Lum Chinese Showdown: ZDP-189 vs Titanium

[TimmyBoston]

Recently Spyderco has put out two outstanding Sprint runs, first the Lum with a ZDP-189 blade and now the Sprint Run with Titanium scales. Both are beautiful, both are Spyderco's so we know they are wicked sharp, but in your opinion which one could make a better knife and why?

[Scottie3000]

For me, it's the titanium model. The old Lum never did anything for me till it got rid of the aluminum handle.

[bh49]

For me original model is the best. I do not care about ZDP or titanium and I love this gorgeous green color and VG10.

[TimmyBoston]

Does anyone know the weight of the Titanium Model? I can't find it anywhere.

Thanks!

[TimmyBoston]

Additionally which scale the black aluminum or the titanium would be more resistant to showing scratches and scuffs?

Thanks!

[Scottie3000]

Additionally which scale the black aluminum or the titanium would be more resistant to showing scratches and scuffs?

Thanks!

I think the aluminum one would be the winner initially. The problem I have with coated aluminum is the same I have with black coated blades. After you actually start using one, they get scratches and dings and the high points get worn. Then is looks junky. The ti handle would probably scratch faster, but you can just hit it with a scotchbite or beadblaster and it looks good again. I think your best bet for weight and durability is probably the CF handle Lum.

[brianch]

If you want ZDP-189 then you gotta go for the zdp model. ZDP is a very nice steel if you know how to maintain it. If not, I would wait for the CF lum

[Blerv]

The ZDP Lum is a laser beam :) Truly an amazing EDC blade and super classy.

The Titanium would probably be less scratch resistant because I'm guessing it's treated with some type of anodization like the Sage 2. VG10 is a great steel too.

For me the win goes to the ZDP sprint one but not by a long-shot.

[Scottie3000]

You are really comparing apple and oranges. What do you value more, a fancy handle or high-tech blade steel?

[brianch]

Get both and swap the blades =)

[ChapmanPreferred]

Which ever one you would actually use and carry.

[Handwrecker]

The ZDP interests me more for these reasons:

-ti in a non-framelock doesn't seem like a big deal (2.6oz vs 2.9oz)

- ZDP is less common than VG-10, so more interesting to see how it holds up(oh man, it does) to EDC applications

-the almite over the aluminum handle seems very wear resistant, more so than ti in my experience

Regardless, I feel like you can't be disappointed with a Lum Chinese in your hand.