Hmmm...Knives and backpacks. I idolize Arc'teryx backpacks, and I use them constantly...but I'm also extra careful to not unnecessarily abuse them. I want them to last a long time and stay in great shape to cover the serious emergency I hope I never find myself in. Otherwise I use them everyday with reasonable care. I bought every one of them on a reduced price sale, usually 50 to 60% off at my local retailer. I'm just patient and wait until the right time to buy or make a deal with the manager.

Last count I have 13 pieces of a variety of Arc'teryx backpacks and butt packs, but again at substantially reduced prices. Most of them are day packs so I rotate them for the fun of it.
If I really want to abuse a backpack I'll use a GI combat patrol pack.

Then there are knives; I buy high quality production knives and again I use them with reasonable care; so much of the time they remain in good to excellent condition with minimal signs of wear. I don't need to rip open a can with my Kabar to prove it will do it. I know it will do it, so why scratch the heck out of the finish for nothing?

This evening I needed to go to my car a couple of times, but couldn't do it due to a loose, aggressive mixed breed dog. He became such a problem I called Animal Control to come and get him. But while trying to get to my car, if he had attacked me, I wouldn't care if my Kabar picked up some blemishes.

And in response to "The Chaplain"; I'm repacking and checking my BOBs all the time, making adjustments for the weather, etc. My wife doesn't mind it for me to do this to take care of US if something happens and its needed. And she likes the fact that I take my gear with me even on short fishing and hiking ventures. I won't find myself in a spot like the Christmas tree hunters. I hope they learned something. (they were lucky to be found in time).

And my favorite watch: military style $36.00 Timex Expedition
Favorite flashlight: Maglight with AA batteries. Works good enough for me and cheap enough to replace.