I'm 100% willing to spend until it hurts to have what I feel is the best. However, determining what is the best now has a cost implication for me.

Adam, I can see your point. However, a basic Scrap Yard is still more money than an equivalent ESEE with sheath, clip plate, and UNCONDITIONAL warranty. I think the BKG has carved a safe niche as a bombproof premium knife maker, but I see other brands starting to challenge them due to the increasing price points. I had brand new ASHBMs, BATACs, and others listed on the X at below factory cost + free shipping and didn't' get a single inquiry. In fact, my last thread was deleted and I was given a warning (I did accidentally violate a repost rule, but it also left me wondering if it upset people selling for cost + 20%...)

I'm in a period of ambivalent feelings toward my knife selections. This has created a scenario where I'm no longer entirely (kool-aid level) brand loyal. This isn't to take anything away from any of the quality manufacturers including BKG. I'm simply clarifying why I often seem critical. I'm just at a point where I'm not satisfied with "good enough" when "good enough" costs more than enough to be "perfect".

ETA: Yes, I should be the person who defines "perfect".