it is relative, but it can certainly justify the price for some consumers, in some cases. for different reasons.
for instance, what goes into the cost of a knife being manufactured (in enormous quantities, but still) europe, switzerland?
what's the minimum wage, cost of healthcare and empoleyer's taxes etc.
is it more expensive to produce the 'same' knives in switzerland compared to places where labour comes cheaper? yes, of course.
is that worth 20$ to a customer or not? that's up to the buyer.
i'm not saying that all similar but cheaper alternatives to vics are made in places where working conditions are worse and wages are lower. though i take my chances and guess that some are.
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Dexter Russell is made in Massachusetts.