Sebenza vs Umnum 4 first CRK

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Sep 24, 2008
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Hello. I am new to CRK and I am looking to buy one. I have been into knives for the past few years but I don't own any that are top notch. I own a few benchmades, and my EDC right now is a spyderco starmate. I like the size of the starmate so I am looking for a reg sebbie or the new umnum. The knife will be for EDC but if needed for self defense. The sebbie would be easier to find to buy but the umnum looks like it could handle more and be more durable. Any input on what you guys think would be great on what knife to buy!:D
 
Welcome to the forum Pink. Just want to say first off that I don't approve of any folding knife for self defense. A fixed bladed would be the way to go. Really, I'd hate to think of anyone here getting into a knife fight let alone having to use one to fend off an attack. If a fight is life threatening then maybe a CCW would be more in order.
Anyhow........:jerkit:
If you are looking for that heavy duty carry folder, than look no further than the Umnumzaan. IMO the better of the two for a larger carry folder. Thick blade, thicker frame and more ergonomic(i.e. more comfortable). The large Regular Sebenza is also a nice knife, don't get me wrong, I have many. But if you are looking for that pig sticker, the Umnum is that knife!!
Good luck and let us know what you decide.
:thumbup:
 
Welcome!
Any CRK folder will suit your needs. Pick the model you like! ;)
 
no top notch knives? benchmades ARE top notch dude, spyderco also. but I know what you mean.. $300 - $400 top notch. Well Im waiting for my umnum now, should have it in two weeks so I cant speak for that one yet but I have owned a large reg sebenza and I can tell you that it is an extremely durable knife and built like a tank. there's no need for a MORE durable knife that I can think of, but if the umnum is indeed more durable, then well its always nice to have too much.:D as far as self defense, the sebenza is a very slow knife to open compared to others like the assisted openers or emerson waves. I know you said that the knife is primarily for edc but Im just throwing that out there. Im assuming, by the looks of the thumb lugs, that the umnum will be easier/quicker to open than the sebenza. IMO get the umnum because I have a feeling that it is going to be EVERYTHING the sebenza is, AND MORE! I hear that its smoother, better grip, and more overbuilt to a point where no other knife can claim to be tougher(strider):rolleyes: But if you like the way the sebenza looks more then just get that one because you cant go wrong with a classic!!!
 
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I say get a large Classic inlaid model. Either wood, or go with the micarta. I think you need to have the "original" so to speak, so that you can enjoy it and find out what CRK is all about. I'm sure, if you have been here for very long, you've read plenty about the Sebenza so nows the time to go ahead and experience one. There will be plenty of Umnumzaans in the coming months, so if you like the Sebbie, you can save up for the Umnumzaan! Just my opinion!:D
 
I was push cutting thick cardboard boxes all day long with the Sebbie and 'Zaan today. For cutting through cardboard, go with the Sebbie. For EDC and SD, go with the 'Zaan. The reason why the 'Zaan is a relatively slow deployer (at least for me) is because the knife is clipped tip down and because in order to flick it open with confidence and a sure lockup, you need to first preload the area of the blade directly behind the thumb stud and next to the frame. While applying diagonal pressure towards the pivot, generate as much forward (versus arcing) thumb speed as possible into the action and allow momentum to deploy the blade. Though I am fast with the 'Zaan, I can definitely wave an Emerson faster.
 
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The Sebenza is a great knife. The Large is similar in size to the Griptilian.
 
Welcome Pink. I agree that either would be great for your first CRK, but the 'Zaan is a beefier design. I also like the ergos on the 'Zaan better than the 'benza. Not a huge difference, but enough to make it a bit more comfortable.

adamlau -- How did you get your 'Zaan clipped tip down? Mine and all the pics I've seen have it tip up only.


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Welcome Pink. I agree that either would be great for your first CRK, but the 'Zaan is a beefier design. I also like the ergos on the 'Zaan better than the 'benza. Not a huge difference, but enough to make it a bit more comfortable.

adamlau -- How did you get your 'Zaan clipped tip down? Mine and all the pics I've seen have it tip up only.


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yea I was wondering the same thing:confused:
 
for cutting I'd still prefer Sebenza. For self defense... what about Glock?
 
Clipped tip down meaning that the blade pivot is facing down when the folder is clipped on a pocket.
 
Clipped tip down meaning that the blade pivot is facing down when the folder is clipped on a pocket.

:p that's tip up. Tip down is when the clip is on the pivot side. It's all about which direction the tip of the blade is facing when closed and sitting inside your pocket :thumbup:
 
Thanks for all the advice on which knife to get. I think for my first CRK i'll go with the sebbie cuz thats what reeve knives are all about. Someday I might pick up the umnum. Only reason I said "could" be used for self defense is cuz I'm a college student who walks to class, sometimes at night. I don't live in a ghetto by any means but there have been people robbed and mugged. I don't think i will be buying a pistol anytime soon because I can't exactly carry one on campus:eek:, plus just bought a new benelli M2:D. Regardless, I think a knife would make most people think twice about trying to take anything from me.
 
Hey, good choice :thumbup:.

I've been saving up for one for a while now (I keep spending the money I save on other knives :o).

I'm bound to get one sometime soon, J.
 
Thanks for all the advice on which knife to get. I think for my first CRK i'll go with the sebbie cuz thats what reeve knives are all about. Someday I might pick up the umnum. Only reason I said "could" be used for self defense is cuz I'm a college student who walks to class, sometimes at night. I don't live in a ghetto by any means but there have been people robbed and mugged. I don't think i will be buying a pistol anytime soon because I can't exactly carry one on campus:eek:, plus just bought a new benelli M2:D. Regardless, I think a knife would make most people think twice about trying to take anything from me.
Which Sebbie have you decided to get? Large or small etc.?CONGRATS! You made an excellent choice.
 
Thanks for all the advice on which knife to get. I think for my first CRK i'll go with the sebbie cuz thats what reeve knives are all about. Someday I might pick up the umnum. Only reason I said "could" be used for self defense is cuz I'm a college student who walks to class, sometimes at night. I don't live in a ghetto by any means but there have been people robbed and mugged. I don't think i will be buying a pistol anytime soon because I can't exactly carry one on campus:eek:, plus just bought a new benelli M2:D. Regardless, I think a knife would make most people think twice about trying to take anything from me.

I wish I could afford a CRK :grumpy: (also college student here)

Yes I am jealous, before anyone points it out :cool:


But seriously, grats on your choice!
 
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