Sebenza vs. CKT Brend #2

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Oct 28, 2000
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I'm trying to decide on a nice framelock for outdoors/hiking/camping use and have pretty well narrowed it down to either a Sebenza or Cutters Knife and Tool Brend Model 2. Any suggestions?

After playing with a CKT Brend D/A for a while I'm kinda leaning towards a Sebenza. I had a Sebbie a while back and it was a good EDC, but lacked the snap I like when playing with knives. Now I'm looking for a serious tool that is the least likely to jam up on me while being mistreated. I'll also have fixed blades with me, but a folder seems natural in my pocket, and I'm gonna have me one, just want the best for the job.

I've played with the Buck/Mayo and don't really like the hole and the size of the knife, and the Benchmade framelock that is discontinued didn't really do it for me either. I'm looking at a framelock for ease of cleaning and best function. Are there any other nice production framelocks I've missed?
 
You might want to check out the Spyderco ATR. It's about the same size as a Sebenza and I think that the integral framelock may be even stronger than the conventional framelock. The Strider SNG is another framelock that you could check out. Finally look at customs like Mike obenauf, Rick Hinderer, A.T. Barr, and some of the guys who adverstise in the forums.
 
How does the ATR compare to the Sebenza in fit and finish? I understand that the ATR costs considerably less than a Sebenza, but since fit and finish doesn't increase in direct proportion to price...
 
I think that the ATR compares favorably to the Sebenza. I would say that the Sebenza has tighter tolerances overall, but the ATR in terms of it design, has a better lockup. The grind of the ATR's blade is equal to that of the Sebenza, at least to my eyes. I think that the ATR's main disadvantage is that it has a semi-dagger style blade and grind while the Sebenza's grind is more geared to general uitlity.
 
I also have booth an ATR and a large Classic Sebenza. The Sebenza seems to be, overall, a better finished knife. However, due to the difference in cost, the Sebenza should be a "better" knife. I guess the term "better" is based on personal tastes also.

The ATR has, however, become equal to the Sebenza as far as being one of my favorite folders. I have also begun carrying the ATR more than the Sebenza, on a daily basis. The lock up and the finish of the ATR is really quite remarkable. Plus it is much more "agressive and impressive" looking than the Sebenza. The compression lock is quite amazing.

However, if you are looking for a folder to use in the great outdoors and are looking to be able to field clean the knife, the Sebenza might be a better choice. The ATR is not meant to be disassembled and cleaned. In fact I believe that Spyderco's warrantee does not cover knifes which have been disassembled by the owner. Please correct me if I an wrong about this point.



If you want to buy one of the "best" and strongest folders made for under $250.00 I would definately consider the ATR. Plus it is, like the Sebenza, backed up by a company with superior customer support. I find that customer support, with folding knives, is of supreme importance.
 
I spend most of my spare time in the woods and a small Sebenza has been a great companion. Fit and finish is incredible and the utility design of the blade is great for almost all tasks. Being able to disassemble the knife is a great plus. Some will argue this, but I feel it is worth the price. Not just for materials and fit and finish, but peace of mind knowing you are carrying the best. Hope that helps, good luck.
 
I like the Cutter Brend better than the Sebenza becasue.....

It is a thicker knife, with a thicker frame. Not sure how important that is...I just like it.

It is easier to open and close one handed. Thumbstud is larger and easier to get a hold of.

Handle is more ergonomic. Very comfortable to use.

Don't count the Cutter out. In M/A or D/A it is a bad ass knife. Their customer service is steller!!!
 
I would go with a large Sebenza. It’s the best folding knife for the money, and perhaps the best folding knife period. Other knives will come and go but the Sebenza will always be cool. Anyone who is into knives should have at least one.
 
i own both the CKT and the Sebbie Lg and Sm.

i really like the CKT better in terms of quality and smoothness, it is just too big for everyday carry in civilian clothes. But in uniforn it is perfect for me and even better when i have gloves on. it is a sweet knife and more peeps should take a look if they want a large, smooth, tough framelock.

You cant go wrong with a Sebbie. but i really like the CKT, just wish it was a little smaller.
 
Well, I played with an ATR today, and it just doesn't do it for me. Doesn't seem to open as well as the CKT Brend, or the old Sebbie I once had. I'd rather stick to the production level than go custom, just a personal preference on folders.

I think I may end up picking up both the CKT Brend and a Large Sebbie. Take them out and play with them and then make a decision. Seems you never really know how somethings gonna work till ya use it for a while. Thanks for the input guys.
 
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