The Gamble: initial impressions vs. prolonged use

[Korean Hog]

I was much more impressed with my ZT 03050 and ZT 0770 CF initially than I was with this Chris Reeve Small sebenza 21. With both the sebenza and a spyderco Delica I thought they were nice, but neither one seemed like much. After carrying each for at least a week the sebenza is my favorite. The zts are much more impressive when you first pick them up, but something about an assisted flipper gets old and can be a bit awkward around customers. With the delica it seems that it gets very sharp at first, but after a day at work vg10 seems to start chipping and the back lock deal gets old when up on a ladder. Also, there are definitely times when the Delica really does feel "delicate" like it might break.
I bought the sebenza for the sake of collecting, but decided to take a chance and carry it and use it like it should be used/ see what all the fuss was about, and was pleasantly surprised. Very stout yet slices effortlessly, one handed operation without all the spring loaded antics and very comfortable with little to no hot spots after prolonged use cutting insulation, straps, webbing, packages. I love the combination of simplicity and extreme attention to detail. I've got to say I've really gone from complete skeptic to loyal fan of Chris Reeve knives.

 

[adamlau]

You should have opted for the Insingo blade as I have found it to be more utilitarian around the jobsite....

 

[palonej]

Just got my first Sebbie couple weeks ago. I have been extremely impressed also!! So impressed, I quickly grabbed another!
Fantastic knives that just 'feel' like a knife that will last a couple of lifetimes!!
Joe

 

[Korean Hog]

You should have opted for the Insingo blade as I have found it to be more utilitarian around the jobsite....

This won't be my only Chris Reeve I'm sure, but this small sebenza does what I need it to. I just wanted to get something standard and classic for my first one. I almost got that one, but I like having the sharper point most of the time. Like I said though I doubt this will be my only one, so I could definitely see the insingo shape being my next one. That umnumzaan tanto is tempting too.

 

[Mick_1KRR]

Flashy trims and trends get old fast. After the bling and honeymoon phase dies you're left with what a knife is supposed to be, a tool. And it's in the time spent after this where you realize if it's a good tool or not. Does it cut, will it last? Can i maintain it and break it down numerous times without the fixtures getting sloppy and play developing. These are things i weigh up before i buy knives, because as any experienced knife collector/user knows, the honeymoon phase is just that, a phase. You can only kid yourself for so long and you will refine your taste over the years. But at the same time you still have to have some fun, so no harm buying honeymoon phase knives, we all do it from time to time.

 

[Korean Hog]

Flashy trims and trends get old fast. After the bling and honeymoon phase dies you're left with what a knife is supposed to be, a tool. And it's in the time spent after this where you realize if it's a good tool or not. Does it cut, will it last? Can i maintain it and break it down numerous times without the fixtures getting sloppy and play developing. These are things i weigh up before i buy knives, because as any experienced knife collector/user knows, the honeymoon phase is just that, a phase. You can only kid yourself for so long and you will refine your taste over the years. But at the same time you still have to have some fun, so no harm buying honeymoon phase knives, we all do it from time to time.

Exactly! Hit the nail square on the head with this post...

 

[NJBillK]

Try a HAP40 Delica or a Mantra 1.
The Mantra has a Very similar handle shape to the Delica, but has a Ti framelock and M4 blade steel, but offers a bit more cutting edge.

Delica and Mantra

 

[Sonnydaze]

I am happy that you have found the value of true excellence in a folder. Many of us have tried many folders...and yet, I have a large Classic Sebbie in my pocket...

 

[jaypowell0185]

When I got my first Emerson I really didnt get what all the hype was about, then I actually stared to use them. I soon realized that they were the knives for me. Now this is basically what I carry everyday.

 

[sabre cat]

Flashy trims and trends get old fast. After the bling and honeymoon phase dies you're left with what a knife is supposed to be, a tool. And it's in the time spent after this where you realize if it's a good tool or not. Does it cut, will it last? Can i maintain it and break it down numerous times without the fixtures getting sloppy and play developing. These are things i weigh up before i buy knives, because as any experienced knife collector/user knows, the honeymoon phase is just that, a phase. You can only kid yourself for so long and you will refine your taste over the years. But at the same time you still have to have some fun, so no harm buying honeymoon phase knives, we all do it from time to time.

What a great response. Something every noob should read.

 

[photoman12001]

A small CRK is all the knife and more than most of us will ever need. In my case, a small Inkosi is always with me. I've got plenty of other knives (including CRKs) to choose from but that one is a about perfect for EDC as far as I'm concerned. It did take me some time to appreciate my first Sebenza though, similar to your experience. I still enjoy my ZTs, Benchmades, Spydercos, etc. though.