PVK Latama

[portlandmike]

I have seen PVK Vegas mentioned here a few times lately and after checking out their site I am really considering a Latama 23cm ... what should I expect quality wise?

Mike

[JulesVane]

Hey Mike, first, have you checked directly at latama.net ? PVK is ok, but Walt really adds a special touch IMO.

[portlandmike]

I’ll do that .. thanks

[portlandmike]

Seems like they have the same knife but about $35 more

[JulesVane]

Seems like they have the same knife but about $35 more

Hmm, gee Mike. I've got the 2 sites open right now and seeing a $9 price difference. PVK 9" Braziiian: $260 - Latama site 9" Brazilian: $269...
It's my understanding from other members who bought their 9" Walt's from PVK, that the purchase includes only the knife itself. You don't get to see/pick the piece you're going to actually receive. PVK DOES however have no problem with an exchange should your piece have any issues.
I bought 2 of the new 9" from Walt at Latama. Though I can't guarantee the same for you, Walt included beautiful cases that came in really nice boxes with Walt's cat logo on each. A tube of Quick Release Oil, a newsletter, a short Maniago history DVD, PLUS: For me, it's been nice getting to "know" Walt and get him familiar with me through purchases and short emails, which IMO can come in handy for future dealings. These are the things I meant by Walt adding a special touch by direct purchases. Absolutely nothing wrong with buying it from PVK, but dealing with Walt is worth every bit of $9 to me. Just my experience and opinion Mike.

[portlandmike]

I completely understand your point. The knife I wanted was $250 but even a $35 difference doesn’t make up for all those extras you get from Walt. Thanks for the info and pictures. This is exactly why I joined ...

Mike

[JulesVane]

Of course Mike. Now, the only $250 I see on PVK is the 9" Cocobolo. The Latama site is $255. Are we seeing something different that's a $35 spread apart instead of $5 ? (Just curious now).

[portlandmike]

your not seeing the $250 knife on PVK because I got the last one. Walt didn’t seem to have the light horn in stock but I should’ve contacted them directly and asked. I can’t find the $285 knife on Walt’s site that I thought was comparable anymore either ... maybe somebody scooped it up.

[portlandmike]

I will probably order straight from Walt’s site next time but I am pretty happy with this knife from PVK. I wouldn’t say it sits deep but I can’t catch the blade tip with my fingernail ... and I love the horn.

[JulesVane]

You did real good Mike, it's beautiful!

[portlandmike]

Thanks Chris !