It might explain a knife shop in South America, if that was the only place on the planet where knives could be found.

First of all, a good knife is a piece of artwork, with the symmetry of its sloping blade and the glint of the honed edge, the detail of the hilt, the guard, all that scrollwork. On polished display, it's sure to brighten most any room.

Second, there's the defense factor. Who would believe anyone would have more than a fistful of keys to fend off an attacker, and would have not the slightest regret when it comes to slicing a would-be attacker’s carotid artery?

Third, would be the image, adding a swagger to the walk, realizing you are carrying a deadly weapon down a crowded street, whether displayed or not.

As a weapon of aggressive choice, it could become a very silent killer and, used effectively, remain utterly untraceable, regardless what CSI Miami might want to say about it. Sort of like one's weapon of choice being a Bear, and bullet of choice being a nicely bladed K-Mart brand arrow -- cheap but effective.

From the shiv to the Claymore, collectables all.