Birthday Present Recommendation Please

d.2.the.p

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I posted a very similar thread in the general discussion section, but I had a non-CRK knife in the original post. Since I'm looking at multiple CRK's, I figured I'd ask the experts to help me narrow it down between them.

My brother's bday is fast approaching, and like every other year when I ask him what he wants, he says "tech stuff, knife stuff, or gun stuff." I split the cost on a new gun safe for Christmas and bought him a few SATA drives for his NAS Server last year, so it looks like it's knife stuff's turn. His favorites are Ti frame locks with 3"+ blades, so I've narrowed it down to the Umnumzaan, Large Sebenza 21, or Large Sebenza 21. I also like the looks of the Knifeworks Seb 21 with CF scale, but am not really sure how I feel about it yet. I've never handled any of these knives since I personally prefer smaller blades, so I'm kinda shooting from the hip here. I own a Mnandi and have been creeping around the forums long enough to know that CRK puts out amazing products. Any thoughts?
 
I posed a question about a week ago here when I was trying to decide between the Sebenza 21 & 25. The results largely favored the 25. It's a nice mix of the Zaan and the 21. Therefore I ordered one this past weekend and it's in the mail as we speak. They are hard to find but I do see one retailer online that has them in stock. Good luck.
 
if you cant find a Umnumzaan you wont go wrong with a 21 (elk mountain) just saying!!!
 
You're never going to get a solid consensus on this. The 21 is pretty much a classic, with the 25 being the new kid on the block. Nothing wrong with either.

If I was buying new and wanted a traditional blade shape, I'd probably go 25 since its the latest and greatest.

I'm a big fan of the Insingo blade grind, which is only available on the 21 at present.
 
Hi,
Do you need another Brother ;)
If you get an Umnum try to find a WC StarTac model, they're pretty sweet. Don't misunderstand me though, I love the regular version too, especially the Tanto version. Having a special run of an outstanding knife makes it even sweeter to most gear heads.
If you go with the 21 I'd like to suggest an Insingo model, it's the best 21 out in my worthless opinion.

Have you considered a 25? It's a very nice blend of the Umnum and 21 that is just an amazing knife to use.

Good luck deciding.
 
There Is always the umnumzaan tanto at TKN. It's like a huge clash between the 21 and the 25 and throw in a tanto blade. It's really pretty special. CRK tantos are without a doubt the finest tanto grind I have ever seen...hands down its amazing. think about it....

As far as the 21 vs 25. Personally I prefer the 21, but the 25 is definetly growing on me as I carry it more!
 
So I've decided to narrow out the Zaan. It's really awesome, but the more I look into it, the more I think the Seb is more my brother's speed.

That said, yesterday I went to buy the 25, and I can't seem to find them anywhere. There appeared to be stock at one dealer yesterday morning, but it was gone by the time I decided to pull the trigger. So it looks like I'm getting him a Lg 21. I now need to decide on which one! The plain Lg Seb is in the running. So is the WC Lg Starbenza. I was considering an inlay, but I think he may like the bare Ti better.
 
Side note: this whole search has made me REALLY want a Small Micarta Insingo. Sad face.
 
Thanks for all the suggestions, everyone! I decided on a WC Lg Starbenza. I know I'd love it, so I'm sure it will work out.
 
Nice. I don't think you'll be disappointed, or him as well. The 25's come and go really quickly. I think the simplicity of the 21's pivot is a really good attribute along with the classic styling. I was actually leaning towards the 21 more when I started my thread but ended up with the 25 because there were a lot if folks digging the new features. I think you landed a great present.
 
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