Trying to decide between these two

JTR357

JTR357

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I'm on the fence between a Large 31 & a Large Inkosi tanto, both with inlays & the same steel, same price. I really like the finger grooves in the Inkosi but I like the solid once piece inlay on the show side the 31 has better than the ones on the Inkosi. Is there anything better or worse between these two that I'm missing?

ETA: Mods, I'm pretty sure these dealers are BF supporters, if not I'll remove the pics.
 

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It's small, but there is a weight difference between them, if that matters. I prefer the sebenza. I think it looks more classy, but is still as heavy duty as they come. But that's subjective.
 
TreesNoDummy said:
It's small, but there is a weight difference between them, if that matters. I prefer the sebenza. I think it looks more classy, but is still as heavy duty as they come. But that's subjective.
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Is the Inkosi heavier?

ETA: Nevermind. I looked it up.
Inkosi = 5.01oz
31 = 4.7oz

Good to know, thanks. I don't think that'll make much of a difference in my decision.
 
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Inlays don't do it for me so I chose the plain jane large Inkosi. But I agree that inlays look better on the Sebenza. I'm no CR expert, but I see the Sebenza being just as capable as the Inkosi. The Inkosi is heavier but the weight difference is insignificant, as far as I'm concerned.
 
Good choice on the tanto blade, I find it super useful and really do not own CRK drop points (except for Zaans).

On your choice, consider future maintenance ...

Depending on how you use it, if the Sebenza needs replacement washers, you have to send it in to CRK to have them replaced because they have to be tuned to the knife (according to CRK). They will not sell you or send you replacement Sebenza washers.

With the Inkosi, you can buy washers (and even request two sets of washers for free from CRK) and replace them yourself with no issues.

It may seem like a minor issue, but I prefer user serviceable whenever possible. However, if you ever have to deal with CRK warranty service you will find that they are the best in the business.
 
tantox said:
Good choice on the tanto blade, I find it super useful and really do not own CRK drop points (except for Zaans).

On your choice, consider future maintenance ...

Depending on how you use it, if the Sebenza needs replacement washers, you have to send it in to CRK to have them replaced because they have to be tuned to the knife (according to CRK). They will not sell you or send you replacement Sebenza washers.

With the Inkosi, you can buy washers (and even request two sets of washers for free from CRK) and replace them yourself with no issues.

It may seem like a minor issue, but I prefer user serviceable whenever possible. However, if you ever have to deal with CRK warranty service you will find that they are the best in the business.
Click to expand...
Excellent points. I did not know that. Thanks
 
Ive not handled the Inkosi. But isnt the blade a thicker grind? They use a different hollow grind on it?
I know The Zaan has a thicker grind than the Sebs.
 
I think I'm going to get the 31. I already have a small 31 with the same inlays. The inlays sold me over the finger grooves. I have a large Inkosi with no inlays already. I just like the way the 31 with inlays look better. Thanks for the input, guys!
 
If you are able to handle both before purchase I would lean towards the one that "feel" best in your hand and opening closing and carrying. I only have a couple of Sebs so I cant comment much on the Inkosi. I have read that some folks do not like the finger grooves on the Inkosi. I think they might feel better but I have not tried...yet.
 
The other factor to consider is re-assembly ease. The Sebenza is a bit more finesse requiring when lining it all up, but then you simply tighten all the screws all the way and you get the same action every time. The Inkosi can be rebuilt like a sandwich, but the pivot is adjustable, so it can take some dialing in on re-assembly. I have, love, and carry both. Especially in the large. Small for me is Sebenza only, as the small Inkosi is just too small.
 
tantox said:
Good choice on the tanto blade, I find it super useful and really do not own CRK drop points (except for Zaans).

On your choice, consider future maintenance ...

Depending on how you use it, if the Sebenza needs replacement washers, you have to send it in to CRK to have them replaced because they have to be tuned to the knife (according to CRK). They will not sell you or send you replacement Sebenza washers.

With the Inkosi, you can buy washers (and even request two sets of washers for free from CRK) and replace them yourself with no issues.

It may seem like a minor issue, but I prefer user serviceable whenever possible. However, if you ever have to deal with CRK warranty service you will find that they are the best in the business.
Click to expand...
My Sebenza’s 14yo and the washers are AOK 👍🏾
 
JTR357 said:
I think I'm going to get the 31. I already have a small 31 with the same inlays. The inlays sold me over the finger grooves. I have a large Inkosi with no inlays already. I just like the way the 31 with inlays look better. Thanks for the input, guys!
Click to expand...
Sebenza Family.jpg
 
I’ve never handled an inkosi. I bought a small sebenza in 2003 and there just isn’t a reason to change it up. For my uses, it’s essentially perfect. I bought three more in different configurations over the years. I’m sure a lot of people will disagree, but my 31 micarta DP is my favorite (yes, even over the 21).

On paper, I like the thinner blade stock and ease of reassembly of the sebenza. I also agree on the inlays looking better.

All that said, I don’t think there is a wrong answer between these two. I can totally see the appeal for the beefier inkosi and the ability to dial in the tension.

I don’t think it’s a bad idea to get both and sell the one you like least. They generally retain value pretty well.
 
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