Sebenza difference Classic/Regular?

Joined
May 29, 2007
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Sorry if this has been covered. The search function has been turning up a blank page for me all day.

What is the difference between the Sebenza Classic and Regular models?

I can see from the pictures that the area around the frame lock is different, if in fact that is a frame lock. Is the lock itself the same or different? How would the difference in the two models affect function and use?

The blades appear to be the same and the specs are the same for both models. Are the handles different other than the cut out area for the frame lock?

I imagine the choice between the two would be a matter of personal preference but I would be interested in the reasons from anyone with a definite preference.

And if anyone could come up with any links to this on the forum that would be helpful. Many thanks.
 
Welcome to the forums.
You ask in the wrong subforum, better try the manufacturers area, CRK subforum.
The difference between regular and classic is the lock area and the blade shape (slightly).
 
Mostly just aesthetic differences, really. You've already noticed the small changes in the frame. If you look closely at the blade shape you'll see a small difference there as well. Construction and materials are the same, however.
 
moving-van.jpg
 
From what I understand the differences show up more in the large than the small. I only have one small so I can't compare, except in pictures. I'm sure there are many who have both and can fill you in.
Greg
 
Thanks for moving this. I've been poking around some more but still haven't come up with anything except they are different. If there is a difference in the blade profile, I can't see it in the pictures, or at least I can't see anything that might not be just a difference in camera angle.

I have a preference for the Classic from an aesthetic point of view but that might change if I saw the knives in person and could handle them. What I want to know is why the changes were made in the first place and why some people disagree that they were improvements.

I did discover that there is a dealer about fifty miles from me who appears to carry the Classic but not the Regular, so that isn't a full solution. In my fantasy world I would just order one of each from the CR site and figure it out for myself. Large and small too while I am at it.

As it is, just getting one Sebenza is in the dream stage but dreams need some detail to solidify. Maybe I'll find one at a yard sale with my name on it for $10, and that will obviously be the best one for me.

It would be interesting to know the percentages of Classic and Regular that Chris Reeve makes and sells. Anyway, thanks for the input and for any additional information.
 
Keep checking the Exchange forum here as well as some other internet alternatives. You can find some good deals on Sebs if you are persistent and patient. As far as finding a Sebenza for $10 at a garage sale, that my friend is a "pipe dream". More realistic, you can pick up used small plain ones for around $175 - $200. LNIB in the range of $250 and up. As far as the Unique Graphics with inlays, if you are persistent you can pick them up for $100 to $200 less than the original asking price depending on the avenue you take in purchasing them. I hope you find what you're looking for. Once you get one, well that's pretty much all she wrote. You'll want more of em'. Good Luck and happy hunting!
 
The small regular blade is a little bit shorter than the classic, about 1/16" or so. I was surprised to discover that after I acquired both styles since the specs indicate they are the same length. The reqular is clearly shorter. I don't know about the large since I don't have both styles in large, just the classic. I like both styles. It is really just which one you like the looks for best.
 
I have had (and have) both sizes in regular and classic. I have to say that I find them pretty different: The Regular is much more a utility knife with a stronger tip. The Classic is more of a fighter, not so useful for example kitchen work or hunting.

As many others I like the small Classic and the large Regular.

Also remember that a swedge makes differences. If you put one on a Regular – the blade will be more "classic".
 
What do you guys think about the Classic Handle versus the Regular?

The "half moon cutout" on the classic for operating the lock seems to be modified to a much smaller less circular cutout on the regular model.

Which works better for you? how come?

I'm also quite curious abou the difference between the two.
 
I like the classic ones better. The regular feels slightly better in the hand but, the classic is much easier to disengage the lock.
 
There is a very obvious difference in the blade geometry, the classic is a clippoint and the regular is a droppoint. The classic has a bit more blade width towards the tip and a stronger but more rounded drop. Years ago i preferred the classic, but now I much prefer the regular.. weird.
 
I have a few of each style. After 7 or so years, I still don't know which one I like better. Flip a coin for the first one and get the other later.
 
I'm starting to understand that Chris Reeve is not only a master knife maker but a marketing genius. More power to him. I thought I was struggling to come up with the price of one high end knife and find out it takes four to lay the foundation.

Thanks to all for your responses. I might have to attend the Chicago knife show next month for some hands on input tho I guess it would be cheaper to take Proguide's advice and just flip a coin.

:cool:
 
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