TNK Umnumzaan Tanto vs. Large Sebenza 21?

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AlphaDog86

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Mar 30, 2015
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I've been trying to decide between a True North Knives Umnumzaan Tanto (new pivot) and a plain jane large Sebenza 21 for my first and probably last (at least for a very long time) Chris Reeve knife. The first time I saw a TNK Umnumzaan Tanto I was very impressed and instantly wanted one. But I have also always wanted a plain large Sebenza 21. So what I am looking for is insight from people who have owned/own both, particularly the TNK Umnum Tanto. And if you HAD to choose between the two which one would you pick?
 
I have a TNK Lg Sebenza 21 tanto and I absolutely can't find enough good things to say about it. Give er a try and you won't be disappointed.
 
Have had many CRK's and the only one I couldn't stand was the TNK Umnum Tanto. The Tanto shape is just not useful on a regular size pocket folder ( and I do love Tanto fixed blades). Very quickly sold the TNK Tanto at a loss and kept the regular Umnum and large Classic Sebbie I always had. Nothing beats a nice clip point for EDC except for maybe a sheepsfoot or wharnecliffe LOL.
 
The tanto is a love/hate blade. Most think they're not practical for everyday use. I just picked up my first CRK tanto in a small and I'm satisfied with the tanto. It will be suitable for some of my needs. IMO, the clip point is a better all around EDC blade. In my line of work and chores, I do more piercing and the clip point is better for me.
I got the tanto because they look cool as hell and its growing on me.
It really depends on your needs for a blade style that should determine which one you get.
 
I own and love the Umnumzaan Tanto. In my opinion, the Umnumzaan is the BEST knife that Chris Reeve makes. I love the ergonomics of the handle, the lockup, the strong detent, and just how absolutely fast the blade rockets out. I've owned the Sebenza and its equally as nice, but it is a COMPLETELY different knife.

If this is your first CRK and you are truly and equally torn, then go with the Sebenza. It embodies everything CRK in one very nice package.

If you want a fast opener, then go with the Umnumzaan.
 
I have several 21's and an Umnumzaan. I do not own a Tanto, so I can't speak to the blade shape but assuming this is your first CRK, without hesitation, I would go with the Large 21. It has what made Chris Reeve Knives; and for good reason. IMO, if one is going to be turned on or off by CRK, it should be the 21, a regular, or a classic to do so. I think it would be a complete shame for someone to not like an Umnumzaan or a 25 and blow off CRK without having gotten to know the (large) 21. If you have owned a 21 before, my advice would be to go with what you think you would like to try next. The 21, 25, and the Zaan are definitely different knives from one another.

This may be a bit off topic... I am sure this goes for all of his knives, but when I look at my used and slightly abused large plain jane 21, it still blows me away each and every time what an incredible knife it is. The best part about the knife is that when I hand it to someone who doesn't know Chris Reeve Knives. I see them look at it and can watch as they realize what a simple yet complex, and SOLID knife it is. The more I use it, the more beautiful she gets.
 
If it's your first CRK then I'm going to recommend the large plain Sebenza 21. IMHO, the Sebenza 21 embodies the true spirit of the Sebenza and you really can't go wrong picking this knife as your first Chris Reeve folder.
I have the Umnumzaan(regular blade, new pivot), the Micarta 25 and the large plain 21. The 21 is my favorite of the three and the one tha spends the most time in my hands and in my pocket.
This coming from a guy who tends to favor thicker stock blades on his folders too. :eek:
 
I like the two Tanto Umnumzaans I have, but for my first/only CRK, I would go with the o.g. Sebenza with clip point. It is a fantastic combo.
 
Umnumzaan Tanto and std. Plain Jane Large 21 have nothing in common with one another, save for their (different) frame locks and their maker. I think in this situation I would try handling both, or if that is not an option, I'd recommend buying one, feeling it for a few days without using it, and selling it for the other if you decide you do not like it. The loss will be very small.
 
umnumzaan! I have 3 sebenzas and one zaan, the zaan is my favorite. you should probably get them in your hand first though.

better yet buy both used, and then sell the one you don't like for minimal to no loss. that way you have both in had to compare.
 
I'll be able to offer up an opinion Wednesday (USPS willing) on the matter (when my Tanto Zaan completes it's somewhat indirect trek to my address).
 
i am sure you have been cautioned, but the "first & last" thing is very difficult with CRKs...
In my opinion, as stated above already, if this is your first CRK, perhaps the Large 21 is the best way to go...
PNWhovian said:
If it's your first CRK then I'm going to recommend the large plain Sebenza 21. IMHO, the Sebenza 21 embodies the true spirit of the Sebenza and you really can't go wrong picking this knife as your first Chris Reeve folder.
Click to expand...
<<--- Well said!

The Umnumzaan does however offer the glass breaker - if that is important to you. And the Tanto offers a thicker tip...and the secondary edge near the tip...depending on your usage, these could be a deciding factor...

In terms of EDC, there is a slight difference in the thickness which is noticeable when in your pocket...the 21 being a little slimmer...

Like many others, the bushing pivot on the 21 is a huge draw for me...it is just a well though out & executed design...

Bottom line though is...go for the one that appeals to you...they are both excellent knives...

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I am considering getting the Umnumzaan tanto. I gather that they don't have the thinner harpoon tip (as the regular Umnum) but are more flat on top at the blade. This makes me think the tip would be very strong and hard to break. Please owners: what has been your experience with the tip on this knife? I know it is isn't a screwdriver or a chisel, but is it still possible to do "moderate" prying with it and not worry about tip breakage? I have broken tips on several folders over the years when doing some prying (I know, I know) and would love to own a knife EDC that I could use for an all arounder and not have to worry. I assume that any stabbing uses would be fine? Bottom line: looking at photos of that tip makes it look like there is a heckofa lot of steel up there and it should be extremely robust. True, in your experiences?
 
I own Zaan DP version, to me between DP vs tanto I went obviously with a DP. Just from my experience DP is very strong and the tip of the blade gives u an illusion that it is thinner cause of the swedge . I used and abused my Zaan it is solid very strong built and DP is very practical for daily carry.
 
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