Which Folder To Buy Next?

[zeno]

Alright, it looks as if I have obtained all of the multitools, SAKs, and fixed blades that I have been craving for the time being.  Unfortunately, I divested myself of my Atwood collection in the process, so I need to console myself by scratching a particular folder itch that I have had for a while now.  I own and have owned many folders from various makers, but there are 3 makers knives of which I have yet to own that have intrigued me for a long time.  They are CRK, Rick Hinderer, Strider.  The main reason that I haven't gotten a knife from these makers is because the are so expensive.  I am leaning towards a small sebenza as I like smaller blades, but the other two makers also have some awesome knives.  As a reference, my Emerson CQC15 with a 3.9" is definitely too big.  Also, I don't need a safe queen and would be willing to buy a second hand knife in very good condition, which would allow me to purchase one that might be cost prohibitive otherwise.  Any opinions on quality, usability, etc. is appreciated.

[Zack]

I have had 2 small sebenzas and they truly are a beauty in manufacturing and machining.  I have handles a Strider and wasn't terribly impressed, although it was a fine knife, just not quite what I was expecting.  The small sebenza is a little small for me, but it is very pocketable, and very light.  Are you thinking of just getting a plain or maybe a custom graphic or inlay?  If you want to try out a Sebbie for a few days I would be happy to send mine out to you to have a play.

[zeno]

I have had 2 small sebenzas and they truly are a beauty in manufacturing and machining.  I have handles a Strider and wasn't terribly impressed, although it was a fine knife, just not quite what I was expecting.  The small sebenza is a little small for me, but it is very pocketable, and very light.  Are you thinking of just getting a plain or maybe a custom graphic or inlay?  If you want to try out a Sebbie for a few days I would be happy to send mine out to you to have a play.

Zack, thanks for the offer, but no need as I have held this knife and like the feel of it a lot which is why I am leaning towards it.  I also like the feel of the Umnumzaan.  If I get a sebenza, I am leaning towards a used one with a custom graphic as there seem to be plenty of them for sale on the secondary market unless there is a particular reason to purchase a new one.  Are you looking to sell yours?  

[Zack]

I wish I could sell it, but it would take me forever to get back into one, as most of my trading stock went into getting this one.  I don't think you can go wrong with a sebbie.  They hold their trade and sale value so well, and when it gets worn, you just send it back back to CRK for a small fee, and its like you have a new knife again.

[Gadget Guy]

I've owned all of those knives and I would go with a 3" Hinderer if I were you. It has the toughness of a Strider with the finesse of a Sebenza. You won't be sorry with that knife. 

[zeno]

I've owned all of those knives and I would go with a 3" Hinderer if I were you. It has the toughness of a Strider with the finesse of a Sebenza. You won't be sorry with that knife.  

Gadget Guy, what would be a reasonable price for one?  I am seeing these things in the $650 range.  You really feel that they are worth the extra $250 plus over the Sebenza?

[Gadget Guy]

I've owned all of those knives and I would go with a 3" Hinderer if I were you. It has the toughness of a Strider with the finesse of a Sebenza. You won't be sorry with that knife.  

Gadget Guy, what would be a reasonable price for one?  I am seeing these things in the $650 range.  You really feel that they are worth the extra $250 plus over the Sebenza?

They can be found in the $400-$450 range and they are worth that for sure. $650, not unless you have cash to burn. 

[cgk]

I should start by saying I own none of those knives but have been fortunate enough to have "played" with a Hinderer and a Sebenza.  To me the Hinderer feels much better in hand and is more fun to play with (I love the flipper), the down side is that it is not as slim as the Sebenza.

[Gadget Guy]

I should start by saying I own none of those knives but have been fortunate enough to have "played" with a Hinderer and a Sebenza.  To me the Hinderer feels much better in hand and is more fun to play with (I love the flipper), the down side is that it is not as slim as the Sebenza.

That's a good point.     The Sebenza carries a little better, but not much.   

[zeno]

Okay, so the Strider is out.  I am still having difficulty deciding between a CRK or Hinderer.  Any other thoughts out there?

[zeno]

Well, I didn't hold out long.  I purchased a Mnandi with Tamboti inlay.  While I wanted a Hinderer I couldn't pass it up since it is pristine and I was able to get it at $275.  I think that this will cure my itch for a CRK and will be good gentleman's carrier given my profession.  I can always use my Benchmade 585 Mini Barrage or Emerson CQC15 for the tougher stuff.  Thanks for the input.  I will let you guys know how I like it when it arrives.

[zeno]

My Mnandi came in and all I can say is WOW!     This knife is incredible. I have never experienced this much knife in such a small package, and I was more than a bit surprised with how much blade you get given the overall size and weight of the knife. I will definitely be proud to carry this any occasion.  I think that I have been bitten by the Chris Reeve bug though, so the itch continues.  Maybe a small sebenza next.  I only need one kidney, right?   As always, sorry for the poor pics from the iphone.

[Mike, Lord of the Spammers!]

 

[John]

That is a beautiful knife 

[nuphoria]

That is a beautiful knife 

Uh huh