Why do you buy all those cheap knives?

One of the more common questions I am asked is why do you buy all those "cheap" knives. Obviously some times the question is asked quite that politely. I've even been called a "shill for companies that push Chinese Junk!" I try to answer the question in this video. I hope to be around for when it premieres so I can answer comments while the video first airs.

[@charlessample5044]

Collect what you like and like what you collect!

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

Exactly! We're all here for different reasons but it all revolves around an interest in knives.

[@vinniesdayoff3968]

I'm starting to come to the conclusion that there are no magic knives out there. You don't have to pay five hundred dollars or even one hundred dollars to get a knife that will do what is needed and that will last for many many years.

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

We all have different needs and expectations for our knives. And we often let our biases get in the way of choosing the right knife or the capable knife. Often we make the false assumption that if it cost more it must be better. Some times it just means you're paying more! We also have been told that we should get the "best" but all we really needed was the one that was "good enough."

[@vinniesdayoff3968]

@@KnifeChatswithTobias We are singing from the same hymn sheet Tobias 😀

[@jelkel25]

@@KnifeChatswithTobias There's definitely a YT effect involved. It gets advertising of goods to the outdoors and collectors community where very little formerly existed. I knew Buck, Sheffield knives, Kabar as top brands growing up, not exactly man jewellery!

[@godel3081]

well said

[@vinniesdayoff3968]

@Marshall Kinnaird Do you come here often? 😁

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

Thanks for joining me everybody. Really enjoyed the chat!

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

I really wish we would make trade deals with other countries than China but the reality is, under the current circumstances our economy relies on American companies out sourcing manufacturing in a very strange parasitic relationship.

[@stevehuffman7453]

I buy them because I can afford them, they do everything a more expensive knife can, and for just as long, and I like them. As my Great Grandfather used to say: "Why pay a premium for a name?"

[@jamesaritchie1]

You aren't paying premium for a name, you're payimng it for better steel, better construction, and all over better materials. A cheap knife CANNOT do everything a similar expensive knife can do. It simply can't. I don't think there is a brand of cheap knife that I haven't seen break doing the same task an expensive knife can do easily. Steel MATTERS, It simply does, Sodoes the strength of the backspring, the thickness of springs and liners, and the steel and brass material there also matters. You can't even put the same edge on cheap steel because the structure of the steel is different. When you do get a good edge on a cheap knife is won't kast long at all, and you'll spend more time sharpening than cutting. Sorry, but that's just the way it is.

[@EdDanaGuitar]

And... I found an old Boker Small Congress lying in the road. When I researched it that helped get me started.

[@Troublemangaming901]

Dude I love knives so I'm with you if I see an expensive knife I want I'll get it but if I see some cheaper knives I also like, guess what?! I BUY EM!

[@timbo4374]

Knife collecting is a personal choice thing, and what people collect can vary immensely. Who am I, or anyone else for that matter, to say anyone's collection is junk? We all have our own likes and dislikes, and we all have our own budgetary constraints. The bottom line is, are you happy with what you choose to buy? If so, then who cares what others think..you're happy and that's the only thing that truly matters. I am just getting into traditional knives, so my collection of them pales in comparison to most collectors of them, but I have a lot of modern folders and fixed blades. They range from a bit over $300 to a bit over $10. I bought each one for different reasons, and I am happy with every one of them. If I am not happy with a knife, it doesn't stay in my collection. I either sell it or give it away. I am also starting to get into mods. I am not going to try to mod a $300 knife when I am new to it, and don't really know what I am doing. I will learn how to do the various mods I want to do on less expensive budget knives. That way if I mess it up, and trust me, I will make mistakes, I am not out a huge sum of cash. It just is common sense. I have learned a lot from you Tobias, and you are a wealth of information to both newbies and more experienced collectors. I appreciate your channel very much, and I thank you for all you have shared.

[@ricktemmen6272]

Nothing worse than a knife snob or a watch snob. Great video that makes sense. Thanks. 😎👍

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

I can accept that people have different tastes and set different parameters on what they collect. I have a problem when they feel anybody who doesn't collect knives in the same way aren't real collectors or don't have a collection worth having. I'm just trying to spread the joy, answer questions, and let people know there's a lot of knives out there to choose from. Plenty of folks out there review the high end stuff that most folks only dream of. But there'e plenty of quality made knives for us folks on a budget who just want a nice collection we can enjoy! Thanks for dropping by, appreciate the feedback!

[@marycahill546]

Suits my budget. I love the traditional styles. My user knife is usually a small victorinox.

[@jamesaritchie1]

I always carry a Swiss Army Knife, a Hiker, in my left pocket, but I don't even think of it as a pocketknife. It's a multitool, and it's the tools I need. I carry a slipjping, usually an expensive one, in my right pocket. It does things and handles tasks that are near impossible for the blades on a SAK.

[@shotgunnerB]

Tobias, as usual, another great video! I too collect rough riders, as a kid I always had a knife. Dad and grandpa started me out to understand that a knife is a tool, I've had many and I appreciated each and every one! When I saw the patterns that rough rider was putting out I got intrigued and started learning about each pattern and what they were meant for, its been a trip and I enjoy them and other collectors as well, you do a very nice job for all us other knife guys and girls! Thanks again 🔪🗡🔪🗡🔪🗡🔪🪓

[@jamesaritchie1]

I collect Barlow, Stockman, and Trapper pattern knives, and have a bunch of other patterns that I don't collect. To me, collecting means getting as many of these patterns as I can, including cheap brand. I have CaseXX, GEC, and other expensive brands, but I also have rough Rider, Chinese made Old Timer knives, which I think are better made that the Old Timer knives made in the USA. The materials are certainly better. TES, I really, really like the Rough Rider and Old Times made in China knives. Anyone who doesn't has at least three rivets loose and one scale missing. I use my knives, aaand use them largely for the purposes that were made for, which is why I collect the patterns I do. My most carried knife is probably the CaseXX large Stockman, and I carry several other expensive brands when not carrying it. But for the last two weeks my carry knife has been a Rough Riden Dreamcatcher Stockman. I think it's one of the prettiest knives I have. How can you beat red and blue turquoise scales? It has done everything I needed it to do, and done it well. Anyone who doesn't like it can just, well, leave me alone and carry whatever knife they do like. I almost never modify a knife because I want them all in original condition. I have modified knives with damaged blades, but they do not go into my collection. I know I'll never have every model of Barlow, Stockman, and Trapper, but I buy what I can, even if it's a five dollar no brand I find in a thrift store. Not all are good knives, but I don't care. I do care when people don't like Chinese made Rough Rider and Old Timer knives. Both of them have upper tier and lower tier knives, but the upper tier ones are very good knives. Though I will say I cringe when someone lets a knife snap close, whether the knife is cheap or expensive.

[@watchcityknives]

Yes I totally agree Case knives are really nice but there out of my price range. THANK YOU FOR ALL YOUR HONESTY HELPFUL VIDEOS

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

I mentioned elsewhere. Go with Rough Riders if you're into Traditional and you're on a budget! Probably the best bang for your buck both when collecting or carrying!

[@EdDanaGuitar]

I just bought a Rough Ryder and a Rite Edge small pen knives. Plus a cheap Barlow, and a Yellow Old Timer Stockman, Rough Ryder small Congress and a Moon Glow Trapper. I'm in Heaven. 63 years old and have a few knives from when I was 12 years old. That's what got me started!

[@RafaelSantos-vg3jd]

I've got a few RR in my collection too and one thing I really like about them is that they are pushing the envelope in creative designs and materials. From what I understand SMKW does design them here in the USA and then has them made in China. And yes Case may have better steel but you won't find a cotton sampler, a double lock whittler, or canoe lockback.

[@ringaleavo]

How about the price? Quite a bit more expensive compared to the Rough Ryder knives too.

[@kendemers8821]

Great video. I own Rough Rider, Case, Buck (made in the USA), Spyderco, Bench Made, Marbles, and many other brands of knives. I like them all, and they all have a legitimate place in my collection.

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

Sounds like you have a great collection of knives going on. We all buy knives for different reasons. And when it comes to collecting, we all collect for different, often personal reason. In my opinion, there really is no wrong way to build your collection. Thanks for dropping by.

[@rmoraespinto]

Excellent video, as usual. This is a question that I keep asking myself. And the answer I have is complex. One reason to keep buying cheap knives is the one fueling the quest of any collector, such as the fountain pen collectors -- finding a treasure on a [quasi] garbage pile. Another reason is my usual reaction to marketing strategies that try to make one believe that makers of so-and-so knives are part of the "ellected" people. And finally, because I have found that the usual "champions" also produce defective knives, with Case being the number one to reach that un-qualifying mark. What do I do, then? I go for what I find, as a collector of sorts, a reasonable choice (in terms of beauty, creation, engineering and F&F for the asking price -- and the "Roughies" are my favorites of the day. Now, for general USE I prefer the Victorinox multi-knives and to whittling I favor a Mora 120, fixed blade. Thank you and congrats!

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

All good points. And wen it comes to Victorinox, I always have one close at hand and they are probably my most used and most trusted pocket knives!

[@bradsalmons4104]

I would take a rough ryder, or a 10 dollar german knife over a case anyday. Case knives are overpriced. I like your knifes man!

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

This seems to be the case for many people, these days, especially if they plan to put the knife to some serious use!

[@richardkut3976]

I remember flea markets in Southern California with thousands of Toothpick Knives, 50 years sgo. Thanks again,

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

I can believe it. They were definitely much more popular in the past than they are today. But I'm trying to turn it around, one knife enthusiast ate a time!

[@stevebowman90]

Just recently started purchasing traditionals. I have a Buck 110 but Rough Rider has some amazing knives for less than $20. These cheaper knives are a great way to get into the hobby, find out if I like a stockman vs a congress. It also introduces you to handle materials, half stops, big vs small. I now find myself carrying modern folders and a traditional. Overkill? Probably. Do I prefer American? Yes, but now I know if I want to spend the extra on a Case. Just a lot of cool options.

[@joefoxamerican1525]

Sir, I’m glad that you buy whatever you want and like. That’s your thing and I respect that so don’t let anyone try to make you feel bad. Keep doing what you doing and I’ll always be a big fan of yours. 👍

[@dionpage7948]

I wondered the same thing until I bought a Rough Rider ArmorHide 6bladed stockman. Now I have a Marbles sowbelly&Cattle Jack too. I love the "cheap" slipjoints. They're fun to collect&way easier to whittle with than my ColdSteel&other big blades. Your vids have helped tremendously in my slipjoint journey. Thanks a lot knife bro!! Happy Turkeyday!!

[@thekelpayton]

Great point! Been watching all theses knives videos and just learned for me this the way to go! Thank you!

[@unknownartist47]

The cost of something is not the only thing that determines it value . If you love doing something that’s what counts.

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

Amen, brother!

[@bertie-the-explorer]

I am new to knife collection. I gathered up my old knives. Qween FIxed blade, buck 110, old timer and some of those chesp ones. I like the small key chain ones from the corner store. They last years and not a big concern. I an starting out snd this has helped me out. Thank you. New subscriber here. 😊

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

Thanks for the sub. Glad you find the channel useful. Small key chain knives are pretty cool.

[@johnhannon7956]

Tobias really enjoy your channel you do a great job watched you channel close to 6 hrs today been a collector for years I have seen rough riders around but havnt looked at them to close thanks for showing these with detail I'm going to try and pick up a doggone and pipe knife THANK YOU

[@slick_slicers]

I like my Rough Riders too. I love my Case knives too, but I like variety. I like Sodbusters particularly and have 12 or 15 of all makes and nationalities from their origins in Germany, through Italy, on to the US and now China. Some are better than others, but I like them all in their way. I do also like the idea of the large toothpick, but I’ve yet to see one for sale in the UK!

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

Case knows the collector's market and has a set formula to capitalize on it by limiting production and having special knives released only now and then. Rough Ryder take a different approach by coming out with something new and shiny every year and if it catches on, then they do a second run. Like Case, they have a few handle materials and patterns that are always there. For Case, its the Amber Peach Seed and Yellow Comp. For Rough Ryder it there Sawcut Bone and Yellow Comp. But if you are into pattern collecting it is hard to just collect from one brand or one country unless you want Trappers! That's almost a fact of life!

[@bluessman0925]

Just as you say. I started out collecting mostly Case and Solingen-made Bokers (among new knives), but got bored with the same old patterns. Besides being well-built and very affordable, this is the biggest reason I now have so many Rough Ryders (and a few Steel Warriors). I love variety -- in knives, and in life. Keep the great vids coming! :)

[@watchcityknives]

Yes awesome I’m a disabled male in my 50’s and unfortunately these are all I can afford Im just tired of seeing these collecting videos of knives that cost hundreds of dollars. so THANK YOU FOR ALL YOUR HONESTY VIDEOS GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMILY

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

Collecting something is suppose to bring joy regardless of what it is. I like that there are knives out there that can fit just about any budget. Some of the first things I started collecting were drink coasters from places I visited. Those were free! Later it was decks of souvenir card and /shot glasses - and I rarely, if ever drink but they were small and didn't cost much. And then I moved into collecting souvenir knives when they were available. I didn't buy them because they were great knives. I bought them because they were a permanent reminder of a good time. We all collect for some reason but the smart ones collect for the joy the collection brings. And you can't put a price tag on that.

[@cjlillard2003]

SpyderCo and Civivi are phenomenal and you can get those on the cheaper end if you’re able to save up. Not hating just trying to help and offer up other options

[@jonlouis2582]

I just got a Chinese Buck knife, a stockman pattern, and I can't find anything wrong with it. I would like a case knife, but I'm unemployed at the moment, and $20 was all I can afford. I was given a Buck canoe, also from China as a gift, and it has been a good knife.

[@PositivePineTree]

Excellent video, Tobias! I’m with you 100%. You really can’t beat a Rough Rider in terms of price, variety of patterns, and quality. I own quite a few myself and will continue buying them. I recently bought a new Case barlow. And you know what? It’s not any nicer than my Rough Rider barlows.

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

Booklover Piper, the Barlow came out of the vault this year and it seems more and more people are disappointed in them. I like the blade options in mine but to be honest the fit & finish isn’t nearly as good as it should be. My latest Rough Ryder Barlow is a much more solid build with a finish equal to the Case. Under $15 vs over $60? That’s not right!

[@chris2724]

Thanks for sharing and you're right. Good knifes don't have to be always expensive! Greetings from Germany👍

[@BluegrassBushcraft]

The way I see it. It's your money, your channel. If you like them get them. If someone else doesn't like it they don't have to watch. Love that white bone modification. Never seen the mushroom knife before. I'll have to check into them. There are a lot of junk coming out of China but just stop and look around. There just isn't much pride in the USA made products these days like there used to be. Thanks for sharing and God bless.

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

Junk is made all around the world. Just because something says "Made in the USA" is no guarantee in quality any more. That's a sad, hard fact to accept. I agree also that there is plenty of junk coming out of China as well as other nations. The key is to be educated shopper. For me it is a matter of finding the brands you can trust and have a track record of quality and customer service. Even the best companies can have less than perfect or totally screwed up product now and then. But if they stand behind their product and replace it, then I'll support them.

[@SpacecityEDC]

Excellent video and points 👏 I agree. I've carried multitools and pocket knives my whole life but didn't really get into collecting until about 5 years ago. At that time I had a few Victorinox, a few multitools like Leatherman's and Gerber, some fixed blades and maybe one or two slipjoint but for some reason I got the itch and started wanting to expand my Victorinox collection, then the multitool, then it was flipper type knives and lately old school slipjoint and lockbacks. I have a few more expensive ones... but I have more fun just collecting and trying different models and styles out, finding what I like and then maybe I'll buy a more expensive model of a cheaper one I've tried, maybe not 😅 I collect for my own personal enjoyment anyone else's opinion does not matter much. I will listen to advice and watch reviews, etc. But many times I will just buy it so having lower price models to experiment with and use only makes sense for me. Great video, thanks for sharing, subscribed 😉

[@davedoughty1213]

Fun video… I think your rationale for how you purchase knives makes great sense. I guess the people who give you grief don’t fully appreciate all of the factors that the hobby entails. You will always find people who criticize… and you know the story about “opinions”…. I have a small collection of old pocket knives from the 20’s through the 60’s. Most were yard sale and estate sale picks, as well as some from my grandfather and father. Thanks for sharing your video.

[@jkb4240]

Excellent video , your a better man than me for explaining what should have been obvious to numskulls . Thanks for great videos and turning me on to the joy of collecting economical slip joints !!

[@lobolobo1263]

I enjoy hearing you describe each knife. Their is something very relaxing to it. I also love Rough Rider knives. You cannot beat them for the price. I don't care if their made in China. I have a few knives now to where you can begin to see the collection being started.

[@jamesaritchie1]

I love my Rough Rider knives, and my made in China Old Timer knives, but realistically, while they are well made and beautiful, the steel is very low grade in the Rough Rider knives, and they cut corners by making the blades, springs, and liners thinner than more expensive knives. The made in China Old Timer knives generally use better steel, and use full size springs, liners, and blades, but the steel still isn't as good as western steel, whether carbon or stainless. The Old Timer knives are pretty strong, though, and the steel is adequate in the better models, such as the Lumberjack, which has brass liners and real bone scales.

[@janetowens7288]

I have watching your older videos and learning alot. I came to rough rider and marbles late in the game. I had been collecting case and other usa brands like camillus, colonial ana kabar simply because I knew of their existence, I guess. Plus there is a case dealer close to my house and that didn't help either. I have a fair number of rr and marbles knives and they have been a revelation. I enjoy most of them and they are well built and inexpensive. To be very honest with you it has been hard to break the 'name brand`habit I have with case and a few others. I have been called many things in life but never a snob. Usually quite the opposite. The one advantage is that if I buy a case I can inspect it in person. I don't buy that brand online anymore. I will continue to seek out interesting budget knives and I know there are many out there. Thank you again for an informative video, sir.

[@DD-d6d3]

Case is slipping on QC. My last knife had impossibly strong pulls, and Rough Rider has been very close to matching them in quality.

[@jamesaritchie1]

Rough Rider is nowhere near Case in quality. Not in any way. Even the top of the line RR knives are made of very, very cheap steel, and and the springs, liners, and blades are very thin. Too thin for the size of the knives. I've been hear that Case quality is slipping for at least fifty years, but between my collection, and my friends collections, I've seen close top a thousand Case knives, or more, including several dozen new ones every year, and the quality is still as close to perfect as you can get.

[@robgoodenough5649]

Nice job. Well said. I totally agree.

[@1OFGODSOWN]

I have only a couple of Cheap Chinese knives but I much prefer my collection of CASE XX knives.I will be leaving them all to my grandson and he will have a collection worth owning. 👍❤️🇺🇸

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

If you like Case Knives you might want to check out my playlist devoted to the Brand: kzbin.info/aero/PLJLlvIi3Io4xqUPWvRsXVqkNFIJfm995y

[@otroblogdemarcelo]

Love your collection and your criteria! Cheers from Argentina!

[@weserwin3430]

I love this. I did almost the same modification on one of my RRs. I have collected knives anywhere from 7 bucks to a few as much as 80 or a little more. I collect what I like and can actually use. I can put a razor edge on any knife, the only difference being, a cheap knife with cheap steel will not hold an edge as long, but they are still very usable.

[@MADMAX353]

Well done sir....great collections that have motivated me into looking at Rough Rider knives. Thank you.

[@butchy586]

idiots

[@sixpakshaker88]

I am really fond of Rough Rider Doctors Knives

[@davids9549]

If I buy a knife that subsequently I don't regularly use, then I regret buying it, however cheap it was. I have three Rough Riders which I chose because I wanted to use them, and they give me a lot of enjoyment. I also bought a couple which I got because I was attracted by the price, and every time I look at them I wish I hadn't. Perhaps I'm not really much of a collector in the pure sense. Chinese junk? As a Brit, I'm sad to have to admit that the worst junk these days comes out of Sheffield.

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

David S, you sound like a wise collector. I wish I had your will power. As for the worst junk coming out of Sheffield, trust me, there is some truly awful American made junk that will rival, if not surpass, Sheffield in slip shod construction/quality. You just don’t see it because nobody would spend money to ship it out of the US. I’m gets sold to the Americans who refuse to buy Chinese Junk!

[@michaelgentile6418]

I totally agree with you, i have a lots of pocket knives, case ,queen, great eastern, bear, but i actually really love the rough ryder patterns, and a lot of my rough riders are better quality than queen was., and yes even though they are made in China, you are supporting usa, by the tariffs and taxes to enter the country. And the knife dealers that sell them, like smkw, thanks again, great video

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

I've made the same point on numerous occasions. Quite a few American entrepreneurs are putting food on the table for their American families by selling so called "Junk from China!" And many of them would love to sell American made products but they can't afford them at wholesale prices and their customers can't afford the retail price! Is bad mouthing a quality product truly the American way? I sure hope not! Thanks for dropping by, appreciate the feedback!

[@ramblers69]

Great video buddy, I certainly can't afford to buy all high end knives or model kits for that matter, as long as you're happy with the knife, that's all that matters, enjoy your weekend, :)

[@chrisallen7512]

You got me into RR’s and slip joints. So far I have the buckshot bone copperhead, granddaddy Barlow, half hawk, and the large moose. They are sweet. My grandpa always would have a pocket knife on him, and he would love showing me the different ones he had. They were mainly slip joint Victorianox’s from what I can remember. ☺️

[@patriot-hz1dy]

I really appreciate this perspective I've always been against buying Chinese products if I can help it or other products from Pakistan Etc. The cost of buying American made knives is for me not feasible to do on a daily basis either. I have bought one Rough Rider I'm looking currently for a frost cutlery knife slowly but surely I think I'm going to buy more of these kinds of knives but I still love shopping and hunting for old traditionals American made. Thanks for sharing really appreciate your perspective on things

[@jackdillon4467]

Tobias I agree with you a thousand per cent!!!

[@HollywoodTacticool]

Do you have a video on how to make your own bone scales? it looks great!

[@enzowarren9832]

That white smooth bone scout knife looks really nice! Good work!

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

Thanks. Maybe some day, a company will make one!

[@musicandcoffee2853]

All excellent points! Through the process of time I’ve found that you can get a long way with a small piece of sharpened steel. I’ve done well with a slightly sharpened key on my keychain as well. Great video my friend 👍🏼

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

Well said! Not everyone buying a knife is after top of the line. They just want something that can cut and can be put in a pocket.

[@musicandcoffee2853]

Tobias Gibson Indeed

[@jcalderon176]

To Me buying inexpensive Knives is just what I like. Plus Sometimes The Cosmetic Looks better on budget knives Than expensive Ones. Also Rough Ryder or Steel Warrior, is more about collecting different styles , Pattern than the performance of the knife itself. Keep up your reviews I Enjoy Them 👍..

[@Tracy81258]

I’ve yet to be disappointed by a Rough Rider, while some Case knives have left me wondering why they were so expensive considering their comparatively poor quality.

[@MrRebus777]

In my experience Rough Rider has always had good fit and finish, but 10 years ago I got a few that had weak springs.

[@MrMojoRisin13]

Great video. I'm a budget-minded guy (i.e. a cheapskate). I was eyeing a Civivi Elementum but it was pricey. Then I saw the Sanrenmu 7028 with a price point of under $15! I saw a review and it seems to do everything I'd need (I'm not a heavy user). I just wanted a working man's pocket knife. It's now on it's way. Have you any experience with Sanrenmu (out of China)?

[@warriormonk4949]

I like those Rough Ryders! Good looking and great quality. Can't beat the price.

[@gerardvanengelen9001]

Very well explained 👍.

[@erikramaekers63]

Tobias, one day your collection will be worth a lot of money.But for me it's not about the money but the pleasure I get out of collecting traditional knives.Just bought a couple of Martins knives from Portugal.A company that started in 1850

[@MrRebus777]

In the 80's & 90's Frost and Parker Frost had their knives made in Japan. They where good quality and well priced. I started my knife collecting hobby with these. In the late 90's they changed to Pakistan and we know what kind of crap came from that ! You can sometimes still find these old Frosts on Ebay, check it out.

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

I actually have a Pakistan made Frost Sun Fish that is pretty good. I don't know what it is with Frost. Quality Control is so hit or miss its crazy. But yeah, they definitely make some dogs but also the occasional quality knife.

[@jamesaritchie1]

I have two Frost knives that were made in Japan, and they're very good knives. I have four that were made in Pakistan and all four are just lousy. The steel is terrible, and the fit and finsih are not very good, either.

[@StephenWorth]

My interest in knives isn't for bling. I am interested in them as tools. I'll pay a little more for a tool that is made to do a good job and last. But I don't want to spend a lot. That just makes me afraid to carry and use it. I love Rough Ryder's new Reserve line. They are beautifully designed, well made and affordable... my sweet spot. With anything, the good values are in the middle, not the extremes. I hope other domestic and import knife makers see what Rough Ryder is doing and give them competition. Great steel is fine. It doesn't have to be the latest and greatest.

[@bigriceburner]

I don’t think explanation is even necessary. “I buy what I buy because I’m an adult” that should be the answer. I love your knives and you have introduced me to new knives. My collection isn’t big but it is there because I want it. Simple

[@paparatt8147]

I've never had problems with foreign made knives a lot of them are high quality great knives.

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

So true.

[@wooddavid8293]

I love cheap knives. Or rather inexpensive good, usable knives. I'm amazed at what $20 can get you by way of China via Amazon.

[@RyanHamley-cl6en]

I love budget knives Kershaw makes a Barlow I use a lot with my 110 or 112 as a secondary blade 17$ slip joint work horse I tell you brother Amen

[@clay-r15]

What do you think of the $30 boker "tree brand" knives? I figured they're not made in Germany because of the price but they have some good looking ones.

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

All i have so far is the Boker Juliet. It is solid and well made. I was impressed with it.

[@mikemoore9757]

I have a lot of Rough Riders. They are a real bargain for the price. The quality is very good. I also have a bunch of other brands. It's not what the book or catalog say's they are worth right now, but what what people are willing to pay for them. I'm not worried because they are all going to my kids and grand children and they can do what they want with them. I would bet that if they are well taken care of, that in 30 years even RR knives will be worth much more than now. If you don't believe me, just look at what some of the "cheap" old time antique knifes on the SMKW website are going for. (or at least what they are asking-lol). They are just like old guns, old cars, etc,etc,etc.

[@richklangen1833]

Great video again 👍🤟🤙✌

[@lord_haven1114]

My buck was 46 dollars, and I think it’ll last multiple generations.

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

Not if you drop it in the woods or in a pond. I've got a $2 Colonial that is already on its third generation.

[@jbrown577]

I love knives like these. I have fun just hunting them.

[@lencycler1]

Even more so with modern locking knives from China and Taiwan. I am relatively new to the pocket knife world and was lucky enough to come in when the competition for quality, style, price, and innovation was getting fierce. For the price of one Chris Reeves Sebenza I have 20 or so amazing Asian made knives of every shape, size and lock type that you couldn't get at any price 20 years ago. For us poor folk it's a blessing.

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

I think you summed it up quite well.

[@mathewgoebel4078]

I love your videos and I love cheap knives oh my God these people if you don't gotta glock you don't gotta pistol if you don't have a Harley Davidson you don't have a motorcycle and so on I watch knife videos torture Test the Chinese knives but they won't get out there good one and run it through the same test Keep up the good work I'm enjoying👍😉

[@mathewgoebel4078]

Great job I love cheap knives anybody Has complaints about cheap knives My advice is Not to put your Expensive knife up against the cheap Knife You just piss yourself off

[@timmiller8645]

In the end it all comes down to you buy what you like and I like Marbles,RR,GEC and Bear and son so I say it's up to the Man that Carry's it.✌️

[@cabotbluegill]

good information for sure

[@moderntentcamping]

I’ve carried a Victorinox tinker in my pocket for about 20 years. Recently, I decided to buy a few different scout knives for a change. Bought a Rough Rider and was surprised by the extra weight. Are all scout knives significantly heavier than the Tinker?

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

A modern 91 mm Tinker weighs around 61 grams. Older ones come in a little heavier at about 65 grams. By comparison the 93 mm Victorinox Pioneer comes in at 70 grams. Depending on which Rough Rider scout knife you're talking about it will be around 90-120 grams depending on the length of the screwdriver/caplifter, type of can openr and blade thickness. The the older Rough Ryder are around 110, the Kamp King around 115. They have same hefty blades and long screwdrivers! Scout knives also range in side from 3 5/8 to 3 3/4 inches (92-95 mm) The Tinker is just 91 mm. That said, older Boy Scout knives with plastic handles weigh around 90-95 grams. Scout knives with brass liners and and bone handles typically come in around 100-115 grams. The old Military knives with the stainless steel handles weigh around 100-105 grams. Part of the difference in weight has to do with blade thickness as well as the size of the tools. Those with the longer screwdriver will add a few grams. Also brass or stainless steel liners are going to add weight over the alox liners in your Tinker. The short answer is yes, your Tinker is going to be lighter than just about any standard size 4 blade scout knives you come across.

[@moderntentcamping]

@@KnifeChatswithTobias Thank you. This is some good information. I’ve enjoyed several of your videos and look forward to learning more from you.

[@diverdave2179]

I own a Chinese Kershaw and a Buck 112, with some Victorinox. I tend to prefer quantity over quality, in part because like you, I want to try other styles first without wrecking my budget . Only the Buck was new; all the others were bought used, so that I can buy more :)

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

That's also another great way to try out different patterns, buy used!

[@robertbettis7926]

I always enjoy your videos and always learn something. One question which always occurs to me is how do you store, catalogue, display, etc. such a large collection? Even with a hundred or so I have them in rolls, boxes, folders, bags, etc.with no real organized method.

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

I had an excel sheet of all my knives but after I passed 500 it started to fall apart. I should probably do a new inventory, possibly by brand (Brand, pattern/name, price) My original inventory had it down to number of blades, pattern number, place of manufacturer, handle material, price paid, estimated value. and several other things. As for storage, I have them stored in numerous drawers, cabinets, and other things. Trust me when I tell you - its a mess!

[@robertbettis7926]

@@KnifeChatswithTobias Thanks.. It's reassuring to know that my lack of organization is shared by the pros.

[@zachspears6582]

Case actually did make a half hawk it’s called a loom fixer #6217 I think it’s what the Rough Ryder is based on

[@MrJankert64]

who cares what they cost!! it is about what makes you happy. the cost is not what makes someone happy. it is the article, that makes you happy!! no explanation necessary.... greets from the Netherlands

[@skcamerican]

Interesting to see the mushroom knives. The Italian one is cool, but I’d be happy to own the RR. Thanks.

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

Both are pretty cool, and the Rough Ryder is definitely less money!

[@jasonpye9650]

That's awsome brother I'm jealous of your collection lol you rock

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

Thank you kindly, I appreciate the feedback!

[@davedonkey5663]

Totally agree with you I've never spent any more than £20 ,I like everyone of them .ATB Dave

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

I think I've spent a $100 on about six knives. In all but one occasion it left me feeling a little depressed. So much money for a knife I am afraid to use or carry because I might break it! I've feeling I will eventually sell them so I guy buy less expensive knives I'll actually enjoy using! Thanks for dropping by, appreciate the feedback!

[@1722blackbart]

Is that a sod buster in tortoise? Where can I get one of those? And the canoe?

[@BladeObssession]

I think a lot of people buy budget knives and the easy answer is you can't discount a cheap knife as a bad knife and everybody likes a good deal

[@Maddawwg45]

ok first off i wanna say this is a great time to be a knife collector because there are more “ budget “ knives out there now then at any time and the word cheap dosent necessarily mean low quality anymore i have several folder in d2 steel with g10 and ceramic bearings for 50 or 60 dollars that were once selling with those materials for several hundred , chinese companies are nothing like 10 or 20 years ago there now producing knives that rival anything made in the USA ! Now as far as the rough ryder line goes i love there knives and carry them quite a bit and ill say that these rough ryders will stack up against Case knives any day

[@JohnCapps]

Good talk. I agree it’s much easier to modify an inexpensive Knife. At the end you mentioned Marbles. I don’t own any of the newer Marbles knives. Is the quality comparable to RR?

[@JohnCapps]

Sure looks like the Schrade, and RR toothpick came out it the same factory.

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

John Capps, I would have to agree about the Schrade. I’ve got the Schrade Custom Congress and it’s practically a clone of the Rough Rider; the stones are just in a different order!

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

Marbles is also a SMKW house brand and the traditional pattern folders are very similar to Rough Rider. When SMKW list the Colt TM the knife in the Colt line went to RR and Marbles. Marbles also makes machetes and such. These come out of the Condor Factory in El Salvador All in all I’ve been pleased with the Marbles knives. Have around 30 or so.

[@Speedsix13]

I love Rough Ryder but that 440a dulls fast when you really use them.

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

It is definitely not going to hold an edge as well as D2, or VG10, but for most people it is adequate enough. On the bright side it also sharpens up pretty quickly. But yeah, some folks are going to want the S30V or Magnacut and they will have to pay for it!

[@holtonbower5626]

I just feel Good buying American made knives I do believe that rough rider makes some inexpensive and attractive knives but I made a conscious decision to help the American workers that’s just my opinion And I don’t knock anybody buying whatever they want whatever makes them happy , 90% of all the knives I buy I carry; I may not be able to buy as many knives because of the price but I probably could carry a different knife each month for the rest of my life LOL ;;;; love your videos thanks

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

Holton, I 100% respect your decision and your position on this. And I have to admit, I feel better when I'm not buying a knife made in China. I actually did a video on by affordable knives not made in China/Pakistan. While it wasn't directly "Buying American" it did give options to buy knives made in countries that were rooting for our downfall! And as you are a Buy American Knife guy, I'm sure you're aware that several American Companies do have offerings that are under $25 and will get the job done!

[@paddyspotatopeelers2154]

Thank you and you made your point in a really constructive and discriptive way. I always enjoy your enthusiasm and passion for your collection. I'm just starting my collection of traditional knives and although I've picked up a few expensive ones I also see rough riders making up the large majority of my future buys. Thankfully I'll be able to get more of a choice soon as smkw are going to post international soon. Thank you for taking the time to make this. Atb paddy 👍☘️😀

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

Thanks for your words of encouragement, Paddy. They mean a lot. Good news about SMKW. Hopefully the postage won't be more than the knife!

[@colincrowe4851]

I know this video is a year old, but I’ve been watching a lot of your videos. Case does make a version of the half hawk! Just not anymore. Rough ryder got the idea from the Case Loomfixer. The only reason I know is because I recently refurbished my great grandpa’s loomfixer. Have a great day!

[@paulyoder865]

Right on!

[@bowlofrice8]

Lol I damn near cut my thumb off today cutting straight through a stick with a factory edge on a rough rider Barlow so they are obviously sharp capable knives lol

[@madtownangler]

What is that green handled knife in the beginning. My favorite color

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

Is it the small one laying on the table? Is so it’s an imitation green malachite by rough rider. If not, around what time into the video did you see it?

[@madtownangler]

@@KnifeChatswithTobias yeah it was. Saw it in another video.

[@peterpuleo2904]

I have a few cheap knives that are of reasonably good quality. I can say the same about some fountain pens, and some of the wine I buy. Price and quality do not always equate. Budget knives allow the average collector to acquire a large collection.

[@mgjkoehler]

I'm wondering why you don't like steel warrior. I have a few, and they are well made, have good blade snap, fit and finish,and inexpensive.

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

Michael Koehler, my experience with them has been very mixed. At the end of the day, I find them not as good as Rough Ryder yet normally more expensive. I also am not crazy about some of their jigging styles used on their bone handles. With that said, Frost as had some innovative designs which are really cool and he also puts out quite a wide variety of knives. I really need to clarify my thoughts on Frost and Steel Warrior.

[@jjcahill8934]

You never cease to amaze me at the depth and breadth of your traditional collection! It would be insanely expensive to create a collection like yours and implement the constraints of only making US made purchases. Also, as you mentioned, any such constraints would greatly hamper the variety of knives you could collect. From what I gather the large overseas slip-joint manufacturers are indeed mostly US owned with a few from Germany as well. Thanks for another outstanding video!

[@jimmyj4811]

I enjoyed this video! Please don't be offended, but I can't help but notice that your knives often hit together with an audible click or you tap one against another. Aren't you concerned about scratching them up? I know that they are meant to be used, and perhaps I'm just too obsessive about mine, even the cheap ones. Keep the videos coming!

[@KnifeChatswithTobias]

Not offended at all. I'm not too concerned about scratching the knives. I know repeated carrying and jostling can lead to scratches but , to be honest, a bigger problem is fingerprints which can easily mar a blade. I know they make a lot of noise but they aren't taking much of a beating. However, the noise bothers me so I should find a better pad to place the knives on to reduce that background noise.

[@DD-d6d3]

@@KnifeChatswithTobias please do a video about fingerprints and other things that can Mar blades. Love your channel.

[@richardmcginnis5344]

i know exactly why i buy them, in the late 90s when the gas station knives from china were solid crap i wasn't buying them but watching how or if they were improving, the quality of the gas station knife hasn't really changed much but then i found amazon and youtube knife reviews both are great for information and asking questions. while asking and reviewing i started buying one or two here and there went to yard sales for old knives and the quality of china made is 100 times better than it was 25 years ago when i started looking at them in the last 10 years the quality has gone up, cheap china made junk today isn't junk its just inexpensive

[@michellehansen1563]

Bravo!