CRKT M16 vs M21??

C

ClosetCaseNerd

Joined
Sep 24, 2004
Messages
8
okay basically.. what are the advantages of the two different blade types? what would one do better then the other and vice versa? im really stuck between these two... :confused:
 
There are actually 3 different blade types if you are not counting serrations. The spear point and the tanto point (Both m16) and the heavy recurve of the m21. Both utilze the same steel, so neither one should offer better edge retention or impact resistance.
The m16's will offer better penetrating action than the m21's simply because of their points. The m21 will be better for chopping/slicing applications.
An easier way to answere this would be to ask "What will you be using this knife for?" If it is for self defense, I would go with the M16 in tanto point because that would offer the best stabbing ability and is pretty damn big still.
If you need a multi-purpose for opening packages, daily work around the office/house/garden/etc... I would go with the M16 in spearpoint.
If you're just really going to be wailing with it for heavy duty outdoor work, go with the m21.

Just as a short aside, don't pick up the m16's in zytel. They are much cheaper, but the blade steel is inferior. You'll spend all your time sharpening them.

-KC

ps: welcome to the forums ^_^x
 
Don't forget, the spearpoint is smaller than than the tanto (which is availible in 2 sizes)
There's also a smaller EDC size
The M21 only comes in 2 sizes though
 
Garage Boy is right. My appalogies for dwelling on the largest sizes. Although do note that on the next size down on the m16's, the spear point is longer than the tanto. Just in case you were concerned.
The m16 Compacts are pretty sexy. I actually enjoy the spear point model of this one. Bout it once. Gave it away as a present. Oh how I miss it so...
-KC
 
It is a good knife for the money. I have been happy with mine.
standard.jpg
 
so wait, the m21 is only good at chopping, or does it excel at everything accept peircing over the tanto? which is physically larger?
 
The m21 would do exceptionally well at slicing as well. By comparison to the m16 tanto (full size), I'm not sure which is larger. It is pretty damn close. The m21 has a very nice belly. What do you think you will keep this knife primarily for? it really is a tough call.
-KC
ps: The black ti-nitride coating on the m16s is fanfreakingtastick! I just saw my buddy's knife today (M16 spearpoint black coating) and after almost a year, there is not a single scratch on it. Oh yeah, and he uses it primarily to pry caps off of beer bottles.
 
im going to be using it for everything really, as an edc, so im stuck between m16 and m21, but pretty sure ill be getting semi serrated in whichever i choose. i know i dont like the smaller spear pointed knives, although they are probably pretty good at everything.. just hate the way they look. how come some of you guys hate semi serrated knives?
 
Cause they don't have enough of either edge type.
There is 2 sizes of both the m16 tanto and the m21. (3.5" and 3.88" blade length)
One consideration is sharpening. Recurves are gonna be a little harder. (just use a ceramic rod and follow the contour)
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top