New model or the classic ???

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Jun 12, 2006
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I'm selling off part of my collection that I don't particularly care for. The proceeds are for the purchase of a new Sebenza. While looking around I was surprised to find I could buy a "Sebenza" or a "Sebenza Classic". Apparently the “Classic” was brought back my popular demand.

Is it like old Coke and new Coke where the old Coke is still the best? Or is the new model actually a better knife. Since no knife shops near my home sell these knives, I would appreciate some valued information from those that know.

Is one model really better than the other or is it just personal preference? They both use top notch materials so I’m guessing it looks and ergonomics that are the differences. How do I know what the differences are so I can make as “informed decision“? The older model must have been quite a knife to have it brought back into production. That says quite a lot. But Chris must have thought there was a need for a new model or he would not have designed one.

Signed....:confused:
 
I think it is more inclined to personal preference. For instance, I like the classic much better than the regular, I dislike the grooved handle on the regular. I also like the blade shape of the classic better than the regular.
 
I agree with the coment above. I don't like the wavy bits on the regular and also think that the shape of the inlays on the classic are nicer (one slot on the non locking side matches the one on the lock side)
 
This is all incredibly valuable information. If anyone else has input to this question, please chime in.

But I'd like to add one more question. Is the Sebenza (sounds like the classic so far) really the ultimate folding pocket knife? I have read nothing but positive feedback about this knife. Is there anything NOT to like about it (except it being a little expensive)? Does anyone not like the Sebenza and regret their purchase? One could purchase 3 or more Benchmades for one Sebenza. Is it really worth it? This knife has almost reached "mythical" status.

Regards and this is VERY much appreciated.
 
I've heard people say that their Sebenzas did not come very sharp, comparing them to Spyderco sharpness.

You can easily sharpen these knives to be sharper than Spyderco knives if you put your mind to it. You won't find a Spyderco with the fit and finish of a Sebenza.
 
That is good to hear.

Would you say that your Sebs were as sharp or sharper than your Spydies TKC?
 
Does anyone not like the Sebenza and regret their purchase?

I purchased a small classic, and returned it a couple of days later. I found it very difficult to open.

Broke down later an picked up a large classic. Awesome knife, easy to open. It quickly became the favorite EDC in my arsenal.

So I may pick up another small classic again and give it a try. Maybe my brain wasn't working right when I had the first one. Who knows.

cheers
 
I like the classic more than the regular. I own a classic and regular. The classic seems easier to access the thumb stud. When I first got my small regular seb, it was difficult to open. After a week, it was very smooth. The small seb needs time to break in. I own spydercos and William henrys, but my favorite knives are CRK. I love the seb and mnundi. I would gladly trade my other knives for more sebs and mnundis. I did not get the chance to handle the seb before I bought it. I bought the seb based on the opinions of this forum. The seb isn't for everyone, but most will love it.
 
bladeprince said:
Is it like old Coke and new Coke where the old Coke is still the best? Or is the new model actually a better knife. Since no knife shops near my home sell these knives, I would appreciate some valued information from those that know.

Is one model really better than the other or is it just personal preference? They both use top notch materials so I’m guessing it looks and ergonomics that are the differences. How do I know what the differences are so I can make as “informed decision“?


Take a look at this link if you haven't done so already. The Classics are on the left in the pic and the 'Regular' on the right.

http://www.chrisreeve.com/sebenza.htm

Short answer to your question is it is a matter of personal preference. Specs are essentially the same. The most noticable difference is in the cutout shape for the thumblug. There is a difference in blade shape, although it is rather subtle (IMO).
 
I recently purchased the Large Classic Sebenza. I was fortunate enough to handle both models, in both sizes. I found the Small Sebenza a little harder to open, and I prefered the handle without the grooves. The choice was simple for me. :)

The Sebenza is the most expensive folder I own, and it is also my favorite. I don't regret spending the money on it. I would sell off other knives I own (Benchmades, Microtechs, MODs) to get another CR knife.
 
I asked the same question about Meridian Tactical, although I have decided to save up a bit more and go with a reliable website like New Graham. I know I can trust NG, and Meridian Tactical seems very shady to have such low prices.

JUST DON'T BUY THE LAST LG. CLASSIC BEFORE I DO!! :D
 
Django606 said:
I asked the same question about Meridian Tactical, although I have decided to save up a bit more and go with a reliable website like New Graham. I know I can trust NG, and Meridian Tactical seems very shady to have such low prices.

Interesting point. I checked prices on some other knives and they are all higher then the dealer I almost always buy from. Makes one curious.

I wonder it to sell Reeve's knives that a price agreement is signed. I've only checked the Sebenza and only on a few sites but except for Meridian Tactical, they are all going for $385. Just seems strange.
 
I purchased a Sebenza from Meridian Tactical and have no complaints for the price. The communication was not the best and there was a bit of a delay since the knife was not in stock and had to be ordered from CRK. I would call them first to see what they have in stock if you want the knife ASAP.
 
How long ago did you order the knife from them? Supposedly they have changed owners, or moved to a different location or something, and recently customer satisfaction has been close to zero.
 
I recently bought a large regular plain Sebenza. I bought a large because it fit my large hand better than a small Sebenza. I bought a regular because of the rounder handle angles, and I like the scalloped contour. But I can see myself buying a large classic with micarta, too. Micarta has the great properties of exceptional comfort, grip, and durability. And the CRK micarta looks oh so nice.
 
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