21 or 25

Popsickle said:
Now the next question..... Should order direct or otherwise?
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Buying direct (from CRK) may mean a considerable delay. From the CRK web site:

CRK FAQ said:
What is the backorder time frame?
Because of the high demand for our product, we are almost always back ordered. There are occasions when we do have the knife you are looking for ready to ship immediately but this is the exception rather than the rule. Estimating a delivery time can be difficult because there are a number of variables involved. As a general rule, we are back ordered 2 -3 months for fixed blades and 3-6 months for Sebenzas and Mnandis. Decorated knives, Damascus blades, inlays and customizing are all likely to take longer, sometimes as much as several months longer. We can often refer you to a dealer who may have the knife you are looking for, so please feel free to contact us.
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But buying from a dealer who has what you want will result in an immediate delivery. So - I'd buy from a dealer and not direct. JMO. :)

Best of luck. You'll love whichever one you get.
 
These knives a so similar, that choosing on will come down to which one feels better in your hand, or which one looks nicer. Personally, I prefer the 21 simply because it is available in 2 sizes.
 
If there is one on the exchange in new condition. I'd go that route. Especially if it's going to be a user. But there is Peace of Mind ordering from a dealer :)
 
There is a definite difference in feel in the hand between the 21 and 25, as well as in the pocket if you carry in the slip sheath as I do.

I do believe if you use your tools within reason that either will do just fine - it then depends on preference. I like the slightly wider scales of the 21 over the 25, but I like the confidence the extra heft and thickness of the 25 (even if perceived only).

I also like the inlay options that the 21 offers. One of the best looking knives in my collection is my large sebenza 21 with bloodwood inlays.
 
Did I get this right, you deceided for the 25?
Cool knife. I like mine.
I'd order from a dealer - to avoid the wait.
:)
red mag
 
I have another reason for the 25 it is much easier to reassemble. Just took my small 21 apart to put in a different lanyard and it has a few more small parts. You can also leave the screws in the locking side of the 25 and that keeps all the hardware fastened. While the 21 isn't hard, the 25 to me is simpler. I had trouble with the washer sliding under the bushing as I reassembled it. I didn't have lube with me so I didn't have it stuck to the blade. I'm sure that would help.
 
Officer's Match said:
I find the 21 easier to disassemble and maintain.
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That's interesting, what do you find easier about it? Not saying it isn't but I find it opposite. 21=14 separate pieces (without the lanyard) when disassembled. 25=9 separate if you keep the two lock side screws in for the stop pin and the lanyard standoff. Do you have a method that makes getting everything in easier?

I am going to clean my 21 tonight and add some grease and have a few ideas on how I could make it easier. Practice makes perfect.
 
alwayscarryaknife said:
That's interesting, what do you find easier about it? Not saying it isn't but I find it opposite. 21=14 separate pieces (without the lanyard) when disassembled. 25=9 separate if you keep the two lock side screws in for the stop pin and the lanyard standoff. Do you have a method that makes getting everything in easier?

I am going to clean my 21 tonight and add some grease and have a few ideas on how I could make it easier. Practice makes perfect.
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I was referring to only needing one wrench and no locktite. No asymmetrical stop bar or washers, and the pivot just tightens up with no need to find a "sweet spot".
 
I prefer the 21 because it has that CRK feel.

I have only two complaints about the 25, but they're significant enough that I got rid of mine after two weeks. I'm one of the people who has that hot spot problem with the finger grooves of the 25. The second groove for the middle finger will put the placement of your finger right over the end of the pocket clip where it's pointed up. Some people don't feel that hot spot and some do. I also don't like the awkward "dent" between the crown of the spine and the jimping. It looks very un-CRK.
 
Officer's Match said:
I was referring to only needing one wrench and no locktite. No asymmetrical stop bar or washers, and the pivot just tightens up with no need to find a "sweet spot".
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Ah...I got you.

I just got finished cleaning my 21 and it was a little easier with fresh grease. It kept the washers and bushing kinda stuck in place but for assembly it still wasn't as easy as the 25. I also put tape over the lock side female screws to keep them in place while taking apart and putting back together.
 
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I decided on a Large Sebenza 21 with micarta inlays

thanks for all the input!
 
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