Chris Reeve Sebenza 21: the ultimate pocket knife

The Chris Reeve Knives Sebenza 21 collection doesn’t really need to be introduced. These legendary Chris Reeve Knives knives are incredibly popular and are also called the ultimate pocket knives! The level of quality is unparalleled and the characteristic design is incredibly functional and recognizable.

The emergence of the Sebenza 21

Chris Reeve produced the first handmade Sebenza in 1987. Throughout the years the design changed multiple times. After the handmade Sebenza’s in 1987 the original Sebenza was introduced in 1990, the Regular in 1996, and the Classic in 2000. In 2008 the Sebenza celebrated its twenty-first birthday. To celebrate Chris Reeve introduced another new Sebenza model and called it the Sebenza 21! The 21 was succeeded by the Sebenza 25, but the Sebenza 21 remained the model that was considered to be the basis. It is, after all, for a reason that this pocket knife has been available for years.

The Sebenza 21: not just a pocket knife

The Chris Reeve Sebenza 21 is available in 2 sizes: the small Sebanza and the large Sebenza. Both are made from top-quality materials such as titanium and S35VN steel. There are different versions of the Sebenza 21. For instance, in addition to the standard drop-point blade there are different shapes of blades, such as the Insingo and Tanto, and there are a lot of different types of handles. A couple examples are the Sebenza’s with micarta inlays, or the CGG models with milled-out patterns. 

At first glance the Sebenza 21 looks fairly simple. It isn’t! The Chris Reeve Sebenza 21 has been enhanced with innovative details that don’t really stand out. The pivot bushing system is a great example. This tube is placed in between the handle and around the pivot. Because the tube has the same thickness as the blade and the washers combined, the blade will always be centred and move smoothly. Want to learn more? Why not check out our Chris Reeve designer page.

In short, with so much variation there is something for everyone! The excellent quality has turned the Sebenza 21 into one of the best knives in the world. As a result it is not that surprising that the Sebenza 21 is so renowned. Chris Reeve knives are made for life.