$400 decision is killing me~=~

Joined
Jan 8, 2012
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Hey guys!

New member here, but not new to knives. I currently have a Benchmade Serum (the one that's auto & manual,) an Osborne Rift, BM's brown flipper, a few Spydercos, and the like- totaling around 1 dozen I think.

Since I have to send my Serum in (for the 2nd time!) as the automatic action is broken, I've decided to try something different.

My only problem is... I can't freaking pick what I want. I only have a few requirements (and I'm very flexible):

It's for EDC, ambidextrous is preferable (Southpaw), under 4", but I'm in Texas so that's not really an issue on the legal side, just comfort. Last requirement is under $400, $200-300 is better.

I'm really digging the Benchmade 761, as I can get it for under $300. My buddy is trying to get me to try CRK, but they look too nice to use everyday, and I love to beat the shit out of my knives.

Basically I want something I can beat the hell out of, and looks nice, and has great steel, and is good for EDC.

I honestly don't know what else is in my price range, besides perhaps Hinderer?

Any help is welcome. :)
 
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Hey, thanks. Someone else recommended that in a different thread. I wonder what the major differences are between said ZT and the 761.

Edit: The ZT is almost as pretty as the BM, IMO.

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I have a Southern Grind Bad Monkey that takes all the hell I throw at it, fit n finish is top notch and can be had in drop point or mod Tanto for around $250 bones they really are great in the hand
 
I have a Southern Grind Bad Monkey that takes all the hell I throw at it, fit n finish is top notch and can be had in drop point or mod Tanto for around $250 bones they really are great in the hand
I just saw this mentioned in the forums today; I'll have to check it out. I appreciate it.
 
You could spend $30 on a SAK model and put the rest in stock options. Think of it like a rainy day fund that keeps on giving.
 
I have a Southern Grind Bad Monkey that takes all the hell I throw at it, fit n finish is top notch and can be had in drop point or mod Tanto for around $250 bones they really are great in the hand

I'll second this recommendation.

Built to act as a working knife AND the exquisitely contoured carbon fiber scales will keep it looking like a gentleman's dress knife for a looooooong time (unlike metallic scales, anodized or not).
 
CRK's too nice to use?:confused:

Brother...buy your self an Umnumzaan and beat the hell out of that thing. You'll thank me later:thumbup:

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I would stay away from Hinderer if you want lefty. Go for the ZT Hinderer line if you are ok with a righty locking mechanism. At least the clip is reversible.

The Brous Strife can be had for under $400 at KC
DPX HEST comes in a lefty.
If you want to stick with Benchmade, I EDC my 581 Barrage all the time.
 
CRK knives are actually great for beating on. The steel is a bit softer than many other companies run it so it is very tough, unlikely to chip and easy to sharpen. They are easy to take apart and maintain, one of the only knives out there specifically designed for this. Warranties on CRK knives are second to none (well, maybe Busse) and their "spa treatment" will return the knife to you in like-new condition. If you're worried about fragile tips check out the Insingo blade shape.

The only thing "too nice" about a CRK for some people is the price, but you seem generally willing to spend the dough...

It's difficult to engage in this hobby without eventually trying a Sebenza so you might as well get it over with. Wait a little while for a lefty 21 to come up on the exchange here and the worst case scenario is you're out $15 in shipping re-selling it.
 
Yeah I would not hesitate to use the heck out of a $400 knife..I don't know if you're a gun enthusiast as well, we usually kinda go hand n hand, but it's like our guns cost over $500 and we don't bat an eye at vomiting bullets through em at the range! It's what they're made for! Go get that CRK and put it through its ranks to build and soak in all the character of you to pass down to your next of Kin one day God willing my friend!
 
Damn, lots of stuff to consider. But fuark, purely on aesthetics, I think I like the 761 best, especially knowing I can easily put a dual thumbstud on it.

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CRK knives are actually great for beating on. The steel is a bit softer than many other companies run it so it is very tough, unlikely to chip and easy to sharpen. They are easy to take apart and maintain, one of the only knives out there specifically designed for this. Warranties on CRK knives are second to none (well, maybe Busse) and their "spa treatment" will return the knife to you in like-new condition. If you're worried about fragile tips check out the Insingo blade shape.

The only thing "too nice" about a CRK for some people is the price, but you seem generally willing to spend the dough...

It's difficult to engage in this hobby without eventually trying a Sebenza so you might as well get it over with. Wait a little while for a lefty 21 to come up on the exchange here and the worst case scenario is you're out $15 in shipping re-selling it.
That makes perfect sense. Honestly I switch pockets from time to time, so versatility is nice.
 
Yeah I would not hesitate to use the heck out of a $400 knife..I don't know if you're a gun enthusiast as well, we usually kinda go hand n hand, but it's like our guns cost over $500 and we don't bat an eye at vomiting bullets through em at the range! It's what they're made for! Go get that CRK and put it through its ranks to build and soak in all the character of you to pass down to your next of Kin one day God willing my friend!

That is true. I paid around ~ $1100 for my Heckler & Koch P30S... Love that gun and no doubt it'll be there reliable as ever if I need it.
 
CRK's too nice to use?:confused:

Brother...buy your self an Umnumzaan and beat the hell out of that thing. You'll thank me later:thumbup:

431DF906-239D-47B0-B1FF-85D7B378CEE7_zpsfpocutii.jpg


D5D1CABB-1D67-4279-94A2-33DB992BED92_zpsmlr0zxqf.jpg
Damn! I was under the impression most owners of CRKs kept them as garage queens. I stand corrected.

Edit: I checked CRK's site for a picture of the new Umnumzaan. Wow. I am in awe. Gorgeous. Is it significantly different than the Sebbies?
 
ZTs, secondary market new to you CRK, Hinderer secondary market also, Ti Spyderco's I.E. Slysz Bowie, Grayman Dua.
 
Damn! I was under the impression most owners of CRKs kept them as garage queens. I stand corrected.

Edit: I checked CRK's site for a picture of the new Umnumzaan. Wow. I am in awe. Gorgeous. Is it significantly different than the Sebbies?

It depends which Sebenza you're refering to. The Umnumzaan is very different from the Seb' 21, but similar to the Seb' 25.

Check out the CRK subforum, you'll be surprised at how many people use these awesome blades.
 
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