Article by Gregg Boethin
If you like knives, there's never been a better time to start collecting. Knives are tools that are both attractive and functional. (It's the one item Bear Grylls always has with him, no matter where he is.) But there's a lot more to knife selection than grabbing the first blade that catches your eye. Here are some quick tips that will give you a much more informed-and successful-knife shopping experience.
Know the Law. Knife laws can differ dramatically between states. It's a very good idea to know where yours stands. Some cities and counties also have specific statutes you must abide by, and case law changes often. Check your state and county websites to get detailed information. There are several sites that have knife laws listed, state by state. Knowing the rules is the first step towards making a smart and informed knife purchase.
Know Your Products. Although it would be nice to hold and try out every prospective blade, the web is a wealth of knife resources, including reviews and videos about the knives you're interested in. Sites like Custom Tacticals are a great way to find the latest knife reviews from a consumer's standpoint. Another good source of information is the online knife forums: Blade Forums and Knife Forums are just a few of what's out there. Learning some basics about the different knives available will help you find exactly what you're looking for.
Know Your Purpose. Have you considered how you will use your new knife? There are knives for fishing, survival, collecting - not to mention the differences between fixed and folding blades, as well as varying materials and finishes. You may be more interested in a multi-tool for everyday use, and a plain-edge pocket knife for light duty. Get the right tool for the job to extend the life of your blade, and practice some safety basics. Too many people have snapped their knives or badly injured themselves by trying to use their folding blades as crowbars or machetes!
Know Your Sources. Buy from a reputable online dealer. There is a thriving counterfeit business, with cheap imports that can fool unsuspecting buyers. Many manufacturers have posted information about fakes on their site, to help educate customers, like Cold Steel and Emerson.
Also, to cut down on your search time and get the best price, try using a knife search engine like Find Blades. Find Blades is a knife search engine, so it's easy to compare and get the best deals from all the top knife sites. Buying knives online is a fun and rewarding experience. Just do a little homework up front, and you'll reap the rewards for years to come.
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