Sebenza Variations: Desirability / Value

Tooth & Nail

Tooth & Nail

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Jun 9, 2006
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As the title suggests I'm interested in getting some input on some Sebenza models and steel types that have been discontinued from regular production. Specific, or general I'd like to get a feel for how the community feels the Sebenzas listed below compare (in terms of desirability and value) to the current Sebenza 21 with S35VN steel. I realize the importance of personal preference, but I'm thinking more about generalized opinions such as: “the small classic with S30V is generally less desired / worth less than a 21 because the 21 has what most feel is an improved handle and upgraded steel....”, or perhaps the lack of the “Idaho Made” marking makes a difference, etc.

2006 Small Classic, S30V
2004 Small Regular CGG (Pheasant Tail) S30V
2005 Large Classic w/ Micarta Inlays S30V
2001 Large Regular w/ Unique Graphic BG42

To keep the discussion consistent lets assume new condition compared to new condition. Thanks.
 
In terms of desirability and value, my pick is your 2001 Large Regular w/Unique Graphic. I collect those and I tend to spend more on them when the graphic is something that appeals to me.
 
I just discovered how much I like BG42 so for me it's anything unique with BG42.
 
lisantica and dinokay, Thanks for the input. I figured the BG42 would be a bit more desirable. What about S30V vs. S35VN and Regular vs Classic vs 21? Simply personal preference, or reasonably clear general differences in desirability?
 
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2005 Large Classic w/ Micarta Inlays S30V
2001 Large Regular w/ Unique Graphic BG42
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Close call between these two. I prefer BG-42 and the large Regular profile, but I like the micarta inlays a lot.

Tooth & Nail said:
lisantica and dinokay, Thanks for the input. I figured the BG42 would be a bit more desirable. What about S30V vs. S35VN and Regular vs Classic vs 21? Simply personal preference, or reasonably clear general differences in desirability?
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IMHO, there's not a lot to choose between S30V and S35VN or between Classic and 21 - in real life they come out the same or so close it doesn't matter. Again with an IMHO disclaimer, I prefer the Classic and 21 handles to the Regular, but (in the large size only) prefer the Regular (large) blade profile with its deeper belly.
 
I prefer Bg-42 to S30V as I felt it was a little tougher and I could always get a great edge on it. S35VN is a marked improvement over S30V but I still give BG-42 the edge.

I found the regular handle more comfortable that the classic and never had any issues in using the thumb stud with it. I do like the sleeker edges on the 21, and find that micarta inserts on the knife make it nicer to use and improve the looks.

The drop point on the regular is robust with a nice slicing belly, the pointier classic/21 with its finer tip is a better sliver picker (especially on the small), but the Insingo has that slightly curved edge and solid tip with just enough point to pierce.

For my needs I rank it Regular(BG-42)>Insingo(S35VN)>21(S35VN)>Classic(S30V).
 
lisantica said:
In terms of desirability and value, my pick is your 2001 Large Regular w/Unique Graphic. I collect those and I tend to spend more on them when the graphic is something that appeals to me.
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stjames said:
I prefer Bg-42 to S30V as I felt it was a little tougher and I could always get a great edge on it. S35VN is a marked improvement over S30V but I still give BG-42 the edge.

I found the regular handle more comfortable that the classic and never had any issues in using the thumb stud with it. I do like the sleeker edges on the 21, and find that micarta inserts on the knife make it nicer to use and improve the looks.

The drop point on the regular is robust with a nice slicing belly, the pointier classic/21 with its finer tip is a better sliver picker (especially on the small), but the Insingo has that slightly curved edge and solid tip with just enough point to pierce.

For my needs I rank it Regular(BG-42)>Insingo(S35VN)>21(S35VN)>Classic(S30V).
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I don't think I can do anything but agree with these two experienced Sebenzanistas, with the caveat that I haven't used an Insingo yet so can't rank that variation. Regular BG42 Seb's, especially those made in the late 90's, were the apex IMO. Not by leaps and bounds by any means, but in personal preference only.
 
Thanks for the great input! It seems a few observations can be made from the comments above: Some, perhaps many would prefer BG42 over S35VN, and S35VN over S30V. It also sounds like there is a preference for the enhancements of the 21 over the Classic style, if the comparison is limited to these two styles. The different blade profiles seem like, in addition to simply being a matter of personal preference, a matter of application and maybe size. Any other thoughts?
 
corbon said:
What does this mean,"new condition...to new condition"?
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The models and steels in this discussion involve both older, no longer produced knives and those currently offered. To eliminate a knife's condition as a variable, I was suggesting that it be assumed everything is in new condition.
 
From your choices I would go with either of these two.

2005 Large Classic w/ Micarta Inlays S30V
2001 Large Regular w/ Unique Graphic BG42

My personal preference is for the Classics with wood inlays. I use one every day and love how it feels in the hand.

As far as I am concerned the ones to avoid are anything with the ugly "Made in Idaho stamp" :thumbdn:
 
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