Selling Out - Whose Recommendation Can You Trust
Cooper and I were just watching Eastmans Hunting TV on the Outdoor Channel and Mike Eastman comes on to do what seems like a genuine, sincere gear review slash recommendation. He explains how great Havalon knives are. Well, Mr. Eastman, I agree. I gave Havalon a GREAT GEAR RECOMMENDATION almost three years ago but it is always nice to hear somebody, especially somebody famous, agree with me.
Here's the rub. Not five minutes later they run a commercial where the announcer says that Eastmans Hunting TV is proudly sponsored by...you guessed it...Havalon knives. Coop turns to me with a look of incredulity that only a 13 year old can muster and says hey that's the knife he just recommended, what's that all about? Yea, I know. That's the problem. Does Mike Eastman really believe that knife is the best or is he just selling advertising space? We don't know.
You see it in the magazines too. This is how it works folks, this is how you sell out, sell product and make money in this business.
Speaking of TV, I have not seen it yet because I don't get The Sportsman Channel but I hear that the new Meateater show is a good one. Can't wait to see it myself.
Thanks.
Wade Nelson
Editor
Sorting through the fads and fashion of the outdoor equipment industry to identify and promote the very best wilderness gear for high end recreational users, backcountry professionals and government agencies.
We can be educated and persuaded but not bought, bullied or bs'd. Hardcore Outdoor is dedicated to those who can't or won't turn back.
Here's the rub. Not five minutes later they run a commercial where the announcer says that Eastmans Hunting TV is proudly sponsored by...you guessed it...Havalon knives. Coop turns to me with a look of incredulity that only a 13 year old can muster and says hey that's the knife he just recommended, what's that all about? Yea, I know. That's the problem. Does Mike Eastman really believe that knife is the best or is he just selling advertising space? We don't know.
You see it in the magazines too. This is how it works folks, this is how you sell out, sell product and make money in this business.
Speaking of TV, I have not seen it yet because I don't get The Sportsman Channel but I hear that the new Meateater show is a good one. Can't wait to see it myself.
Thanks.
Wade Nelson
Editor
Sorting through the fads and fashion of the outdoor equipment industry to identify and promote the very best wilderness gear for high end recreational users, backcountry professionals and government agencies.
We can be educated and persuaded but not bought, bullied or bs'd. Hardcore Outdoor is dedicated to those who can't or won't turn back.
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