Meh?

I would actually recommend handling a Micarta 25. In fact, I have one I'll let you check out if you want, just send it back when you are done.
 
Interesting read. One thought I'd like to add in regards to the 21 handle shape, is that it is good in many/all grip positions. Of course, some spydercos melt into your hand, but typically only in one grip.

The other thing to consider is the ergos of a 21 are purposefully compromised by it being an open pillar construction knife. The open pillar makes the knife easy to service, inspect, take down, and keep clean, but will never be as comfortable as a back-lock or liner lock with a back spacer.

I agree that the 21 shape is not some mind-blowing thing to hold, but I think that might be indicative of its greatest strength: it's neutral in the hand. It favours no specific grip, and works well at all angles.

A few days in my life I've had to really use one of my 21s for hours at a time, when some repetitious job presented itself at work. It was during long hours of work with the knife that I really came to respect some otherwise uninspired aspects. The handle shape, the ease of locking and unlocking repeatedly, the fact it did not become jammed or packed with material or debris, and that functional, but not too aggressive, 21 jimping that saves you from a blister.
 
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Officer's Match said:
I would actually recommend handling a Micarta 25. In fact, I have one I'll let you check out if you want, just send it back when you are done.
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That's a very kind, and much appreciated offer. I was going to decline because I don't want to tease myself...but I'm rethinking that. I'll send you a PM.


kidcongo said:
Interesting read. One thought I'd like to add in regards to the 21 handle shape, is that it is good in many/all grip positions. Of course, so spydercos melt into your hand, but typically only in one grip.

The other thing to consider is the ergos of a 21 are purposefully compromised by it being an open pillar construction knife. The open pillar makes the knife easy to service, inspect, take down, and keep clean, but will never be as comfortable as a back-lock or liner lock with a back spacer.

I agree that the 21 shape is not some mind-blowing thing to hold, but I think that might be indicative of its greatest strength: it's neutral in the hand. It favours no specific grip, and works well at all angles.

A few days in my life I've had to really use one of my 21s for hours at a time, when some repetitious job presented itself at work. It was during long hours of work with the knife that I really came to respect some otherwise uninspired aspects. The handle shape, the ease of locking and unlocking repeatedly, the fact it did not become jammed or packed with material or debris, and that functional, but not too aggressive, 21 jimping that saves you from a blister.
Click to expand...
That's a much more thorough version of what I meant when I said it works. Thank you for filling in the blanks - I wasn't sure how to explain it.
 
I'm one of those guys from the far and distant world of CRK fixed blades, but here's my story.

I bought my first CRK only by name, because I collect and wanted a Chris Reeve. It was a Professional Soldier.

I admit i found the lack of scales disturbing, I never had a skeletonized knife before. I tried cutting some hard food and I got extremely angry with the knife, because my hand hurt so bad. Into the drawer it went.

BUT, now, of all the 60+ knives I own in the collection it is the knife that goes with me in almost every hike and when mountaineering.

Of course, I now own more CRKs , the Pacific being my favourite, and one of the best designed "military" knives I have ever seen (and I've seen some).

The only Chris Reeve I dont really like is a Green Beret 5.5 I also have, and I think that's solely based on the shape of the handle vs the shape of my hand.
 
I felt the same way, thought "this is what everyone freaks out about?" But after using it for months, I only carry my insingo. I find it comfortable in hand and easy to sharpen, but I think it really shines in the way it sits in pocket. The clip is arguably the best in the industry.
 
I had a small regular sebenza for a long while, I rarely carried it. Not bashing CRK's at all, as the build quality is fantastic, but the knife was simply meh like you stated. Sold it off. Aside from their quality, the designs don't do anything for me.
 
The small regular never did anything for me either and didn't like how it felt in hand, but the 21 is a different story...
 
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