Why I'm not a full-time YouTuber

[@TheTuneAce]

Is the answer "I'm smart enough to not rely on the whims of KZbin for income"?

[@robertcalkjr.8325]

Sounds like a wise answer to me.

[@dustingaddis2423]

Hits on that about 25mins in.

[@sneakypeaky6000]

Not really... The answer is he doesn't have enough subs to make it work.... Someone who has an active channel with millions of subs needs to work full time to promote their brand and expand further into social media.

[@LEARSIKCIGAM]

Pew dew pie stated that a video with 7 million views was about 30k in revenue

[@crudmuffins2828]

He’s obviously too busy fighting crime on the streets of Gotham

[@NickShabazz]

"science"

[@andrethompson7552]

🤣🤣👍

[@beastiebunny]

An honest man is getting harder and harder to find. Thank you for staying true to your viewers.

[@jstnhnt28]

When you threw shade a “Raid: Shadow Legends,” I Lost it 😂😂😂

[@TheBigCanucker]

Hey Nick I’ve been off work for 3 years with multiple surgeries and not being able to walk with out assistance. You have helped me stay sane as well as inspired me to share my passion about knives with the community and for that you are very much appreciated. I hope in some small way this makes you feel better about all the hours you put in on you tube. Take care stay safe and please keep on going.

[@drowningdaydreamspoolservi6060]

Damn, you just earned a bit more of my respect given the comments you made in this video. Thanks again Sir for all the content you’ve provided.

[@Demanufactur3]

Nick. There is no way you could be full time KZbinr... You're already part time batman and full time jackass, and a man can only do so much. Also, that raid remark is so very relatable.

[@michaelkeaton32]

This was a surprisingly entertaining video. I think you found something here. Random chatting while you dissemble things. I felt like I was there just hanging out with you while you were discussing something on your mind. Good video; thank you.

[@frankkollar2278]

2 thumbs up sir I remember the first time you reviewed a knife provided by the manufacturer I believe it was a benchmade and my first thought was oh no he finally sold out but you didn't I can't speak for others but it's the honesty of your reviews that has kept me coming back that and that sexy sexy voice of yours keep up the good work and thank you for the hours of enjoyable entertainment I only wish I had listened to your advise about watches but don't worry I blame a friend of mine for dragging me down that rabbit hole

[@rexdoran2051]

I agree. I have a sneaking suspicion that if you ever "sell out", most of your subscribers will catch on pretty quick.

[@gavinfung3168]

Liking the disassembly discourse as a new segment!

[@censusgary]

I want to see him put parts back on the wrong knife. On purpose. You know, to make Frankenknives. How about it, Nick?

[@enjayfilmz]

Thanks Nick! You bring some sanity to the madness, your like listening to a good friend, and you bring people together. That's a beautiful thing to be able to do.

[@codynewman5914]

This is why I turn to you and really appreciate your channel. You're opinionated, undiased, and have control of your own content. Thank you kind sir!

[@joeallen2354]

He's extremely biased but that one of the things that make his content 👍.

[@big_hands]

Solid video, Nick. From a consumer of KZbin videos, thank you for not being one of the “like, subscribe, and hit the bell” guys. You have earned a level of respect from me personally for the way you run your channel and I appreciate your approach.

[@sgsheff]

On cold steel knives the thin Teflon washer always goes against the blade and the PB washers always go against the scales. That also gives the best action.

[@AlohaBlade]

Cousin?

[@sgsheff]

@@AlohaBlade could be

[@mickkeim4142]

Thanks Nick for being up front with us. I love the honesty in your reviews and also the integrity you bring to your KZbin affiliation. It is why I watch your channel and it is why your channel is one of my favorites. If one pays attention, the difference is obvious. And I guess that’s OK for those who want to do it that way, but like I said, it is easy to see...and something I take into consideration when watching a review.

[@Chillibobvid]

Thank you Nick. Thank you for being a human and for having values in a time where humanity and human values are being tested in extremis. That's how respect is earned and loyalty gained. Stay safe you beauty :-)

[@weirdmusicmixmaster]

I appreciate the consistent level of integrity of your channel and viewpoints. Ive been watching for a few years now and i learned to Not Get Into Watches as well as having a more fine tuned way of examining the things i use in my life (hedonistic adaptation video and the concept of small joys/annoyances) and thats helped quite a bit both in budget and just kinda in life in general.

[@ethaneckhardt9909]

I found this channel because my dad got me my first knife (generic Swiss army knife) and I got wildly into knives. I love the honesty you have and the elegance with which you handle said honesty. Keeping it it real without being super brutal. These videos are a relaxing way to learn more about the gear world, and I respect you greatly for the work you do here.

[@GustavoHernandez1]

Hello, Nick. I’ve been apart from the edc world for the last couple of years and I just came back, i never stopped watching your videos and it is true that you have a strong degree of credibility that I don’t have in other reviewers. Thank you for your content, I am a KZbin premium subscriber I hope that helps

[@NickShabazz]

I appreciate that, Gustavo, but the subscription and the kind words!

[@robertglascott5321]

Hi Nick, greetings from Ireland. I've always appreciated your videos but never really gave any thought to what goes into them. I'm glad I caught this one for that insight and to say fair play to you for the now apparent integrity that subtly makes them so enjoyable to watch. Stay safe!

[@erhon5]

These videos are fun. I personally enjoy channels more if they person isn’t depending on KZbin as a living. Part of why I enjoy KZbin is that people generally enjoy what they are making videos about, and it seems that it is easy for people to loose some of that excitement when it’s a job. And it’s nice to not have people trying to sell me stuff. Thank you for all the time you invest in this community it certainly wouldn’t be the same without you! Also I would totally watch you play Minecraft of something like Breath of the Wild I think that would be entertaining

[@RichsRantMMAofficialchannel]

Before I sell out, I get the hell out! Good for you Nick, I feel the same way!

[@razgrizbird4562]

Sir, you have my respect for what you said in your videos. I have always worried about things like this, and listening to you explain why you conduct your channel as you do has given me more confidence to make my own channel. Thank you!

[@MrLlama999]

Thanks for the video. It’s interesting hearing how deeply you think about things. I’m just starting out and really enjoy your videos. I got a RAT 1 for my girlfriend and a Cutjack for myself.

[@The4cp]

You know what we know. You have great integrity and honesty. You want to be able to keep it. I've said it before and until someone proves me wrong you're the best knife reviewer here. I trust your judgment. Thanks Nick.

[@dm3639]

Loving all these covideos, the extra effort in this crisis is admirable and appreciated. I know that you've really helped me through my quarantine. Back to work tomorrow, thank god. File that under "things I never thought I'd say". As to the content of this particular video, the fact that this isn't your full time gig makes me more inclined to trust your opinion on a product. Sponsored content can be fun to watch, but I'm leery of trusting opinions that may be biased, even unintentionally, by the money factor.

[@just-inedc2381]

For what it’s worth I really respect you and how you do your channel.

[@robertbailey5605]

The great, the good, the bad, and the ugly are why I subscribed. Even if I disagree, I enjoy the fact I can count on you to point these things out and I can then decide for myself what I like. Glad to include your videos in my routine before I "ADD TO CART."

[@DirkWerning]

GREAT topic sir, thanks for sharing. Loved the discussion.

[@artiem5262]

Nick-- thank you for a from-the-heart rant (or almost-rant). Your combination of letting it all hang out (so to speak) and calling 'em as you see 'em keeps bringing people back. Well, that and the occasional horrible knife.

[@daviantanner8878]

That's a really nice reason. I love your wholesome vibe man ✌

[@knoxknifemods]

The most AMBITIOUS pocketknife ever. Lol Nick, I’m eternally grateful that you’re opposed to Raid and don’t do paid reviews. What you’re doing and have been doing for years is gold! You be you man

[@clintonlewis1261]

I'm glad you're at least a part time u tuber, i enjoy you're video s and humor and personality😀

[@EDCandLace]

You are a really 1st class guy Nick, I really have to give it to you for going in depth about how you view this.

[@fabianthe_lazy_couch_potat7657]

Hey Nick, everybody or at least I love your work because your reviews are professional in terms of information, but with the passion of a maniac who loves his hobby and the compliance of the Honest Abe🙏

[@robertcoles4895]

I subscribe because of your honest reviews and personality, keep doing what you're doing.

[@chestrockwell3491]

You’re disclosure is soooooo important. We trust you!

[@FORDRANGERFAN]

Great video Nick, Thanks !! And so true.

[@thehermanli]

I am not sure how the knife world roped me in but I am now allured to most things pointy. I have spent long enough time in the world of watches to justify a large purchase but I am still wrapping my head around spending a fraction of the amount on something I still see as just a tool. Perhaps I need to spend more time in the knife world to foster my emotional connection to these tools, which ultimately decides the reason for the purchase. I am glad that a channel like yours exists, since I can trust in your convictions to stay true to yourself in regards to your review. Watches on the other hand, unbiased reviews are still difficult to find since 99% of the reviewers are a salesman at a boutique/reseller due to the barrier to entry being so high.

[@phichuu1160]

I zoned out for a minute and Nick was assembling a completely different freaking knife 😅

[@timbober1]

I appreciate your ethics, I believe you are successful in the real world and enjoy the time I view your work in the “Tube”.

[@danyboy466]

This is Nick’s way of saying dam the man I respect the hell out of you man never sell out your a underground hero 🦇🦹🏻‍♂️ I love your content 👍🙏 please keep it coming 👏

[@nate.or.nodate]

well said Nick. appreciate your perspective!

[@fixedG]

I appreciate your self-awareness and consideration for not owing your integrity to anyone.

[@1964krazyeric]

I was happy to hear on Blade HQ, that you hit the 100,000 mark, I enjoy your videos and have watched them for quite a while. I noticed today that I wasn't subscribed to your channel, weird huh?

[@CultMechanicus]

Always appreciate the content.

[@jacknemo8021]

I would agree.In all seriousness, this is probably the channel's apogee and there's nothing wrong with that.

[@patrickharrison4746]

Love you nick, never change

[@heythatskarma]

Wow get you a mans like this. Seriously Thoe vary wholesome and straight up that’s beautiful and amazing keep it up brotha 🤙

[@davethebarber62920]

I'm so happy that most gear reviewers appear to give honest insightful reviews. The worst offenders of those claiming to be reviews, that are in reality just advertisements are the high end men's grooming products.

[@valenzuelaeph]

1. Integrity; 2. Having fun at what you do. Thanks NS!

[@CuulG]

people gotta realize there are people that just be on youtube and there are people who do youtube.

[@michaelvcelentano]

Good stuff! It’s a respectable response to what it means to be a KZbinr right now. I respect that you offer a logical, balanced view in your reviews. I usually fall back to your word as the most unbiased opinion before buying, since I’m a hobbyist. Just #keeponkeepinon

[@NickShabazz]

Oh, I'm super biased. I just try to be predictably and openly so!

[@rcjd7834]

Since you are an audio guy and an EDC reviewer, have you considered reviewing the new Sennheiser Momentum 2 earbuds or similar items? I completely understand what you are saying about the line between fun and job. I have heard that from pro esports players, they say the practicing their game is no longer fun and more of a job. I have experienced this as well. I am a tinkerer by nature, but every time I have tried to really start making something to turn a profit I cease to enjoy making it very very fast. It goes from a fun hobby to a job I really don't enjoy at all very quickly. Can I just say how much I appreciate the fact that you aren't sponsored? It is nice being able to watch videos without a peep from Raid or Raycon. I have gotten so tired of those ads that I consciously avoid the product when looking into that type of item.

[@avihsnis]

love you, nick

[@johncherry1870]

Thank you for sharing, I’m enjoying your videos.

[@speckledjim_]

Nice one Nicky boy. What s the smaller of the 2 knives you dissasembled

[@francoiscabal2680]

Hi everybody, I have the same question !

[@NickShabazz]

CRKT LCK

[@richardb22]

And I don’t even watch it for the knives so much as they are all friggin illegal in the uk . Just like the chat . All the best Mr Shabazz

[@erichusayn]

A man of ethics. I respect that.

[@markdombrowski746]

Nick, Could you answer a question re a SOG Seal xr, It is very difficult to open using the flipper. Falls open if you release the catch. Could the screws be overtightend in the scales. Yes I did take it apart. Thanks Mark

[@gregkeeler645]

I like this as it is as well. I would also play Diablo with you. Either way I appreciate your integrity.

[@jm6723]

I think it is also more relaxing to watch someone who is clearly doing a review as an enjoyable hobby, without the relentless 'hit that like button' and cross-promotion stuff. I don't blame people for trying to make money, but the financial desperation of some reviewers does come through.

[@pmq6645]

Give the man a break, even Bruce Wayne can't have a full time job as Batman

[@asburypark1516]

I don't agree with everything you say but who does. BUT 100% agree not to be a sellout for a positive review. Thumbs up to you Sir

[@jfox71]

I like your channel because you're not a paid shill. Thank you for honest reviews.

[@barkingspider2007]

Nice video, need to get you to tune up my CRKT / Ruger. Was rough out of the box and currently lives in it. 👍😎

[@dmsparacording7983]

I frickin' love gear, too! Thanks for the insight, Nick! :-)

[@jonh4053]

there are also sponsorships that alot of content creators rely on in order to make the whole youtube thing less volatile. which i dont think are necessarily “selling out”

[@pauljosephbuggle3722]

The reason you have so much clout in the gear world is precisely for the reasons you have outlined. In the long run we easily see who is just punting stuff or giving genuine opinions. Here in Spain we pay more for our knives but we have excellent universal health coverage.

[@projectilecomet8382]

Paul Joseph Buggle what do knives have to do with healthcare???

[@oklahomahank2378]

Andrew Siver He means they pay lots of taxes to pay for health care, which drives up the cost of goods, including knives.

[@pauljosephbuggle3722]

Nick spoke about paying for his health-care if he gave up his day job. Universal health-care means more sales tax making knives somewhat more expensive in Europe where we don't need to worry about coverage. It was an observation.

[@MazzaCheewanich]

Why this is so calm.... watching a guy keep telling his thought while cleaning his blade.

[@chrisjaskulski8613]

Working from home, playing this video in the background for the luscious ambience of Nick's soothing voice. Video starts: "Ha, silly Nick and his closet Cold Steel fetish" . I go back to emailing 'work stuff'... email sent; a high level essential work unit complete. Look back at video: Nick reassembling some sort of CRKT. 🤯

[@AlohaBlade]

Thanks for keeping the content and integrity going Mr Shabazz! So you review knives after they come out. Is there an evolution where companies send prototypes to you (and by extension us) and get feedback earlier in process?

[@fullmetalpenguin]

The quickest way to suck all the fun out of a hobby is to turn it into a job.

[@roel.vinckens]

For a jackass an incredible percentage of your ranting makes an incredible amount of sense. I enjoyed this a lot!

[@thomash4578]

Integrity If you have it, nothing else matters If you don't have it, nothing else matters

[@e.overbay7949]

Look Nick most of us have figured out that your real profession is super hero crime fighter infact i have it on good authority that the Avengers are trying to pick you up. Stay true to you sir there is a reason you have over 100k subs. You haven't sold out! We love your show!

[@censusgary]

They are rare, but I know of some full-time KZbinrs who don’t do paid endorsements and don’t do “sponsored” videos, and don’t sell things through “affiliate” programs. They do have Google-placed ads on their channels, and most of them have Patreon or similar schemes. But the content they produce is simply not for sale. Some of them don’t even accept free products- they review stuff they bought with their own money. Why am I mentioning this? Because I like these people. A lot.

[@NickShabazz]

Yep, it's possible, just very difficult, and only becomes possible once you've got more subscribers. I don't think it'd be possible for me right now.

[@CSGraves]

Hey Nick, a few folks actually tried to set up a KZbinrs' Union a couple years ago... I think that German slingshot guy was one of them. Their site was still up last time I saw., though rarely updated nowadays. Just in case you were curious.

[@thestig007]

I would watch you play Diablo 2. I was completely obsessed with that game in my youth!

[@KrustyDebris]

This might have been the best video you've ever made. It speaks to the motivation behind a lot of content on the internet.

[@kevola5739]

If Nick invested the time he spent making videos into working overtime I’m sure he would be further ahead financially. Crafting reviews that are informative as well as entertaining is an artistic expression that calms Nick as well as the viewers. We know the reviews are honest opinions simply because there is no reason for them not to be. Nobody does you better than you. Keep rockin’ in the free world Nick.

[@thecydonianknight6849]

Further ahead is an understatement, if he did that there would be some jackass wearing a Batman mask in the Forbes 500

[@The4cp]

The only change I want to see is one Nick Knife. I want to see what you would design. Maybe a drawing of it?

[@thestig007]

Now I want to see a Raid Shadow Legends ad from Nick. Maybe an idea for next April 1? Nick selling out 100% to KZbin marketing gimmicks?

[@NickShabazz]

I was thinking about that as an April 1st thing. But right now, it might be very, very hard to tell the difference between fake shameless selling out and real shameless selling out.

[@Fatherandsonatarms]

The formula works. Keep it up.

[@rockets4kids]

2:40 Social blade says $295 - $4.7K Estimated Monthly Earnings. That's a pretty wide range. Are you saying you are outside of it?

[@NickShabazz]

No, I’m saying that that range is ridiculous on the top end.

[@rockets4kids]

@@NickShabazz So the problem is with people's interpretation of the figures, not the figures themselves.

[@ambroken4834]

I found this channel just recently because of the collaboration with blade hq. Maybe more colabs would help drive more traffic and revenue. Just a thought.

[@andyseal8134]

I would gladly pay you Tuesday for a hamburger today.

[@Keith_the_knife_freak]

Popeye was the best cartoon

[@markdombrowski746]

Good one Whimpy😃

[@markdombrowski746]

Good one Whimpy😀

[@faethe000]

What kind of screwdriver do you use to take those apart? I have a knife that needs adjusting and I don't know what to buy.

[@Alexander210]

OMG please tell me you played Diablo 2 and StarCraft. You seem like the guy who does. I am that guy, too. Stay safe, Nick!

[@NickShabazz]

I lost years of my life to the three Diablos, and Protoss 4 lyfe

[@thestig007]

@@NickShabazz That's a whole new level of cool. I can't even remember how many times I stayed up till sunrise playing Diablo II.

[@KNEXBUILDER19]

@@NickShabazz Have you checked out Grim Dawn? Great way to pass the quarantine.

[@DavePotokar]

@@NickShabazz Nick have you ever played the puzzle games call The Room? there are 4 versions for the ipad and also on pc....I think a scientist of your nature and interests would thoroughly enjoy these games. You should check it out.

[@FarmerE]

" I kind of like to eat" haha! Great video!

[@Jezus42]

Warrior poet society just created their own streaming service. I'm sure if the KZbin shit hits the fan your gear reviews will go well with them.

[@evictioncarpentry2628]

Nick Shabazz voice is like Costanza. It gets stuck in your head. Cooo-Stan-Za!

[@rexdoran2051]

Where did the CRKT LCK come from? Last time I knew, you reviewed the 'murdered out' tanto.

[@dscmatr]

Glad of the non-sellout logical choice Nick. Love the reviews. I kinda like to eat too!

[@BrandonRideout135]

What about working for something like blade hq or something like that where it's relatively close to what you do now

[@HowToExcelBlog]

Start an online knife store and only sell the knives you think are gems (or near gems).

[@BrianMiller1973]

Now I am curious who stopped sending The Nick gear.

[@ideafanatics6114]

Which market research firm you are working with now Nick?

[@jk-mm5to]

Is that a Voyager XL in your pocket or are you glad to see me?