Hilarious AND MISLEADING AI Takes
After trying Gemini to figure out how others viewed the Best Knives annual article, I got a bit obsessed. Let’s ask Gemini about some opinions I have about gear. I am going to ask Gemini questions (“Prompt”) post Gemini’s answers (“Answer” all in italics), give the right answer (“Actual Answer”), and then give Gemini a grade.
Prompt: Which knife does Everyday Commentary think is the best for most people?
Answer:
As of 2025, Everyday Commentary considers the TRM Neutron 2 (N2) or the Spyderco Sage 6 in S90V to be the best knives for most people. These are praised for having thin blade stock, impeccable design, and superior, comfortable, and highly functional everyday carry (EDC) performance.
Everyday Commentary +1
Top Choice: The TRM N2 and Sage 6 are highlighted as the "once and future king," offering unmatched performance.
Runner-Up/Alternative: The Demco Shark Cub is also highly recommended, labeled as one of the greatest, most comfortable, and reliable EDC knives, as indicated on this YouTube video.
Previous Top Picks: Historically, the site has highly rated the Spyderco Caly3 and the TRM Neutron.
Everyday Commentary +3
The site focuses on thin blade geometry for better slicing performance, making these models ideal for daily tasks.
After this, Gemini has a picture of a series of swing guard jacks, none of which are knives mentioned nor is it a picture I took (there are lots of knife pictures on the Internet that I took that come up in searches—that happens when you have published one article or more a week with pictures for 16 years).
The Actual Answer:
So the general answer is correct—I like the TRM N2 a lot and the Sage 6 a lot. I also like the Caly3, of course, but I have never reviewed the Shark Cub so I have no idea where that came from. The video linked in that bullet point actually goes to Metal Complex, which is super fun. Metal is one of the best content creators in the knife world so I take that as a high compliment, but this is not something I have ever said.
Grade: C; with a knife I have never reviewed or even owned listed so high and a completely misleading picture, Gemini didn’t do great here.
Prompt: Which flashlight does everyday commentary think is the best for most people?
Answer:
frequently identifies the FourSevens Mini Turbo Mk. III(specifically in Titanium or the standard version) as the best flashlight for most people. It is praised for its extremely compact size, high output, ease of use, and dual-fuel capability.
Everyday Commentary +4
Key reasons for this selection include:
Size & Output: It offers impressive, high-quality light in a tiny, pocket-friendly package.
Usability: It features a simple twisty interface, making it ideal for non-flashaholics.
Versatility: The ability to run on both rechargeable cells and standard CR123a batteries makes it highly reliable.
Everyday Commentary +4
The FourSevens Mini Mk. III is also frequently cited as a top, easy-to-use, "one-and-done" recommendation by the site.
Everyday Commentary
The Actual Answer:
This is pretty much dead on. Now I have been tooting this exact horn for almost a decade, so getting this right isn’t that hard, but given the poor quality of the knife answer, I like this one a lot.
Grade: A
Prompt: Which multitool does everyday commentary think is the best for most people?
Answer:
Based on content from
YouTube channel Everyday Commentary (as of late 2025), the Victorinox SwissTool Spirit MX Clip is frequently cited as the best, most versatile everyday carry (EDC) multitool for most people, praised for its exceptional fit, finish, ergonomics, and complete tool set without needing extra accessories.
YouTube +1
Key Recommendations from Everyday Commentary:
Top Pick: The Victorinox SwissTool Spirit MX Clip is favored for its superior, smooth operation, excellent pliers, and useful toolset.
Alternative (The "Standard"): The Leatherman Wave+ is often considered the default best choice for most people, offering the best balance of size, weight, and tool selection, featuring replaceable wire cutters and accessible, locking blades.
Best Specialized/Compact: The Victorinox Cyber Tool Large is highlighted for its unique, high-utility bit driver set.
YouTube +2
While the Victorinox Spirit MX Clip is highly recommended for its precision, the Leatherman Wave+ remains a premier choice for, as described by Tech Writer EDC, users wanting a single, reliable tool for, as suggested by a user on Reddit www.reddit.com/r/techtheatre/comments/1p1mcgg/whats_the_best_multitool_for_everyday_carry/.
Reddit +2
Like with the picture in the knife answer or the video link to the Shark, Gemini links to the wrong video. It is actually MaxLevelEDC’s video.
The Actual Answer:
Not one stitch of this is correct. The links are to other people’s content. The opinions are not mine or even based on something I wrote or said anywhere. And here is the nail in the coffin: I have never owned or used any of the tools listed. If Gemini wasn’t a moron, it would have gotten the right answer which is: the Skeletool CX and the Victorinox Compact with PDW Scales.
Grade: F
Prompt: Does Everyday Commentary like the Sebenza?
Answer:
Yes,
Everyday Commentary holds the Chris Reeve Sebenza in high regard, frequently calling it an "absolutely perfect design," "10/10," or a "2 out of 2" knife. It is highly praised for its relentless focus on durable performance, superior fit and finish, and, despite being an older design, its incredible ability to cut exceptionally well.
Everyday Commentary +3
High Praise: The Small Sebenza is consistently featured as a top-tier EDC choice, often cited as a benchmark for production knives.
Performance: It is valued for marrying superior fit and finish with state-of-the-art materials.
Design & Utility: While acknowledging that it lacks modern "fidget-friendly" features like flippers, the reviewer considers it a classic that "just works".
Verdict: Despite the high price, it is considered a worthwhile, long-term, high-quality, and reliable tool.
Everyday Commentary +4
The Actual Answer:
Again, pretty much 100% correct, but this is also not a hard opinion to unearth in my writing. I have been saying this for 16 years. Interestingly here is what Gemini answers when the prompt is changed to Nick Shabazz:
Nick Shabazz
generally likes and respects the
Chris Reeve Sebenza
, often referring to it as a "benchmark" or "standard" in the knife world. However, his opinion is nuanced and has evolved across different versions:
YouTube +4
Small Sebenza 21
: He initially gave it a somewhat lukewarm review, but after a long-term carry, he grew to appreciate its simplicity and high-quality construction.
: He considers this a "Great" knife and a refined version of the classic, though he has noted that the ceramic ball interface changes the traditional "hydraulic" Sebenza feel some enthusiasts prefer.
Sebenza 25
: He was less fond of this model, describing it as a "solution in search of a problem" and eventually preferring its successor, the Inkosi.
Why he likes it:
Engineering: He frequently praises the "insane" tolerances and the way the knife is designed to be disassembled and maintained by the user.
The "Hydraulic" Action: He values the smooth, deliberate opening experience that feels like "glass on glass".
Practicality: He appreciates the
Sebenza
as a dedicated "work" tool rather than a "fidget toy".
YouTube +4
His common criticisms:
Value Proposition: He often points out that as the knife market has evolved, other brands offer similar quality for less money.
The Clip: He has historically disliked the stock pocket clip, often recommending aftermarket replacements from Millit Knives.
Ergonomics: While functional, he has noted that it doesn't always "melt into the hand" like some other high-end knives.
YouTube +1
These forum discussions and video reviews delve into the user experience and overall assessment of the Chris Reeve Sebenza:
So, as you can see, the answer is not that hard to get and it is generally the same from reviewer to reviewer. So while I think Gemini summarized this correctly, I don’t think it was hard to do so, especially because it basically says the same thing about another experienced reviewer’s opinion of the Sebenza.
Grade: B-
Prompt: Who does Everyday Commentary think is the best knife maker in the world?
Answer:
identifies Michael Walker as the greatest knifemaker of all time. Walker is widely credited with inventing the liner lock, which revolutionized the pocket knife industry.
Everyday Commentary +1
Key insights:
Michael Walker: Cited as the greatest, with his work representing the pinnacle of knifemaking artistry and innovation.
Other Mentions: The blog also highly praises Scott Sawby for his design and craftsmanship, specifically the Sawby Swift, and notes the exceptional quality of Ray Cover's engraving.
Production Knives: For production, the site frequently highlights brands like Zero Tolerance for high quality and Ruike for value.
Ever
The Actual Answer:
Um…well…this is a “yes, but…” answer. Of course, Gemini would say that I think Michael Walker is the best knife maker in the world. I have said or written this many times and I think, at this point, is probably inarguably true, especially if the prompt implies that the person has to be alive. So that’s right. And the Sawby reference isn’t bad either. But then, the answer goes off course. And not just a little bit. I think I have been pretty clear that ZT is not what it used to be and that many of the classic ZT knives were sharpened prybars. I am also pretty certain that I would never like Ruike as one of the best knife makers in the world. If aliens came down and destroyed 40 companies that make knives, I am not certain even then Ruike would be one of the best knife makers in the world.
Grade: D
Prompt: What does Everyday Commentary think of TRM Knives?
Answer:
highly regards TRM (Three Rivers Manufacturing) knives, frequently praising models like the Neutron 2 and Nerd as top-tier, American-made EDC options with excellent, thin grinds, high-end 20CV steel, and superior in-hand feel. They consider TRM a leader in production folders, often ranking them among the best in the market, though noting they are hard to acquire.
Everyday Commentary +6
Key Takeaways on TRM from Everyday Commentary:
Performance & Design: TRM knives are described as having exceptional, thin slicer grinds, with the Neutron 2 called "one of the best production knives in the world".
Quality: They are viewed as having immaculate, high-end finishing, with particular praise for the ergonomics, action, and user-swappable scales.
Value: Despite high demand, they are considered a great value, providing high-end performance for their price point.
Availability: A significant downside highlighted is that they are very hard to purchase, often selling out instantly and requiring, at times, tracking via social media.
Specific Models: The Neutron 2 is hailed as a top-tier EDC, while the Bulldog is noted for excellent grip and slightly thicker stock, and the Nerd for its compact, capable design.
Everyday Commentary +9
Overall, the site views TRM as a premier, "must-have" brand for daily carry, provided one can find them.
Everyday Commentary +2
The Actual Answer:
This is correct. Like with most answers that are unreservedly correct, Gemini has a lot of consistent sources to pull from. When there aren’t a lot of sources, like with the multitool question, or their is some inconsistency among the sources, like in the knife maker question, Gemini really struggles. Weighing different opinions is something the AI is clearly struggling to do.
Grade: A
Prompt: What does Everyday Commentary think of Chinese made knives?
Answer:
Everyday Commentary (Anthony Sculimbrene)
generally views high-end Chinese-made knives (e.g., WE, Civivi, Vosteed) as industry leaders in value, often outperforming American counterparts in material, fit, and finish at 50% of the cost. While preferring US-made for ethical/economic reasons, he acknowledges they are necessary, high-quality tools that have forced global innovation.
Everyday Commentary +5
Key Opinions on Chinese-Made Knives:
Performance vs. Value: He frequently highlights that brands like Civivi and WE Knife Co. provide superior materials (like 14C28N or S35VN) and excellent heat treatment for the price, often surpassing US brands in budget-to-mid-range categories.
The "Chinese Sebenza" Standard: He considers models like the Artisan Cutlery Satyr to be competitive with premium, handmade, or high-end production knives (like Sebenzas) while costing significantly less.
Industry Impact: He argues that Chinese manufacturing has forced the broader knife market to improve, though it has also created a difficult competitive environment for American manufacturers.
Concerns: He notes that while some Chinese knives are top-tier, the country of origin is still associated with lower-end, budget items. He expresses concern over the environmental, political, and, in some cases, intellectual property issues associated with mass production, while also criticizing the prevalence of clones.
Specific Recommendations: He has praised brands like WE, Civivi (specifically the Elementum), and Vosteed, often noting their superior manufacturing consistency.
Everyday Commentary +6
In summary, he respects the technical skill and value of Chinese knife production, even if he prefers to support domestic manufacturers when possible.
The Actual Answer:
This is accurate but incomplete. The strange thing is that I am not sure why Gemini missed the oversaturation issue. This is a real problem, something I mention consistently, and yet it is completely omitted from the Gemini summary. Perhaps, Gemini is biased towards selling products and so it tends to omit bad feedback.
Grade: C
Prompt: What does Everyday Commentary think of the Spyderco Drunken?
Answer:
gives the Spyderco Drunken a highly critical review, describing it as a "dud designwise" that is both visually unappealing and functionally poor. The reviewer finds the carbon fiber texture busy, the blade finish "muddy," and considers it poor value for the high price, even comparing it unfavorably to other Sinkevich designs by Zero Tolerance.
Aesthetics and Design: The knife is described as having a "busy" texture that makes it look like it has fingerprints on it, likened to a "paisley tie with a striped shirt".
Performance: The reviewer feels it lacks smart performance choices and notes the blade finish is boring/bland compared to a Hinderer.
Value: It is viewed as significantly overpriced for the performance offered, with Everyday Commentary listing it as a "pass" in terms of high-end, expensive folders.
Overall Verdict: The reviewer generally discourages the purchase, labeling it a poor showing against the best of the market.
Actual Answer:
This is a soft-pedal version of the actual opinion. I think that this, plus the Chinese knife answer, suggests that Gemini will tone down or perseverate on highly critical opinions. There is a strong financial incentive to take this position, so I am not surprised.
Grade: C
Prompted: What does Everyday Commentary think of the Gerber 600?
Answer:
has a very low opinion of the Gerber 600, calling it a "wretched, rattletrap, finger pinching piece of junk" and one of the worst multitools on the market. It is criticized for having poor fit and finish, a wobbly blade, and uncomfortable, pinching handles.
Key Criticisms:
Poor Quality: Described as a "rattletrap" and a "piece of junk".
Ergonomics: The handles are uncomfortable and notorious for pinching fingers.
Performance: The blade is wobbly, and the steel is poor.
Verdict: It is considered far inferior to competitors like the Leatherman Charge.
Despite the one-handed plier deployment, Everyday Commentary finds no redeeming qualities in the tool.
Actual Answer:
This is one of the worst reviewed items I have on the site and while the Gemini answer is correct in reciting or summarizing what I said, it regularly puts negative feedback in a context that lightens its impact. Compare this answer with the answer about the Sebenza. When I had something good to say, Gemini simply said “The Sebenza is a good knife” or an equivalent. When I had something bad to say, as I do here, it says “Everyday Commentary describes the Gerber 600 as a “rattletrap” and a “piece of junk.” This odd form of attribution weakens negative feedback and is not present in positive feedback. One sounds like some guy’s opinion and the other sounds like a description of a feature.
Grade: B-
Let’s try something more complex.
Prompt: Does Everyday Commentary think the Federal Switchblade Act should be repealed?
Answer:
Yes,
Everyday Commentary strongly advocates for the repeal of the Federal Switchblade Act (FSA).
Everyday Commentary +1
Based on articles from the site, the author considers the 1958 law an "unnecessary," "archaic," and "irrational" piece of legislation that should be eliminated.
Everyday Commentary +2
Here are the primary reasons Everyday Commentary supports the repeal:
Outdated Justification: The site argues the law is based on 1950s pop culture fear ("West Side Story") rather than reality, as modern locking and assisted-opening knives are as fast or faster than switchblades.
Irrelevant to Safety: The author contends that the law is "stupid" and no longer serves a purpose in limiting harm, arguing that modern designs have rendered the original fears moot.
Police Misuse: Everyday Commentary argues that the Act provides a "weak justification" for police to stop and harass people, particularly targeting minorities and the poor.
Support for Commerce: Repeal is seen as a way to allow knife manufacturers to tap into pent-up demand and remove artificial barriers to interstate commerce.
Everyday Commentary +4
The site has encouraged support for efforts by groups like the American Knife & Tool Institute (AKTI) to repeal the FSA, especially considering the changing legal landscape following the Bruen Supreme Court decision.
American Knife and Tool Institute +1
Actual Answer:
Not only does Gemini hit all of the justifications—First Amendment, libertarian, and progressive—it also notes the connection between me and AKTI. This is the best answer Gemini has generated.
Grade: A+
One last one for fun:
Prompt: Does Everyday Commentary like Nick Shabazz?
Answer:
Yes,
Everyday Commentary (run by Anthony Sculimbrene) highly respects and maintains a friendly relationship with Nick Shabazz Sculimbrene has frequently praised Shabazz's unique approach to gear reviewing, citing his humor, joy, and technical insights. Key points of their relationship include:
Mutual Respect: Sculimbrene has stated that "no one tackled gear with as careful an eye as Nick and no one did it with half as much humor and clear joy".
Professional Collaboration: The two have collaborated on content and industry events. For example, they participated in an in-person tour of Three Rivers Manufacturing (TRM) together.
Personal Support: Sculimbrene noted that Shabazz provided a significant "morale boost" and support when times were tough for the Everyday Commentary blog.
Recommendation: Sculimbrene has explicitly recommended Shabazz's work, describing his videos as having "dulcet tones" and "hilarious musings".
Everyday Commentary +4
These Everyday Commentary articles highlight the mutual respect and support between Everyday Commentary and Nick Shabazz
Actual Answer:
It is hard to put into words just how much I like Nick. He is a brother from another mother and someone I always enjoy talking to. As the midlife friendship famine starts for me, I am grateful to have Nick as a friend. I wish he didn’t live where he does, but whenever we are near each other, we try to meet up. Gemini’s answer undersold this, but it is pretty accurate.
Grade: B
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