The 21 split inlays are a legendary design.

I've only owned the split designs on my small 21s. I do like the look of the 1 piece inlay on the 31s, reminds me of the classic annuals. I may have to try a small Micarta inlay 31 insingo next year....
 
Those were the days
Hey I know you haven’t been active in awhile but your the only person I’ve ever seen with multiple on here so I figured I’d shoot a shot in the dark and ask if you’d ever consider selling one of your LDC Bg-42 large sebenzas I have a plain one in mint condition and I’m looking to add 1/50 of those to my collection, if not no worries at all, but I figured I had to ask !
 
I’m not a fan of inlays on either the 21 or 31, but if forced to choose I prefer the one piece. Having said that purely judging it from an aesthetic perspective. I do think the two piece is more functional though however minimally. . .
 
21’s for inlays
31’s for graphics
At least, that’s how I like them. YMMV. I wouldn’t kick either out of bed.
 
I need more inlaid 21's.... And a proper annual.

At least the Inkosi is still a split inlay!
 
Last edited:
I really like the split design as well, especially how it wraps around the locating hole on the show side. The symmetry between the sides is nice, and the groove in between the inlays gives you a little more grip. Also, I think some of the appeal of the Sebenza's design is how boldly angular and minimalistic it looks, while still being comfortable. The old inlays played into that design language a little better. Finally, when using precious materials like mammoth, you could get more handles out of a tusk by avoiding larger panels.

The discontinuation of the 21 and mammoth CRK's has me fiending for something similar. Arno Bernard does something similar but not as boldly angular. The CKF Snafu 4.0 reminds me of the 21 on the lock side, and I like that they thinned the inlay to fit the angled clip instead of making the inlay less rectangular.

20250611_170945.jpg
20251230_190146.jpg
 
Always thought the 31 inlays looked schizophrenic compared to the 21.

Maybe if the 31 didn't make the show side scale wrap the pivot bolt - ending at the stop pin like the 21/inkos, I think I'd like them more with the "false bolster" look. Also 21 clip position works better for my hand and the inlays.

I think this old pic comparing finishes illustrates my point

PK30pwZ.png

VFxQvxP.png
 
Last edited:
I have to agree, the split Sebenza 21 inlays are iconic and I don’t own nearly as many as I wish I did. I was sad when it switched with the 31. I own a large 2025 Koa Annual and the inlay is absolutely stunning. But the split inlay look was just classic CRK. I miss it.
 
Back
Top