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Tool Talk => Edged Tools => Topic started by: Demel on January 19, 2017, 03:57:35 AM

Title: Trying to justify a Sebenza
Post by: Demel on January 19, 2017, 03:57:35 AM
So I'm trying to get this beauty (http://www.knifeart.com/largecarbon.html) sometime this year...the problem is the price :facepalm: My wife doesn't get why it's so  :drool: worthy.

So if you have a sebby, how did you get yours? Do you still have it? Was it worth it?

If you don't have one, why not? Is it the price? Other factors?

Help a fellow out
Title: Re: Trying to justify a Sebenza
Post by: jday2727 on January 19, 2017, 04:06:06 AM
Just buy it. If you don't like it, you can sell it, as they hold value fairly well. I personally decided to keep mine, for no real reason other than it is a good knife.

Sent from my Z988 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Trying to justify a Sebenza
Post by: Demel on January 19, 2017, 04:14:18 AM
Just buy it. If you don't like it, you can sell it, as they hold value fairly well. I personally decided to keep mine, for no real reason other than it is a good knife.

Sent from my Z988 using Tapatalk

Which model did you get? How has it stood up with time?
Title: Re: Trying to justify a Sebenza
Post by: jday2727 on January 19, 2017, 04:21:24 AM
Just buy it. If you don't like it, you can sell it, as they hold value fairly well. I personally decided to keep mine, for no real reason other than it is a good knife.

Sent from my Z988 using Tapatalk

Which model did you get? How has it stood up with time?
I went with a plain Jane small, for no real reason. It is an S30v model, and has been my yard work partner for several months. Still looks and feels great

Sent from my Z988 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Trying to justify a Sebenza
Post by: Kampfer on January 19, 2017, 04:55:07 AM
Code 4 is a better knife.
Title: Re: Trying to justify a Sebenza
Post by: kaput on January 19, 2017, 05:11:24 AM
Code 4 is a better knife.
Lulz  :rofl:
Title: Re: Trying to justify a Sebenza
Post by: Kampfer on January 19, 2017, 05:39:23 AM
Code 4 is a better knife.
Lulz  :rofl:
His wife would totally agree as she did watch the head to head strength test video between the two, also she would notice the price difference.  :P
Title: Re: Trying to justify a Sebenza
Post by: captain spaulding on January 19, 2017, 05:50:02 AM
I have a Large 21. Had it for a few years now and still love it just like the day I got it. It is a excellent knife and I never once regretted buying it.


(https://c1.staticflickr.com/8/7656/28006268335_49bddcc3dc_b.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/8/7466/27392942804_48a41e264a_b.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/8/7470/27971649096_3cedcfec51_b.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/8/7298/27392944124_d58359dcea_b.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/8/7255/27726169510_fab3968689_b.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/8/7521/27971647186_71a05894a6_b.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/8/7440/27971645946_e2af2b9524_b.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/8/7289/27726168410_e7e0064aed_b.jpg)




You should watch both of these videos if you have not already.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4QiEnhA3n0A
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nj6p8p6vfZQ
Title: Re: Trying to justify a Sebenza
Post by: kaput on January 19, 2017, 06:08:17 AM
So. Just my opinion bud. And I preface this with, these are only my opinions. And of course to each is own and different strokes for different folks and all those cliches... I'm sure it's a fantastically made knife with attention to detail and so on and so forth. But it seems to be market priced, just because. I would have a few other knives picked out before getting a sebenza. Also I'm not totaly in love with anything about the knife, and I'm actually opposed to the ones with the two inlays in the handles. It doesn't move the needle for me.  NOw captain Spaulding on the other hand is the nicest one I've seen and taken a liking too. I dig the raw material with no extras. It looks super clean and I'm sure it operates as such.

For the amount of money being spent, I would hope to hear glowing reviews raving about it everywhere you looked. Otherwise I'd be to tentative personally. When people say, it's a good knife, that wouldn't be enough for me to drop that amount of coin. But for me that's allot of money. Some people not so much. So my expectations may be off kilter? For me if things get over a certain price point I either feel guilty or too concerned to even enjoy it the way it was intended. But that's my deal.

I would think if you got it you would love it and it'd be your favorite knife. The link you posted to had 5 out of 5 stars with 19 reviews. That's definitely a good sign. Good luck with your decision demel. And if you want me to drop a note to your other half telling her your an amazing dude I got a pen and paper ready for ya just to put the icing on the cake.
Title: Re: Trying to justify a Sebenza
Post by: Aloha on January 19, 2017, 07:28:07 AM
While I can also appreciate the simplistic beauty of the Capts Sebenza they don't do "it" for me.  Titanium and S30V can be bought from many knife companies so if its a Sebenza you are after then I'd say you really only have to choose which one  :D

I've also followed the simple policy "If you have to justify the price, you should probably pass".  There are just some things one cannot simple justify the cost.  So much goes into why one would purchase something at a price point that makes the wallet cringe. 
Title: Re: Trying to justify a Sebenza
Post by: Gerhard Gerber on January 19, 2017, 07:30:30 AM
Pull the trigger.....

As mentioned you can get your money back........baring some orange juice related SebenzaGate scandal  :facepalm:
Title: Re: Trying to justify a Sebenza
Post by: captain spaulding on January 19, 2017, 08:08:36 AM
While I can also appreciate the simplistic beauty of the Capts Sebenza they don't do "it" for me.  Titanium and S30V can be bought from many knife companies so if its a Sebenza you are after then I'd say you really only have to choose which one  :D

I've also followed the simple policy "If you have to justify the price, you should probably pass".  There are just some things one cannot simple justify the cost.  So much goes into why one would purchase something at a price point that makes the wallet cringe.

Its been S35VN for a while now.

Sorry had to.  :D
Title: Re: Trying to justify a Sebenza
Post by: aurabattler on January 19, 2017, 05:52:33 PM
Justify? Becoz of Love........  :whistle:
Man it's a piece of art.  You don't justify art against cash.....  :climber:

Just like ladies buying Chanel......  :facepalm:
Title: Re: Trying to justify a Sebenza
Post by: Aloha on January 19, 2017, 05:58:34 PM
While I can also appreciate the simplistic beauty of the Capts Sebenza they don't do "it" for me.  Titanium and S30V can be bought from many knife companies so if its a Sebenza you are after then I'd say you really only have to choose which one  :D

I've also followed the simple policy "If you have to justify the price, you should probably pass".  There are just some things one cannot simple justify the cost.  So much goes into why one would purchase something at a price point that makes the wallet cringe.

Its been S35VN for a while now.

Sorry had to.  :D

 :D  oooops my bad  :facepalm:

Stil when it comes to things like the Sebenza you've got to look outside the materials to really get a sense of value.  I've never read anyone honestly saying the knife wasn't "worth" it.  Yours is wonderfully simple and elegant.  I'm sure the ownership "value" is really really high.   
Title: Re: Trying to justify a Sebenza
Post by: ducttapetech on January 19, 2017, 06:13:38 PM
The only reason I have not got one yet is I don't have that kind of coin to buy one. That and there are a couple of high end knives I have been trying decide on which one I want.
Title: Re: Trying to justify a Sebenza
Post by: ducttapetech on January 19, 2017, 06:15:26 PM
I have a Large 21. Had it for a few years now and still love it just like the day I got it. It is a excellent knife and I never once regretted buying it.


(https://c1.staticflickr.com/8/7656/28006268335_49bddcc3dc_b.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/8/7466/27392942804_48a41e264a_b.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/8/7470/27971649096_3cedcfec51_b.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/8/7298/27392944124_d58359dcea_b.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/8/7255/27726169510_fab3968689_b.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/8/7521/27971647186_71a05894a6_b.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/8/7440/27971645946_e2af2b9524_b.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/8/7289/27726168410_e7e0064aed_b.jpg)




You should watch both of these videos if you have not already.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4QiEnhA3n0A
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nj6p8p6vfZQ
How does it look and work now since you have been using it for a couple of years?
Title: Re: Trying to justify a Sebenza
Post by: Demel on January 19, 2017, 11:11:30 PM
Thanks for the feedback yall. A little context: the "regular" Sebenza never really grabbed my attention much. It looked nice but not $400 nice. Somehow I stumbled on the Benchmade 940-1. It seems like a great knife. Carbon fiber, s90v steel, light weight. But it's $280 new. Also alot of the reviews people were having a lot of quality control issues with theirs. Something that did not make me excited to shoot for one. That's when I saw the carbon fiber Sebenza. Small or large they are both good looking. So I've been debating do I get the 940-1 and may be disappointed or save a few extra bucks to get the Sebenza. Overall I'm leaning towards the Sebenza... But it has to be the full carbon fiber scaled one. Large or small. But both are pricey.
Title: Re: Trying to justify a Sebenza
Post by: Ron Who on January 19, 2017, 11:17:12 PM
They're top notch, but I wouldn't buy one if I had the money. I prefer slipjoint and backlock knives. I don't like the asymmetrical construction, it conflicts with my sense of aesthetics.
Title: Re: Trying to justify a Sebenza
Post by: Demel on January 19, 2017, 11:25:27 PM
I have a Large 21. Had it for a few years now and still love it just like the day I got it. It is a excellent knife and I never once regretted buying it.


(https://c1.staticflickr.com/8/7656/28006268335_49bddcc3dc_b.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/8/7466/27392942804_48a41e264a_b.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/8/7470/27971649096_3cedcfec51_b.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/8/7298/27392944124_d58359dcea_b.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/8/7255/27726169510_fab3968689_b.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/8/7521/27971647186_71a05894a6_b.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/8/7440/27971645946_e2af2b9524_b.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/8/7289/27726168410_e7e0064aed_b.jpg)




You should watch both of these videos if you have not already.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4QiEnhA3n0A (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4QiEnhA3n0A)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nj6p8p6vfZQ (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nj6p8p6vfZQ)
Great pics, and I did see those videos. It was those vids that really help me understand some of the reasons why they are priced the way they are.
Title: Re: Trying to justify a Sebenza
Post by: Demel on January 19, 2017, 11:28:45 PM
They're top notch, but I wouldn't buy one if I had the money. I prefer slipjoint and backlock knives. I don't like the asymmetrical construction, it conflicts with my sense of aesthetics.
The asymmetrical of the carbon fiber and titanium was off putting at first, but where else would you put the liner lock. I still haven't gotten one only because of price. Same reason I don't have a BMW :rofl:
Title: Re: Trying to justify a Sebenza
Post by: Kampfer on January 20, 2017, 12:02:05 AM
They're top notch, but I wouldn't buy one if I had the money. I prefer slipjoint and backlock knives. I don't like the asymmetrical construction, it conflicts with my sense of aesthetics.
I do not like or currently own any knives that have asymmetrical construction, just my taste of aesthetics.
Title: Re: Trying to justify a Sebenza
Post by: powernoodle on January 20, 2017, 01:27:07 AM
Was it worth it?

Eh, not really.

There are two perspectives on this.  From a pure objective, utilitarian viewpoint, the Sebenza is definitely not worth it.  All it does is cut stuff.  Just like $20 Kershaws, though granted you will get better edge retention with the spendier steel.  But 22 times better edge retention ($20 vs. $440)?  No.  If you cut an apple with a Sebenza and then with a Delica, for example, the apple will have no idea which knife cut it.  I know, because I asked it.


The other perspective is the subjective feeling good viewpoint.  A Sebenza can make some guys feel really good.  They love to play with it, kiss it, play with it some more, read the forums, and play with it some more.  It makes them feel good.  They sell all of their other knives after they get a Sebenza.  The problem is that they can also start to act like the Sebenza cuts stuff better than "lesser" knives.

No, it doesn't.  Its just a knife.

I own about 4x Sebenzas.  I forget the exact number.  I feel sorta stupid for owning them, but that did not stop me from buying them, did it?  They are not as easy to open as lets say a Delica, and don't have an up/down/left/right clip.  So in some respects, they objectively are just not that awesome.

You'll have to figure this out for yourself.  Some guys say its the best knife ever, because it makes them feel good.  I say save your money.

(http://i1144.photobucket.com/albums/o487/BirchHardwood/20121002_173745.jpg) (http://s1144.photobucket.com/user/BirchHardwood/media/20121002_173745.jpg.html)

Title: Re: Trying to justify a Sebenza
Post by: Demel on January 20, 2017, 02:22:54 AM
Was it worth it?

Eh, not really.

There are two perspectives on this.  From a pure objective, utilitarian viewpoint, the Sebenza is definitely not worth it.  All it does is cut stuff.  Just like $20 Kershaws, though granted you will get better edge retention with the spendier steel.  But 22 times better edge retention ($20 vs. $440)?  No.  If you cut an apple with a Sebenza and then with a Delica, for example, the apple will have no idea which knife cut it.  I know, because I asked it.


The other perspective is the subjective feeling good viewpoint.  A Sebenza can make some guys feel really good.  They love to play with it, kiss it, play with it some more, read the forums, and play with it some more.  It makes them feel good.  They sell all of their other knives after they get a Sebenza.  The problem is that they can also start to act like the Sebenza cuts stuff better than "lesser" knives.

No, it doesn't.  Its just a knife.

I own about 4x Sebenzas.  I forget the exact number.  I feel sorta stupid for owning them, but that did not stop me from buying them, did it?  They are not as easy to open as lets say a Delica, and don't have an up/down/left/right clip.  So in some respects, they objectively are just not that awesome.

You'll have to figure this out for yourself.  Some guys say its the best knife ever, because it makes them feel good.  I say save your money.

(http://i1144.photobucket.com/albums/o487/BirchHardwood/20121002_173745.jpg) (http://s1144.photobucket.com/user/BirchHardwood/media/20121002_173745.jpg.html)

Great looking knives there  :tu: :tu: :tu:

That's mostly where I've been hovering. At the current moment I don't own a knife over $100. But I do notice quality and usage differences from my Cryo to say the Centofante. I'm well aware the Sebenza can be a huge disappointment. I've only ever seen pictures of them (no local places carry them for a hands on) Also the carbon fiber insingo is the ONLY Sebenza that has tempted me to even consider the plunge.

The argument that is just a knife is definitely the most practical and I feel a bit of that. But I've combed through the big knife sites and the only two "high end" knives that I've truly wanted to get was the 940-1 and the CF Insingo. Qualtiy, materials, design, cost and execution are the things I look for. It seems Benchmade has all but quality under control (pun intended  :rofl: ) Chris Reeve everything except cost on it's side. It would suck to get the 940-1 and still get the Sebenza because Benchmade can't get things right. But it would also suck to get the sebby and be totally disappointed because it doesn't live up to it's hype  :ahhh :ahhh :ahhh :ahhh :ahhh :ahhh  :crash: :crash: :crash: :crash: :crash: :crash: :crash: :crash:

Until I'm am certain I will get neither..................................................................or both  :facepalm:
Title: Re: Trying to justify a Sebenza
Post by: kaput on January 20, 2017, 02:46:01 AM
Just like ladies buying Chanel......  :facepalm:
Not a great analogy. Because buying Chanel would be an absolute waste of money  :pok: ;)
Title: Re: Trying to justify a Sebenza
Post by: kaput on January 20, 2017, 02:58:17 AM
I for one would not be worried about the quality control of the benchmade. Their customer service has been known to be second to none to fix any and every issue. And also, if you get it on amazon their return policy is fantastic. If you bought one that was not absolutely perfect, you let them know and they'll ship you a new one immediately, without even waiting for you to return yours first.

Or you could get the Sebenza  :D
Title: Re: Trying to justify a Sebenza
Post by: kl27x on January 20, 2017, 03:24:58 AM
I watched the factory tour video. In defending the strength of the hollowground blade I like where he says in 25 years, only maybe 100 blades have come back to the factory, broken.

I'm thinking that's cuz 99% of them are in a case, somewhere. Of the 1% that get carried, 99% of those are used only to cut paper into smaller pieces of paper. And to open packages. :)

That's not a judgment on Sebenza owners. I don't own a knife that costs more than about, ohh. $35.00... unless you count multitools. Heck, I have several sharpening stones that cost more than any knife I own. And the above statement applies to 90% of my knives, too. :) I just have a feeling if I had a Sebenza, it would have a very small chance of seeing any sort of hard use/abuse.

Title: Re: Trying to justify a Sebenza
Post by: cody6268 on January 20, 2017, 03:35:05 AM
Sebenzas, Spyderco, and Benchmade--they all tend to hold their value well.

If you can justify that much money, and really want one, I say go for it.    I myself just buy $10 beat up USA made traditionals all the time--a 1095 carbon steel blade performs far better in my use than "super steel".
Title: Re: Trying to justify a Sebenza
Post by: multiprim on January 20, 2017, 05:00:09 AM
I've owned/used:
Small Insingo
Small Starbenza
Large Double-Lug Sebenza
Mnandi

Sold and/or traded all of them. Maybe should've kept either the small Starbenza or Insingo, and even then, no biggie.

Mnandi, not worth it. You can find much better value dress folders in this size/category for about half the price.
Large Sebenza. Not worth it. I never felt confident enough using it for tougher tasks. Balanced? Sure. Refined? Yep. But, for a folder of its size, it just never grabbed me. And, as a dress folder, too big.
Small Starbenza. On the fence. Preferred their smaller framelocks over the larger versions. They just felt stronger & more practical, considering design, dimensions & materials.
Small Insingo. On the fence. Same as the small Starbenza.

If I had to pick just one to keep, I'd say the small Starbenza.

Honestly, there are just too many comparable models out there at much better prices, imho. I'm sure many will swear by CRK. To each his/her own.

Many might suggest Spyderco as an alternative (the CRK & Spyderco Armies seem to be the most fanatical). I would suggest Spyderco, too, except for the Leaf design (blade). Leaf doesn't grab me. But, if you do like the Leaf, yeah, I'd stack some of their models up against CRK. Would save you $100+/model. Btw, some of Spyderco's larger models aren't as "leafy" and are pretty nice, like the Paramilitary, fyi.

If you're okay experimenting, go for the Sebenza. Resale value is okay, but you'll still lose a little unless you got a limited/exclusive model and sat on it for a while. If you're okay with "Like New", you can save some money and still get the folder you want. Want a few suggestions/alternatives? Please reply and I'll follow up. First brand I would probably suggest checking out is Zero Tolerance.

After years of owning/carrying/using various better brands, including some customs (like Laconico), I seem to be settling back into fairly priced folders, and even some value folders.

Hope this feedback helps.
Title: Re: Trying to justify a Sebenza
Post by: Kampfer on January 20, 2017, 05:22:15 AM
I enjoy reading this discussion, seeing both side of the coin. :cheers:
Title: Re: Trying to justify a Sebenza
Post by: kl27x on January 20, 2017, 05:52:21 AM
Quote
Sebenzas, Spyderco, and Benchmade--they all tend to hold their value well.

I understand knife-collecting and perceived value from a nostalgia point of view. Spyderco seems to make a model of knife for only a few years (though damned if I could tell the difference between any of their models). I don't understand how something like Sebenza doesn't lose 50% of its value as soon as the receipt is printed up, even if it is the pinnacle of precision and modern material science. They still make 'em. And tomorrow there will be an S3millionQRSTUVWXYZ crucible powdered steel which is what S35VN is to the current market... I.e. it will be objectively more exclusive, inarguably more expensive, and undeniably newer... :)

...plus, if it is knife perfection, why can I still see grind marks? :)

Title: Re: Trying to justify a Sebenza
Post by: kaput on January 20, 2017, 06:09:28 AM
I've owned/used:
Small Insingo
Small Starbenza
Large Double-Lug Sebenza
Mnandi

Sold and/or traded all of them. Maybe should've kept either the small Starbenza or Insingo, and even then, no biggie.

Mnandi, not worth it. You can find much better value dress folders in this size/category for about half the price.
Large Sebenza. Not worth it. I never felt confident enough using it for tougher tasks. Balanced? Sure. Refined? Yep. But, for a folder of its size, it just never grabbed me. And, as a dress folder, too big.
Small Starbenza. On the fence. Preferred their smaller framelocks over the larger versions. They just felt stronger & more practical, considering design, dimensions & materials.
Small Insingo. On the fence. Same as the small Starbenza.

If I had to pick just one to keep, I'd say the small Starbenza.

Honestly, there are just too many comparable models out there at much better prices, imho. I'm sure many will swear by CRK. To each his/her own.

Many might suggest Spyderco as an alternative (the CRK & Spyderco Armies seem to be the most fanatical). I would suggest Spyderco, too, except for the Leaf design (blade). Leaf doesn't grab me. But, if you do like the Leaf, yeah, I'd stack some of their models up against CRK. Would save you $100+/model. Btw, some of Spyderco's larger models aren't as "leafy" and are pretty nice, like the Paramilitary, fyi.

If you're okay experimenting, go for the Sebenza. Resale value is okay, but you'll still lose a little unless you got a limited/exclusive model and sat on it for a while. If you're okay with "Like New", you can save some money and still get the folder you want. Want a few suggestions/alternatives? Please reply and I'll follow up. First brand I would probably suggest checking out is Zero Tolerance.

After years of owning/carrying/using various better brands, including some customs (like Laconico), I seem to be settling back into fairly priced folders, and even some value folders.

Hope this feedback helps.
You have sage advice from an end user. Important.
I'm not a huge spyderco guy. But this knife is on my wish list... I think much mor beautiful design too. (http://www.bladehq.com/imgs/knives/manual-knives/spyderco-manual/spyderco-nirvana-c199tip-cm-spine-large.jpg)
Title: Re: Trying to justify a Sebenza
Post by: multiprim on January 20, 2017, 08:48:08 AM
I'm not a huge spyderco guy. But this knife is on my wish list... I think much mor beautiful design too. (http://www.bladehq.com/imgs/knives/manual-knives/spyderco-manual/spyderco-nirvana-c199tip-cm-spine-large.jpg)

Okay, I have to admit, that's hot. Wondering what the actual price will be compared to the original MSRP.

Not to highjack the thread, but I actually like some of Spyderco's value line, Byrd Knives, over their own brand offerings. You can get the Robin in G-10 for around $25, enjoying the heft of Dragonfly's G-10 (which costs around $90-$95), and it's still half the cost of an FRN Dragonfly. Sure, steel isn't VG-10, but I like the blade design more than the Leaf. Btw, the FRN Robin is only $15.

Here's a nice VS video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lAY3YezvqzI
Title: Re: Trying to justify a Sebenza
Post by: kaput on January 20, 2017, 09:56:58 AM
Okay, I have to admit, that's hot. Wondering what the actual price will be compared to the original MSRP.
Msrp was around $750. On sale for $445  ;)
Title: Re: Trying to justify a Sebenza
Post by: kaput on January 20, 2017, 10:01:20 AM
Back to the sebbys  :salute: (http://ep.yimg.com/ay/knifeart/chris-reeve-carbon-fiber-sebenza-25-exclusive-14.jpg)
Title: Re: Trying to justify a Sebenza
Post by: ducttapetech on January 20, 2017, 12:47:55 PM
Here is another reason to go for it, most of of as here has spent that much money easy in a couple of months just buying Multipliers and SAKs. Instead of getting a few Multis, go for the Shebby.
That's my twisted logic. Of course, sound logic would dictate that you should not listen to me.
Title: Re: Trying to justify a Sebenza
Post by: Demel on January 20, 2017, 01:17:55 PM


I've owned/used:
Small Insingo
Small Starbenza
Large Double-Lug Sebenza
Mnandi

Sold and/or traded all of them. Maybe should've kept either the small Starbenza or Insingo, and even then, no biggie.

Mnandi, not worth it. You can find much better value dress folders in this size/category for about half the price.
Large Sebenza. Not worth it. I never felt confident enough using it for tougher tasks. Balanced? Sure. Refined? Yep. But, for a folder of its size, it just never grabbed me. And, as a dress folder, too big.
Small Starbenza. On the fence. Preferred their smaller framelocks over the larger versions. They just felt stronger & more practical, considering design, dimensions & materials.
Small Insingo. On the fence. Same as the small Starbenza.

If I had to pick just one to keep, I'd say the small Starbenza.

Honestly, there are just too many comparable models out there at much better prices, imho. I'm sure many will swear by CRK. To each his/her own.

Many might suggest Spyderco as an alternative (the CRK & Spyderco Armies seem to be the most fanatical). I would suggest Spyderco, too, except for the Leaf design (blade). Leaf doesn't grab me. But, if you do like the Leaf, yeah, I'd stack some of their models up against CRK. Would save you $100+/model. Btw, some of Spyderco's larger models aren't as "leafy" and are pretty nice, like the Paramilitary, fyi.

If you're okay experimenting, go for the Sebenza. Resale value is okay, but you'll still lose a little unless you got a limited/exclusive model and sat on it for a while. If you're okay with "Like New", you can save some money and still get the folder you want. Want a few suggestions/alternatives? Please reply and I'll follow up. First brand I would probably suggest checking out is Zero Tolerance.

After years of owning/carrying/using various better brands, including some customs (like Laconico), I seem to be settling back into fairly priced folders, and even some value folders.

Hope this feedback helps.

That's a really good take. I'm all for alternatives. :tu: I've had a few Spydercos and they are well worth the money. Tenacious, Native, Centofante are the ones I've had. All three are great knives
Here is another reason to go for it, most of of as here has spent that much money easy in a couple of months just buying Multipliers and SAKs. Instead of getting a few Multis, go for the Shebby.
That's my twisted logic. Of course, sound logic would dictate that you should not listen to me.
I agree. The only multis on my list this year: SOG Powergrab. I was tempted to try the Gerber Center Drive but I don't think it's for me (mainly because of size and weight). So saving up for a CRK seems doable.
Title: Re: Trying to justify a Sebenza
Post by: Demel on January 20, 2017, 01:18:24 PM
Back to the sebbys  :salute: (http://ep.yimg.com/ay/knifeart/chris-reeve-carbon-fiber-sebenza-25-exclusive-14.jpg)
:drool:
Title: Re: Trying to justify a Sebenza
Post by: Demel on January 20, 2017, 01:20:39 PM
I'm not a huge spyderco guy. But this knife is on my wish list... I think much mor beautiful design too. (http://www.bladehq.com/imgs/knives/manual-knives/spyderco-manual/spyderco-nirvana-c199tip-cm-spine-large.jpg)

Okay, I have to admit, that's hot. Wondering what the actual price will be compared to the original MSRP.

Not to highjack the thread, but I actually like some of Spyderco's value line, Byrd Knives, over their own brand offerings. You can get the Robin in G-10 for around $25, enjoying the heft of Dragonfly's G-10 (which costs around $90-$95), and it's still half the cost of an FRN Dragonfly. Sure, steel isn't VG-10, but I like the blade design more than the Leaf. Btw, the FRN Robin is only $15.

Here's a nice VS video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lAY3YezvqzI
That is a great looking knife. If anyone I knew wanted a great knife Spyderco would be one of my first suggestions. They have such a huge variety. It's really cool how they make great a product at price points across the board. They deserve a :hatsoff: for that
Title: Re: Trying to justify a Sebenza
Post by: Aloha on January 20, 2017, 04:05:57 PM
Here is another reason to go for it, most of of as here has spent that much money easy in a couple of months just buying Multipliers and SAKs. Instead of getting a few Multis, go for the Shebby.
That's my twisted logic. Of course, sound logic would dictate that you should not listen to me.

Excellent way to look at it. 
Title: Re: Trying to justify a Sebenza
Post by: chrono on January 23, 2017, 02:24:41 AM
This one is also S35VN (seller's claim!), and costs a lot less than a Sebenza  :P
http://www.ebay.com/itm/CH3504-folding-knife-S35VN-blade-ball-bearing-washer-TC4-titanium-alloy-handle-/262762082727
(http://i.ebayimg.com/images/g/doIAAOSw44BYFsKt/s-l1600.jpg)
Title: Re: Trying to justify a Sebenza
Post by: kaput on March 17, 2017, 06:13:09 PM
Where's D and that new Sebbie?!  :whistle: