Please help me decide C12 in plain or serrated?

The General

The General

Joined
Jun 6, 2000
Messages
3,625
I am aware of the value of a serrated edge
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. But I have decided to get a CF Civilian rather than a Matriarch. What do you all think? Plain or serrated? My nearest blade like it is a CRK&T serrated Seahawk. But nowerdays I prefer the plain edge, the Vaqu Grande I have is fully serrated as well.

I don't think this is anything but a defensive knife, so is plain or serrated best for this? I have heard as many arguments for plain as serrated as a better weapon. I have no need for rope cutting etc. Which is best for a pure fighter like this? This is all hypothetical of course I never hope to use it for that!

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Wayne.
"To strive to seek to find and not to yield"
Tennyson
Ranger motto

A few useful details on UK laws and some nice reviews!
http://members.aol.com/knivesuk/
Certified steel snob!
 
My own 2 cents: The civilian is much more of a slasher than a thrusting knife. I prefer the added serrations to really rip open the wound as I slash. Many people prefer a razor sharp plain edge. It probably comes down to how often you train making more of a difference over serrations vs. plain in the end
 
My theoretical two cents...

I've heard of a hypothetical problem during self defense regarding the possibility of a serrated blade "catching" on clothing representing a liability. But, I don't know...they've got to cut like the dickens.

I'd say you should buy the one you like the looks of the best. That's what I usually end up doing.

Cheers, Jeff/1911.
 
Thanks!

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Wayne.
"To strive to seek to find and not to yield"
Tennyson
Ranger motto

A few useful details on UK laws and some nice reviews!
http://members.aol.com/knivesuk/
Certified steel snob!
 
I had first considered a plain-edged CF Civilian but opted for the serrated version after my experience with a plain-edged Merlin. While test cutting a roll of paper the plain edge of the Merlin slid off the smooth surface while a serrated Harpy bit into the roll and cut it in two quite effectively. Both knives were "factory sharp" (out-of-the-box condition). Personally, I was convinced that in a high stress and/or "only one chance" defensive situation the serrated edge was the way to go. I often hear the comment that a serrated edge can get "caught" on clothing, etc. as a reason against this option. The purpose of the serrations is to bite into the material being cut--they only get "caught" if you give up on pulling the blade through the material. Others may have different opinions on this matter based on their own experience and/or theory but this is my two cents on hawkbill blades. I hope this helps.
 
I believe a serrated knife would cut better though a leather jacket or heavy clothing.

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Rick Gray - Left Handers Unite
 
i think sal made the plain edge ones for us to hang on the wall.

if i rember correctly he said before that for its intended role the toothy version is the better choice. IMO this is why the g-10 (a more practical "user") is only available serrated.

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'Till next time,
Rich the kite guy
 
General, If you are going to use it, go for the serrated. Much longer blade length and won't need to be sharpened as much. Of all the Civilians I've owned the G-10 stays in your hand the best. Just make sure it's not too long for the city you live in. If it is, go for the Matriarch.
 
I would buy the serrated version too. In spite of what I previously said I'd "heard" about serrated edges "catching"...
Personally, I don't believe this either. At least, no more than I would want them to catch. A very good point was made about tough outer garments such as leather jackets, etc. Jeff/1911.
 
Properly sharpened, the plain edge will serve very well and IMO is better looking than the serrated. However, the design of the blade really works better with serrations. I have seen the effects of a serrated Civie on a friends leg. The blade sliced cleanly and effortlessly to a depth of approx. 1.25" and about 3" in length, maybe a little longer. His pant leg offered no resistance to the edge. After I saw the results of his accident, I have lost my doubts about a serrated edge snagging.

Sharpening is easy. Use the 40% angle on a 204 sharpmaker on the grind side, then a light strop to the other side.

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If ignorance is bliss,
why aren't more people happy?
 
I will go for the serrated edge if possible and the plain edge if thats all I can get. Thank you for your time and words. It is all very welcome.



------------------
Wayne.
"To strive to seek to find and not to yield"
Tennyson
Ranger motto

A few useful details on UK laws and some nice reviews!
http://members.aol.com/knivesuk/
Certified steel snob!
 
Since these knives are mainly for defense; they should not be used or need sharpening.

Carry a second knife to use.

You don't want a dull defensive knife.

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Rick Gray - Left Handers Unite
 
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