What you said is right on the money. When I first started collecting, I checked one out and was unimpressed. Five years, and many customs later, the next time I handled one, I realized how elegant the knife is. No other "production" knife I've held touches it.
Truly a work of art. Love this knife and the quality and craftsmanship that goes into the engineering of the knife. Why so many haters? If a four to five hundred dollar knife is not for you, don't bash the people that may feel otherwise.
About 6 years ago, I had a large Sebenza...with the CAD/laser engraving on one side of the handles and the colors they reflected. Polished blade...a beautiful knife. Unfortunately, it was lost when I was my old SVN unit reunion. Slipped right out of the pocket of my jeans...and it was clipped in...and somehow gone. Someone picked up a fine piece of steel...I hope they knew how to take care of it and appreciated what they found. Talk about painful...great knife. I just ordered another large Sebenza, plain, with the stone washed blade, this time. Nice accompaniment to my Strider, Duane Dwyer and Elishewitz custom folders.
Ahh...where to begin with this comment! :) I'm tempted to just make a VR (and indeed may well). As usual our host Rob here at TAP channel has hit the nail on the head. I was a bit of a Sebenza skeptic *before* purchasing one. And initially after getting mine, while impressed with it's quality, wasn't necessarily overwhelmed by it from an overall knife perspective (not underwhelmed, just not overwhelmed). But after now having mine a couple months my impression of it overall just continues to climb, nay rocket up! :) Spend some time with it, get to know it...and I predict most people will come to appreciate similarly. :)
Got a large Sebenza with micarta inlays and I would say this: it's a awesome knife and I don't regret buying it but I think it's very much over priced.. There are tons of knives out there that costs half as much (or less) that's equally good but I mean you buy a Sebenza because that's what you want a Chris Reeve Sebenza. But I would never recommend anybody wanting a good folding knife to buy one. But if that's what you want definitely go for the ones with inlays!! They give you a much better grip...
What knives would you recommend or point me towards that are of the same or close to the same caliber. I’m looking to use my knife as a tool. I don’t mind spending X amount for decent tool. But I’m also not into overpaying just for the name sake.
I've saved my cash for the big Knife & Gun show this weekend and I plan to buy a few knives and I'm looking at my first small Sebenza. I like 2.7" - 3.00" blades for EDC. I like the style and I have a couple of the Sanrenmu "Poor Man's Sebenza's" that I still wonder how they make those for $12. What other "quality" knives should I look for this weekend in that size & style besides the Chris Reeve?
Great question! Without knowing your budget, here are a few I'd suggest... Ontario Rat 2 ($30), Spyderco Sage 1,2 or 3 ($90-140), Benchmade Mini Presidio ($90), Spyderco Bradley Air ($140), Benchmade 940 ($150-175, longer than 3" but trust me on this one), Ka Bar Dozier Folder ($20). Not a Chinese knife in the bunch, and all great EDC blades. Good luck!
Thanks. I have some of those and I seem to grab my Rat II every damn day lately! I don't care if it is a cheapo. I'm planning on stepping up a bit. I just bought my first $200+ folder a Spyderco Native Ti flutted model and want to look a bit more towards more exclusive, less mass produced knives like the CR Sebenza. I like that style and size but I just didn't know any to keep an eye out for. Probably looking in the $300-$500 range max for now but if I keep up doing the blade crack I could be an addict!
Dude! I forgot one... the Lionsteel SR-2 / SR-2A would be a great addition to your collection. They're under $200 for aluminum and low to mid $300's for titanium.
The simplicity of the Sabenza is slowly growing on me. Never cared much for the giant "tactical" knives. Maybe one day I'll take the plunge and get one. I've been eyeing a raindrop damascus with cocobolo for some time now
@TheApostleP - hey quick question for you, so on my large Inkosi is a stonewash finish, awesome knife however I spotted 3 little dots that appear to be rust:/ I've tried WD40 and steel wool I've also tried mineral oil with steel wool and also goofoff and I've had no luck. Do you have any other suggestions? I really appreciate it I don't know what else to try.
Subbed :-) When it comes to the pricetag I think its a little bit overpriced for a production knife but by all means its a very good feel knife. I carry my 21 very often and love the silkely feel of it and digg to play around with it.
It's along the lines of someone who buys a finely crafted 1911 vs a Glock. Nothing wrong with the Glock, it works, but it has no soul. Or a Swiss-made watch vs a timex.
@geheimschriver except you can tour the shop and see them all being made. Watch a youtube video called meet your maker ( chris reeves). With that said, I i like benchmade better myself.
@@jonathanchamblee7863 I don't think I could really use a Sabenza as intended. It would just sit around like art. With a higher end Benchmade, many people hesitate in the same way, wanting to leave it safely at home. But once a person EDC's a $100-200 knife, it becomes normal, just don't lose it. A $500 knife though, I don't think I could ever normalize carrying that and I bet there's a lot of Chris Reeve knives sitting in glass cases. Which is kind of tragic.
To me a knife is a tool. Quality and reliability are the top attributes in my mind. I like the Sebenza for those reasons. As far as a tactical knife go for something with a fixed blade.
Great video, but what would've been even better is if you had shown "cheaper" knives and compared them to the Sebenza when espousing its qualities/benefits. That would've been helpful to show if there is an actual difference in quality, at least to people like me who aren't experts on knives yet.
Trust me ...i got around 20 folding knife Once i bought small sebenza , i know why its so famous..... But i found that 80% of its good feeling is because of the width of the knife I dont know why other brand knife s width is larger... Sorry my english is not good..
its ok my good man, the country that you are from....i dont speak that language good. but we both can enjoy knives so we arent that different! ....Bear,Dallas Texas U.S.A.🔪🗽🔪🏯🔪🐻🔪
Interesting commentary. My EDC for more than a decade has been one of the NICA Small Sebenzas with the tanto BG-42 blade. That knife has opened countless boxes and broken down an amazing amount of cardboard. I usually clean the adhesive/tape residue by cutting cardboard and strop it on a box surface afterwards. The blade has been well used, and the titanium scales show the scars of usage. The action is still smooth, there is no blade play, and the frame lock is as solid as it was when the knife was new. It should be good for at least another decade of use.
I'm sorry you thought i was rude and I apologize if you got that sensation from what I've said! I own a pocket knife myself, not that expensive of course, but the only practical use i ever had for it was to sharpen my pencil. I was simply curious to know if there is any practical argument for purchasing a 450$ pocket knife?
cristiandemirel1918 Sorry for the misunderstanding. Apology accepted. But to answer your question... Yes! I use my Sebenzas almost every day, for lots of uses, from opening mail to breaking down boxes, to cutting food, to sharpening pencils.
TheApostleP Well ApostleP, I'm not going to be so nice, nor am I going to appoligize for it, but you foo foo boys that buy such overpriced horse crap, say you buy them to use then while talking in the vid say things like oh yes but it is starting to get some wear on the edges, and they show no signs of ever being resharpened make me laugh, then you say you use it to open mail, what a joke LOL, how bowt a couple bucks and shrades I own that have litrally field dressed 100's of elk, dear, bear and other critters over my 40+ years of hunting, and all the SERIOUS cutting and even chopping chores around camp while hunting, or the buck 110 folding hunter that I've owned since 1970, that has been resharpened so many times it has lost about a quarter of it's blade bredth, and that just recently got used All day to cut tar paper and shingles while re- roofing my mothers house, because I forgot to bring an actual utility knife (that's why that 110 is my everyday utility/whatever knife), clean all the tar off with some spray carb cleaner throw an edge back on it and shove it back in the pocket-no foo foo boy bullshit, after you go down those roads talk to me and see if you are of the same opinion.
I have been carrying a small sebenza for about 20 years. Have bought many other pocket knives during that time, but most of the time I carry the sebenza. I have used it for tasks that I wouldn't try with any of my other pocket knives, such as splitting kindling by bashing it on the back of the blade with a stick. It is a strong as a fixed blade, but rides in my pocket all day. Even at the price, I consider it a good value.
Great review, I stopped by a local store this week & they had 20+ different Sebenzas. It was great to see them all. Of the Chris Reeves knives I am thinking I might be picking up a Ti-Lock in the future. Thanks again & take care.
It’s interesting; in 2018 the Sebenza turned 28, the Spyderco Police turned 34 and the Buck 110 turned 54. All are just well made, not fidget friendly knives. Says a lot about what everyone outside of the “knife community” wants in a folding knife. Another really enjoyable video.
When I opened my large inkosi, I started a return! WTF, right???? 7 hours later, I cancelled the return. These knives are simply elegant. Elegant in simplicity. Mind you, I am a tanto guy. The tanto on the inkosi is amazing.
I agree Rob. I own several and so does the wife. Great knives but not fidget flickers. Even in 2019 this video is relevant. I have 12 spyderco and 15 benchmade. I owned nearly all of them before the sebenza. I thought it could be avoided. I held my first CR at GPknives in Troy Illinois. I was into knives enough to know it was special right away. Five years later, all I've bought are the Anthem and Spyder chef. I though the high price of the Anthem could make it an equal. It's one of my favorites, but it's not a large left 21. The lc200n on the chef is freaking great steal. I would be down for a large left cf 21 in lc200n!!! Long live the wear and tear. I always carry the new one constantly until slightly beaten. 9 of 10 days it's a CR. They will last for a lifetime and more. My daughter is 8 and she already likes them.
I own some awesome shirogorov's and some customs that my silver hardware Sebenza 21 large clip point has replaced in my pocket! It is barely breaking in and it is getting super smoooooth! I love it!
I don't own one but reading these comments its so obvious to see that a lot, not all but I would say a good percentage of the negative comments just reek of jealousy and envy. You can't justify spending the money that's certainly understandable but the need to bash others just because they have something you can't justify is just sad. It's no different then how 10 year olds act in a playground. This is RUclips so I can't say I'm really surprised. Just a observation from somebody with no skin in the game.
+Alan Wend 1st sentence I wrote said I did not own one so for u to say it was a generalized statement but directed at me makes no sense. It just proves my point on my original post that some and and now definitely you are just jealous. But did get one actually about a month and a half ago by my wife for my b day so either 1 you never held one or 2 your just another mall ninja with a cold steel in your pocket who believes their overbuilt locking system actually means something. And nothing against cold steel because I own a couple also but it's apple and oranges. Did I over pay. Well being I've owned and held a fair share of customs that had a price tag a lot higher then a CRK and some were not as good quality wise I say no I didn't over pay and consider it a great knife for the money. Considering you could get a benchmade for around $300 which doesn't come close to the quality of a crk not to mention a 100 other company's with knives that cost around the same or more then a crk
Why do you care if someone wastes their money? Why are you even watching a Sebenza video if you think they're a waste of money? I happen to think they're overpriced and I wouldn't buy one myself but if someone chooses to then good on them.
+Alan Wendt I didn't spend a dime. It was a gift and a great one at that. I'm sure in your small little brain you consider everything overpriced when compared to the knife that you edc if u even carry at all. Funny how everybody has something to say about crk but nothing about the countless other knives that are out there that are comparable in price or more expensive and off less quality. Wonder why that is. Even won more awards that I can remember and won those awards because his peers in the industry voted for him. That says something and in my opinion and countless other people who know, carry and use knives means more then some keyboard warrior reeking of jealously with a opinion.
***** No I don't watch a video if I have already formed a negative opinion of the content unless I wish to challenge my opinion, I don't go around telling people what value is to them.
I am not a collector, I am a 'user' of knives and at that price point I just cannot justify paying $400+ for any knife. I understand and have seen the workshop expense that goes into these knives but still will not pay that much money period. Great Video mate thanks for sharing
Well tbh, this is probably a collector's piece. I mean, everything that it offers in addition compared to a 50 dollar knife is beyond practical. It's just smoothness, better fit and finish, and that sort of stuff. If you want practicality and reliability and a good price, this isn't for you.
The manufacturing technologies have improved dramatically in the last 20 years, but these knives (Reeve, Emmerson, Mar, etc.) have not kept up. Today you can expect to get the same, or better level of performance from knives at half the cost, and they just might be made from better materials, and not just easy on the pocketbook, but easy to carry in the pocket.
This was a great video, and you captured what so few do - The Sebenza at first isn't "sexy", but then you use it - and you start realizing how everything just fits together, how even though it's "simple", it's still precision, how everything just seems to be where it should be, and there's no excess just as there is no reduction - it's balanced. The design is incredible, and the user experience of it every.single.time is the same. One thing a great product needs to do is to not just be enjoyable once, but to have consistency, to be the same experience every time. I have lots of knives, some of them double and triple the price of the Seb. Are they nicer in fit and finish? some of them. Are they sharper? some of them. is the blade grind better. yes. is the steel better? some of them. Are they "flashier/sexier"? absolutely. When I need a stand-by, something I can depend on, use quickly and efficiently - I go to my Seb every time. The seb is kind of like that one meal that mom can make that you can't seem to get better anywhere else. It might be simple, even boring - but you always come back to it, and miss it when you no longer have it. It's elegant and a perfect example of a simple well thought out machine. For 27 years now people have been trying to find something to replace it. That should speak volumes in and of itself.
I don't know jack about knives but a friend of mine has one. I liked the built quality and how it felt on the hand, I was curious and I ended up here. To be honest with you I had the hardest time opening his. As a total watch noob who only owns 1 $30 dollar knife I can say it is gorgeous, but pushing the blade out was rather challenging to the point of almost impossible. Just like your friend said "Man that knob is hurting my finger." Maybe one day I'll pony up for one of these. Happy to have found this video.
I've been part of the Sebenza debate more times than I care to count, but one more couldn't hurt. As mentioned, the Sebenza was 25 years old at the point this video was made. At the time it was introduced and gained it's reputation the measure of a good knife was much lower. At that time, even to most knife guys, a Buck 110 was top shelf, Case was great, and Gerber was some of the "best around." Spyderco was in it's obscure infancy and Benchmade(Pacific Cutlery at the time) had just bought out Balisong and began coast off their logo and reputation. Bottom line is that back then it just didn't have much competition. But today you have a myriad of knife companies producing knives that out perform Sebenzas left and right. Better designed, stronger, more ergonomic, better deployment, and yes even smoother knives are everywhere now. Many wearing a significantly lower price tag. As the industry has advanced and evolved to newer, bigger, and better things, the Sebenza has stayed roughly the same. Not because it has an all superior design and quality, but because people continue to enforce the belief that it does. Even in the video he mentions that he believes using other knives causes bad habits for operating a Sebenza. And why should anyone's hand have to get used to a knife when so many today are built for the hand? Knives like ZT 03-- models and many, many Spydercos like the Manix series or many of the Emersons that just melt into the hand right away are everywhere. Again, it's just reputation. If you place it on a pedestal before you ever even have one, of course you're probably going to make excuses for it's shortcoming, but when a genuinely objective person gets a hold of one and says, "This isn't great." people get up in arms and tell that person that they are stupid for not liking it.(Actually happened to me)
DeadBoysTwo I owned many Benchmades, Spydercos, Kershaws, Gerbers, CRTKT's, SOG's and other more current modern folders before purchasing my first Sebenza. Although I admired the legend, it was with great trepidation and a bit of skepticism that I finally bought it. Keep in mind, I'm a pretty objective knife collector and reviewer. My experience with knives I thought I really wanted, but really didn't like upon using them, is well documented on this channel. Also, I'm far too much of a cheapskate to spent $400+ on a folding knife more than once without being thoroughly convinced of its value. In fact, if my own discernment had proved the Sebenza to be a paper tiger, or expensive only because of its name, and not an extremely well built folder worth its price, I simply would have sold it and moved on. That said, I now own 6 Chris Reeve knives, 4 of them Sebenzas. I have sold most of the knives in the $150-300 range in my collection... to buy more CRK's. These have been exactly the knives you referenced in your comment. The fact is that I'm not an emotional fanboy of CRK. I'm about enduring value, and in my studied opinion formed over 30+ years collecting knives, I'm better served by one Sebenza than I am by 3 Benchmades, Spydercos or ZT's.. I don't dislike these knives -- not at all. But none of them, and I mean none, make a knife that even after 25 years, can hold a candle to a Sebenza in build quality, precision of manufacture or durability. It's fine that you like to debate this issue "more times than I care to count," and it's fine for you to be wrong every single time. That's your right, LOL! But to paraphrase Mr. Reeve, you don't have to spend $400 on a folding knife, but that's what it costs to own a knife built like a Sebenza, and CRK isn't going to cheapen the way a Sebenza is built in order to sell them for less money. Regarding all the technological "improvements" available in more recently designed modern folders, I believe there will come a time when nobody remembers ball bearing pivots, flippers, Auto LAWKS and Axis Locks... but you'll still be able to buy a brand new Sebenza... to sit in your safe next to the one you bought 30 years ago and is still going strong... and it might still be the best production folding knife in the world... period.
Sounds like you basically just said(with many more words) I'm stupid for not liking the Sebenza. It's a safe queen to light use knife at beast for 99% of the people I've ever known to have one. If you carry it every day and use it consistently things like those tight tolerances and great finish start to become a negative. Sand and other gritty substances get inside it and shred the finish worse than normal thanks to the narrow tolerances. Titanium locks wear away much faster than steel. Not to mention there are much more capable, easier to access locks now. Just because they have made and continue to make slip joint folder does not validate their superiority over other retention methods. And the case is the same with the Sebenza. It comes with a non-repositionable clip. The ergonomics are still sub par to newer folders. The blade itself is nowhere near as durable as many other options. And this is just me, but I absolutely loath deep cutouts for lock bars. I'm not a big fan of frame locks to start with but that's just salt in the wound. Not to mention I've come to the realization over the years that stuff happens to knives. They get broken, lost, stolen, etc. When that happens they have to be replaced. $400+ is a big dump to take on a knife if that happens. I work my knives to hard for that. I as a consumer am entitled to ask certain things from a knife, and reasonable cost is one of those things I choose. I'm not saying Sebenzas aren't good. I'm saying they are not the apex knife people make them out to be. But this is what I mean when I have this discussion. When I say I don't like it for *insert reasons here* Sebenza fans are always like, "No, you're wrong. You do like it. You just don't know it because you don't know jack about knives."
DeadBoysTwo Isn't that the beauty of consumerism, though? We are all entitled to our own opinions on the things we buy, don't buy, want to buy, and don't want to buy. As long as one can justify those reasons, then they are well-entitled to them, I believe. I don't think he's calling you or anyone stupid for not wanting to own a Sebenza, he's just justifying his reasons for liking them, that's all. ^^ I own roughly 30 knives ranging from Case, to Cold Steel, Spyderco, Microtech, Benchmade, and CRKT to name a few, and that includes one Sebenza 21. I got mine after saying for years I wouldn't because of the price (which I didn't feel the hype justified.) I just happened to get a really good deal on mine at the time. If I couldn't have made the deal that I did, I likely wouldn't have it. That said, it's a nice knife, it's very smooth, has a useful blade shape, and takes a very fine edge. It's actually most-comparable to my Microtech Socom Elite ( a knife I got a few years back because it was "tactic-cool". Yeah, I was dumb like that-still, it's a nice one too.) But after all that, I still prefer my Spydercos for some odd reason...probably their light-weight and quirky looks, if anything. Do I feel like the hype justifies the Sebenza's price? Nope. But do I also appreciate the craftsmanship, materials, tolerances, and customer service? Hell yes I do. Different strokes for different folks, ya know? For all the fans of other knives other than the Sebenza because they can't stomach the price (that said, if you look hard enough, one can get lucky), or because it doesn't meet their needs I hear ya loud and clear and you are well-entitled to your opinion, as said. For all the fans of the Sebenza, as long as you justify your opinion, you're just as entitled to it as those that don't like it (and please, don't flame people just for their opinions, especially if they justify them). Peace ^^
Exactly! Great video.. I know this is an old one, but everything you said couldn't be truer. I love my Sebenza. And I love the part you said about the casual knife guy not appreciating or understanding the knife :) yep! you have to get to know it :)
I recently bought a large 31. It’s still a 2 hander to open. Never seen a detent like this. I need to use it but it’s impractical if I can’t open and close it with one hand yet. Yours falls toward shut when you disengage the lock bar, mine doesn’t move a millimeter lol. I may have to try the polish method as I need to actually use the knife.
After handling many many knives, I have no desire to get the Sebenza. I honestly believe it's a fondling knife that only a handful of people in the world could afford & appreciate.
The great thing about having a hobby like pocket knives is that there is a knife out there for everybody, for every application. Some people are happy with a $14 Ka-Bar Warthog, and some are happy with a $400+ Sebenza or Umnumzaan. It sucks that some people feel that it is their duty to bash people for the knife they carry and try to convince them that they "wasted their money." After owning a large 21 and an umnumzaan, there is no other knife that really makes me as happy as they do. If somebody doesn't like CRK, they can just keep it to themselves and own other knives that make them happy. I really enjoyed your video Rob, I liked what you had to say!
The Sebenza Definitely has a break in period and I don't think a lot of people are prepared or even know about it even today with the 31 coming out. On top of that the thumbstood geometry is a little different as you stated and everyone just has to get "Sebenza Thumb" It's while that break in period occurs but once it does and for me on AA Savannah 21 small it was about 200-250 openings That it just went buttery smooth and opened with ease. On top of the fact that after opening and closing the knife that many times developed the muscle memory on how to manipulate the knife. As to the flipping has nothing to do with the size of the stop bar has to do with the Is fact you aren't preparing a harder material being as 35E in at a tremendous speed when you flick a knife open in an impact that stop bar which is a case hardened steel that is seated in a titanium scale AKA handle. It's a metallurgical fact that titanium is softer than steel and it will deform over time and it has and willl deform if you continuously do it on a regular basis. That's not to say that it will hurt the knife if you occasionally do it. But I've watched people who do it the way you demonstrated just a simple flick and then it will slowly progress to where they add a little bit of risk to it to a lot arrest. And what that does is it puts 50 to a 100 times the amount of force that is normally exerted on that blade and stop bar then it would if you had just normally opened it. That force is no different than heading to hammers together. It's called peening. What happens is one or both pieces of steel will begin to deform. Now imagine striking the case harden still hammer head against a titanium hammerhead eventually that titanium hammer will begin to deform and roll. This is exactly what happens with a titanium knife when continuously flicked open. There's no argument against what I'm saying it's just simple metalergy and physics. S35VN (HRC 59-60) is harder than Titanium (HRC 41).
Interesting! could you tell me why some other companies that are known to be some of the best in the industry like shirogorov and Hinderer solely make flipper knives with the only deployment method being a flip which causes a blade to deploy just as rapidly or harder than thumb flicking a sebenza... Wouldn't all flippers naturally have a design flaw and the stop pin of those knives is going to fail according to what you said? I have many flippers which I flip hard as I can for years with no problems to the stop pin... What are your thoughts on this
I've been pretty heavily into the knife Community for a decade or so and I've never heard of anyone wearing out their stop pin... Broken Omega Springs, chipped blades, thumb studs, broken scales, stripped screws etcetera.... No peening of the stop pin though I'm aware of has been an issue to those I know who own quite a few folders.... Again I'm not trying to argue... Cheers
@@BuffaloNickel9 Good question. A Ferrari isn't designed to tow a boat. Sure you could, but it would fail very soon. But a F 150 is designed (designed being g the word) to tow and take the abuse. Some flippers are designed to stand up to the abuse. But even the knives you mentioned fail as I've witnessed myself and listened to others who've lived through this misery. You can swim with sharks 1000 times and never get bit. It doesn't change the fact that sharks are wild lethal fish and you've just been lucky so far.
I got my first Sebenza in the mail last week. A large 21. I was worried, because I sold all of my other knives to get it without ever having held one. But, when I opened it up for the first time, I breathed a huge sigh of relief. “Oh man, ok, I get it,” was my first thought. I’m puzzled by the folks who think they made a mistake when they get their first sebenza. I’m also puzzled by the widespread thought that a sebenza is a safe queen, or to be treated daintily. This knife is a tool. It feels like a tool-like it belongs in a shop with sparks flying everywhere and black grease covering the coffee cans full of bolts and washers. It’s name is Work. And the warrantee and service plan only further that notion. “Use it, scratch it up, send it back to CR, and for the price of an oil change it’s like new again.” This feels like a product one would have bought in the romantic 50’s, with lifetime service and heirloom American quality. It’s expensive, absolutely. And maybe I’m not as reticent to use it because I traded up to it from a $38 knife over 8 months (instead of $450 cash, my sebenza cost me 8 months of time and many trips to the post office). But hot damn I can’t imagine ever going back to having a Spyderco or benchmade in my pocket. The knife I had before the sebenza was my first grail-the Slysz Bowie. As I said, I traded up to it from a Tenacious. I decided to sell it to buy the large 21, and I would absolutely do that again. It has nothing to do with the brand, and everything to do with what it is: an objectively superior product, a top of the line knife. Personally, I’ll never use anything else. This is my knife for life. And then it’ll be my son’s. By all means, buy Benchmades and Spydercos if you prefer them. That’s fine! Absolutely fine. They’re good companies that make good products. They’ll cut, and they’re reliable, and you should feel the pride that comes with a good decision if you own one. But to suggest they’re in the same ballpark as a Sebenza 21 is objectively wrong.
Are all Sebanza models feature linner locks? I tend to prefer other locking mechanisms over linners. I use to use folders to cut cardboard boxes alot back in the days, and I've noticed majority of my folders with linner locks end up having issues (compared to other locking mechanisms).
+Anthony Ramirez If I were to ever consider buying a Sebanza, it will be more for its historical value than for usage ( I do not purchase and collect knives for future money return investment). I personally dont think the Sebanzas price point offers much improvement or advantages than some of other knives that are half its price. But, to each his own. However, as far as folders from Chris Reeves go, I am interested in the Inkosi.
I have been very interested in getting a sebenza for some time now. It won't be a safe queen, but an EDC blade. Currently, I have found the PM2 to be the best EDC for me, even surpassing the Benchmade 940 (by quite a bit for me...) I have 2 questions: Do you believe the Sebenza is as good or better of an EDC/WORKING knife as a PM2? Second, I am very leary of titanium frame lock knives - I am concerned that over time the titanium will wear and the lock will become sloppy. Is that a concern with the Sebenza, and why or why not? Thanks!!
+Subsonic1050 I do think the Sebenza is as good or better an EDC / Working knife as the P2, and I've never experienced any excessive lock wear in a Chris Reeve knife. Hope that helps.
TheApostleP Thanks very much for the info! Now, would you recommend the Large 21 or the Small? Clip point or Insingo? I wouldn't really want a knife much larger than the PM2 for EDC purposes, but find the size about perfect. I believe the Large 21 is similar in size? Would the small be comparable to a Mini Griptilian roughly?
Brilliant video! You covered all the highlights a Sebenza has to offer and more. I sold mine years ago to fund the next "must have" knife or other toy I just had to have. It was actually a Vallotton auto conversion so it was extra special. But I miss it dearly. Will have to get another with some nice anodized engravings in the titanium handles for that classic look. Thanks for sharing.
The Umnumzaan is like that. I couldnt open the damn thing or close it when i first got it and my thumb was murdered, once I mastered it it flies open. My Sebenza is still my all time favorite knife ever though.
Slava T For me, it's about the best balance between edge retention and sharpenability of any folding knife steel. I realize that's an extremely subjective and individual trade off, but that's my take.
as for the argument about tools vs art... this is both, no? a tool is made to be used, and art is made to be appreciated. this is obviously meant to be used in a manner which is appreciative of the artful use of high end steel, high end geometry, and overall quality of use. it's like people have been saying: no, it's not the right tool for many hard jobs. yes, it is a bit of an art piece. just like that fine china that you don't use every day... just like the big house that is a chore to clean, or the car that takes more fuel and can go much faster than you'll ever reasonably need. it's not something that's needed, but something to be appreciated if one has reason to buy it. do I want one? yes and no. I'd probably wreck it if i used it, but my tenacious isn't the most amazing knife either. long story short: if this knife doesn't appeal to you because it shouldn't cut roofing tiles, then stick with your buck 110, your tenacious, your tac force, your manix, or whatever you use for that job. if you appreciate the accuracy with which a quality knife can cut, then maybe it's your time to save up for a nice high-end production or custom knife. if you think knife appreciation is creepy, you're probably in the wrong part of youtube.
Arguments over sebenza aside, this is a great video, hits it purpose 100%. I've recently dipped dipped my toe into the waters to try my first CRK. I found a great bargain on a used one, so I decided to give it a try. Still WAY more money than I want to admit to anybody that I would pay for a knife. But it's great that there is a video explaining what to expect from a knife enthusiast point of view, what to expect and what not to expect.
I have a question, as a lefty I have gotten used to both just using my right hand and figuring ways to work the lock lefty. Is a lefty Sebenza more money and if so, is it worth getting rather than just using your right hand?
+balfemotor They're the same price, but availability is limited. I've ordered a few of mine directly from CRK. You have to wait until they run lefties, but it's totally worth it IMO.
Good video. I haven't bought a Sebenza, yet. Main reason is that I have never had a chance to handle one. I tend to like more curved handles for EDC, and have wondered if it would have the feel that I prefer for EDC. That said, I think I can safely say that I probably would cave if I did have an opportunity to handle and buy. If I use the criteria that if it represents the better spectrum of what can be done, will outlast me, and that my grandkids (if I ever had any) would fight over it, it's a winner. Regarding its role as a tactical, I think it would be fine. I like it as an EDC that will always pull a bit of admiration from the owner as he or she deploys it.
I love your videos! I am new to knife collecting and I am looking to jump right in with a left handed small Sebenza. I am in love with the left handed option being a lefty myself. I was curious what your opinion is on me jumping right in? I have read it is better to ease in before you go with a CRK. However, I want a good edc left handed knife that I can count on for years. Besides a $20 kershaw with speed safe and a couple leathermen utility knives, I have not owned any other knives. Thanks!
***** If you can justify the cost, I say go for it! The reason most guys ease into it is that it's difficult as a new collector / user to justify spending that much money on a knife.
I just can't seem to find a lefty knife that even comes close to this in terms of size and quality. I know benchmade is ambidextrous but I have heard if that axis bar breaks the knife is unusable. Bottom line is I have $300 or so to spend on a knife. I have narrowed it down to either a mini grip, 940-1, or a small lefty seb. decisions decisions
Hate me if you like but from what I've seen from other makers, this is a $250 knife at best. I get it it's simple, good materials, and it is beautiful in its simplicity and duability. But it's not worth 400+ dollars. Even the buck 110 is trying to evolve and it's a legend in its own right.
My $59 Ontario Rat 1 makes the same sounds opening and closing. Funny, I own Spyderco knives, love them. Have owned Hinderers, love them. Owned a Jake Hoback Kwaiback, fantastic knife. I put my ego aside and bought an Ontario Rat 1, wow, sometimes great knives come in cheap clothing.
Rob, I just retired, and I’d like to buy one but don’t know who to trust to buy from. I’d like one just like yours....with the blue thumb stud. Any advice where to purchase one?? -Stephen, Ohio ( New Subscriber)
I just received my sebenza 21 in the mail day before yesterday from knives ship free. I did hear the bells and whistles though. I had to budget for a little while and even sell off a couple of gec's that I loved for it. I think that's the reason that I appreciate it even more than I would have if I had the money to begin with. Can't stop playing with it and examining everything about it. Rob, love the videos! Keep them coming. Tell derick I said thanks for the great customer service and speedy delivery! Will always buy from them from now on.
Rob, I want to buy a Sebenza. But after watching dozens of 21 to 25 comparisons on RUclips and reading some articles I'm still not sure which one to go for. So I want to know your opinion and have your advice please - what would you do? Thank you, Wolfgang.
Wolfgang Häussler For me, it's definitely the 21 Wolfgang. I should do a video on this. I don't see the design changes on the 25 being significant enough to improve upon the 21 in a significant way, and you lose the one thing that sets the Sebenza apart, the bushing pivot. The lefty 25's have been available for several months now, and I still don't own one... which speaks volumes about my real feelings about the knife.
TheApostleP Thank you Rob! My main concern was the missing bushing pivot as well, the Sebenza feeling. And I don't think the ceramic ball lock bar interface & large hollow grind blade outweigh the missing bushing pivot. You influenced my decision of buying an Edge Pro, a Lionsteel SR2, a Spyderco Endura 4 ZDP 189, a Victorinox Farmer and guess what - just ordered the Sebenza 21 now that I know that's the right decision. Again - thanks a lot!
TheApostleP So far I only imagined by watching your videos what the Sebenza must feel like. Today I got it and now I really know what it feels like. What an incredible piece of craftsmanship, engineering and precision, worth every cent. Thank you, Rob, for guiding me to that knife!
Hiya Rob, I appreciate that this vid wasn't a review as you mentioned at the beginning, but you didn't say anything about the pocket clip. Is it as good as the rest of the knife. God bless you mate and thanks for a wonderful channel. :)
paul greenwood Sorry about that, Paul. I could actually do an entire review video on the virtues of the CRK pocket clip. It's nearly magical in its ability to be inserted into a pocket with one hand, come out easily when wanted but retain the knife perfectly, and never damage a pair of pants. There's something about that secondary crimp that makes all this possible I think. It's one of the best, if not the best, pocket clip in the business.
I totally agree with you. I bought a Small Sebenza and was not a fan but I kept it, figured I could beat on it see how it holds up... it only got better. now its one of my favorite knives. I was a Strider guy... now I am going to sell the m all. I want another Sebenza and I cant decide between the basic large or a small Damascus. Thoughs on either? and on The Damascus used for the Sebenza. would appreciate any info. thanks P! :)
If money or cost (same thing I know) is what is holding you back from buying a sebenza then check out the forums or auction sites as I got a mint (used) small sebenza 21 for 280$ I could have easily flipped it for 325$ but it's my favorite knife out of dozens of high end and low end knives. So, basically if you like the idea of owning a CRK look for a used one. Good thing is if you get one needing some TLC, CRK will clean it up for you and in most cases make it like new again for a small charge (usually just the cost of shipping it back to you) so that is another reason they may cost more than most knives. Great vid man. All true. Before you buy a CRK piece of advice, do some research. Lots of fakes out there.
I have a question for you, oh by the way great video. I have Sebenza 21, looking at your video trying to figure it out. How do you keep the blue piece of metal (aluminum I think) on the handle in place without the line through it?
Great question! I use a small piece of gutted blue paracord, barely longer than the diameter of the lanyard pin, with the ends melted. The cord can't come out of the pin, and the pin then can't come out of the handle. And if you use royal blue, you don't even notice it's there.
Even if C.R. Sebenza wanted to lower the price of this knife to a more reasonable $300, he just couldn't do it, because it has become a "Veblen good" or luxury item. The "common law of business balance" causes people to believe they get what they pay for, or (price = quality). This effect is strongest with goods that have gained a "luxury" status within their market. The "bandwagon effect" then causes demand to be inelastic to price movements, so this kills any incentive Mr. Sebenza may have to lower the price as economies of scale and lower material cost make his production cost decrease with time. The truth is this knife probably did cost him $450 to make when he was making them one at a time and titanium and modern powdered steel prices were much higher. You can bet the profit margin today is much much higher on this same knife.
Hi I know My question a little bit different from the topic, but I'm interesting what's show in the video on 00.05 - 00.08! I'm guessing that's a sharpener but can you show Me the link about that item please! Il really appreciate that!
Well I bought a paramilitary and the tiny weak screw broke the first time I stripped it down. And I'm careful and had the correct tool. They were just pathetic fittings. Sebenza you can strip it a thousand times and screws still work because they bothered to use ones fit for purpose.
Kingofthejunglegym I actually did an entire video in this issue. But in short, Cold Steel’s lock tests demonstrate the strength of the TriAd lock. I take nothing away from that. However, the Chris Reeve Integral Lock was never designed to have weight hung from it or be hammered on by a machine, certainly not without the presence of a hand around the knife. I’ve never seen or heard about a Chris Reeve lock failing in any intended use of a knife.
TheApostleP I see what your saying, maybe I can be your first instance then, I have had my large 21 and my strider SMF locks fail while splitting some small kindling (very light batoning) maybe the thickness of a sharpie, needless to say having $1000 in framelocks fail on me in one weekend made me sell them all and vow never to buy framelock again
Having a real hard time getting my Sebenza 21 large to release when I try to close it. Lock bar is very stiff...is that part of the normal learning curve?
Good to know.. I was thinking about returning it for a replacement, if I keep it I may be sending it to you to have that lock bar softened up… Let me know the price for that and how to get it to you but I’m sure one of your videos that I watched explains how to send work to you..Do you make opening and closing it look so easy and effortless on your videos that’s why I was thinking something was wrong with mine
James Carey I charge $30 for sharpening, tuning, cleaning and lubrication. I generally set them to flick open with ease and drop free with the stent ball off the blade. Check out my “rates and services” video for all the pertinent info.
Sounds very reasonable, will you pay for 450 for a Knife another $30 to make it perfect doesn’t seem like that much I’ve never used the knife to cut anything yet so it’s still new but my main concern is the stiffness of the lock bar and that’s what I need to have corrected..If you can correct that problem $30 is money well spent
Forsaken876 You're not alone, my friend. First, stop fighting it -- just lay the knife in your hand with a loose grip, put the pad of your thumb directly ON TOP of the stud, and push away from the handle, not so much forward. Once your hand gets used to the way the knife if made, it becomes second nature. But something to keep in mind: as smooth as a properly tuned Sebenza is, it has extremely high lockbar tension, so you're overcoming a lot of force there as you break the detent, and if you're not pushing in the right direction, you'll give yourself a sore thumb. The good news is, you're in good company -- all first time Sebenza owners have had the same learning curve.
My personal opinion is that this is a great knife to admire, but I would only use it to open letters and cardboard boxes. So it's not for EDC. If I was stranded because my car needed to clean out the battery terminals, would I use the sebenza to do it? I don't think so. I would have to carry 2 knifes, the sebenza for delicate and safe easy things and my swiss knife for all the rest.
Great video. You explained exactly what I went thru with my first large sebenza 21 CF. Now I can't stop open & closing it. Also acquired a small sebenza. My other knives rarely see pocket time.
GoldD0t i luv the quality. Jus cant spend that kinda bread, fred. My 112 buck s30 and Gerber Edict154 is all i need. Tbey llast the rest ov my life. I live in the real world, n jus cant spend over 4 big bills on a blade. I know i’ll never wear out my 2 quality blades described earlier. I die first. Sad part is i’ll prolly git a crk or medford if i come into$$. Be Safe🔪🔪🇺🇸👊
I think a lot of people just get jealous of others who are able to buy these knives. Or who understand their value. I have the Sebenza & will definitely be getting the Umnumzaan. The price really isn't that big of an issue, if you're already spending $250-$375 on a knife anyway. You get what you pay for usually IMO and the Sebenza is no exception.It's worth every penny.
***** You know, I was just thinking the same thing, about the jump between the mid to hight $200's and the $410 price of a Sebenza. It's a pretty small leap, or the sacrifice of one Para 2, to make up the difference. I had just reviewed the ZT0562 when this was bouncing around in my head. I was thinking "I know it's boring of me, but I'd really just rather save another $170 and buy another Sebenza," or "Why bother with these? I own 3 Sebenzas I'd rather carry." Yeah, I know... no ball bearings, no flippers... so boring!!! But the truth is they're just better, and they stay better, for a very, very long time.
+Logan Thomas - and you would base this decision on having already owned the Griptilian without ever handling a Sebenza = low information decision making.
MDQBox It's because apparently I can't even afford to breathe on a Sebenza. Nothing about a framelock knife with a design that seems anything but special is worth $425 to me. The only reason people keep buying the Sabenza is because they think its ridiculous price makes it the greatest knife ever.
@@lt0295 if 400 to 450 is too much for you than knife collecting might not be for you because 400+ is pretty common among some of the nicer knives out there. It's like cars. Can you get a nice care that works well for 25k yeah. But 125k gets you into the nice super car and collectible cars that kick ass. Same with knives. Can a 30 dollar knife function? Yes absolutely. But will they be as nice as a 400+ nope never. Especially not a crk. I have many knives ranging from 30 to 1k+. And there is not a budget knife that holds a candle to crk. Not to mention warranties. Crk has a wonderful warranty and wonderful customer service. Also they send a tool with their knives so the consumer can break them down. Nobody does that. It's a great knife don't disregard it because of price. You get what you pay for and it's obvious with crk.
That looks like a very fine edge... did you sharpen that yourself, or is that the factory edge? It looks to me like a Wicked edge finish. Great video, thank you and hoping our Lord continues to bless you :)
when I saw this knife I wanted one, but then I realize the price, and I had second thoughts about loosing 400 buck knife if eventually forgot it somewhere. Later I saw your review on the Benchmade Adamas I was almost sold on that one, but then I come across the Hogue EX04, a bit less than 200, and the knife is absolutely to my taste, no tacticool thing and a great designer behind it, Allen Elishewitz. I would love to see a review of the Hogue EX 04 made by you, there are very few review, and I think this knife is overlooked. Cheers.
Strange...I'm watching a video of two hands opening and closing an over-priced pocket knife that makes clicking noises. My question: does it have to cost $400. for a pocket knife to make "muted" clicks? I thought a pocket knife only had two desirable characteristics--it folds and it cuts. I'd hate to drop that knife in the deep end of a lake, the horror!
I thought a watch only told time. I thought a car only transported people from place to place. I thought a pen only used ink to write things on a page (there is a huge market for collectable pens, btw). I think you can get my point. There's more to a Sebenza than paying $400 dollars for a perfect detent, but it seems like that's all you know about this knife, so look a little harder.
To all my fellow Sebenza 21 owners... I recently purchased a large 21 insingo... And Chris Reev has made some interesting changes... updates!!! The stop pin no longer has the milled lines on each side of the stop pin, it now more matches the back spacer!! They also added a chamfer on the lock bar... Sweet update when closing more comfortable.. But the biggest change are the way the phosphor bronze washers are designed --- wish I would've taken a picture.. The small one is completely different!!! Still super smooth just 2016 version! I love how Chris Reeve continues to innovate on his perfect product!!! I am soo In love with my large 21 Sebenza clip point... With silver lug, and silver backspacer!!! 🔪
Great video, Have to agree with you I almost got rid of mine after a few days of having it, thought I could get more knives for the money I spent on the Sebenza. But mine is kinda special the born date shares the same birthday as me. Jun 13 So after thinking about it I'll make the sacrifice of keeping this special knife for something my son can in joy when the time comes. Thank you for your videos.
I like Chris Reeve Knives for the reasons most people do but the main reason I like them is because I'm a lefty. Most of the luxury pocket knives have no lefty support whatsoever and the few that do are right hand biased knives with a reversible pocket clip. I gladly support CRK because they offer the luxury of a high end knife all while supporting my handedness naturally.
It’s on my list, maybe next (I was thinking the small Inkosi with the Insingo blade)… but it remains to be seen whether it becomes a favorite or not. I have no doubt about its quality, but it certainly is simple! My current favorites are a WE Paloma (best knife design ever, and top quality) and a Benchmade Osborne 945 with Flytanium copper scales (also top quality, and I love it).
thanks so much for your reply i am a bit of a newbee with good knives the search for the best EDC for me is becoming a hobby i really like and learning more each day and your views and obervations seem to be spot on thanks again slowly the sebenza 21 is becoming more and more of intrest (have a few knives but deff moving toward the 21 but prob the smaller version thanks again
You may actually not consider the Sebenza for your first one... just because it may ruin it for you. My first quality knife was a Kershaw Skyline, and so every time I went up in price, it was like opening a whole new level. I have room to grow... With a Sebenza you only really can grow into the high end market, like Striders, Hinderers, some full customs, maybe even Rockstead. But just my opinion :)
That's what I love about CRK Sebbies... To the average joe, there's nothing really special and the price tag will make him scream like a girlie man. It's when you look under the hood of a Sebbie and what goes into making it that it really shows it's true colours. You're right Rob, in this age of instant gratification with all it's bells and whistles, the perceived simplicity is what makes the Sebbie even more special. Like an iceberg, most of the good stuff is under the surface. Great vid.
It's insane that people who don't have the money or themselves can not justify the price for whatever their personal reason go completely out of their way to slam something that's clearly well received by many, I don't buy Chinese knives but hey more power to you ,some people like high end watches some a 10 dallor one will do both keep time
With all the good things you hear about the knife and brand, I have thought about it, but the price always holds me back. As far as people saying the knife is overrated and all hype etc, all I can say is that I don't think anyone can really supply an opinion about a knife(or any product) without having tried it themselves. All we can rely on is the opinion of those who have experience with the products. Most owners seem to think the money was well spent on this knife and is worth the high cost. The knife is just a lot more than I would be willing to spend on a knife at the current time.
+Skierxman - yeah the price is definitely up there for new ones directly from a distributor. You can find some relatively lower priced ones in great to new condition on the secondary market. Check out the forums.
To anyone looking to buy a 25, please save yourself the trouble and do thorough research if you're buying second hand. I got one today and it turned out to be a fake. I actually thought it was real for the first two hours, but after a while the knife just didn't look right. I talked to the Revees and it turns out it is more than likely that it's fake. Just want to throw that out there.
i had a 25, it was nice, but i argued more than i need and cash and a $200 knife would be nice enough first thing i ever sold that i missed finally got around to another sebenza, but this time its a lrg 21 insingo, its on the money
What you said is right on the money. When I first started collecting, I checked one out and was unimpressed. Five years, and many customs later, the next time I handled one, I realized how elegant the knife is. No other "production" knife I've held touches it.
Truly a work of art. Love this knife and the quality and craftsmanship that goes into the engineering of the knife. Why so many haters? If a four to five hundred dollar knife is not for you, don't bash the people that may feel otherwise.
"Every time someone flicks a Sebenza, Chris Reeve sheds a tear" or so they say
That’s why I got a benchmade 940
About 6 years ago, I had a large Sebenza...with the CAD/laser engraving on one side of the handles and the colors they reflected. Polished blade...a beautiful knife. Unfortunately, it was lost when I was my old SVN unit reunion. Slipped right out of the pocket of my jeans...and it was clipped in...and somehow gone. Someone picked up a fine piece of steel...I hope they knew how to take care of it and appreciated what they found. Talk about painful...great knife. I just ordered another large Sebenza, plain, with the stone washed blade, this time. Nice accompaniment to my Strider, Duane Dwyer and Elishewitz custom folders.
Ahh...where to begin with this comment! :) I'm tempted to just make a VR (and indeed may well). As usual our host Rob here at TAP channel has hit the nail on the head. I was a bit of a Sebenza skeptic *before* purchasing one. And initially after getting mine, while impressed with it's quality, wasn't necessarily overwhelmed by it from an overall knife perspective (not underwhelmed, just not overwhelmed). But after now having mine a couple months my impression of it overall just continues to climb, nay rocket up! :) Spend some time with it, get to know it...and I predict most people will come to appreciate similarly. :)
The only question is... Are minds that think alike always great? :)
Got a large Sebenza with micarta inlays and I would say this: it's a awesome knife and I don't regret buying it but I think it's very much over priced.. There are tons of knives out there that costs half as much (or less) that's equally good but I mean you buy a Sebenza because that's what you want a Chris Reeve Sebenza. But I would never recommend anybody wanting a good folding knife to buy one. But if that's what you want definitely go for the ones with inlays!! They give you a much better grip...
What knives would you recommend or point me towards that are of the same or close to the same caliber. I’m looking to use my knife as a tool. I don’t mind spending X amount for decent tool. But I’m also not into overpaying just for the name sake.
I've saved my cash for the big Knife & Gun show this weekend and I plan to buy a few knives and I'm looking at my first small Sebenza. I like 2.7" - 3.00" blades for EDC. I like the style and I have a couple of the Sanrenmu "Poor Man's Sebenza's" that I still wonder how they make those for $12. What other "quality" knives should I look for this weekend in that size & style besides the Chris Reeve?
Great question! Without knowing your budget, here are a few I'd suggest... Ontario Rat 2 ($30), Spyderco Sage 1,2 or 3 ($90-140), Benchmade Mini Presidio ($90), Spyderco Bradley Air ($140), Benchmade 940 ($150-175, longer than 3" but trust me on this one), Ka Bar Dozier Folder ($20). Not a Chinese knife in the bunch, and all great EDC blades. Good luck!
Thanks. I have some of those and I seem to grab my Rat II every damn day lately! I don't care if it is a cheapo. I'm planning on stepping up a bit. I just bought my first $200+ folder a Spyderco Native Ti flutted model and want to look a bit more towards more exclusive, less mass produced knives like the CR Sebenza. I like that style and size but I just didn't know any to keep an eye out for. Probably looking in the $300-$500 range max for now but if I keep up doing the blade crack I could be an addict!
Dude! I forgot one... the Lionsteel SR-2 / SR-2A would be a great addition to your collection. They're under $200 for aluminum and low to mid $300's for titanium.
The simplicity of the Sabenza is slowly growing on me. Never cared much for the giant "tactical" knives. Maybe one day I'll take the plunge and get one. I've been eyeing a raindrop damascus with cocobolo for some time now
Good eye, Ryan :)
Its tough when my growing love for knives conflicts with my gunpowder crackhead ways.
@TheApostleP - hey quick question for you, so on my large Inkosi is a stonewash finish, awesome knife however I spotted 3 little dots that appear to be rust:/ I've tried WD40 and steel wool I've also tried mineral oil with steel wool and also goofoff and I've had no luck. Do you have any other suggestions? I really appreciate it I don't know what else to try.
Subbed :-) When it comes to the pricetag I think its a little bit overpriced for a production knife but by all means its a very good feel knife. I carry my 21 very often and love the silkely feel of it and digg to play around with it.
It's along the lines of someone who buys a finely crafted 1911 vs a Glock. Nothing wrong with the Glock, it works, but it has no soul. Or a Swiss-made watch vs a timex.
SemperFiMac77 this post needs more attention. Well said.
"Nothing wrong with the Glock, it works, but it has no soul."
WTF? Your gun has a soul?
@geheimschriver except you can tour the shop and see them all being made. Watch a youtube video called meet your maker ( chris reeves). With that said, I i like benchmade better myself.
@@jonathanchamblee7863 I don't think I could really use a Sabenza as intended. It would just sit around like art. With a higher end Benchmade, many people hesitate in the same way, wanting to leave it safely at home. But once a person EDC's a $100-200 knife, it becomes normal, just don't lose it. A $500 knife though, I don't think I could ever normalize carrying that and I bet there's a lot of Chris Reeve knives sitting in glass cases. Which is kind of tragic.
Perfect description!
To me a knife is a tool. Quality and reliability are the top attributes in my mind. I like the Sebenza for those reasons. As far as a tactical knife go for something with a fixed blade.
Great video, but what would've been even better is if you had shown "cheaper" knives and compared them to the Sebenza when espousing its qualities/benefits. That would've been helpful to show if there is an actual difference in quality, at least to people like me who aren't experts on knives yet.
Trust me ...i got around 20 folding knife
Once i bought small sebenza , i know why its so famous.....
But i found that 80% of its good feeling is because of the width of the knife
I dont know why other brand knife s width is larger...
Sorry my english is not good..
its ok my good man, the country that you are from....i dont speak that language good. but we both can enjoy knives so we arent that different! ....Bear,Dallas Texas U.S.A.🔪🗽🔪🏯🔪🐻🔪
Interesting commentary. My EDC for more than a decade has been one of the NICA Small Sebenzas with the tanto BG-42 blade. That knife has opened countless boxes and broken down an amazing amount of cardboard. I usually clean the adhesive/tape residue by cutting cardboard and strop it on a box surface afterwards. The blade has been well used, and the titanium scales show the scars of usage. The action is still smooth, there is no blade play, and the frame lock is as solid as it was when the knife was new. It should be good for at least another decade of use.
Do you have any use for that knife? or you just open it and close it every day?
cristiandemirel1918 This is the ONE rude comment you'll get by with. Try being polite next time you weigh in.
I'm sorry you thought i was rude and I apologize if you got that sensation from what I've said! I own a pocket knife myself, not that expensive of course, but the only practical use i ever had for it was to sharpen my pencil. I was simply curious to know if there is any practical argument for purchasing a 450$ pocket knife?
cristiandemirel1918 Sorry for the misunderstanding. Apology accepted. But to answer your question... Yes! I use my Sebenzas almost every day, for lots of uses, from opening mail to breaking down boxes, to cutting food, to sharpening pencils.
TheApostleP Thanks for the reply!
TheApostleP Well ApostleP, I'm not going to be so nice, nor am I going to appoligize for it, but you foo foo boys that buy such overpriced horse crap, say you buy them to use then while talking in the vid say things like oh yes but it is starting to get some wear on the edges, and they show no signs of ever being resharpened make me laugh, then you say you use it to open mail, what a joke LOL, how bowt a couple bucks and shrades I own that have litrally field dressed 100's of elk, dear, bear and other critters over my 40+ years of hunting, and all the SERIOUS cutting and even chopping chores around camp while hunting, or the buck 110 folding hunter that I've owned since 1970, that has been resharpened so many times it has lost about a quarter of it's blade bredth, and that just recently got used All day to cut tar paper and shingles while re- roofing my mothers house, because I forgot to bring an actual utility knife (that's why that 110 is my everyday utility/whatever knife), clean all the tar off with some spray carb cleaner throw an edge back on it and shove it back in the pocket-no foo foo boy bullshit, after you go down those roads talk to me and see if you are of the same opinion.
I have been carrying a small sebenza for about 20 years. Have bought many other pocket knives during that time, but most of the time I carry the sebenza. I have used it for tasks that I wouldn't try with any of my other pocket knives, such as splitting kindling by bashing it on the back of the blade with a stick. It is a strong as a fixed blade, but rides in my pocket all day. Even at the price, I consider it a good value.
Great review, I stopped by a local store this week & they had 20+ different Sebenzas. It was great to see them all. Of the Chris Reeves knives I am thinking I might be picking up a Ti-Lock in the future. Thanks again & take care.
It’s interesting; in 2018 the Sebenza turned 28, the Spyderco Police turned 34 and the Buck 110 turned 54. All are just well made, not fidget friendly knives. Says a lot about what everyone outside of the “knife community” wants in a folding knife. Another really enjoyable video.
When I opened my large inkosi, I started a return! WTF, right???? 7 hours later, I cancelled the return. These knives are simply elegant. Elegant in simplicity. Mind you, I am a tanto guy. The tanto on the inkosi is amazing.
I agree Rob. I own several and so does the wife. Great knives but not fidget flickers. Even in 2019 this video is relevant. I have 12 spyderco and 15 benchmade. I owned nearly all of them before the sebenza. I thought it could be avoided. I held my first CR at GPknives in Troy Illinois. I was into knives enough to know it was special right away. Five years later, all I've bought are the Anthem and Spyder chef. I though the high price of the Anthem could make it an equal. It's one of my favorites, but it's not a large left 21. The lc200n on the chef is freaking great steal. I would be down for a large left cf 21 in lc200n!!! Long live the wear and tear. I always carry the new one constantly until slightly beaten. 9 of 10 days it's a CR. They will last for a lifetime and more. My daughter is 8 and she already likes them.
I own some awesome shirogorov's and some customs that my silver hardware Sebenza 21 large clip point has replaced in my pocket! It is barely breaking in and it is getting super smoooooth! I love it!
What makes you prefer the 21 over a nice ergonomic Shiro? Just wondering?...
I don't own one but reading these comments its so obvious to see that a lot, not all but I would say a good percentage of the negative comments just reek of jealousy and envy. You can't justify spending the money that's certainly understandable but the need to bash others just because they have something you can't justify is just sad. It's no different then how 10 year olds act in a playground. This is RUclips so I can't say I'm really surprised. Just a observation from somebody with no skin in the game.
+Alan Wendt The first 4 words he said were "I don't own one"
+Alan Wend 1st sentence I wrote said I did not own one so for u to say it was a generalized statement but directed at me makes no sense. It just proves my point on my original post that some and and now definitely you are just jealous. But did get one actually about a month and a half ago by my wife for my b day so either 1 you never held one or 2 your just another mall ninja with a cold steel in your pocket who believes their overbuilt locking system actually means something. And nothing against cold steel because I own a couple also but it's apple and oranges. Did I over pay. Well being I've owned and held a fair share of customs that had a price tag a lot higher then a CRK and some were not as good quality wise I say no I didn't over pay and consider it a great knife for the money. Considering you could get a benchmade for around $300 which doesn't come close to the quality of a crk not to mention a 100 other company's with knives that cost around the same or more then a crk
Why do you care if someone wastes their money? Why are you even watching a Sebenza video if you think they're a waste of money? I happen to think they're overpriced and I wouldn't buy one myself but if someone chooses to then good on them.
+Alan Wendt I didn't spend a dime. It was a gift and a great one at that. I'm sure in your small little brain you consider everything overpriced when compared to the knife that you edc if u even carry at all. Funny how everybody has something to say about crk but nothing about the countless other knives that are out there that are comparable in price or more expensive and off less quality. Wonder why that is. Even won more awards that I can remember and won those awards because his peers in the industry voted for him. That says something and in my opinion and countless other people who know, carry and use knives means more then some keyboard warrior reeking of jealously with a opinion.
***** No I don't watch a video if I have already formed a negative opinion of the content unless I wish to challenge my opinion, I don't go around telling people what value is to them.
I am not a collector, I am a 'user' of knives and at that price point I just cannot justify paying $400+ for any knife. I understand and have seen the workshop expense that goes into these knives but still will not pay that much money period. Great Video mate thanks for sharing
Well tbh, this is probably a collector's piece. I mean, everything that it offers in addition compared to a 50 dollar knife is beyond practical. It's just smoothness, better fit and finish, and that sort of stuff. If you want practicality and reliability and a good price, this isn't for you.
not my cup of tee
The manufacturing technologies have improved dramatically in the last 20 years, but these knives (Reeve, Emmerson, Mar, etc.) have not kept up. Today you can expect to get the same, or better level of performance from knives at half the cost, and they just might be made from better materials, and not just easy on the pocketbook, but easy to carry in the pocket.
This was a great video, and you captured what so few do - The Sebenza at first isn't "sexy", but then you use it - and you start realizing how everything just fits together, how even though it's "simple", it's still precision, how everything just seems to be where it should be, and there's no excess just as there is no reduction - it's balanced. The design is incredible, and the user experience of it every.single.time is the same. One thing a great product needs to do is to not just be enjoyable once, but to have consistency, to be the same experience every time. I have lots of knives, some of them double and triple the price of the Seb. Are they nicer in fit and finish? some of them. Are they sharper? some of them. is the blade grind better. yes. is the steel better? some of them. Are they "flashier/sexier"? absolutely. When I need a stand-by, something I can depend on, use quickly and efficiently - I go to my Seb every time. The seb is kind of like that one meal that mom can make that you can't seem to get better anywhere else. It might be simple, even boring - but you always come back to it, and miss it when you no longer have it. It's elegant and a perfect example of a simple well thought out machine. For 27 years now people have been trying to find something to replace it. That should speak volumes in and of itself.
It’s not ergonomic
I don't know jack about knives but a friend of mine has one. I liked the built quality and how it felt on the hand, I was curious and I ended up here. To be honest with you I had the hardest time opening his. As a total watch noob who only owns 1 $30 dollar knife I can say it is gorgeous, but pushing the blade out was rather challenging to the point of almost impossible. Just like your friend said "Man that knob is hurting my finger."
Maybe one day I'll pony up for one of these. Happy to have found this video.
I've been part of the Sebenza debate more times than I care to count, but one more couldn't hurt. As mentioned, the Sebenza was 25 years old at the point this video was made. At the time it was introduced and gained it's reputation the measure of a good knife was much lower. At that time, even to most knife guys, a Buck 110 was top shelf, Case was great, and Gerber was some of the "best around." Spyderco was in it's obscure infancy and Benchmade(Pacific Cutlery at the time) had just bought out Balisong and began coast off their logo and reputation.
Bottom line is that back then it just didn't have much competition. But today you have a myriad of knife companies producing knives that out perform Sebenzas left and right. Better designed, stronger, more ergonomic, better deployment, and yes even smoother knives are everywhere now. Many wearing a significantly lower price tag. As the industry has advanced and evolved to newer, bigger, and better things, the Sebenza has stayed roughly the same. Not because it has an all superior design and quality, but because people continue to enforce the belief that it does.
Even in the video he mentions that he believes using other knives causes bad habits for operating a Sebenza. And why should anyone's hand have to get used to a knife when so many today are built for the hand? Knives like ZT 03-- models and many, many Spydercos like the Manix series or many of the Emersons that just melt into the hand right away are everywhere.
Again, it's just reputation. If you place it on a pedestal before you ever even have one, of course you're probably going to make excuses for it's shortcoming, but when a genuinely objective person gets a hold of one and says, "This isn't great." people get up in arms and tell that person that they are stupid for not liking it.(Actually happened to me)
DeadBoysTwo I owned many Benchmades, Spydercos, Kershaws, Gerbers, CRTKT's, SOG's and other more current modern folders before purchasing my first Sebenza. Although I admired the legend, it was with great trepidation and a bit of skepticism that I finally bought it. Keep in mind, I'm a pretty objective knife collector and reviewer. My experience with knives I thought I really wanted, but really didn't like upon using them, is well documented on this channel. Also, I'm far too much of a cheapskate to spent $400+ on a folding knife more than once without being thoroughly convinced of its value. In fact, if my own discernment had proved the Sebenza to be a paper tiger, or expensive only because of its name, and not an extremely well built folder worth its price, I simply would have sold it and moved on.
That said, I now own 6 Chris Reeve knives, 4 of them Sebenzas. I have sold most of the knives in the $150-300 range in my collection... to buy more CRK's. These have been exactly the knives you referenced in your comment. The fact is that I'm not an emotional fanboy of CRK. I'm about enduring value, and in my studied opinion formed over 30+ years collecting knives, I'm better served by one Sebenza than I am by 3 Benchmades, Spydercos or ZT's.. I don't dislike these knives -- not at all. But none of them, and I mean none, make a knife that even after 25 years, can hold a candle to a Sebenza in build quality, precision of manufacture or durability.
It's fine that you like to debate this issue "more times than I care to count," and it's fine for you to be wrong every single time. That's your right, LOL! But to paraphrase Mr. Reeve, you don't have to spend $400 on a folding knife, but that's what it costs to own a knife built like a Sebenza, and CRK isn't going to cheapen the way a Sebenza is built in order to sell them for less money. Regarding all the technological "improvements" available in more recently designed modern folders, I believe there will come a time when nobody remembers ball bearing pivots, flippers, Auto LAWKS and Axis Locks... but you'll still be able to buy a brand new Sebenza... to sit in your safe next to the one you bought 30 years ago and is still going strong... and it might still be the best production folding knife in the world... period.
Sounds like you basically just said(with many more words) I'm stupid for not liking the Sebenza. It's a safe queen to light use knife at beast for 99% of the people I've ever known to have one. If you carry it every day and use it consistently things like those tight tolerances and great finish start to become a negative. Sand and other gritty substances get inside it and shred the finish worse than normal thanks to the narrow tolerances. Titanium locks wear away much faster than steel. Not to mention there are much more capable, easier to access locks now. Just because they have made and continue to make slip joint folder does not validate their superiority over other retention methods. And the case is the same with the Sebenza. It comes with a non-repositionable clip. The ergonomics are still sub par to newer folders. The blade itself is nowhere near as durable as many other options. And this is just me, but I absolutely loath deep cutouts for lock bars. I'm not a big fan of frame locks to start with but that's just salt in the wound.
Not to mention I've come to the realization over the years that stuff happens to knives. They get broken, lost, stolen, etc. When that happens they have to be replaced. $400+ is a big dump to take on a knife if that happens. I work my knives to hard for that. I as a consumer am entitled to ask certain things from a knife, and reasonable cost is one of those things I choose.
I'm not saying Sebenzas aren't good. I'm saying they are not the apex knife people make them out to be.
But this is what I mean when I have this discussion. When I say I don't like it for *insert reasons here* Sebenza fans are always like, "No, you're wrong. You do like it. You just don't know it because you don't know jack about knives."
DeadBoysTwo Isn't that the beauty of consumerism, though? We are all entitled to our own opinions on the things we buy, don't buy, want to buy, and don't want to buy. As long as one can justify those reasons, then they are well-entitled to them, I believe.
I don't think he's calling you or anyone stupid for not wanting to own a Sebenza, he's just justifying his reasons for liking them, that's all. ^^
I own roughly 30 knives ranging from Case, to Cold Steel, Spyderco, Microtech, Benchmade, and CRKT to name a few, and that includes one Sebenza 21. I got mine after saying for years I wouldn't because of the price (which I didn't feel the hype justified.) I just happened to get a really good deal on mine at the time. If I couldn't have made the deal that I did, I likely wouldn't have it.
That said, it's a nice knife, it's very smooth, has a useful blade shape, and takes a very fine edge. It's actually most-comparable to my Microtech Socom Elite ( a knife I got a few years back because it was "tactic-cool". Yeah, I was dumb like that-still, it's a nice one too.)
But after all that, I still prefer my Spydercos for some odd reason...probably their light-weight and quirky looks, if anything.
Do I feel like the hype justifies the Sebenza's price? Nope.
But do I also appreciate the craftsmanship, materials, tolerances, and customer service? Hell yes I do.
Different strokes for different folks, ya know?
For all the fans of other knives other than the Sebenza because they can't stomach the price (that said, if you look hard enough, one can get lucky), or because it doesn't meet their needs I hear ya loud and clear and you are well-entitled to your opinion, as said.
For all the fans of the Sebenza, as long as you justify your opinion, you're just as entitled to it as those that don't like it (and please, don't flame people just for their opinions, especially if they justify them).
Peace ^^
DeadBoysTwo y
@@TheApostleP Hi Rob, do you still hold that opinion 5 years later? Just curious.
Exactly! Great video.. I know this is an old one, but everything you said couldn't be truer. I love my Sebenza. And I love the part you said about the casual knife guy not appreciating or understanding the knife :) yep! you have to get to know it :)
I recently bought a large 31. It’s still a 2 hander to open. Never seen a detent like this. I need to use it but it’s impractical if I can’t open and close it with one hand yet. Yours falls toward shut when you disengage the lock bar, mine doesn’t move a millimeter lol. I may have to try the polish method as I need to actually use the knife.
After handling many many knives, I have no desire to get the Sebenza. I honestly believe it's a fondling knife that only a handful of people in the world could afford & appreciate.
You are not a real knife person. You're one of the many sheep that need a fidget toy.
The fact that it holds its value is why the sebenza is a super safe purchase. That n it’s built to perfection
The great thing about having a hobby like pocket knives is that there is a knife out there for everybody, for every application. Some people are happy with a $14 Ka-Bar Warthog, and some are happy with a $400+ Sebenza or Umnumzaan. It sucks that some people feel that it is their duty to bash people for the knife they carry and try to convince them that they "wasted their money." After owning a large 21 and an umnumzaan, there is no other knife that really makes me as happy as they do. If somebody doesn't like CRK, they can just keep it to themselves and own other knives that make them happy. I really enjoyed your video Rob, I liked what you had to say!
Oscar Butts I say the same thing when people bash my pet rock.
JB6789 I'll bring my pet rock over to your place sometime for a play date.
+Oscar Butts NOOOOO!! You can never put two pet rocks together. They'll mate and a solid gold baby will pop out of the female.
+Andrew Delashaw my pet rock is a lesbian!
The Sebenza Definitely has a break in period and I don't think a lot of people are prepared or even know about it even today with the 31 coming out. On top of that the thumbstood geometry is a little different as you stated and everyone just has to get "Sebenza Thumb" It's while that break in period occurs but once it does and for me on AA Savannah 21 small it was about 200-250 openings That it just went buttery smooth and opened with ease. On top of the fact that after opening and closing the knife that many times developed the muscle memory on how to manipulate the knife.
As to the flipping has nothing to do with the size of the stop bar has to do with the Is fact you aren't preparing a harder material being as 35E in at a tremendous speed when you flick a knife open in an impact that stop bar which is a case hardened steel that is seated in a titanium scale AKA handle. It's a metallurgical fact that titanium is softer than steel and it will deform over time and it has and willl deform if you continuously do it on a regular basis.
That's not to say that it will hurt the knife if you occasionally do it. But I've watched people who do it the way you demonstrated just a simple flick and then it will slowly progress to where they add a little bit of risk to it to a lot arrest. And what that does is it puts 50 to a 100 times the amount of force that is normally exerted on that blade and stop bar then it would if you had just normally opened it. That force is no different than heading to hammers together. It's called peening. What happens is one or both pieces of steel will begin to deform. Now imagine striking the case harden still hammer head against a titanium hammerhead eventually that titanium hammer will begin to deform and roll. This is exactly what happens with a titanium knife when continuously flicked open. There's no argument against what I'm saying it's just simple metalergy and physics. S35VN (HRC 59-60) is harder than Titanium (HRC 41).
Interesting!
could you tell me why some other companies that are known to be some of the best in the industry like shirogorov and Hinderer solely make flipper knives with the only deployment method being a flip which causes a blade to deploy just as rapidly or harder than thumb flicking a sebenza...
Wouldn't all flippers naturally have a design flaw and the stop pin of those knives is going to fail according to what you said?
I have many flippers which I flip hard as I can for years with no problems to the stop pin...
What are your thoughts on this
I've been pretty heavily into the knife Community for a decade or so and I've never heard of anyone wearing out their stop pin...
Broken Omega Springs, chipped blades, thumb studs, broken scales, stripped screws etcetera....
No peening of the stop pin though I'm aware of has been an issue to those I know who own quite a few folders....
Again I'm not trying to argue...
Cheers
@@BuffaloNickel9 Good question. A Ferrari isn't designed to tow a boat. Sure you could, but it would fail very soon. But a F 150 is designed (designed being g the word) to tow and take the abuse. Some flippers are designed to stand up to the abuse. But even the knives you mentioned fail as I've witnessed myself and listened to others who've lived through this misery. You can swim with sharks 1000 times and never get bit. It doesn't change the fact that sharks are wild lethal fish and you've just been lucky so far.
I got my first Sebenza in the mail last week. A large 21. I was worried, because I sold all of my other knives to get it without ever having held one. But, when I opened it up for the first time, I breathed a huge sigh of relief. “Oh man, ok, I get it,” was my first thought. I’m puzzled by the folks who think they made a mistake when they get their first sebenza.
I’m also puzzled by the widespread thought that a sebenza is a safe queen, or to be treated daintily. This knife is a tool. It feels like a tool-like it belongs in a shop with sparks flying everywhere and black grease covering the coffee cans full of bolts and washers. It’s name is Work. And the warrantee and service plan only further that notion. “Use it, scratch it up, send it back to CR, and for the price of an oil change it’s like new again.” This feels like a product one would have bought in the romantic 50’s, with lifetime service and heirloom American quality.
It’s expensive, absolutely. And maybe I’m not as reticent to use it because I traded up to it from a $38 knife over 8 months (instead of $450 cash, my sebenza cost me 8 months of time and many trips to the post office). But hot damn I can’t imagine ever going back to having a Spyderco or benchmade in my pocket.
The knife I had before the sebenza was my first grail-the Slysz Bowie. As I said, I traded up to it from a Tenacious. I decided to sell it to buy the large 21, and I would absolutely do that again. It has nothing to do with the brand, and everything to do with what it is: an objectively superior product, a top of the line knife.
Personally, I’ll never use anything else. This is my knife for life. And then it’ll be my son’s.
By all means, buy Benchmades and Spydercos if you prefer them. That’s fine! Absolutely fine. They’re good companies that make good products. They’ll cut, and they’re reliable, and you should feel the pride that comes with a good decision if you own one. But to suggest they’re in the same ballpark as a Sebenza 21 is objectively wrong.
Comment of the year so far, Matt. You put it perfectly.
TheApostleP it was your long review that finally convinced me to buy one. Thanks for such a comprehensive review!
video summary: small anecdote about questioning if sebenza is worth its price followed by tons of raving about how awesome the knife is.
Sir Galahad Very accurate synopsis, Galahad... and completely appropriate for the subject at hand... because it is expensive, and even more awesome :)
Words of wisdom regarding this brand! I've got one on the way, and will use this video as a tutorial. Thanks!
Are all Sebanza models feature linner locks? I tend to prefer other locking mechanisms over linners. I use to use folders to cut cardboard boxes alot back in the days, and I've noticed majority of my folders with linner locks end up having issues (compared to other locking mechanisms).
They're frame locks, but it's such an overrated knife you'd be better off buying something else.
+Anthony Ramirez
If I were to ever consider buying a Sebanza, it will be more for its historical value than for usage ( I do not purchase and collect knives for future money return investment). I personally dont think the Sebanzas price point offers much improvement or advantages than some of other knives that are half its price. But, to each his own. However, as far as folders from Chris Reeves go, I am interested in the Inkosi.
DAMN. That sharpening job looks amazing.
I have been very interested in getting a sebenza for some time now. It won't be a safe queen, but an EDC blade. Currently, I have found the PM2 to be the best EDC for me, even surpassing the Benchmade 940 (by quite a bit for me...)
I have 2 questions: Do you believe the Sebenza is as good or better of an EDC/WORKING knife as a PM2? Second, I am very leary of titanium frame lock knives - I am concerned that over time the titanium will wear and the lock will become sloppy. Is that a concern with the Sebenza, and why or why not? Thanks!!
+Subsonic1050 I do think the Sebenza is as good or better an EDC / Working knife as the P2, and I've never experienced any excessive lock wear in a Chris Reeve knife. Hope that helps.
TheApostleP Thanks very much for the info! Now, would you recommend the Large 21 or the Small? Clip point or Insingo? I wouldn't really want a knife much larger than the PM2 for EDC purposes, but find the size about perfect. I believe the Large 21 is similar in size? Would the small be comparable to a Mini Griptilian roughly?
Hard for me to say... I have them all ;)
Just bought one today! I may send it to you for that mirror edge?
Brilliant video! You covered all the highlights a Sebenza has to offer and more. I sold mine years ago to fund the next "must have" knife or other toy I just had to have. It was actually a Vallotton auto conversion so it was extra special. But I miss it dearly. Will have to get another with some nice anodized engravings in the titanium handles for that classic look. Thanks for sharing.
The Umnumzaan is like that. I couldnt open the damn thing or close it when i first got it and my thumb was murdered, once I mastered it it flies open. My Sebenza is still my all time favorite knife ever though.
What are you think about sebenza blade steel,holding the edge ?
Slava T For me, it's about the best balance between edge retention and sharpenability of any folding knife steel. I realize that's an extremely subjective and individual trade off, but that's my take.
as for the argument about tools vs art... this is both, no? a tool is made to be used, and art is made to be appreciated. this is obviously meant to be used in a manner which is appreciative of the artful use of high end steel, high end geometry, and overall quality of use. it's like people have been saying: no, it's not the right tool for many hard jobs. yes, it is a bit of an art piece. just like that fine china that you don't use every day... just like the big house that is a chore to clean, or the car that takes more fuel and can go much faster than you'll ever reasonably need. it's not something that's needed, but something to be appreciated if one has reason to buy it. do I want one? yes and no. I'd probably wreck it if i used it, but my tenacious isn't the most amazing knife either. long story short: if this knife doesn't appeal to you because it shouldn't cut roofing tiles, then stick with your buck 110, your tenacious, your tac force, your manix, or whatever you use for that job. if you appreciate the accuracy with which a quality knife can cut, then maybe it's your time to save up for a nice high-end production or custom knife. if you think knife appreciation is creepy, you're probably in the wrong part of youtube.
+MrGnarman Comment of the year!
TheApostleP hey, just saying what needs to be said. much love, man. keep up the stellar work, and god bless.
Arguments over sebenza aside, this is a great video, hits it purpose 100%.
I've recently dipped dipped my toe into the waters to try my first CRK. I found a great bargain on a used one, so I decided to give it a try. Still WAY more money than I want to admit to anybody that I would pay for a knife.
But it's great that there is a video explaining what to expect from a knife enthusiast point of view, what to expect and what not to expect.
I have a question, as a lefty I have gotten used to both just using my right hand and figuring ways to work the lock lefty. Is a lefty Sebenza more money and if so, is it worth getting rather than just using your right hand?
+balfemotor They're the same price, but availability is limited. I've ordered a few of mine directly from CRK. You have to wait until they run lefties, but it's totally worth it IMO.
Thank you, that's great news I play guitar and the price difference between lefty and righty are disgusting, I assumed this would be the case here.
Good video. I haven't bought a Sebenza, yet. Main reason is that I have never had a chance to handle one. I tend to like more curved handles for EDC, and have wondered if it would have the feel that I prefer for EDC. That said, I think I can safely say that I probably would cave if I did have an opportunity to handle and buy. If I use the criteria that if it represents the better spectrum of what can be done, will outlast me, and that my grandkids (if I ever had any) would fight over it, it's a winner. Regarding its role as a tactical, I think it would be fine. I like it as an EDC that will always pull a bit of admiration from the owner as he or she deploys it.
I love your videos! I am new to knife collecting and I am looking to jump right in with a left handed small Sebenza. I am in love with the left handed option being a lefty myself. I was curious what your opinion is on me jumping right in? I have read it is better to ease in before you go with a CRK. However, I want a good edc left handed knife that I can count on for years. Besides a $20 kershaw with speed safe and a couple leathermen utility knives, I have not owned any other knives. Thanks!
***** If you can justify the cost, I say go for it! The reason most guys ease into it is that it's difficult as a new collector / user to justify spending that much money on a knife.
I just can't seem to find a lefty knife that even comes close to this in terms of size and quality. I know benchmade is ambidextrous but I have heard if that axis bar breaks the knife is unusable. Bottom line is I have $300 or so to spend on a knife. I have narrowed it down to either a mini grip, 940-1, or a small lefty seb. decisions decisions
Hate me if you like but from what I've seen from other makers, this is a $250 knife at best. I get it it's simple, good materials, and it is beautiful in its simplicity and duability. But it's not worth 400+ dollars. Even the buck 110 is trying to evolve and it's a legend in its own right.
My $59 Ontario Rat 1 makes the same sounds opening and closing. Funny, I own Spyderco knives, love them. Have owned Hinderers, love them. Owned a Jake Hoback Kwaiback, fantastic knife. I put my ego aside and bought an Ontario Rat 1, wow, sometimes great knives come in cheap clothing.
Rob, I just retired, and I’d like to buy one but don’t know who to trust to buy from. I’d like one just like yours....with the blue thumb stud. Any advice where to purchase one?? -Stephen, Ohio ( New Subscriber)
DLT Trading is a reputable company that knife makers use for distribution.
I just received my sebenza 21 in the mail day before yesterday from knives ship free. I did hear the bells and whistles though. I had to budget for a little while and even sell off a couple of gec's that I loved for it. I think that's the reason that I appreciate it even more than I would have if I had the money to begin with. Can't stop playing with it and examining everything about it. Rob, love the videos! Keep them coming. Tell derick I said thanks for the great customer service and speedy delivery! Will always buy from them from now on.
Rob, I want to buy a Sebenza.
But after watching dozens of 21 to 25 comparisons on RUclips and reading some articles I'm still not sure which one to go for.
So I want to know your opinion and have your advice please - what would you do?
Thank you, Wolfgang.
Wolfgang Häussler For me, it's definitely the 21 Wolfgang. I should do a video on this. I don't see the design changes on the 25 being significant enough to improve upon the 21 in a significant way, and you lose the one thing that sets the Sebenza apart, the bushing pivot. The lefty 25's have been available for several months now, and I still don't own one... which speaks volumes about my real feelings about the knife.
TheApostleP Thank you Rob!
My main concern was the missing bushing pivot as well, the Sebenza feeling. And I don't think the ceramic ball lock bar interface & large hollow grind blade outweigh the missing bushing pivot. You influenced my decision of buying an Edge Pro, a Lionsteel SR2, a Spyderco Endura 4 ZDP 189, a Victorinox Farmer and guess what - just ordered the Sebenza 21 now that I know that's the right decision.
Again - thanks a lot!
Great minds,Wolfgang ;)
Glad to be of service, my friend!
TheApostleP So far I only imagined by watching your videos what the Sebenza must feel like. Today I got it and now I really know what it feels like. What an incredible piece of craftsmanship, engineering and precision, worth every cent. Thank you, Rob, for guiding me to that knife!
Hiya Rob, I appreciate that this vid wasn't a review as you mentioned at the beginning, but you didn't say anything about the pocket clip. Is it as good as the rest of the knife. God bless you mate and thanks for a wonderful channel. :)
paul greenwood Sorry about that, Paul. I could actually do an entire review video on the virtues of the CRK pocket clip. It's nearly magical in its ability to be inserted into a pocket with one hand, come out easily when wanted but retain the knife perfectly, and never damage a pair of pants. There's something about that secondary crimp that makes all this possible I think. It's one of the best, if not the best, pocket clip in the business.
Oh wow. Thanks for your quick response Rob. I reckon I'd better get saving then..;)
I totally agree with you. I bought a Small Sebenza and was not a fan but I kept it, figured I could beat on it see how it holds up... it only got better. now its one of my favorite knives. I was a Strider guy... now I am going to sell the m all. I want another Sebenza and I cant decide between the basic large or a small Damascus. Thoughs on either? and on The Damascus used for the Sebenza. would appreciate any info. thanks P! :)
If money or cost (same thing I know) is what is holding you back from buying a sebenza then check out the forums or auction sites as I got a mint (used) small sebenza 21 for 280$ I could have easily flipped it for 325$ but it's my favorite knife out of dozens of high end and low end knives. So, basically if you like the idea of owning a CRK look for a used one. Good thing is if you get one needing some TLC, CRK will clean it up for you and in most cases make it like new again for a small charge (usually just the cost of shipping it back to you) so that is another reason they may cost more than most knives. Great vid man. All true. Before you buy a CRK piece of advice, do some research. Lots of fakes out there.
I have a question for you, oh by the way great video. I have Sebenza 21, looking at your video trying to figure it out. How do you keep the blue piece of metal (aluminum I think) on the handle in place without the line through it?
Great question! I use a small piece of gutted blue paracord, barely longer than the diameter of the lanyard pin, with the ends melted. The cord can't come out of the pin, and the pin then can't come out of the handle. And if you use royal blue, you don't even notice it's there.
Even if C.R. Sebenza wanted to lower the price of this knife to a more reasonable $300, he just couldn't do it, because it has become a "Veblen good" or luxury item. The "common law of business balance" causes people to believe they get what they pay for, or (price = quality). This effect is strongest with goods that have gained a "luxury" status within their market. The "bandwagon effect" then causes demand to be inelastic to price movements, so this kills any incentive Mr. Sebenza may have to lower the price as economies of scale and lower material cost make his production cost decrease with time. The truth is this knife probably did cost him $450 to make when he was making them one at a time and titanium and modern powdered steel prices were much higher. You can bet the profit margin today is much much higher on this same knife.
Hi I know My question a little bit different from the topic, but I'm interesting what's show in the video on 00.05 - 00.08! I'm guessing that's a sharpener but can you show Me the link about that item please! Il really appreciate that!
I spent 1000 dollars on a shadow 2 , number 3 out of 305 dated 1989 , mint condition ... excellent purchase , best knife around
Well I bought a paramilitary and the tiny weak screw broke the first time I stripped it down. And I'm careful and had the correct tool. They were just pathetic fittings. Sebenza you can strip it a thousand times and screws still work because they bothered to use ones fit for purpose.
are you left handed or is it just the camera? I can never tell if a camera mirrors stuff.
Yep, I'm a lefty, and thank you CRK for thinking of us :)
After what’s said in this video what do you think about the lock fail videos from cold steel
Kingofthejunglegym I actually did an entire video in this issue. But in short, Cold Steel’s lock tests demonstrate the strength of the TriAd lock. I take nothing away from that. However, the Chris Reeve Integral Lock was never designed to have weight hung from it or be hammered on by a machine, certainly not without the presence of a hand around the knife. I’ve never seen or heard about a Chris Reeve lock failing in any intended use of a knife.
TheApostleP I see what your saying, maybe I can be your first instance then, I have had my large 21 and my strider SMF locks fail while splitting some small kindling (very light batoning) maybe the thickness of a sharpie, needless to say having $1000 in framelocks fail on me in one weekend made me sell them all and vow never to buy framelock again
Having a real hard time getting my Sebenza 21 large to release when I try to close it. Lock bar is very stiff...is that part of the normal learning curve?
James Carey It sort of is. Don’t tell CRK, but part of my tune on some Sebenzas is to lessen the lockbar tension 😱
Good to know.. I was thinking about returning it for a replacement, if I keep it I may be sending it to you to have that lock bar softened up… Let me know the price for that and how to get it to you but I’m sure one of your videos that I watched explains how to send work to you..Do you make opening and closing it look so easy and effortless on your videos that’s why I was thinking something was wrong with mine
James Carey I charge $30 for sharpening, tuning, cleaning and lubrication. I generally set them to flick open with ease and drop free with the stent ball off the blade. Check out my “rates and services” video for all the pertinent info.
Sounds very reasonable, will you pay for 450 for a Knife another $30 to make it perfect doesn’t seem like that much I’ve never used the knife to cut anything yet so it’s still new but my main concern is the stiffness of the lock bar and that’s what I need to have corrected..If you can correct that problem $30 is money well spent
Thanks for taking the time to answer my question and thank you for not being afraid to display your faith on your channel..Blessings sent your way
Any advice to the pain in my thumb... I am really regretting buying this knife. I like everything about this knife but the pain in my thumb.
Forsaken876 You're not alone, my friend. First, stop fighting it -- just lay the knife in your hand with a loose grip, put the pad of your thumb directly ON TOP of the stud, and push away from the handle, not so much forward. Once your hand gets used to the way the knife if made, it becomes second nature. But something to keep in mind: as smooth as a properly tuned Sebenza is, it has extremely high lockbar tension, so you're overcoming a lot of force there as you break the detent, and if you're not pushing in the right direction, you'll give yourself a sore thumb. The good news is, you're in good company -- all first time Sebenza owners have had the same learning curve.
Hello I was wondering you've done to make your sebenzas so quick.
My personal opinion is that this is a great knife to admire, but I would only use it to open letters and cardboard boxes. So it's not for EDC. If I was stranded because my car needed to clean out the battery terminals, would I use the sebenza to do it? I don't think so. I would have to carry 2 knifes, the sebenza for delicate and safe easy things and my swiss knife for all the rest.
Best edc knife Ive owned. Beat the hell out of my 25. Sent it to CRK for a spa treatment and it looks damn near brand new.
A good and interesting explanation. Thanks. Now, if I ever get to handle a Sebenza, I'll know how to open it.
Great video. You explained exactly what I went thru with my first large sebenza 21 CF. Now I can't stop open & closing it. Also acquired a small sebenza. My other knives rarely see pocket time.
Strangely attracted to the Insingo. But for the price and the fact that I own many other knives I would never end up thumping on it.
GoldD0t i luv the quality. Jus cant spend that kinda bread, fred. My 112 buck s30 and Gerber Edict154 is all i need. Tbey llast the rest ov my life. I live in the real world, n jus cant spend over 4 big bills on a blade. I know i’ll never wear out my 2 quality blades described earlier. I die first. Sad part is i’ll prolly git a crk or medford if i come into$$. Be Safe🔪🔪🇺🇸👊
I think a lot of people just get jealous of others who are able to buy these knives. Or who understand their value. I have the Sebenza & will definitely be getting the Umnumzaan. The price really isn't that big of an issue, if you're already spending $250-$375 on a knife anyway. You get what you pay for usually IMO and the Sebenza is no exception.It's worth every penny.
***** You know, I was just thinking the same thing, about the jump between the mid to hight $200's and the $410 price of a Sebenza. It's a pretty small leap, or the sacrifice of one Para 2, to make up the difference. I had just reviewed the ZT0562 when this was bouncing around in my head. I was thinking "I know it's boring of me, but I'd really just rather save another $170 and buy another Sebenza," or "Why bother with these? I own 3 Sebenzas I'd rather carry." Yeah, I know... no ball bearings, no flippers... so boring!!! But the truth is they're just better, and they stay better, for a very, very long time.
If the Sebenza and the Benchmade Griptilian were the same price, I'd buy the Griptilian 100 times of 100.
+Logan Thomas - and you would base this decision on having already owned the Griptilian without ever handling a Sebenza = low information decision making.
MDQBox It's because apparently I can't even afford to breathe on a Sebenza.
Nothing about a framelock knife with a design that seems anything but special is worth $425 to me. The only reason people keep buying the Sabenza is because they think its ridiculous price makes it the greatest knife ever.
Saint Theresa Catholic Church Damn that's a good deal!
Logan T. Good. I never buy bench. I dnt wanna hv to act all snotty n all. Lol🔪🔪🇺🇸
@@lt0295 if 400 to 450 is too much for you than knife collecting might not be for you because 400+ is pretty common among some of the nicer knives out there. It's like cars. Can you get a nice care that works well for 25k yeah. But 125k gets you into the nice super car and collectible cars that kick ass. Same with knives. Can a 30 dollar knife function? Yes absolutely. But will they be as nice as a 400+ nope never. Especially not a crk. I have many knives ranging from 30 to 1k+. And there is not a budget knife that holds a candle to crk. Not to mention warranties. Crk has a wonderful warranty and wonderful customer service. Also they send a tool with their knives so the consumer can break them down. Nobody does that. It's a great knife don't disregard it because of price. You get what you pay for and it's obvious with crk.
That looks like a very fine edge... did you sharpen that yourself, or is that the factory edge? It looks to me like a Wicked edge finish. Great video, thank you and hoping our Lord continues to bless you :)
Tony M It's my edge, done on an Edgepro.
when I saw this knife I wanted one, but then I realize the price, and I had second thoughts about loosing 400 buck knife if eventually forgot it somewhere. Later I saw your review on the Benchmade Adamas I was almost sold on that one, but then I come across the Hogue EX04, a bit less than 200, and the knife is absolutely to my taste, no tacticool thing and a great designer behind it, Allen Elishewitz. I would love to see a review of the Hogue EX 04 made by you, there are very few review, and I think this knife is overlooked.
Cheers.
Strange...I'm watching a video of two hands opening and closing an over-priced pocket knife that makes clicking noises. My question: does it have to cost $400. for a pocket knife to make "muted" clicks? I thought a pocket knife only had two desirable characteristics--it folds and it cuts. I'd hate to drop that knife in the deep end of a lake, the horror!
Made thou looketh!
The noises she makes are some of the best parts. ;)
I thought a watch only told time. I thought a car only transported people from place to place. I thought a pen only used ink to write things on a page (there is a huge market for collectable pens, btw). I think you can get my point. There's more to a Sebenza than paying $400 dollars for a perfect detent, but it seems like that's all you know about this knife, so look a little harder.
This knife rare in uk, what is the inkosi?
To all my fellow Sebenza 21 owners... I recently purchased a large 21 insingo... And Chris Reev has made some interesting changes... updates!!! The stop pin no longer has the milled lines on each side of the stop pin, it now more matches the back spacer!! They also added a chamfer on the lock bar... Sweet update when closing more comfortable.. But the biggest change are the way the phosphor bronze washers are designed --- wish I would've taken a picture.. The small one is completely different!!! Still super smooth just 2016 version! I love how Chris Reeve continues to innovate on his perfect product!!! I am soo In love with my large 21 Sebenza clip point... With silver lug, and silver backspacer!!! 🔪
I believe that Chris Reeve has retired, and the shop is now run by family?
Great video, Have to agree with you I almost got rid of mine after a few days of having it, thought I could get more knives for the money I spent on the Sebenza. But mine is kinda special the born date shares the same birthday as me. Jun 13 So after thinking about it I'll make the sacrifice of keeping this special knife for something my son can in joy when the time comes. Thank you for your videos.
Thanks for sharing that story, my friend! Merry Christmas to you and your family!
I like Chris Reeve Knives for the reasons most people do but the main reason I like them is because I'm a lefty. Most of the luxury pocket knives have no lefty support whatsoever and the few that do are right hand biased knives with a reversible pocket clip. I gladly support CRK because they offer the luxury of a high end knife all while supporting my handedness naturally.
Chris reeves are real knives. They are not fidget toys like the knives today. Chris reeves will last longer than any other knife nowadays
Aren't these washers phosphor bronze?
It’s on my list, maybe next (I was thinking the small Inkosi with the Insingo blade)… but it remains to be seen whether it becomes a favorite or not. I have no doubt about its quality, but it certainly is simple! My current favorites are a WE Paloma (best knife design ever, and top quality) and a Benchmade Osborne 945 with Flytanium copper scales (also top quality, and I love it).
That closing line about Jesus just earned you a subscriber
I just got mine and i can say all you state i agree 100% with. Well spoken 👍🏼
thanks so much for your reply i am a bit of a newbee with good knives the search for the best EDC for me is becoming a hobby i really like and learning more each day and your views and obervations seem to be spot on thanks again slowly the sebenza 21 is becoming more and more of intrest (have a few knives but deff moving toward the 21 but prob the smaller version thanks again
You may actually not consider the Sebenza for your first one... just because it may ruin it for you. My first quality knife was a Kershaw Skyline, and so every time I went up in price, it was like opening a whole new level. I have room to grow... With a Sebenza you only really can grow into the high end market, like Striders, Hinderers, some full customs, maybe even Rockstead.
But just my opinion :)
My Benchmade AFCK is just as smooth (like butter) and makes a real nice locking sound too. It cost me $80 back in 1998. Most expensive knife I own.
Is it really wroth the money for the Sebenza ?
LOL! :)
is that a yes or a no?
Watch the video, Jeremy... Just watch the video... It's the shortest answer I can give... LOL!
That's what I love about CRK Sebbies... To the average joe, there's nothing really special and the price tag will make him scream like a girlie man. It's when you look under the hood of a Sebbie and what goes into making it that it really shows it's true colours. You're right Rob, in this age of instant gratification with all it's bells and whistles, the perceived simplicity is what makes the Sebbie even more special. Like an iceberg, most of the good stuff is under the surface. Great vid.
Thanks for commenting... sounds like you get it :)
TheApostleP haha yes I do indeed. :)
It's insane that people who don't have the money or themselves can not justify the price for whatever their personal reason go completely out of their way to slam something that's clearly well received by many, I don't buy Chinese knives but hey more power to you ,some people like high end watches some a 10 dallor one will do both keep time
It's a knife to tell people that you've arrived like fine wine. It's a squeeze it in the eye of the beholder.
Just listen to the sounds it makes. Phone goes off lol
With all the good things you hear about the knife and brand, I have thought about it, but the price always holds me back.
As far as people saying the knife is overrated and all hype etc, all I can say is that I don't think anyone can really supply an opinion about a knife(or any product) without having tried it themselves. All we can rely on is the opinion of those who have experience with the products. Most owners seem to think the money was well spent on this knife and is worth the high cost. The knife is just a lot more than I would be willing to spend on a knife at the current time.
+Skierxman - yeah the price is definitely up there for new ones directly from a distributor. You can find some relatively lower priced ones in great to new condition on the secondary market. Check out the forums.
why theres a hole in the scales?
I don’t understand playing with a knife like it’s a fidget. I need one for practicality
If they ever put some overtravel protection on that,i'm buying one.
what is the blade in the intro! cutting phone book paper! i want it!
+ThompsonJosh98 That's my beloved Ontario Spec Plus SP-5 Bowie. That's what happens when a knife sharpener gets bored in the evening ;)
Oh, one last thing; the best "tactical folder" IS A PISTOL. Give me a break.
To anyone looking to buy a 25, please save yourself the trouble and do thorough research if you're buying second hand. I got one today and it turned out to be a fake. I actually thought it was real for the first two hours, but after a while the knife just didn't look right. I talked to the Revees and it turns out it is more than likely that it's fake. Just want to throw that out there.
i had a 25, it was nice, but i argued more than i need and cash and a $200 knife would be nice enough
first thing i ever sold that i missed
finally got around to another sebenza, but this time its a lrg 21 insingo, its on the money
Sebenza, Hinderer, and Strider. All "must-haves" for serious collectors...
Indeed.