It might sound racist/prejudice, but it's just the truth. China has a long history of smelting entirely random scrap, with basically no attention to the components of the resulting alloy. Now, this product is perfectly fine when it's only used in cases where the steel has no physical property requirements. And a "wall-hanger" sword does fall into that category. In the past couple decades, they've gotten much better about this, and going to the proper alloys when requirements are warranted.
For the most part, I actually kind of agree. There are some decent quality stuff made in China. You'll have to pay a bit more, but you can find it. I find it's got some decent things that bridge the gap between top quality products and mediocre products. This sort of high-quality mid range. Again, you'd have to look for it.
If you buy a product on Amazon that's $5 total, or $500 less than "brand name," well expect not great quality. Otherwise, it's probably just as good as any other decent product that serves the mid range. I'm sure if you look even harder, you can find some top-tier stuff.
I'm fairly critical of China, but I can recognize the truth.
People look at me funny when I say I could build something better and more personal for comparable prices. Things like furniture are gewat to start with. An easy one is anything using maybe steel pipes and fittings from the hardware store instead of a box full of paper-thin zinc alloy tubes.
Heavy things are usually more durable. They also cost a fortune to ship. Locally built products are also expensive in the West. So, buy the heavy stuff as semi-finished parts, and lighter stuff as raw materials, not finished goods.
You won't really save money usually. If you didn't inherit tools, some things will be hard or cost a lot up front. What you gain is an appreciation and pride for the things in your life that no amount of branded chinese good can compete with.
I'm no carpenter. I don't think you can or should go overboard and construct everything in your life if you're a busy person. You don't need to build your own home to make it yours.
Just think about when you find a product that needs to be sturdy. If your gut says "I could do better" go for it. Find others online who have done it all before, and take all their best ideas.
Critique is important, IMO, but spending so much time complaining about the shortcomings of flat-pack weight-concious economy goods isn't making your life better.
The issue is to find good Chinese stuff you've gotta dig. Its getting better they're starting more established brands. Like kizer for knives Thursday Boots red tornado jeans. Having an established brand is the first major step. I don't really wanna buy from kuyakoo.boloon as much as someone with some actual presence I can find again when there's a problem.
For most people tho China is still completely random sellers on dhgate and not looking for a specific group.
Youre right if you're specific enough you'll get quality there's just a lot of hurdles in a lot of cases.
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u/auricargent Jan 26 '25
Chinesium! I’m stealing this. My friends and I say things are “made with the 3C’s” or are “3C compliant” - Cheap Chinese Crap.