This is by far one of THE best videos I've ever watched dealing with the psychology behind obsessive-compulsive collectors of "stuff". I've experienced much of this myself with coins, knives, bikes, you name it. Jim, you've got a real talent for being able to delve into psychology behind this kind of behavior, and if nothing else, you really oughta have your own radio program. You've got the chops, bro.

Real easy. When it no longer brings you enjoyment or it is negatively impacting your life.

I have been watching your vids for a few months now and just found this string of videos....and MAN do these hit home HARD. I actually AM one of those guys that orders knives to my office because sometimes I will get 4-5 a week and it is just easier to avoid the home drama that comes with it. But yeah....everything you are saying is definitely therapy for me, so thank you, Jim. It never stops. I get that one I have been drooling over and then I play with it and then be right back on the sites looking for that next purchase. Sometimes I get in it so bad that I purchase 2, 3 or 4 at once because I am on that rush...that high.

I hit the wall when my whole mindset changed and I decided to start collecting money. Now instead of basking in a collection of trinkets of sorts, I revel at a growing collection of "green" and the endless possibilities it can bring.

Brilliant video of such well-spoken thoughts, Jim! Collecting beyond what is useful or brings us joy really isn't much different than hoarding. And yes, many great museums have been started by the most eccentric of hoarders. But like you said, at what point is it ever enough? At what point do all the searches and justifications lead you to the ultimate grail? I've been a collector of one thing, and more currently a collector of the "best" of several things. But really, and I so agree with everything you're saying here...at what point do you realize the ultimate grail is the joy and satisfaction you find within yourself? We search for that which our minds think will fulfill us if even for a moment, and when that wears off we search and search some more. What does it take us not only to wake up to the realization of what we're doing, but of having the courage to face our own demons of self worth and find that fulfillment within? I admit that I haven't been buying much lately, because I've obsessively searched the internet for weeks on end looking for that next "best." And when I find it, I'm happy for six to twenty six hours or so until the mind rethinks it and then searches for something even more: expensive, satisfying, etc. "Whew, dodged another bullet. Glad I didn't buy the one before!" The beauty of it is that I've gradually been coming to this conclusion that I'm addicted to the search, the jumping through the hoops, the needing to feel so useful and productive and validated that the reward will ultimately be worth it! But the reward isn't what just came in the mail, (most of these things are cluttered together under a layer of dust or in drawers) because that always wears off. The reward is me knowing and finding me. It's me simply being enough. Enough that I don't have to keep searching outside myself for the contentment I've found within. And while I know this intellectually, and can separate myself from what's happening long enough to understand, there's still this little voice or impetus that pulls me back on the computer looking for the next "best" thing. But there's never a best. And there's really not even a "best for me for now." Not when collecting for the sake of collecting is concerned, or with things that are never used or enjoyed, or things that our minds have to think long and hard to come up with a specific use, purpose, or rotation for. About ten years ago, I cleared out my kitchen cabinets and gave away a lot of things that were either never used, or still sealed in packages waiting to be needed. As I did so, I recalled the "reasons" why I purchased this item, or the feelings I had when I purchased that. And you know what? Every single purchase was due to a bolstering of self-confidence; of thinking people would think I'm cool, or simply feeling better about myself because I had it...probably fifty percent or more had to do with women, or a certain woman who was in my life at that time. Anyway, I'm gonna stop right now to clean up, meet some friends, and get something to eat -- so I can have the privilege of me taking care of me. Because I'm learning not to slave over making someone or something else happy by sacrificing myself. Perhaps the following says it best... "Remember, most of the things you think you need are ego trips designed to bolster your image and your perception of security. You'll waste a lot of energy satisfying your ego only to find that, as soon as it's got what it wants, it ignores all your efforts and promptly nails another list of demands to your forehead. The ego will always try to force you to slave for its vision. I wouldn't stand for that BS if I were you." ~ Stuart Wilde

You realize as you flick open all these knives WE are all searching the internet as we listen to you speak for the knives you are opening and closing. Enjoyed every moment.

Wow! This is eye opening.

It warms my heart to see a knife enthusiast thinking critically about his consumption. I particularly liked the comment about feeding a small village; one to ruminate on I think. Personally I've just recently hit that point where I'm 'set'. I own about 20 or 25 knives all up and to fend off the desire for more I look at my real world cutting chores and ask: "do the limits of my current inventory render me /incapable/ of completing this task?" And it's working so far. Awesome video

Im a 17 year old knife enthusiast, I do not own a big nor expensive collection. But I really enjoyed the way you spoke in this video. The whole video felt like a speech. And I can relate to you and it felt like you spoke directly to me. Great work brother :)

i have great great respect for you, sir. thank you for the most honest and down to earth conversation i've heard on The Sickness. Merry Christmas!

When something reach to the addiction level it's very hard to truly kick the habit just like any other addictions. I started collecting beginning of 2006 and by the end of the year had reached over 300 knives. I had everything from no name to productions to over 1000 dollars customs. fixed blade and folders, autos I have it all. But one day it just hits me when I was carrying 4 knives on me and still feels like not enough I know it's getting out of control. So I decided to stop and sell most of my knives till around 10 of my favorite ones. That was 2012. And just this year because something happened in my life I started collecting again. Buying 16 knives in 2 month with half of them cost thousands of dollars each on top of at least 10 more customs in my watch list. Then I realized I never stop the addiction of collecting cause when I stopped knives I started with watches buying 25 of them in 5 years with only 2 arms and it looked rediculous wearing 2 watches at the same time. And then I turned to a specific brand of jewelry after I stop with watches. Look back realized I never really stop the addiction. I believed leveryone will collect something if they were given the chance. Because it's away of giving yourself a little happiness pleasure comfort just for yourself only to balance all the stress and chaos in ourlives. Life is short as long as the addiction is not hurting yourself in anyway enjoy it what ever it may be.

Wow! Thank you for this video. I didn't think that other people were going through the same thing as me. My modest collection of microtechs and production folders is nothing too special, but you are right. It's not dollar amounts. I can pick up a $350 microtech, then be eyeing up a $70 sog the next minute. It's an obsession that will probably never go away. No matter what level you reach, you always want more. Until you find something else to collect, and move on to that collection. I've been there. HiFi stereo equipment, cars, guns, knives. Hopefully introspection will lead to understanding and eventually overcoming this thing that we do. "Comparison is the death of happiness" To collect anything is to feel "want" more than "satisfaction". Maybe we all just need to find Jesus. LOL

Thanks Erik!! I'm glad you made the leap, the Direware is so amazing!!

Great video, Jim! I have collected knives, guns, lighters, flashlights, coins, stamps, and bicycles, clothing, and most recently, colognes or fragrances. I just go through different "phases". I think three letters can explain it all; OCD. Thankfully, most of it has appreciated in value, and can be sold, perhaps at a flea market, when I retire. I justify it by telling myself that it was better than drinking the money away. Thought provoking video, my man.

i have been collecting weapons of all kinds for a while now, knives are the main part of my collection and i have to say im drooling over your collection they are all beautiful knives, every once in a while i feel like i have enough but then time passes and i find a new one that i just have to get and then it goes on and on. im glad to see im not the only one.

Great video. Fantastic knives, and some really good points made.

This clip really pulled my string, Jim! Thanks for sharing ;)

It's really interesting seeing your videos stand the test of time and all the new comments from folks like me who just found you. The key component to addiction is "euphoria recall" and anything anything that makes you ecstatic can do it. Once you have that first high, two things happen: you try to get back to that original rush and your tolerance increases-pushing you to more just to get the same effect. Pretty soon your brain craves the dopamine. My question is, what was the first knife that really did it for you?

I wish I knew the answer to the wall question, my Aunt's new husband is addicted to rare Zippo lighters and not helping with bills. He may hit the wall when me and my brother throw his head into one.

Powerful video and so true. This applies in so many aspects of life besides knives. Really gives me something to think about.

Wow great video, great collection. I'm a fledgling collector with the manix 2 as my marquee piece. I think what resonates with your video for me is the questioning of how balanced you are. If you do not have balance you won't be able to collect anything in a healthy manner. By addressing your responsibilities 1st your collecting is benign and healthy. Only when unhealthy practices such as deceit to your partner or shirking finances let problems arise. By maintaining honesty, I think you will continue to find happiness. Besides, you can always auction your collection for charity if you ever get bored and wish to start over. It's the thrill of the hunt that's so alluring!

Thanks for the Video and the complete overview that hit it right on the head Jim. You are and will always be the one and only Guru extreme on knife collecting!

wow!....excellent video,I'm not into knives but you hit the nail on the head as far as collecting becoming obsessive...I think I will step back and take an honest look at myself. Most of your points(no pun intended) are exactly what goes on in my head. Great video!

Awesome video by they way. Your extremely talented Jim.

when do you hit the wall? when u start buying spinning tops lol

Hi Jim! This is one of the best comments/insights about the knives collecting on youtube I have ever heard. Thanks for sharing your thoughts.

I don't want to happy with what I have. Knife collecting is one of my few joys. If/when I reach a point where procuring new examples no longer interests me then I will have one less thing to enjoy. Sure I'll enjoy the collection but the hunt is the fun too.

The things that bring us joy. Thanks for sharing your super sweet knive collection with me. I'll Pally never own any one of those. But I can enjoy them from seeing you show them to me.

i`m glad you took took the time for this, it`s very important!

Best video ever made from you. I wonder how many others would like to see a video from you with productions knives like that manix you had.

Incredible vid. very well done. Thank you

You are spot on man. This video is incredible. A few good laughs, and a lot that rings true.

Best vid yet. I just sat and absorbed your commentary.

Mr. Skelton I love your videos. You hit it right on the head. Our love for blades and fine cutlery can never be understood by someone unless they share the same obsession. I am very new into knives. I only have 3 folders, and 3 fix blades. My most recent treasure is my Spyderco Paramilitary 2 black on black which I was just craving and lusting over. I have it and it has certainly lived up to my expectations, but the same day I received it I was looking for my next purchase maybe a Brous Blades, STRIDER, microtech, or Hinderer. If I had your collection I think I would be complete you have by far the most gorgeous blades I've seen online. Just an incredible collection. I mean the Ramon Chaves 3V blade over built wow something like that and my blade lust would be fulfilled for a while!! 😄. Excellent video!!!

OMG fantastic video...from 7 yrs ago, yet it's so actual. Should have watched this long ago. Still without knowing I followed the same path and I'm stuck and obsessed with the idea. Dunno how many videos I've talked about this. Great vid Jim, thanks 👍😊

Thanks bro, much appreciated coming from you. I was the same way with watches. At my best, I was at over 360, and never wore many of them. It was too much. Now I keep it down to about 150ish and I am much happier.

I used to be an avid camera and lens collector. I lost someone dear to me that had some valuable collections of various stuff. Lots of it in boxes, unused. In the end it was all sold for cash. Changed my attitude, now I don't collect, I use. Buy a $1200 knife and I still use it like it's $50 Kershaw. No way my corvette will be sitting in my garage with barely any miles on it when I die. I will drive it like I stole it.

Excellent video Jim !!! Everything you mentioned in your video is spot on. ! That is a lot of money in knives you have on display in front of you ! That's fantastic.. if you can afford it...

I have no interest in knives, but this video helped me stop my own collection that was going out of control. As you say, it's never enough..

Very insightful video.

This is super on point, I'm just getting into knives but have always been OBSESSED with sneakers, classic nikes, adidas, rare retro Jordan's etc. Seen close friends also "sneakers heads" get divorced because they chose sneakers over their spouse, crazy but true. As long as the addiction doesn't affect your priorities, finances or loved ones it's ok to treat yourself from time to time. Thanks for the perspective, awesome vid

LOVE THIS VID.... lol hits home

You're already setting the bar damn high. CRK are just damn near perfection, and so practical. And Todd Begg has really nailed it with the Glimpse, Bodega and Field Marshall.. just so awesome. Gorgeous designs, practical usefulness and great quality.

good video..made me think and rethink. greetings to the family!

I have an obsession with knives but I stay within my financial means as well. If I don't have the money I won't buy the knife. I do get tempted though when I look at my wishlist of knives I want to buy and I watch videos to see which knife I really want next. We only need a few knives but it's more fun when you have a collection of knives to rotate out of your EDC. I liked your video, Jim! Keep up the great work!

Thanks for the video. Im just getting into knives and just got a new one that I think will end my "need" for another at least for now. I do feel that pull though, not just with knives, but with buying anything out there- the pull to buy the next thing or great deal on something that is really nice. Its good to ask the question of "when is it too much?" and not fall into the lie that things ultimately satisfy. Relationships with people matter more than anything- learning how to get along with others and how to be ourselves. Thanks again.

You have some really good thoughts. It is interesting these "stages" of collecting. Some are in the acquiring.. searching, buying, celebrating, searching, buying etc... Others can be in a stage that you sound like you are getting to. Where a collector simply wants to celebrate what they have. Maybe share it with others and continue to gather knowledge about the collectible. It will still be important to you and you may even stay on top of sales, but don't feel that NEED to acquire anymore. Thank you for sharing this.

I'm in same boat as our friend, Vance was. I'm content w my knives, guns and other collectables. I'm done, selling 80% of my knife collection. Will probably keep 10-12 knives. I'm blessed and love to have friends like you Jim and all others on different formats. Yes I want more but the Beast must be tamed. Great vid Jim. Kudos

I’ll never stop collecting knives. I’ve come to terms with my obsession. Now I just own it!!! You had to show me the Rockstead, now I’m hunting for one.

Man, you have some AWESOME taste in knives!!! Congrats and I hope the wait isn't too grueling for you

I'm glad I'm not alone! I own over 200 knives and I rotate maybe 12 of them. I love those 12 yet I keep searching for more, I obsess over it endlessly. I think however I've reached my turning point and this video really helped cement that thought.

Thank you. I needed that.

Cool, thanks for sharing!

Your a good storyteller. Thank you for sharing.

Great video. I just canceled an order because of the video and I realized that I do not need the knife. Thanks for helping me see clearer

Excellent topic and very well delivered Jim. Sometimes life dictate that this disposal income is no longer disposable. That was my wall since then I have been enjoying rotating my purchases let one go to be able to experiment more goodness!

Such beautiful pieces of engineering and design.

With pieces like that, it's easy to see why you're so happy. Congrats!

i love your video's man..you have some funny commentary on your own questions...awesome video's...great collection ....this was one of your best

Absolutely great talk! Thanks for talking about this in the open and putting your thoughts into a video. I absolutely understand the obsession, I'm 13 and i collect graffiti, business cards, coins, and i'm starting to be interested in knives. I'm definitely the collecting type, the obsession really takes over. I always say "I'm gonna save my money" but it always ends up going to something I'm obsessing about for a collection. Thankfully my collections are pretty cheap but as I acquire a steady income in the future my collections will likely grow immensely.

Not too long ago, I bought the ESEE 5 (not my first knife, it's the 8th knife in my collection so far). I tracked it online everyday, several times a day. When I finally received it, I was in love. I have still barely used it because it's not one of those knives you can EDC. It mainly sits with my military gear. However, shortly after receiving it, I was back online, on youtube, looking at collections and finding new brands and names of knives that continue to catch my interest; I was already on the hunt for a new knife, specifically the Gerber Automatic 06. The obsession is real and I respect you for making this video. I feel that my brick wall will not be for a long time, especially since I am a young collector at 19, so I cannot say now what that brick wall may be for me. It could be that I find the end-all-be-all knife of my dreams that requires me to fork over an incredible sum of money for, but then again that could be the beginning of a whole new realm of collecting. Thank you for the video. Subscribed.

Wow Jim. Great video. Ive had 17 knives that i bought. I gave 5 away to my buddies and dad and i lost one that i immediatley repurchased. So im at 11 knives that i currently have. 4 fixed and the rest folders. I am looking at my next knife to buy every day but i am no longer satisfied with production knives. My first custom i want to buy is a Will Moon but unfortunatly i cant see the day i will ever afford to buy one. I dont see myself ever hitting that "wall" because as far as im concerned im just getting started. My issue is i always find a new knife to buy before i can even begin to save for a will moon or the hha lft01. Thank you for such a great, insightful and honest video. Maybe one day i will get a mk6 but i will continue to buy knives after that. Im just being honest, i dont see an end to my knife collecting (obsession).

I’m a fixed blade user and have a small collection. My folder game is a shame. I watch your channel because when I do get financial set,the knives you’ve been and continue to own and show and now make, are the ones I gravitate towards also.

So funny that the KZfaq commercial that I got to this video was about mortgages. Thanks for letting me share in your sickness ;!)

WOW! You have a Boss collection of knives. Wish I had a 1/3 of of your knives.

just....beautiful knives you got there

Amazing video I really enjoyed and can somewhat relate to these things.

@4:54 Love it also Brother! That is a BEAUTY!! Thumbs up on an AWESOME Video and Excellent topic!! Bro that is an OUTSTANDING collection!!

Glad I'm not the only one that's thought about this. I definitely have control over my collecting habits when it comes to money since I only spend a few bucks a month on adding to it, but what I struggle with is the feeling of constantly chasing something & always focusing on what I don't have rather than what I do. I buy the grail piece, put it in my display & it's on to find the next one

Jim although you live in a completely different world than I, financially and other, your words (which are very good by the way, you should write a book) ring very true. You summed everything up perfectly. All I can do is explain what's putting the brakes on collecting knives for me. I'm 50 years old and have never gotten a credit card because I know how I am, I'm compulsive and I suppose obsessive. A couple months ago I got my first, an Amazon rewards card. All you have to do is pay $25 a month! There's a lot of knives on Amazon.....and BHQ, knifeworks etc. I pay more than $25 but I'm still in trouble. So to answer your question, tragedy. That's what it took. But in your situation, why stop? You can afford it and it makes you happy, and if you start to go overboard you can sell. Good luck with your inner demon, mine won the game. Mike

Beautiful collection! As a prudent financial principle I try to keep my hobbies cheap and my investments expensive...so to speak. How about this: keep your very best 3 knives, watches, etc, sell the rest for fair market value. With the proceeds buy a low fee globally balanced index fund. As you want to upgrade your top 3 within any collection, set a rule that you must first sell one of your current pieces to upgrade to another model. This way you will always have 3 outstanding "best of the best" examples to admire and collect, but you will never go overboard or "obsessive" with your collection. This is the best case scenario and allows you to always be hunting for the next "jewel" for your collection but keeps you inline from a practical and financial standpoint. It doesn't have to be 3, maybe 5 will be a better number for you, but this will help keep things balanced. Good luck to you and all those "obsessive" collectors out there.

Except now you need another Rockstead! Haha. Man I can finally relate to you. And you do have an awesome collection.

Really good thought provoking subject, we live in an age of wants and easy to gets.My knife collection started with practical tactical and hunting knives, weight was always a factor as I was in HM forces. Then about 10yrs ago I started buying for the looks as well as the practical, the crunch came when some of my knives were not being used as tools more like toys. Then I started buying what I perceived as classics, then I started buying swords saying to myself , these will be heirlooms for my two boys, they are quite happy about all that, but who am I kidding, its me that wants all these man toys. I have come to accept my love of edged weapons, actually it is ok, although the mother of my children thinks I am a throwback to my celtic warrior family tree of wild scottish, Irish blade wielding poets. You got some lovely pieces of art in your collection Jim, somebody has to be patrons of art.

Wow, I thought I was going overboard with 6 knives !!! Just basic production knives, but cool ones I dig.....Thanks for posting this video, makes me feel MUCH better !

Obssession, that is the crux of the whole thing. I personally know people, who can collect whatever it is that they find interesting and move forward in their daily life, without skipping a beat. It does not own them. As for me, I relate to everything you stated in the video. I have an obsessive personality. All through my whole life , No matter what I collected, I have taken it to far and I have paid the conequence for my actions. It's never enough. I can have 1,3,6, or more orders on the way and I find myself online clicking that button for the next thing that I have to have. Part of it is the chase, tracking down that special something and finding it. You think to yourself, I have to have this, It fills that empty spot in my collection, and I might never get another shot at acquiring it again. Being obsessive, I think is a way to satisfy an uncontrollable need to self gradify oneself. I know this about myself and I've learnd to control it somewhat. From my experiences in the past, I know the consequence of taking it to far. I'm 57 now and I have responsibllities that I did not have 15 years ago. My priority is to my family, paying my bills and putting food on the table. Then, when I have the time, I retreat to my mancave and enjoy all my collectibles with a clear head.

WOW, tons of great comments! I'm going to do my best to reply to everyone...

An expensive, beautiful and well-built knife is never wasted money; its a bank account you can play with and admire. As you say, as long as it does not come in the way of lives necessities (for you and those close to you), it matters very little that your money are capable of bringing you superb enjoyment.

I look forward to it! I wish I had an interest in fixed blades, because it seems like you've done some really slick work. LMK when you work your way into folders!

The very definition of Obsession is to be a knife fanatic. The next knife purchase is always just a click away. Addiction cannot be cured - it has to be controlled. But this addition is impossible to control. There are just too many incredible options, with such ease of access, eye candy on every search. The collection must continue to grow. The desire for a new knife will always follow the delivery of the next knife.

I come back to this video every couple yrs

Nice hearing you bring up Jeff Harkins. Him and Ron Best are my favorite.

Although my collection is limited to production knives, you had me laughing out loud with your insights, feelings of guilty pleasure and the need to justify, both to ourselves and our significant others, our collecting obsessions. No matter the price, none of us wants to reach the point where the collecting habit interferes with our relationships or the ability to pay essential bills. That's the difference between a functional addict (collector) and a true addict. Thank you!

I find myself buying at least 1 usually 2 knives a week. I usually buy them over the weekend and look forward to them arriving all the next week. Usually on Thursday. By Saturday I’m buying another knife to feed that itch. Great video by the way.

Over pay means nothing to someone as aware as yourself. One of a kind personal gifts you have ther. Very cool

Those Rockwell knives are just amazing.

Hey Jim, Another great video, thanks. I think what makes a knife special is not the initial purchase but the memories that are created with the years of ownership to follow. My favorite knife is the oldest and cheapest knife that I have, it's a Victorinox that I got from my father when I was a kid. Just two small blades, red, you know the one. My point is its been a lot of places with me and brings back a ton of good memories. Carry, share and use your knives, that makes it all worth it.

Being a collector is truly an addiction my friend. I'm the same way with all my outdoor things. Rifles, handguns, knives, fishing equipment etc. Just gotta have it is the bottom line. You know what?? I don't drink, smoke or do drugs but something just come over me when it comes to my toys!!!! God bless ya brother!!

Two knives arrived today- one a piece that was driving me mad a few months ago, but has since become little more than a curiosity. I had to get it though, because it just went out of production. The other was another Reate- which has become my latest obsession. After settling down for the evening, I’m right back in the internet looking for more- no longer produced knives- on the secondary market. Sheer madness. Discovered your channel tonight, by the way, when your review of the Reate Future popped up in my feed. A GREAT review that did NOT help my situation!

I believe that the obsession or high that we get comes from the actual hunt. stalking your next unicorn and winning it on an auction, or finding one that's a great hidden deal. So I think most of us couldn't buy our next holy grail and be done. because it's the hunt not the prize that we love so much.

My wall is when I get distracted growing another collection. I'm on and off so many different things.

Your collection is magnificent !!!! (It's never enough the chase is half the fun ... Take care)

Jim "thanks" for reminding me to get a Rockstead, thanks a lot.

spot on video!

I'm fairly new to your channel, but wow. This really hit home. Every so often I assess the value of my collection and how much money I've poured into it. Sometimes it's a bit hard to come to terms with. Granted, I sell and trade nearly as much as I buy. But the ones I'm not willing to let go off sure do pile up quickly, all the while the hole in my wallet gets bigger. If anything, having a collection of quality knives has given me insight into what I truly want and hopefully someday I'll get it.

Temporary happiness with possessions. "For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."

By the way I couldn't agree more with everything you said and I'm glad that I'm not the only one with this crazy obssession since most of my friends and family think i'm crazy for collecting too much

Its great that you love that RockStead that much. Really makes me want to try one.

My favorite on your table is the Lightfoot. I met him in Atlanta 7 years ago. Cool guy.

Very nice collection

Don't wait too long to get on my books, i'm not going to close them, but they wait is getting long, and longer by the day. You know I'll be good to you. I totally feel where you are coming from in this vid Jim. I hit the wall years ago when I was still collecting production knives, that's what led me to knife making. And now I'm going to start collecting customs since I have friends in the biz.