Mnandi suggestions

dwcliff

dwcliff

Joined
Jun 19, 2012
Messages
432
Looking to pick up my first Mnandi this week and am really undecided between some inlays I'm finding available from CRK dealers. I'm torn between Bloodwood, Bocote, or Cocobolo.

Suggestions?
 
It really comes down to personal preference. Whatever you choose, I would recommend that you verify that the photo of the inlay is actually the one you will receive. Some dealers use a stock photo that might not resemble the one you end up with. Bloodwood does not have too much variation but Bocote has quite a bit.
I sent you a pm with a few links to a few examples that I think look good.
I should mention that I do not own any of the three inlays you listed.
 
Here is a bloodwood, was actually my first CRK but I have sold it:

_MG_2222.jpg



Here is one of my latest, this is a very unusual version of Cocobolo that I like a lot. It was born recently so perhaps there are a few others out there like it. I also love some of the bocotes that are out there.
You aren't a leftie by any chance?

_MG_2415.jpg
 
sk8n makes a good point about variation. Here's an example of three Box Elder. All are different as seen in the photo.

attachment.php
 

Attachments

  • boxers.jpg
    boxers.jpg
    48.6 KB · Views: 1,307
The bocote's with "eyes"or knots like Lisa's, which I have one almost like it,I think are rare...I seen a lot of bocote,some have great grain patterns. But nothing beats bark ivory!....
 
After looking a little more tonight I'm really liking the box elder too! Too many choices. Too little $$.

I'd love to see pictures of any you might have Lisa.
 
franzdom said:
Here is a bloodwood, was actually my first CRK but I have sold it:

_MG_2222.jpg



Here is one of my latest, this is a very unusual version of Cocobolo that I like a lot. It was born recently so perhaps there are a few others out there like it. I also love some of the bocotes that are out there.
You aren't a leftie by any chance?

_MG_2415.jpg
Click to expand...

That is the best looking cocobolo I have ever seen!
 
rolexkid said:
The bocote's with "eyes"or knots like Lisa's, which I have one almost like it,I think are rare...I seen a lot of bocote,some have great grain patterns.
Click to expand...
rolexkid, I saw a thread that had your Bocote in it, it is VERY nice!
Took another shot of mine (cellphone shot) so you can better see the "eyes"
photo-9.jpg
 
With so much variety with any inlay (see Lisa's pics above) I'm finding it frustrating that few dealers post anything but stock photos. Even as I've started considering the bark mammoth inlay I find myself reluctant to spend $600+ without seeing some nice pics of the knife I'd be buying. Seems like a crap shoot without them.
 
dwcliff said:
Looking to pick up my first Mnandi this week and am really undecided between some inlays I'm finding available from CRK dealers. I'm torn between Bloodwood, Bocote, or Cocobolo.

Suggestions?
Click to expand...

If your primary figure of merit is appearance when new (or well cared for, like kept in a slip pouch and away from water), choosing via photo of the particular knife is, of course, key. If, however, you heavily weigh appearance after moderate EDC use, considering the type of inlay is important. After water-damaging the camelthorn inlays on my EDC Mnandi many years ago, I looked for materials that would stand up to more abuse. I have found both giraffe-bone and cocobolo to be quite moisture and impact resistant. Lignum vitae is likely the toughest -- it used to be employed to make propeller shaft bearings for ships. Currently, I'm finding the best balance of robustness and appearance (according to my tastes :) ) for an inlaid EDC: Cocobolo.

All the best in your decisions!
 
dwcliff said:
Looking to pick up my first Mnandi this week and am really undecided between some inlays I'm finding available from CRK dealers. I'm torn between Bloodwood, Bocote, or Cocobolo.

Suggestions?
Click to expand...

My suggestion: get all 3! :D

Buy 'em all, sort em out later!

Kind regards,

Jos
 
I tend to agree with Jos, but he and I are Mnandi enthusiasts!
Get all 3.

"Use one now, save some for later!" :D
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top