I cannot be the only that was rather disappointed with the Q+A. Mr. Laconico came across as dispassionate and "in it for the money". I'm happy to pay a premium for knives made/designed by a bladesmiths, tradesmen and craftsmen. I'm looking for folks who love and are passionate about their craft. Who see each knife they design or make as a challenge be it artistic or engineering (or both). Someone who cares about details, who takes pride on their work. Instead, if we're to judge based on Mr. Laconico's answers to the Q+A, I bought into someone whose favorite EDC is the knife equivalent of a pumpkin spice latte and chose a particular design because it was easy and practical.
rdodevI actually liked his answers. I’m a surgeon and I tend to prefer the down to earth though there are colleagues of mine who definitely are more into the mystique of surgery. I really like the shapes and style of his designs. And while they may be practical to make they also appeal to me aesthetically and seem to be consistent. I think if he were to shift more to designing rather than hand making knives, we would get more of his work available to us which I would look forward to. I’m not interested in buying customs.
rdodevI own a few of Ray’s knives. His work is top notch and is an industry OG. If I could honestly guess you could perhaps excuse his brevity and understand he has a life and a ton of other collabs currently going on and a lot of people to respond to. You’ll love the knife. Promise.
rdodevI dunno, I think the format of the Q&A is probably responsible for that impression. To me he just seemed like a super practical and relatable guy.
He has a good handle on his art and a good understanding of his own equipment limitations and how to maximize the use of what he has.