As the result of a number of requests from those who wish to carry the ETS Sebenza, but who cannot carry the larger blade for legal reasons, I am pleased to announce that the Equipped To Survive Limited Edition Sebenza is now also available in the Small size with a 2 7/8 inch blade. The total number of knives will still be limited to 25, Large and Small combined. The price of the Small ETS Sebenza is $430. Order form is located at:

http://www.equipped.org/ets_sebenza_offer.htm

Hope this serves to encourage more to purchase one and support ETS.

Hi Doug, great site. I have a comment about the sebenza. I bought one ( a small classic) a couple of weeks ago via a UK dealer as I've heard so much about them and they come so highly recommended. I am very impressed with the knife and build quality is unsurpassed. One thing did niggle me though, and I thought I would pass this on. The knife came with a very rounded and smooth spine. While this looks and feels great, I was completely unable to generate a spark from either a flint, or ferroceum (sp?) rod. Aside from this one annoyance, the knife is absolutely superb and it is somewhat of a stylistic thing, so not really a criticism. But do you think this knife is a good option as a survival knife, if it is unable to generate a decent spark from a flint/ferro-rod?

It frustrated me so much, that I took mine to my belt grinder to grind the spine square...



I wish I'd taken a before photo, for comparison - but those who have one will see the difference. I dont recommend doing this as it voids your lifetime warranty, but I'm a hobbyist knifemaker and felt the up's outweighed the down's.

Do you think Chris would make an ETS special with squared spine? I plan to get a large regular at some point, and may be tempted by an EYS special if I thought I could get a squared spine without voiding my warranty.

Thanks,
Martyn.

Martyn,

I wouldn't normally use the back of a blade for a sharp edge to work with an artificial flint. The swedge at the aft end of the sharp blade will work if I didn't have another alternative, which I would normally always have. At worst, just attach a short piece of handsaw blade to the flint. I prefer the rounded spine. Different strokes. <img src="images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" /> I have no idea if Chris would do such a blade, doesn't seem like it would be a problem, but you never know. If and when you get to the point of ordering, I suppose I can ask.