Is Cutco a SCAM or Pyramid Scheme? – Cutco Knives Review

Hello, and welcome to my Cutco MLM review. So what is it about? Is Cutco cutlery a scam or legit? Or maybe, is Cutco a pyramid scheme in disguise?

When you visit their website, you’ll discover that they sell knives. It might pique your interest, but you’re probably wondering if it’s legitimate.

Don’t worry, because I’ve done extensive research on this business opportunity, saving you precious time.

In this review, we’ll thoroughly examine the Cutco Knives company to determine if it’s a legitimate MLM or a scam. So keep reading!

I’ve personally tested over 600 courses, scams, and various schemes to find the best way to make money online.

Rest assured, my Cutco review will provide an honest and unbiased assessment.

I’ll address all your questions in this review and provide you with a clear understanding of the company. We’ll explore whether Cutco is a scam pyramid scheme or a legitimate MLM.

 

Is Cutco a Scam?

Cutco MLM is not a scam. The company offers a range of good products for selling and making money. However, there are several red flags with this MLM, which is why I don’t recommend it.

Cutco has a long-standing reputation for producing high-quality products. However, since Vector Marketing joined, there have been numerous lawsuits, as mentioned earlier.

One of the main issues is the misrepresentation of the company, particularly the false claim that you can earn $15 per hour. In reality, you are only paid per appointment, and the job appears to involve “cold calling.”

While there is a product to sell, there is still a possibility that you may not earn. Not everyone can afford the high prices, as who would buy a knife that costs $100 or more?

Selling knives can be great because they are useful and essential in every household. However, I don’t believe this opportunity will lead to good earnings.

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What Is Cutco?

Cutco Knives is a company that has been around since 1949. It was founded by Alcoa and Case Cutlery and is based in Olean, New York.

Cutco operates as a direct sales company and offers kitchen knives through its multi-level marketing (MLM) entity called Vector Marketing.

In addition to kitchen knives, Cutco also manufactures and sells sporting, hunting, and pocket knives.

All of Cutco’s products are proudly made in the USA and are highly regarded for their exceptional quality, backed by a lifetime guarantee.

Chances are, you came across Cutco because someone introduced you to the company. It could have been through an online workshop, webinar, or an in-person information session.

You might have been told that the key to building a successful business is to sell Cutco products to your family and friends, while also enlisting them in a subscription for monthly recurring profits.

Unfortunately, like many people who fall for these types of schemes, you’ll soon realize that the well dries up faster than expected.

So, is Cutco a scam or a pyramid scheme? Will it make you any money? Should you join? Is Cutco legit? Find out in my Cutco MLM review!

Related: Mary Kay Review

What Is Vector Marketing?

In 1972, Alcoa acquired Case’s share of the company. Later, in 1982, Alcas’ management purchased the entire company from Alcoa. In 1985, Alcas also acquired Vector Marketing Corporation.

Vector Marketing is a multi-level marketing company that handles the sales of Cutco Corporation.

Vector Marketing is a direct sales company that primarily advertises through newspapers, posters, and various online media.

They target stay-at-home students, particularly graduate students, enticing them with potential employment opportunities to sell their products. Additionally, Cutco sellers may attempt to recruit individuals into their MLM model to earn extra bonuses.

You have been hired as a door-to-door salesperson for Vector Marketing.

Here is some more information about Vector Marketing: In 1985, Cutco acquired Vector Marketing, making them their top seller and enabling them to replicate Vector’s success in other regions.

It is important to note that if you encounter an ad or receive a call offering a job opportunity to sell Cutco products, the call is from Vector Marketing, not directly from Cutco.

During my research, I discovered that Vector Marketing has faced controversy. Wisconsin ordered them to cease providing dishonest information to students, and there have been a number of lawsuits.

In 1996, the Washington Post reported that almost half of the recruits earned nothing, with some even losing money.

Despite the criticism they receive, Vector Marketing continues to operate and remains the leading seller of Cutco Cutlery. If you prefer a video review, I have found an interesting video on YouTube.

What Kind Of Knives Is Cutco Selling?

Before diving into how Cutco MLM works, let’s take a quick look at some of their products.

Here is a list of the types of knives that Cutco is selling:

  • Kitchen Knives
  • Table & Steak Knives
  • Sporting Knives
  • Knife Sets
  • Table & Steak Knives
  • Knife Gift Sets

Knife block sets are among the popular products on the list.

Cutco Knives review

Although this one is a bit expensive, it does come with a lifetime guarantee and free sharpening.

  • The Ultimate Set – includes 32 knives and an oak block.
  • The Homemaker Set – consists of 10 knives.
  • The Space Saver Set – consists of 5 knives.
  • The Studio Set – includes 4 knives.

The knives are exceptional because they are all made in the USA. Additionally, their handles are crafted from thermo-resin, providing greater strength, dishwasher endurance, and long-term durability.

Possibly the biggest selling point of these products is the Lifetime guarantee. Many individuals claim to have owned these knives for over 60 years!

However, one common question that arises from people interested in selling these products is whether Cutco MLM is a pyramid scheme or a scam. In this review, we will delve deeper to find out…

Is Cutco a Pyramid Scheme?

Cutco is technically not a pyramid scheme. It is a registered and accepted business that is legal in most countries. The conventional business model they follow is a “straight sales” model where you can make payments from anything they offer.

However, the newer “Cutco at home” program provides bonuses for any sales made by people you hire. This often implies that representatives make the most money when they recruit more individuals into their “down line”. Thus, Cutco appears like a pyramid scheme in disguise.

So, is it? Before answering that, let’s understand what a pyramid scheme is…

What Is Pyramid Scheme?

A pyramid scheme is a fraudulent system for making money that relies on recruiting an ever-increasing number of “investors”. Initially, the promoters recruit investors, who then go on to recruit more investors, and so on.

The name “pyramid” comes from the fact that the number of investors grows at each level.

Cutco Cutlery offers a variety of products, allowing employees to earn money through marketing. However, it is important to note that this is not a pyramid system.

If the sole means of income was solely based on recruiting new members, then it would indeed be considered a pyramid scheme.

Is Cutco Cutlery Pyramid Scheme in Disguise?

Despite some reviews that may portray Cutco as a pyramid scheme, it is important to note that the company ensures that only salespersons with a proven track record join their team.

Additionally, if you do not receive an opportunity with Cutco, they reimburse the upfront cost. Over the years, the company has built a strong reputation in its niche and has gathered thousands of independent agents in the United States and Canada.

Therefore, it is safe to say that Cutco is not a pyramid scheme in disguise.

Related: Herbalife Pyramid Scheme

Is Cutco MLM Legit Business?

Cutco Cutlery is often regarded as a scam, but technically it is not.

While it is possible to earn money with this program, it is definitely not as easy as the company portrays. The upfront work required is substantial, success is not guaranteed, and the actual commissions are quite small.

Recruiting others and front-loading the work to reap the rewards later is not inherently wrong. However, if you find yourself grinding it out for three months only to receive a meagre $50 compensation, it may not be worth it.

Based on these reasons, I cannot recommend Cutco to you or anyone else. Nonetheless, it is important to note that Cutco is legitimate, so the ultimate decision rests with you.

I hope this review of Cutco has assisted you in making an informed choice.

Alternative: On the other hand, if you’re looking for the best business model to earn passive income online as a beginner, there are other, more suitable, and cost-effective alternatives.

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How Does Cutco MLM Work?

Cutco, like other MLM companies, relies on its members to promote and sell their products rather than engaging in traditional advertising. As a representative, you can earn a 10% commission for your efforts.

However, the specific responsibilities and requirements for becoming a representative are not clearly defined.

Here’s an overview of how it works:

  • Cutco advertises a job opportunity for students, offering $15 per appointment.
  • Students go through a rigorous interview process consisting of multiple stages.
  • Upon selection, you will attend a 3-day training course that spans approximately 7 hours each day.
  • As part of your training, you will be asked to create a list of people you know.
  • You will then make calls to your friends and relatives, using a provided sales script.
  • Your goal is to book a presentation, also known as a sales pitch.
  • During the presentation, you will utilize a pre-made sales script to showcase and sell the knives.
  • For each sale, you will receive a commission ranging from 10-50% or a minimum of $15, depending on which amount is greater.

Please note that while these basic steps are provided, Cutco’s requirements may not be explicitly stated beyond them.

Related Review: Is Kangen Water a Scam?

How To Start Selling Cutco Knives?

To join the Cutco MLM scheme and become a sales representative for their products, you need to go through the following steps:

  1. Apply for an interview and meet their requirements.
  2. Once hired, participate in a three-day training course.
  3. Provide a list of referrals as requested.
  4. Receive a sales script and presentation to reach out to potential clients.
  5. Earn from 10 to 50% commission on all sales or a guaranteed base pay of $15, whichever is higher.

How Much Does It Cost To Join Cutco?

Cutco offers a great advantage: no membership fees are required to join. Becoming a sales representative, however, requires completing training provided by Vector Marketing.

During this training, you will learn how to effectively demonstrate and pitch Cutco products.

Once you become a member, Cutco provides a product sample for demonstration purposes, which is quite helpful. Additionally, you can borrow sample kits and return them when you decide to quit.

To remain an active member, you are required to sell $100 worth of knives or products each month.

If you fail to meet this requirement, there are two choices: return the knife kits or purchase them for $75, which is more affordable than the original price.

However, there is a catch. You are responsible for your business presentation expenses such as travel, gas, and necessary equipment. These costs can add up and become quite expensive.

While there are no membership fees involved, keep in mind the potential expenses you may incur during your Cutco journey.

Can You Make Money With Cutco MLM?

Cutco can be a source of income, but it requires time and effort to sell the products convincingly.

Familiarizing yourself with the product is crucial. While you can earn some money, it may not be sufficient for your needs.

Before proceeding with my Cutco scam review, please watch the video below for a first-hand experience with this MLM.

How To Make Money With Cutco MLM?

With Cutco MLM, there are two ways to make money:
Selling the products to earn a commission.
Getting bonuses from the sales of people you recruit into the company.

For Cutco at home, the earning opportunities are as follows:

  • Commission on sales (20-30%).
  • Bonus on your downline sales (1-10% as long as they sell $1,000+ per month).

To receive payment, you need to submit a complete qualified presentation report to your office manager every week for tracking purposes. Additionally, signing a standard Sales Representative Agreement is required, along with a security deposit of $200 for your demonstration knives.

If you choose the second route, here is the compensation plan:

What Is Cutco Compensation Plan?

With Cutco, you have the opportunity to earn a commission on sales ranging from 10-50%. Alternatively, you can earn $15 for each presentation, whichever amount is higher.

It’s worth noting that the duration of the presentation is not around an hour. This misconception may have caused confusion regarding the $15 per hour payment.

Here’s a breakdown of the structure based on your previous sales:

  • $0-1,000 = 10% commission
  • $1,001-3,000 = 15% commission
  • $3,001-6,000 = 20% commission
  • $6,001-10,000 = 25% commission
  • $10,001-20,000 = 30% commission
  • $20,001-30,000 = 30% commission + 5% bonus
  • $30,001-50,000 = 30% commission + 10% bonus
  • $50,001-150,000 = 30% commission + 15% bonus
  • $150,001+ in career sales = 30% commission + 20% bonus

Cutco MLM Review - Compensation Plan

How Do I Get Out From Cutco MLM?

To quit your job as a Cutco MLM representative, follow these steps:

  1. Write a letter of resignation including the necessary identification information such as your full name and ID number. Mention the final date of your employment.
  2. Hand deliver the letter to your supervisor. Make sure to keep a copy for yourself.
  3. Send a copy of the letter to the Human Resources function in your organization, either through email or postal mail.
  4. Request written verification of receipt from HR if you do not receive it automatically.

It is important to follow these steps to ensure a formal and proper resignation process.

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What I Like About Cutco MLM

Wondering if Cutco is a scam or legit? Keep reading this Cutco review to find out! Below, we have listed the pros and cons that you need to consider before proceeding any further.

You Get Paid $15 per Lead

You will be paid $15 per effective visit, which is a promise they assure you of fulfilling if you engage in client discussions. Additionally, there is potential for extra earnings if your leads make a purchase.

Cutco MLM Scam or Pyramid Scheme

Cutco Knives are High-Quality Product

Cutco’s item quality has received a lot of positive feedback, and what sets it apart is the fact that cooks around the world are not only using them but also recommending them.

Lots Of Positive Product Reviews

While I have come across many complaints about the business, interestingly enough, I haven’t found a single person who has complained about the quality of the knives!

Cutco knives Positive Product Reviews

It’s a wonderful indication that CUTCO is not a scam if individuals who use their products are satisfied and happy with them.

Cutco Provides Training and Sales Material

Cutco provides comprehensive sales training for each new recruit.

They are given a well-written sales pitch script as a starting point, which can be personalized as needed. This training helps develop both your leadership and sales skills.

What I Don’t Like About Cutco MLM

In my review, however, here are some of the things I don’t like about Cutco MLM:

Handful of Lawsuits

Cutco has a great line of products but unfortunately, it faced legal issues when Vector Marketing entered the picture. Here’s why:

In 1990, Vector was sued by the Arizona Attorney General because it misrepresented its compensation system.

Furthermore, in 2014, a girl was violently sexually assaulted by one of her customers while working for Vector. As a result, she filed a lawsuit against the company for not providing adequate training to prevent such situations.

There’s a lot more. If you want to know the rest of it, click on this link.

Expensive Products

The products are quite expensive, with prices reaching thousands of dollars.

Cutco Knives Expensive Products

How can you sell that knife at such a low cost? Furthermore, not everyone can afford it.

No Compensation Plan On The Website

If you want people to join, this is the most crucial aspect of the business.

However, it appears that this company pays little attention to considering the needs of potential members.

No Income Disclosure

If you’re selling to make money with this company, how can you prove people are earning without income disclosure on your website?

Low Commissions

Selling face-to-face, a 10% commission might not seem like much. However, to make it worthwhile, you need to sell over $150 worth of products. That can be a significant amount to spend on knives.

For instance, if you manage to sell $300 worth of products, you’ll only get a $30 commission, not $15.

One member gives an example where the company promises a $15/hour job with good hours and benefits. However, in reality, the pay is only commission-based, and if you’re lucky, you might make minimum wage.

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Final Words On Cutco Review – Is Cutco A Scam or A Pyramid Scheme?

After conducting an in-depth review, I’ve established that Cutco MLM is a legitimate business opportunity and not a pyramid scheme or a scam. They offer high-quality products with a lifetime guarantee, demonstrating their confidence in their offerings.

However, it’s worth noting that Cutco products tend to be quite expensive and may not be affordable for everyone. While there is potential to make money with Cutco, it’s important to have good sales and marketing skills, as well as the ability to connect with others.

It’s worth considering alternative ways to earn money if you’re not comfortable with selling or don’t possess strong marketing abilities.

There are many alternatives available that don’t require pressuring friends and family to join a company solely for financial gain.

Thank you for taking the time to read my review of Cutco. While it’s not a scam or pyramid scheme, I don’t wholeheartedly recommend it.

There are other more viable options for creating a legitimate income online.

Related: Primerica Pyramid Scheme

Cutco MLM Review PROS

  • Free to join
  • Develop sales and leadership skills
  • Good quality products
  • The company has been around for years

Cutco MLM Review CONS

  • Expensive
  • Low-income opportunity
  • Handful of lawsuits
  • NO income disclosure
  • Targeting fresh graduate students
  • It will cost you more money 

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And don’t forget to share this Cutco review with your friends and family! 

21 thoughts on “Is Cutco a SCAM or Pyramid Scheme? – Cutco Knives Review”

  1. While Cutco may not be a scam or an MLM, it does not have a good reputation with the young people they hired as salespeople. My son actually went to work for them a few years ago and found that any sales he made had to be closed by his “coach” which prevented him from receiving his commissions. It is widely known among the new hires that the commission they are due will not come to them but to their coach instead. This secret is closely guarded among the employees.

    Jerry

    Reply
  2. It was my first time seeing an MLM company involved in household equipment like knives. I like the marketing strategy where Cutco only signs up salespersons with good marketing histories. Still, this does not change the usual MLM structure where people at the bottom only work for those on top. It points to why they will continue to have a lot of law suites because marketers and clients are aggrieved. Thank you for pointing out a better way to make money – affiliate marketing

    Reply
  3. Cutco is not a scam; it’s just another classic MLM company to me. I don’t necessarily like the MLM system because I prefer selling something that I’ve created. But I understand that it can be a good experience to refine your sales skills. I don’t know how they can sell knives sets all the time. I could understand that for beauty products, but for knives???

    Reply
  4. Thank you for this review over Cutco Knives.  I have never tried to get a job with them before, but I have a friend who uses the kitchen knives and he loves them.  However, you are right, in that it’s great they don’t have a startup fee, but doing all the presentations and all that, moving around, that will cost a lot of money.

    Reply
  5. I never understood how all these MLM companies can make enough sales and make profit like this. Ok, I know that not all MLMs are the same and some of them have some actually good products but most of them sell overpriced items and you need to have a big enough network to succeed in it. In my opinion anyone who want to start an online business should stay away from any kind of MLMs. This is not a beginners job and is very hard to be successful this way.

    Reply
  6. This review on ‘Is Cutco a Scam or Legit?’ provides a thorough background an history of the company. I appreciate the fact that it includes facts about issues within the company itself. Although this company is legit and the offerings are not a scam, as a consumer $1,500 is a lot to pay for some knives, in my opinion. The commission for an affiliate is even less tasteful at 10%. I would definitely pass on this opportunity.

    Reply
  7. After reading your review and looking at Cutco website, basically, this is an MLM company. Where if you signup if you earn anything at all be very small, and to really make money with this company got to recruit and harass people to signup. I think going to stay away for now, as too not sure if their products are of good quality. 

    Reply
    • Cutco has been a popular MLM for ages, but in my opinion, there are much better ways to make money. Affiliate marketing is my top recommendation.

      Ivan

      Reply
  8. Thank you for this indepth review of Cutco knives. I worked for a MLM company and know how difficult it is to make money with the MLM business model if you are not continously recruiting and building a downline. The fact that Cutco doesn’t even have a compensation plan, immediately makes me suspicious about the earning possibility. Combined with the law cases they have faced, and the lack of an income disclosure, will make me avoid Cutco. 

    Reply
  9. The pattern is very similar with most MLM companies. They have a highly priced product that may be of good quality or not so good and use sellers that try to sell the products to gain commissions. Also by recruiting others you get percentages from their sales also. It may not be a pyramid scheme exactly but I have seen the same pattern again and again. The most obvious problem here is the highly priced products. When there are so many cheap alternatives in the market it is almost impossible to sell their products and also you need to have a vast network in order to get enough in return. Not worth it in my opinion.

    Reply
  10. As a DIY self proclaimed chef, I can appreciate a good knife set. Cutco sounds like a legitimate company with a good set of knives. If the products work then they’re easier to sell in the long run; so I personally would give Cutco a try. It’s pretty hard to mess up selling knives, unless you’re just uneducated on how they work.

    Reply
  11. My little sister sent me a link through WhatsApp to Cutco. My dad is a chef, and we have all been fans of high-quality knives and kitchen products. I like that it’s free to join, but the handful of lawsuits you have mentioned have discouraged me a lot. I think I’ll keep my feet away from these guys. Thank you!

    Reply
  12. HI Alex. Thank you for very interesting article. I haven’t heard about Cutco program before but looking on your review its clear to me that its outdated model with limited possibilities of earning decent money. With so many online possibilities I can’t imagine people would be actually interested in direct sell. Maybe company is not a scam (as they are producing high quality knives) but I wouldn’t recommend this program to anyone

    Reply

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