more joy understanding what is really going on here and be more realistic“

[@Birdie_]

I think materialism is a moral flaw if you focus most of your happiness on it. There are nobler ways to allocate your resources and love.

[@junahn1907]

Thanks for this. I have an ancient 154cm Benchmade 940 that I have loved and carried pretty much every day for the last 18 years and was buying into the hype that I needed to get something new in one of the crazy powder steels. After watching this, I think I will just hold onto it for a little bit longer.

[@Samseed]

This is a great video. Thanks for such a great perspective.

[@Carter-911]

That is so true Nick. Thank you for explaining materialism so perfectly!

[@waltcord]

This hit me deep man. I've been accumulating the various higher and lower end of everything from knives, watches, guns, pool cues, guitars, cigars... it's like a character flaw at this point. I'm fortunate enough to be able to afford things without getting into financial trouble, but these things rarely if ever do anything to increase long-term happiness. Part of that might have to do with getting older and not really seeing any of your old friends you used to enioy these things with. I used to smoke cigars and play cards with the guys all the time... but then got out of college, started working full-time +, then got married and started a family. I haven't sat down to cards/cigars with the guys in a long time... maybe that's the missing piece. The happiness comes from your interaction with your friends and family, not necessarily from material things.

[@d4mdcykey]

_"The things you own end up owning you. Reject the basic assumptions of civilization, especially the importance of material possessions."_ --Tyler Durden

[@larryrosen2984]

Thanks Nick. I appreciate your advice, and honesty.. People need this feedback. I will pass it on. Good job . Stay safe and , be well. 👍

[@duallydcable]

Thanks Nick, love the philosophical videos!

[@kerberosWXIV]

Probably the wisest and most thoughtful video you have shared so far.

[@ZachB-wy5sv]

I’m currently rocking the iPhone SE and there r tones of people telling me “how can you manage that tiny screen?” (They say this as they are holding there iPhone XS Max) or “your phone is soooooo old, why don’t you just buy another one?” This one in particular pisses me off because I don’t have the luxury to buy the latest and greatest phone. Nick, you really touched base with a lot of the problems with materialism. Great video

[@larryrosen2984]

Hi Nick.. Wisdom is a wonderful thing to pass on. Thank you, I’ll pass it on. 💛🙏🏼🐾🍷🎈

[@varghejo]

Great video, much needed in this community.

[@reds7vn644]

100% spot on. You'll never get out of watches once you gone down that rabbit hole. All that remains is get more in depth into the field of horology.

[@Count_Smackula]

As I've gotten older, I've been downsizing my "stuff". Especially things from old hobbies that don't hold the 'luster' that they once did. The easiest thing is clothing/accessories, followed by computer/tech gear. How many old laptops/desktops do I really need hanging around? (Got rid of all my excess at a yard sale, and am down to 2 of each, 1 set w/ Win7 the other set w/ Linux Mint.) Getting rid of my old vape gear was kinda tough. Lots of excruciating picking & choosing (and *NOT* buying the newest, latest, greatest, most hyped atomizer or mod). The hardest thing for me is paring down my collection of dead-tree books. (Yes, I now have them all in digital format, but some of these classics are hard to let go of.) No where near a "minimalist" yet, but as retirement looms ever closer (I plan on doing quite a bit of traveling before it's too difficult) the need to downsize becomes ever stronger. And I'm forced to ask myself tougher questions as a go along: 1- Do I *really* need "whatever new item" or is it just something cooler? 2- If I really need it, am I willing to part with the thing that it's replacing? 3- Does the thing I already have do a satisfactory job, and can it wait until it *needs* replacing. 4- yada, yada, yada - ad infinitum.

[@YanDoroshenko]

Linux squad! \m/

[@robertcibula8709]

Seriously I never have posted on a video before but this deserves it this is a great video about most of us caught up in the material world great job nick I love your videos keep up the awesome reviews!

[@scotteger6271]

I remember when you posted this...i definitely agreed with it and although I don't always post a comment I do watch...unfortunately I have several expensive hobbies like knives, guns and also motorcycles. Hope you've been well during the craziness Nick.

[@myeyesarewaiting]

As a musician I spent thousands on equipment.. always kept coming back to the first guitar I ever bought as my mainstay I've had multiple pocket knives but the one i put in my pocket every weekend is the victorinox camper that I found on the beach of Inchcailloch when canoeing and camping with my Dad (albeit now with G10 scales and pocket clip). And I was still looking at new Fender guitars and Hinderer slipjoints just today... but it's like putting cuttings in a scrapbook.

[@dansharpe2364]

An excellent commentary and sentiment, thank you. I realised recently that my folding knife collection was making me happy without wanting, desiring, needing anything new and that was a great feeling. I did then buy a new Kukri though.

[@900castillo]

I completely agree with this video Nick. 6 months ago I sold several of my knives, deleted and unfollowed the majority of gear pages on social media. Every once in a while I watch a video to see what’s new. I do miss it a little bit, but noticed I would buy a knife, baby it, keep in in as “LNIB” or “Just cut paper” condition. Sell it, buy the next new thing. But the chase never ends. There is something always better, the happiness and the likes on social media go away quick and then you buy another one. Now I have a few and use the shit out of them and I’m truly enjoying them.

[@atl17isfast]

Well done video!

[@BrianMiller1973]

In trying to reduce the general clutter in my life, I am learning to greatly reduce my buying of “stuff”. Do I want to pack this up, move it, and unpack it again if/when I move again? Do I already a similar item at home that does already does the job? I am getting there, slowly, but it has felt great so far.

[@jamesbarisitz4794]

Getting caught up in the what's new in my current field of interest seems to be my downfall. I'd buy the same knife in different steel for the gain of 1RC hardness. Still kept the old one rationalising that now there's a new member in this "family "of knives. Not able to collect any folders of interest living in Canada I've switched to Japanese kitchen knives. This is a problem. It's reined in at the moment. But I've got more water stones than brains now. Dealing with this collecting thing is getting easier as I grow older. I see patterns and stop short of stupid. The thrill of the new treasures has faded in place of satisfaction of getting the right thing- not the new thing. Thought provoking vid Nick. All the best - James. 👍

[@ajsltr]

For years, I had an obsession with the little seiko 5 that you despise for its accuracy problems, and when I discovered your feelings for it, I said “screw you, Nick” and kept on loving it 😂. You speak the truth and shed light on negatives of our gear sometimes, but if you really like the piece of gear, screw someone else’s opinion on it. If it works for you, that’s a beautiful thing. Love the (brutally) honest reviews, Nick. You’re not just a “Yes Man” like so many other reviewers. And that’s great.

[@leeaa01]

It's so good to remember this. Thank you, Nick.

[@PaulMunkoTV]

This is a really good take on this! As someone who just started, it's definitely nice to see someone with an extremely impressive collection say "hey, you don't really need all of this." I'll admit of course that I love looking at all of these crazy pieces I'll probably never be able to afford. Would I turn one down if it was handed to me? Hell no! At the same time though, I can fantasize all day about a million things that would make me "happy" to own, but in the end, I'd rather get something for myself that may not be the best of the best, but will leave me with enough money to take my girlfriend on a date, or get something thoughtful for my friends and family, take a vacation once a year, etc. Collecting within your means is a beautiful thing, but it should never get in the way of EXPERIENCES you can share with the people around you.

[@PaulMunkoTV]

Oh and one more thing! With my experience so far, ya don't need the newest thing to fit into the community, at least on reddit! Every subreddit I've been in has been nothing but open and helpful with me and my new curiosity. I don't even technically OWN one yet! Communities should be about the people in them, not what the people have 😊

[@rustyknifelover4463]

Making me think about my choices in EDC gear is a great service that you excel at. Thaks.

[@ViewIndepth]

Thank you for the video.

[@ppiron6]

How I got out of watches? Didn't even get in it. :) From the knife hobby, quickly learned of that slippery slope we find ourselves and the tempting notion of searching for that "one" that will scratch all the itches and yet there's just too many cool and unique knives and the itch too big to scratch. Knowing this, just stayed clear of watches. At least flashlights are a hobby that will hurt less on the pocketbook as it were. Appreciate the subject!

[@micgalovic]

I think that you answered your own question how to get out of watches, when you described the happiness aspect of gear: just be happy with what you have on your wrist now and you should lose your interest rather quickly. Just get that feeling, that you wear your watch and you look at it after a while and you are truly happy with it. I don't know if you are capable of doing that since you are that type of person that finds all the bad when it comes to gear.. one needs to be ignorant to the bad on that particular gear and ignorant to the marketing that tells him that he should be unhappy with his gear and one can achieve happiness, I guess. At least that would be my approach.

[@jayweast1306]

I've often debated if knife collecting even counts as a hobby or if it's just a highly specific form of shopping. What's kept me going is that my collection has good heirlooms and holds it's value well since I focus on unique and small batch pieces. On top of that, this channel in particular has made me a more savvy consumer. You have to buy things so you might as well pay attention to what makes them good. Now that my collection is rounded out my next step is to focus on sharpening and hopefully making some simple fixed blades - actual skills that count as a hobby.

[@Riomancer]

The whole "heirloom" justification is so puzzling. How many things do you still own & care about from your great grandfather? Do you even still care who your great grandfather was? How many generations before precious possessions turn to meaningless baggage? Perhaps if it survives long enough, it comes to be seen as valuable again... in a museum.

[@jayweast1306]

@@Riomancer I still have my grandfather's knife collection because it has sentimental value even though it's all flea market quality items. I also have an air gun that still works and I've gotten some enjoyment out of at the shooting range. Heirloom use, like resale value, would never be a primary reason to build up a collection but it can be one reason to pick up a few special pieces you already sae value in. You never know what the next generation will be interested in and they might just sell them off but at least they can turn around and get some toys of thier own.

[@jayweast1306]

@@Riomancer and I know you said great grandfather but I figure even three generations of use is pretty good value.

[@mattharvey2327]

Thanks Nick. I very much enjoyed your honesty, and semi guilt rant. I think the answer to all of this no matter what your thing is, is to not be a connoisseur, but to value to the basic nature of an item, keep it classic, simple and minimise the concept of collection. I do like that Tudor though.

[@TheChopstix888]

Would you do a weekly philosophical musings podcast? I would subscribe to something like that.

[@seansolo3817]

Hey there Nick. I'm lovin' these reviews and such. Not just because they're informative and help me decide which items I want, but because of the no BS/no pulled punches approach they have. Hey, if someone deserves a kick in the ass, you say so, and I really like that. That helps solidify any decision I make. You know what's good, and I like having good things. :-) So thank you Nick. Stay awesome.

[@rickkerans8485]

You nailed it. Especially for me and knives. I have more than I can ever use. Some I have opened flipped a few times and put in a drawer. Probably never to be seen again. Some were to help someone out that needed money for something important so that felt good. I have bought into the next one will be it. Never has yet.

[@glenbuyer8738]

I liked nick before I saw this video, but I really respect you now. Cheers mate

[@mataanek]

Yeah, materialism is keeping the world running (economy-wise). It’s everywhere, cars, houses, watches, knives... if everybody would just buy what they NEED it would solve (and at the same time cause) many issues. Thanks for this vid Nick, we are aligned on this one.

[@swatcool]

I really liked this, something to keep in mind.

[@Dmhlcmb]

I carried the same knife (entire edc really) for about five years and I was very happy with it the whole time.

[@siyam999333]

Also add that we listen/watch to reviewer do their stuff for their oh so soothing voice! Man, listening to you feels like talking gear with my drunk friend...Joke! But seriously it's just nice to find and listen to people who shares the same interest and have the words to say what needed to be said. Guilt heavy or guilt free question is for another day. Nick, That was a good "review". Thanks.

[@mc3129]

Thanks to your reviews I now own two K&H Leatherworks wallets and a Delica Pakkawood. They both bring me a lot of joy. Maintaining the wallets are as much fun as owning them. As Sheryl Crow sang “If it makes you happy, it can’t be that bad.”

[@Petunia31]

I believe... joy, happiness, satisfaction, etc. in life should always be able to stand on it’s own, and then Everything else (materialism, personal relationships, money, a functional toaster, etc) are perks that just add a little extra spice to the day, but that the day is not dependent on them. I have a lot of mixed feeling about materialism and consumerism, but usually come back to the same conclusion: as long as you’re not hurting anyone, (shoulder shrug), do whatever the hell you want. (Within reason) Thanks Nick, always enjoy these videos.

[@danielcharrie7125]

God bless you Nick for your honesty! Material things do bring joy, but it's for a while, and then we want something else, and the cycle goes on! I am a Christian and l like knives, watches... but l only buy what I need, 1 or 2 of each and that's it, because sooner or later something else is gonna appear that I am going to like and can use and I'll get it! But we should not let material things get into our hearts! Heaven is the only real thing to get!

[@guynamedjohn69]

This is an awesome video

[@ohioknifelover]

Your Millit Knives Torrent is definitely eye candy 😂 and the Norseman is just as eye catching!

[@ohioknifelover]

Charlie Wax Hey you’re welcome buddy! Lol

[@prestonscott5367]

I picked up a bark river aurora in cru-wear (desert ironwood, mosaic pins, and custom lowered tip on the blade for carving) 5 months ago as my bushcraft or outdoor knife... and that’s the piece of gear that satisfies me in that fixed blade realm. I haven’t been shopping for any other knives like that it’s an achievable level, you just really have to know what you desire in a knife, and find the knife that fits the bill, ignore impulsive decisions. Grandsfors bruks hatchet is the same thing for the axe category. Now though, I’m looking for the edc knife that fits that bill, but that’s a challenge... I’m thinking the Kizer Feist, or T1, Spyderco Techno 2... or Enzo Birk 75 desert ironwood. We’ll see

[@yartar-pq9yp]

just thinking about this today cheers orse

[@RN-ts2kq]

You’re a good guy, Nick. We all have to find our own balance somewhere above subsistence living.

[@mattszymanski4684]

The stresses of day to day give me a chance to enjoy the quality of good gear. Handling a precision piece gives me a small joy of owning such. I tend to collect high value. I also enjoy the study that leads to finding quality in a flooded market. Any hobby is a simple joy no matter the expense.

[@porkfat8109]

I'm not into expensive items, no...in fact the extra "joy " as you say for me is, the slow hunt for the best quality at a low price. I do not have a knife or a watch over $60. In fact most items are way below that. I like to see how long it will last and provide me with the same function as expensive stuff. Everyday cost of living is enough to deal with so I do not bring that pressure into this, and I like it that way.

[@mgmmaze]

My timex Ironman was around 60 and it last 12 years. Couple battery changes and couple strap changes but it finally died and great 60 bucks I spent

[@ShortcutReviews]

Like the old sayin, “money won’t make you happy, but it can’t hurt” 😆

[@brandon_crow1291]

I've got a watch that belonged to my grandpa and the only reason I don't wear it is because its too big for my wrist and I've been told that unfortunately due to the type of band it has it can't be resized. But if it could be I definitely would wear it every day.

[@chuckfinly9559]

does anyone know what that silver and blue flipper in the middle is called?

[@Watchandcutgearchannel]

Well done 👍 I enjoyed this video

[@BetaBuxDelux]

That Tudor is the bomb. I’ve got 2 black bays and I really love them, especially the GMT.

[@davidmarshall7752]

When it comes to daily gear, I am fine with some materialism. The items are highly useful, they give me a touch more confidence out there than I'd otherwise have, and, yes, like us all, I have a problem. But it's great problem and does provide true joy & comfort in a stressful world.

[@BradGryphonn]

Quite a few of my mainstream brand knives (Spyderco, Benchmade, OKC etc) were purchased based on reviews from you and Pete and others. The majority though were bought based on personal preference in terms of aesthetics and performance. But then, I don't own a hundred plus knives. My collection is in the 30s I think. I've looked at buying other knives of late and I'm coming to the realization that I have just about all that I want, let alone need. I will buy more one day, but I'm going to ensure my next purchase is for something special.

[@davidsiegel9847]

Perceptive, Mr Shabazz. Reminds me of my wife asking me what she should do with my old grenade box of knives and multitools when I pass on. I wanted to suggest that she give them away piece by piece to young soldiers beginning their 3 year conscription. But then, who gets the Leatherman Surge, or SOG PowerLock--and who gets the tiny Victorinox Classic CD or Gerber Dime? Discord from what was a joy to me. Better to sell them in a one-lot sale.

[@andrewzamora7]

As a bus driver, nice to hear you're still committed to the bus even after your move.

[@KALZONE850]

wow thanks for your time Nick always a pleasure. I feel like dopamine should have been one of the talking points in this one or maybe it should have its own video lol...

[@danmichell7516]

addicted but thoughts on knives cut .folders open .is there that much change that the next one can improve upon .I THANK YOU AND OTHER REVIEWERS,,there is no guessing as to gem or junk i do like some in betweeners .you have minimized the collecting of junk and saved me some money.

[@shaunpearson7905]

I should have watched this before another video of yours talked me into buying a Wayfarer 247 with a skull clip.

[@alexbarker975]

Met one of the makers of grimsmo knives and I live near where they're made, and I still despair at ever getting my hands on one other than to look at jealously

[@Jkan2001]

Best video you’ve ever done

[@timothymartinezjr]

I bought a Casio F108WH watch for $15 based on your recommendation. I haven't had the itch to get something more expensive and honestly can't imagine spending even $50 on a watch that works almost exactly the same. Too many people have the "gotta catch em all" mentality or are always searching for that piece of gear that's just slightly better than what you have. But to be honest, I don't have a problem with people doing it unless it's having a negative impact on their lives or others.

[@ivaylommm]

I set somewhat meaningful main rules for watches. No display backs (I got sweaty wrists), less than $500 for a factory service...Those keep me on track.

[@RN-ts2kq]

Your watch diatribe got me thinking about that scene in Pulp Fiction with Christopher Walken, where he brings the kid his grandfathers watch that his dad had “carried up his a$$” while a POW in Vietnam. Maybe consider watch size when buying your heirloom piece, you never know.....

[@NickShabazz]

Why do you think I prefer slim watches? 🤣

[@RN-ts2kq]

Nick Shabazz that’s why I don’t put too much emphasis on the watchband itself, got to be willing to part with it if and when.

[@RatInCage-E102]

nick you already got me into a 40+ deep knife collection, and I made sure to heed your warning about watches, so now i have 7 wristwatches too.

[@AntOfEgypt]

Well said!

[@notme3686]

I just wanna know what that knife is

[@gunmadonna]

thank you for this video. i admit to having unrealistic tastes when it comes to knives but.. i have been food-stamps-and-theft poor all my life & i was just able to buy a new, quality knife for the first time in literally years. even that took a lot of struggle to make happen. the capitalistic vanity of edc culture is one of the biggest reasons (maybe 2nd biggest after the sexism) i can't get on bladeforums or other similar spaces. nick, i love your channel because you are willing to criticize not just knives but knife *culture*, which virtually no one else is doing. thank you.

[@FidelCashflow_YT]

As a budget EDC guy, I can only imagine what it's like to own everything on that table. Perhaps if I had a lot of disposable income, but to me, the value of something comes down to it's usefulness to me personally, it's durability, appearance, and it's price. I spent a bit of time choosing the items I carry every day. All could surely be replaced with better, but what I have works just fine. So I find that to be needless spending. Here's what I have: Flashlight: Coast G15, stuck a pocket clip on it from a different light. Very cheap, small, works... Prybar: Gerber Shard, not something I use often but if you gotta pry, don't use a knife right? Multitool: Gerber Dime, cheap, only for light duty. Still more than I need. Knife: Kubey KU203, I was carrying a CRKT, but I decided to upgrade my knife steel to D2. Better edge retention is good. This knife will last me a lifetime with proper care. Back up blade: CRKT Minimalist, fixed blades have their uses... All that stuff together doesn't equal the cost of one high end knife. Still, it works, I like the looks, and ultimately, for me anyways, that's what its all about.

[@PhilipSharman]

Well said, Nick.

[@MrNorthstar50]

My problem with materialism and knives is always looking for the best edc for my needs , how it fits in pocket,steel , size and so on but I do set my self a limit of $200.dollars and I never brag to anyone the brand or how much it cost, but I am guilty sometimes of showing how sharp I have it or how well it works , because those or the things I value .

[@greatestcait]

Thanks for this video, Nick. I'll admit, I've been tempted into three separate collections (knives, pens, and watches) and I think this video has helped put into perspective what I want out of my life. I have some (fairly expensive) life goals that don't involve collecting things, so really, I have to ask myself what I would *do* with a dozen pens, or a dozen knives, or a dozen watches. Really, I'd probably be stressed trying to decide which one to use and when, and honestly that just sounds like more hassle than it's worth. And so with that, I've decided to collect gear with a purpose. Watches, pens, and knives are tools first and foremost, so I need to carefully consider whether a new addition would overlap with the functionality of anything I already have. If I want to get a new pen, will it do anything different from what my other pens can already do? Will it do anything better than my other pens? And so on and so forth.

[@yankee2yankee216]

When discussing tiny homes, the question arose, “can one be a minimalist and also a collector?” The consensus seemed to be “yes!” Using myself as an example, I am far from being a non-materialist, but most of my stuff is related to my collections, which include postcards (1000s), flint glass (hundreds) and now knives (dozens), but I don’t have a lot of other stuff, like clothing (oh, I’ve got what I need)… I also have 3 collectable cars, which I also drive, but they are actually economical, compared with buying a new one every 3 years…

[@ToxicityAssured]

I really like the idea of a 2nd, or in rare cases a third, review of the item. I always click on the "long term update" or "one year review" videos as I love to see how opinions change and materials wear. If you reviewers are anything like me, your opinion will change if you use the item often over many months. Always used Spyderco and Benchmade, just kept a large 21 for idol reasons. I started using the sebenza and now it's all I carry and use. My one month review is awesome safe queen fidget toy. My one year review is a beautifully worn hard working tool. 2nds PLEASE! Seeing that you still have the item and enjoy it can show others it's not just about turning over the inventory.

[@MrSpinteractive]

Nick: I can't hear and I can't read. What are the names of the seriously cool stuffs lusciously presented on the table?

[@louismeluso8633]

Good post, Nick. Hedonic Adaptation rears its ugly head often. Love my Spydie CAT. You panned it. At the end of the day, I have to trust myself than deferring to the opinions of others.

[@MagosOfTheLuminary]

"All the things" will never be enough 😞

[@cjs793]

And the flashlight?

[@traviswrigg5158]

The Pilar has been really informative to me. I don't feel so much need to try out the hot items anymore because that was a knife that got a ton of praise and then when I had it in my hand I was just standing there like... "I don't get it." Suddenly all my FOMO related to knives was just kinda... gone. No longer was I interested in trying things out because they were hot and popular. This freed me up to reevaluate "Do I really ever need to buy another modern knife?" To which the answer is "No. I have a Spyderco Native" Now if only I could quit traditional slipjoints... (DO NOT GET INTO TRADITIONAL SLIPJOINTS THEY'RE LIKE MECHANICAL WATCHES AND ALL OF YOUR MONEY WILL FLEE FROM YOU AS YOU SEEK A KNIFE THAT WAS BUILT BY ELVES OR WHATEVER IT IS THAT I LIKE SO MUCH ABOUT THEM WHEN YOU COULD JUST BUY A SPYDERCO NATIVE OR A TRM VIATOR OR A BOKER TREE BRAND JACK DEPENDING ON YOUR LOCAL LAWS AND BE HAPPY FOR THE REST OF YOUR LIFE AND IT WILL DO ALL THE THINGS THAT THE GEC #29 I'M SAVING UP FOR NEXT YEAR CAN DO BUT YOU WON'T HAVE TO CHECK GEC'S WEBSITE FOR THE UPCOMING RELEASES OR PLAN YOUR SAVINGS AROUND SOMETHING SILLY)

[@CrescentInfinity]

I used materialism as a means to get out of virtual materialism. I was, to my shame, spent thousands on gacha/lootbox games only to have those games to be closed eventually. In comparison, physical items have more tangibility, permanence, and utility. But like you said, it can still be a slippery slope and I still have to be actively conscious of my spending with how much joy or pain it actually brings.

[@lifeofbuyuk]

Morale of the story: Do not fall for Patek's marketing efforts

[@Crushenator500]

What was your endgame hifi gear if you don't mind my asking?

[@NickShabazz]

I sold it all and got a Sonos Playbase. The sound quality is 95% as good, but in a form factor that's less obtrusive than the amp alone was. I decided that the additional 5% of quality, which I never really used anymore (and for which I've got headphones) just wasn't worth the expense and bulk and complexity.

[@malsly2495]

Thanks.

[@keithandrews7696]

Well, I find my materialistic self fairly saturated at ten knives. I have a hefty wish list, but find I'm holding out for a few high end mid-techs or customs and then calling it a day. While I enjoy your videos and personality, I find I can pick and choose knives that fulfill my wishes with limited help. That being said, the Batman still brings me joy! Thanks Nick.

[@charlesmanning6218]

I enjoyed this video a lot. Personally, my gear addictions started with my wife getting pregnant. Since I was just a kid, I have been a highly functional alcoholic. When my daughter was born I realized I owed it to her to be the best person that I could be, and I haven’t touched a drink or drug since. Almost immediately my brain needed something to focus on, long for, and obtain instant gratification from. First it was car parts, then it was firearms, and the last 2 years iv been obsessing over knives. I realize my collection is a bit ridiculous but when I remember that it’s better than being a drunk, it’s easier for me to justify. I just REALLY hope it never leads to watches....