Gerber 06 Manual Combat Folder - why can't I buy one?

[RedLynx]

Alright thanks for adding it.

 

[fuzzynuk]

Try emailing Gerber and see if they are even still in production I would suggest since that one also says its out of stock. They might have discontinued them?

 

[EDCanAdamas]

Gerber's website also puts that "credentials" message up for their multitools. The multitools have no visable qualities that would restrict them to law enforcement use either.

The cynical side of me wonders if Gerber does not want people to buy their American made stuff so they make more money from selling chinese junk.If Gerber can sell you the made-in-china version of that knife for $70 and make $65 from it versus selling you the American one for $120 and making $40 from it, what do you think they are going to do.

Luckly for you, the free market has outlets that will sell you the Gerber you want, despite that silly manufacter restriction message.

 

[CPL_KABAR]

Spyderco makes an excellent American made folder at a reseat able price.

 

[Hiro-kun]

Gerber's website also puts that "credentials" message up for their multitools. The multitools have no visable qualities that would restrict them to law enforcement use either.

It's probably because Gerber only has a limited supply on hand and wants to ensure that the intended users (law enforcement, military) get priority access to them. Note that only the knives and tools under the "Military" section of Gerber's site require credentials. This is also Rick Hinderer's practice for his direct sales.

 

[presz]

I sent you an email that might help you out.

The Gerber 06 Manual Combat Folder looks to be a beast of a knife, and I want one, but I can't buy this MANUAL folder without Military/Police credentials? Are you kidding me?

The looks like a very nice made in the USA Gerber. Hell I didn't even know they still made folders in the USA until I found this knife.

Plain: http://www.gerbergear.com/Military/Knives/06-Combat-Folder-Fine-Edge_30-000462
Serrated: http://www.gerbergear.com/Military/Knives/06-Manual-Combat-Folder_30-000308

 

[fuzzynuk]

It's probably because Gerber only has a limited supply on hand and wants to ensure that the intended users (law enforcement, military) get priority access to them. Note that only the knives and tools under the "Military" section of Gerber's site require credentials. This is also Rick Hinderer's practice for his direct sales.

That's not why cause if you have the credentials it shows they are out of stock

 

[marcinek]

It's probably because Gerber only has a limited supply on hand and wants to ensure that the intended users (law enforcement, military) get priority access to them. Note that only the knives and tools under the "Military" section of Gerber's site require credentials. This is also Rick Hinderer's practice for his direct sales.

I doubt it. A sale's a sale.

It's either: 1) a typo; or 2) them trying to make the thing look like its for "top secret high-speed operators" only. Great advertising move. :thumbup:

 

[Hiro-kun]

That's not why cause if you have the credentials it shows they are out of stock

My post was an explanation as to why certain knives and tools are marked "credentials required". How is that related to whether the item is in stock or not?

 

[EDCanAdamas]

It's probably because Gerber only has a limited supply on hand and wants to ensure that the intended users (law enforcement, military) get priority access to them. Note that only the knives and tools under the "Military" section of Gerber's site require credentials. This is also Rick Hinderer's practice for his direct sales.

Funny, if there is such a demand for the American made stuff, then why not produce more of it? Someone said its a marketing gimmick and I am inclined to agree. When you go onto Gerber's website and go to the "made in USA" section, the majority of the items require "credentials", although most of them would not be legally restricted sales. Yet the Chinese made stuff, many of which have the same mechanisms, have no "restrictions" at all. They are clearly stearing people towards purchasing the knives that will produce the greatest profit margins (the chinese stuff) while also making a point about how awesome the USA made stuff is because only the troops and cops can get it.

 

[fuzzynuk]

My post was an explanation as to why certain knives and tools are marked "credentials required". How is that related to whether the item is in stock or not?

Because then Gerber would be selling them to military/le according to your post and they are not

 

[DrFish]

Another issue is that according to the Berry amendment, the DOD is required to give preference to domestically sourced equipment. So if they want to provide goods to the DOD, they have to be Berry compliant and thus USA made, and they have to have enough stock of said goods to fulfill the orders. If their production capacity is limited, then in order to maintain what is likely a lucrative arrangement with the armed forces, they have to devote their domestic production to that end instead of the civilian market.

 

[Hiro-kun]

Another issue is that according to the Berry amendment, the DOD is required to give preference to domestically sourced equipment. So if they want to provide goods to the DOD, they have to be Berry compliant and thus USA made, and they have to have enough stock of said goods to fulfill the orders. If their production capacity is limited, then in order to maintain what is likely a lucrative arrangement with the armed forces, they have to devote their domestic production to that end instead of the civilian market.

Thank you! I have no idea why people are coming up with ridiculous conspiracy theories as to why Gerber only sells certain products directly to military/LE.

Because then Gerber would be selling them to military/le according to your post and they are not

Or maybe they are actually out of stock on that particular model. An item can be restricted and out of stock. These properties are not mutually exclusive.

 

[razorburn]

Got a 50/50 version a couple of years ago from SMKW, when they were everywhere.Arrived in a sandwich without the box or wrench or instructions, and a hand written label taped to the outside of the bag.Since then,I have always been wanting the plain edge version ever since it became available but never really understood Gerber's requirement for government credentials. Just took another look and clicked on "Credentials Required" and that brings you to a page about the "PRO PROGRAM".

Program

Gerber is proud to support members of the US military, law enforcement agencies and first responder organizations by offering exclusive, discounted access to Gerber's Tactical and Military product line.

As a leading supplier of knives, multi-tools and gear to the US Military, Gerber ensures this gear has been designed to meet the rigorous needs of those who need them most. When life is on the line, these products deliver.
Eligible Participants

Through our PRO Program, Gerber is proud to offer these exclusive products at a special direct rate for US military and select government personnel. These personnel include:

Active duty military, National Guard & Reserve
Federal, State & Local Law Enforcement
Fire, EMS and other first responders

Due to shipping restrictions, the program is only available to United States Military and Government personnel.
Guidelines

Admittance into the program is for qualified members only, thus there are guidelines to follow. As a participant in this program, you will be entering into an agreement between Gerber and yourself, the Buyer.

Under this agreement the Buyer shall not sell Gerber product for a profit. At no time should Gerber products purchased through the PRO Program be sold or diverted for resale in any outlet - including but not limited to the internet, swap meets, flea markets, etc. Your account is authorized for your use only and is not transferrable to any other individual or entity.

---

The PRO Program is offered by Gerber to honor individuals who serve America at home and abroad.