Make me buy an Umnumzaan

[n2wilderness]

I was worried about the studs too, seems like they'd be a little slippery.

Honestly, the more I think of it, the more I'd rather go for a custom at those prices. I have my eye on some WDZ knives, I guess we'll see.

I haven't found the studs to be slippery b/c of the rubber ring which seems to provide the right amount of traction.

 

[Incahiker]

I had an umnumzaan and loved it. The knife glides open even smoother then the sebenza with the ceramic ball and you never get that sticky lock up like you do every once in a while with the TI lock face since the zaan has ceramic ball that locks it up. Very smooth all around. I recently sold it because I found a very rare knife... and knowing that the Zaan is going to be out in the future with S35V I figured I could wait for it in that configuration. I am going to purchase it again. But in the mean time I get to play with a Large regular BG-42 sebenza... the knife I sold the Zaan for.


But, I have to say that between the Zaan and a large sebenza I prefer the sebenza. It is a little lighter and just fits my hand a little bit better. Plus it really is the best slicing folder I have. Not saying the Zaan is bad, but I think the Sebenza is about close to the most perfect EDC folding knife I have ever come accross. You will not be dissapointed with either, that is gauranteed. But once you get one, you will soon need to get the other so don't worry about which one to get 1st.

 

[Mrbladedude]

I was worried about the studs too, seems like they'd be a little slippery.

Honestly, the more I think of it, the more I'd rather go for a custom at those prices. I have my eye on some WDZ knives, I guess we'll see.

Check out the Spyderco Sage 2. Also titanium handle and way cheaper than the Umnazam (spelling).

 

[rod tak]

I was worried about the studs too, seems like they'd be a little slippery.

Honestly, the more I think of it, the more I'd rather go for a custom at those prices. I have my eye on some WDZ knives, I guess we'll see.

I have a Few WDZ's, even though they are custom, they aren't quite up there with the CRK's in my opinion. Although they are a hell of a knife for the money, great blade, great flip action, but the lockbar is a little flimsy for my taste. Maybe just a little too thin for how solid the rest of the knife is.

 

[sno1983]

I purchased both an Umnumzaan and a WDZ Azrael at around the same time, I ended up selling the WDZ. Both knives were great, but the CRK was definitely ahead in overall fit and finish as well as solidity in hand.

However, they are very different knives. The CRK is more about finesse and the WDZ (mine anyway) felt more like a strider with one side titanium, the other G-10 only, and a 3/16" thick blade. My WDZ also had uneven blade grinds which made it a pain to sharpen and still be pretty, which is kind of important to me on a custom.

 

[mjolnir74]

The zaan is a great knife. I recently replaced the one I sold. I don't like the edge on the lock bar, but it has more positives than negatives. Great edge, good blade shape, thin profile isn't bulky in the pocket. Refurb isn't a problem if you use it and want it made new again. I think you get your money's worth, but I usually buy most of my expensive knives used and save. I paid 315 for my new zaan with a take down kit. I paid 325 for my old one and sold it for 325.

 

[JNewell]

The Umnuzaan is a superb knife in terms of design, materials and execution. However, it may not suit you. I had one and sold it because the ergos didn't really suit me. I replaced it with a large Sebenza and am much happier with that choice. You could also look at an SnG, which is in the same price range.

 

[unit]

All I can tell you is that I got one and carried it for a month or so. A few notes:

1. It is like a nice wrist watch...it works a whole lot like a similar one that may be cost 30% of the price, but makes you feel a little happier.
2. It is as smooth as they say, and the fit and finish is as clean as they say.
3. There is no lag between the ball detent dropping off the blade and lock up...this is somewhat unique to this knife.
4. It will look like the lock bar travels a LONG way before engagement...many buyers immediately worry that they have "late" lock up.
5. Eventually you will not have the smile you get from handling something new, sexy, expensive, and nice...then you start to realize it is a knife..not unlike many others you might already own.
5b. Eventually, you will slum it with another knife that cost less and whose ergos you really loved prior to owning that 400 dollar knife.
5c. You may have an inner battle with yourself thinking, "should I carry the knife that feels better or should I carry the one that cost a lot more...because the more expensive one ought to see more pocket time"
5d. You look down at it and realize that the scratches, while badges of honor an symbols of use, sort of negate the high premium you paid for that finish...the fit is still good, but now it really is a knife...and it works a whole lot like that 100 dollar other knife you were carrying...may be it is not as comfortable in use though...

Perhaps not, but that is how it went for me. Items #1, 2, and 3 were great, but in the end I learned that the best knife is not always the one everyone raves about on the forum...and not always the one you paid the most for.

I still have it, but I see these up for sale on the exchange all the time...I can not help but think that a few of these people felt the same way I did, but perhaps choose not to share it?

Is it a great knife? Yeah, but if you are looking for a group of individuals to convince you to buy it....I am afraid that they will...and if you are really true to yourself, you need to be prepared for the day when you discover that you bought something because a bunch of people convinced you it was better than the knives you already love....perhaps they are right...or perhaps you won't agree? There is only one way to find out for sure.

 

[Incahiker]

All you can do is try it out your self... then maybe I can get another cheap one here on the sale thread .. By the way, good point on the non lag when locking.. I noticed that too. Usually on most other folders the ball detent that locks the blade when closed will first fall off the tang, and then the lock engages shortly after. With the zann the knife just locks. No big deal at all, but I did notice it.

 

[Josh K]

The Umnumzaan is my EDC, and I love everything about it. I especially love how smooth the ceramic ball RIL makes the action. Opening is no issue, closing is no issue, and as everything CRK it's quality has to be felt to be understood.

It was my second CRK after I bought and sold a Lg. Regular. I wasn't at all sure about it but the more I carry it the more I like it.

 

[jfindon]

Check out the Spyderco Sage 2. Also titanium handle and way cheaper than the Umnazam (spelling).

The Sage is too small for me. I should have mentioned that ~3.6" blades are my sweet spot it seems.

All I can tell you is that I got one and carried it for a month or so. A few notes:

1. It is like a nice wrist watch...it works a whole lot like a similar one that may be cost 30% of the price, but makes you feel a little happier.
2. It is as smooth as they say, and the fit and finish is as clean as they say.
3. There is no lag between the ball detent dropping off the blade and lock up...this is somewhat unique to this knife.
4. It will look like the lock bar travels a LONG way before engagement...many buyers immediately worry that they have "late" lock up.
5. Eventually you will not have the smile you get from handling something new, sexy, expensive, and nice...then you start to realize it is a knife..not unlike many others you might already own.
5b. Eventually, you will slum it with another knife that cost less and whose ergos you really loved prior to owning that 400 dollar knife.
5c. You may have an inner battle with yourself thinking, "should I carry the knife that feels better or should I carry the one that cost a lot more...because the more expensive one ought to see more pocket time"
5d. You look down at it and realize that the scratches, while badges of honor an symbols of use, sort of negate the high premium you paid for that finish...the fit is still good, but now it really is a knife...and it works a whole lot like that 100 dollar other knife you were carrying...may be it is not as comfortable in use though...

Perhaps not, but that is how it went for me. Items #1, 2, and 3 were great, but in the end I learned that the best knife is not always the one everyone raves about on the forum...and not always the one you paid the most for.

I still have it, but I see these up for sale on the exchange all the time...I can not help but think that a few of these people felt the same way I did, but perhaps choose not to share it?

Is it a great knife? Yeah, but if you are looking for a group of individuals to convince you to buy it....I am afraid that they will...and if you are really true to yourself, you need to be prepared for the day when you discover that you bought something because a bunch of people convinced you it was better than the knives you already love....perhaps they are right...or perhaps you won't agree? There is only one way to find out for sure.

Nice summary, thanks Some of it does kind of hit home, but I can't really comment on the feelings because my most expensive knife is my Speedform at $160.

That's too bad about the WDZ knives, I like a couple of his designs.

I also didn't realize the Striders were in this price range, I was thinking the SnGs were the smaller ones. I know they're totally different knives (CRK and Strider) but I love the aggressive look of the SnG. I started trying to make my mind up between the two a couple months ago and never really came to a conclusion other than questioning Strider's fit and finish, and possibly warranty. I may have the warranty bit messed up though, I get that stuff confused.

 

[JNewell]

For what it's worth, the ergos of the 'zaan did not agree with me at all. Say whatever you will about Strider, the ergos of the SnG are IMHO superb. YMMV.

The Sage is too small for me. I should have mentioned that ~3.6" blades are my sweet spot it seems.



Nice summary, thanks Some of it does kind of hit home, but I can't really comment on the feelings because my most expensive knife is my Speedform at $160.

That's too bad about the WDZ knives, I like a couple of his designs.

I also didn't realize the Striders were in this price range, I was thinking the SnGs were the smaller ones. I know they're totally different knives (CRK and Strider) but I love the aggressive look of the SnG. I started trying to make my mind up between the two a couple months ago and never really came to a conclusion other than questioning Strider's fit and finish, and possibly warranty. I may have the warranty bit messed up though, I get that stuff confused.

 

[jfindon]

For what it's worth, the ergos of the 'zaan did not agree with me at all. Say whatever you will about Strider, the ergos of the SnG are IMHO superb. YMMV.

That's the main thing I like about Striders, they look comfortable as hell to hold. Guess I need to find me a dealer of those, too.

 

[jfindon]

Where's the best place to buy a Strider? My usual place doesn't have many on the site.

Also, which ones come with this titanium slab?

I like the fired effect. I'd want a black G10 and not sure about the tiger striped blade. $400 is pretty much my absolute limit, is there a complete list of them in that range? I didn't even see them all on Strider's web site.

 

[xtestifyx]

All I can tell you is that I got one and carried it for a month or so. A few notes:

1. It is like a nice wrist watch...it works a whole lot like a similar one that may be cost 30% of the price, but makes you feel a little happier.
2. It is as smooth as they say, and the fit and finish is as clean as they say.
3. There is no lag between the ball detent dropping off the blade and lock up...this is somewhat unique to this knife.
4. It will look like the lock bar travels a LONG way before engagement...many buyers immediately worry that they have "late" lock up.
5. Eventually you will not have the smile you get from handling something new, sexy, expensive, and nice...then you start to realize it is a knife..not unlike many others you might already own.
5b. Eventually, you will slum it with another knife that cost less and whose ergos you really loved prior to owning that 400 dollar knife.
5c. You may have an inner battle with yourself thinking, "should I carry the knife that feels better or should I carry the one that cost a lot more...because the more expensive one ought to see more pocket time"
5d. You look down at it and realize that the scratches, while badges of honor an symbols of use, sort of negate the high premium you paid for that finish...the fit is still good, but now it really is a knife...and it works a whole lot like that 100 dollar other knife you were carrying...may be it is not as comfortable in use though...
.

That also happened to me. The "Awesome" and the "Woohoo" ride ends after being with it for a while. It sure is something special but you will see it in a different light after so long.

While it will retain it's value pretty well, it won't have the appeal it did when you first received it

 

[Noddy]

Funny thread - I spend a lot of my time coming up with new reasons not to buy one

The thing that stops me breaking the bank is that I can't decide between the large Insingo, large 21 and the Umnum But I live half a bottle of wine from ordering all three one night

 

[Stainz]

You can buy other Ti frame-locks that will make you smile. For comparison, see below and you'll see, top down; a BM 630 Skirmish, a ZT-301, a Kershaw JYDII in Ti/SG2, a Wilson/CRK Umnumzaan, and a Buck 172 Mayo TNT.

The Skirmish may still be my favorite. I 'won' a NIB one from a dealer less than two years back - bought the LN one shown last month - less than $300 for both. The ZT and blemished JYDII were less than that total here from a dealer. The Buck was also a bargain. Is the 'zaan worth as much as three of the other four knives shown? Well... no. They range from a classy big knife (Skirmish) to a Sunday dress-up (Mayo TNT) to just a moose for serious use (ZT). The 'zaan is a great approximation of all three functions - and mine came as sharp as that JYDII in Ti/SG2 - my production knife sharpness standard - and the only non-S30V blade in the picture above.

I love the 'zaan. I wouldn't wait for a different blade metal - S30V is great. I'm glad I have it - but, mine was a celebration of sorts as a purchase. I tried to get interested in the new Wilson 'StarTac' small Sebbie that is available now - sorry, I like what I have and can't rationalize that much on another knife anytime soon. The CRK's are quality... pure quality, however - and every knife lover should try to own one sometime in their life. If you like a larger knife, make it that Umnumzaan!

Stainz

 

[Incahiker]

You can buy other Ti frame-locks that will make you smile. For comparison, see below and you'll see, top down; a BM 630 Skirmish, a ZT-301, a Kershaw JYDII in Ti/SG2, a Wilson/CRK Umnumzaan, and a Buck 172 Mayo TNT.

Stainz

That buck Mayo is one incredible knife.. if it weren't for my sebenzas then I would still own one. S30V is a perfectly fine knife steel and I like it a lot. I am just saying that since I already have owned Zaan and know what it is like, I can hold off on the S35V version just to see how that is...

 

[marthinus]

That also happened to me. The "Awesome" and the "Woohoo" ride ends after being with it for a while. It sure is something special but you will see it in a different light after so long.

While it will retain it's value pretty well, it won't have the appeal it did when you first received it

I guess my experience was a bit different.

I was :grumpy: when I spent my cash on the Seb and used it the first few days.....but as I used it became all the more impressive. Every time I EDC or open a CRK I get a sense of I have a great knife!

jfindon

Look into knifeart.com. They have a huge selection of CRK, Strider and you can see what knives are in the same price range.

 

[jfindon]

You can buy other Ti frame-locks that will make you smile. For comparison, see below and you'll see, top down; a BM 630 Skirmish, a ZT-301, a Kershaw JYDII in Ti/SG2, a Wilson/CRK Umnumzaan, and a Buck 172 Mayo TNT.

The Skirmish may still be my favorite. I 'won' a NIB one from a dealer less than two years back - bought the LN one shown last month - less than $300 for both. The ZT and blemished JYDII were less than that total here from a dealer. The Buck was also a bargain. Is the 'zaan worth as much as three of the other four knives shown? Well... no. They range from a classy big knife (Skirmish) to a Sunday dress-up (Mayo TNT) to just a moose for serious use (ZT). The 'zaan is a great approximation of all three functions - and mine came as sharp as that JYDII in Ti/SG2 - my production knife sharpness standard - and the only non-S30V blade in the picture above.

I love the 'zaan. I wouldn't wait for a different blade metal - S30V is great. I'm glad I have it - but, mine was a celebration of sorts as a purchase. I tried to get interested in the new Wilson 'StarTac' small Sebbie that is available now - sorry, I like what I have and can't rationalize that much on another knife anytime soon. The CRK's are quality... pure quality, however - and every knife lover should try to own one sometime in their life. If you like a larger knife, make it that Umnumzaan!

Stainz

I originally wanted a Skirmish, but since they don't make them any more and the only place I could find a new one wanted $100 more than they debuted at, I can't stomach the purchase. I'm not fond of the other knives, aside from maybe the Buck.

jfindon

Look into knifeart.com. They have a huge selection of CRK, Strider and you can see what knives are in the same price range.

KnifeArt confuses me, I can't tell which ones are "special" and which are just the basic ones because they list so many. And half of them seem to be sold and don't say the price.

I know they come in three "trims": Normal G10, concealed carry, and gunner grip. I think the last two are more expensive (maybe $475 and $500 respectively?) which would leave the "plain" G10, but can you get them with or without the tiger stripe blade and the flamed titanium slab for $400?