I haven't had a lot of time for making lately, but when I do, they're usually forged. Some knife owners/enthusiest consider that important. When I do stock removal, I try to make it a point to say that it was stock removal. I just feel better when the buyer knows what they're getting.

When I'm getting ready to start a full custom for someone, I take the time to discuss/educate the customer on the different types of steels, their pros and cons, how they are heat treated, what they can expect for edge retention, etc. I believe that is one of the things that adds value to a custom - the customer is part of every step of the design process.

I haven't seen any of the makers on this forum try to pass off their work as something it isn't. Everyone seems as honest as the day is long. But it po's me to no end when I go to the gun show and see a Jantz blank laying on a "maker's" table being sold as "hand-made". That' just wrong IMO.

I have put handles on a few Browning blanks that were given to me by a family member, but those blades bear the Browning mark - not mine.

you should know up front what you are buying be it a kit or a handmade knife ! you will probably know by what you are paying for it what it is also ! oh and stic is making me a knife currently so i will be a stic owner cant wait !