10Best.Guide

Benchmade Knife

Top Picks

Last Updated: April, 2023
Pros
  • Sturdy and sharp blade out of the box.
  • Benchmade brand is known for quality.
  • Diamond Wood scales have a great feel.
  • Effortless blade deployment.
  • Beautiful design and finish.
Cons
  • Opening mechanism may be stiff at first.
  • Wood handle may not be as depicted.
Bottom Line
The Benchmade knife is a top of the line product with a sturdy and sharp blade, beautiful design, and effortless deployment. While it may be expensive and not American made, the quality and brand reputation make it a worthwhile investment for those in need of a reliable and durable knife.
Pros
  • Spot on axis lock implementation with no blade play.
  • Sturdy feel in hand without sacrificing weight.
  • Ergonomics are pretty much perfect.
  • Good quality and style.
  • Flow through design, steel and G10.
Cons
  • Quality control issues.
  • Blade came with a noticeable chip.
Bottom Line
The Benchmade Freek 560 BK-1 is a well-balanced, sturdy knife with great ergonomics and impressive blade retention. However, there have been some quality control and durability issues reported, so buyers should be aware of these potential drawbacks.
Pros
  • Well-made with high quality materials
  • Lightweight and slim design
  • Razor sharp out of the box
  • Stunning work of art and science
  • AXIS-lock system is smooth
Cons
  • Expensive
  • Rough grinding and not as sharp as expected
Bottom Line
The Benchmade 940-2 is a high-quality, lightweight, and slim knife with a stunning design and smooth AXIS-lock system. However, it is expensive and may have quality control issues. The CPM-S90v steel is durable and holds an edge well, but the grinding may not be as sharp as expected. Overall, it is a great knife for everyday carry if you are willing to invest in a premium product.
Pros
  • Very light
  • Good locking mechanism
  • Sharp edge
  • Comfortable ergonomics
  • Svelte profile
Cons
  • Not suitable for heavy-duty tasks
  • Body does not instill confidence
Bottom Line
The Benchmade 535 Bugout is a well-made, lightweight knife with a good locking mechanism and sharp edge. However, it is not suitable for heavy-duty tasks and the body may not instill confidence when cutting things with resistance. The painted barrel wears off quickly and the name is misleading. It is expensive and not suitable for all-purpose tasks.
Pros
  • Quality steel and axis lock
  • Smooth and secure lock
  • Durable and holds an edge well
  • Razor sharp out of the box
  • Assisted opening feature
Cons
  • Heavy and thick
  • Handle scales feel thin and cheesy
Bottom Line
The Benchmade Mini-Barrage is a high-quality knife with a smooth and secure lock, durable steel, and razor-sharp blade. However, it may be heavy and thick for some users, and the handle scales may feel thin and cheesy. The premium cost may also be a drawback for some buyers.

The Ultimate Buying Guide for Benchmade Knives: Everything You Need to Know

Overview

Benchmade is a well-known brand in the knife industry, known for producing high-quality knives for various purposes. Whether you're a collector, outdoorsman, or just need a reliable everyday carry knife, Benchmade has something for everyone. This buying guide will provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision when purchasing a Benchmade knife.

Types

Benchmade offers a wide range of knives, each designed for a specific purpose. Here are some of the most popular types:

1. Folding Knives: These knives are compact, easy to carry, and perfect for everyday use. Benchmade offers a variety of folding knives, including the popular Griptilian and Mini Griptilian.

2. Fixed Blade Knives: These knives are more robust and durable than folding knives, making them ideal for outdoor activities such as camping, hunting, and fishing. Benchmade's fixed blade knives include the Bushcrafter and the Saddle Mountain Skinner.

3. Automatic Knives: Also known as switchblades, these knives are perfect for those who need quick and easy access to their blade. Benchmade's automatic knives include the Infidel and the Mini-Infidel.

Key Considerations

When purchasing a Benchmade knife, there are several factors to consider. Here are some of the most important:

1. Blade Material: Benchmade uses a variety of high-quality blade materials, including stainless steel, D2 tool steel, and CPM-S30V steel. Consider the intended use of your knife when choosing a blade material.

2. Blade Shape: The shape of the blade can greatly impact its functionality. Consider the type of cutting you will be doing and choose a blade shape accordingly.

3. Handle Material: Benchmade offers handles made from a variety of materials, including G10, aluminum, and carbon fiber. Consider the intended use and your personal preferences when choosing a handle material.

Features

Benchmade knives come with a variety of features that make them stand out from the competition. Here are some of the most notable features:

1. Axis Lock: Benchmade's patented Axis Lock is a unique locking mechanism that provides a secure and easy-to-use locking system.

2. Customization: Benchmade offers a variety of customization options, including blade finishes, handle colors, and laser engraving.

3. Warranty: Benchmade offers a limited lifetime warranty on all of their knives, ensuring that you can rely on your knife for years to come.

Prices

Benchmade knives range in price from around $100 to over $500, depending on the type and features of the knife. While they may be more expensive than some other brands, the quality and durability of Benchmade knives make them a worthwhile investment.

Tips

Here are some tips to keep in mind when purchasing a Benchmade knife:

1. Consider your intended use and choose a knife that is designed for that purpose.

2. Take advantage of Benchmade's customization options to create a knife that is uniquely yours.

3. Consider purchasing a sharpening system to maintain the sharpness of your blade.

FAQs

Q: Are Benchmade knives made in the USA?

A: Yes, all Benchmade knives are made in the USA.

Q: What is the best Benchmade knife for everyday carry?

A: The Griptilian and Mini Griptilian are both popular choices for everyday carry.

Q: Can I sharpen my Benchmade knife myself?

A: Yes, Benchmade knives can be sharpened using a sharpening system or by hand using a sharpening stone.

Q: What is the warranty on Benchmade knives?

A: Benchmade offers a limited lifetime warranty on all of their knives.

Runner-Ups

Pros
  • Lightweight
  • Deep pocket fit
  • Good for everyday carry
  • Sharp out of the box
  • Perfect centering
Cons
  • Flimsy
  • Blade wobbles
Bottom Line
The Benchmade Bugout is a lightweight and sharp knife that is good for everyday carry, but it may require frequent servicing and has some issues with blade play and stiffness. The limited lifetime warranty is a plus, but the knife's flimsiness and thin blade may not be suitable for heavy-duty tasks.
Pros
  • Well-made and durable
  • Lightweight and comfortable grip
  • Sharp point for self-defense
  • Quality finish and design
  • Convenient for carrying in a pocket or on a vest
Cons
  • Expensive for what it is
  • Grip is uncomfortable for some
Bottom Line
The Benchmade knife is a well-made and durable option for those looking for a self-defense tool. However, it may not be worth the high price tag for some and the uncomfortable grip and lack of cutting ability may be a drawback for others.
Pros
  • Ergonomic grip and mechanism.
  • Nice working edge and very sharp out of the box.
  • Premium S30v steel holds the sharp longer.
  • Solid build and easy to flip back the blade.
  • Axis lock works like a dream without having to resort to a spring assist.
Cons
  • Quality control issues.
  • Blade is not sharp out of the box.
Bottom Line
The Benchmade Griptilian is a solid EDC knife with a premium steel blade and an ergonomic grip. However, there are some quality control issues and the blade may not be sharp out of the box. The axis lock can be hard on the fingers, but it works well without a spring assist.
Pros
  • Incredibly light
  • Great for EDC
  • Sturdy and solid
  • Great slicing and sharpening
  • Easy to cut and maneuver
Cons
  • Quality control issues
  • Handle is on the thin side
Bottom Line
The Benchmade Bugout is a great lightweight EDC knife with a sturdy and solid build, great slicing and sharpening capabilities, and a flawless locking mechanism. However, quality control issues and a thin handle may be a concern for some buyers.
Pros
  • Great little knife
  • Very ergonomic design
  • Good blade and build quality
  • Made in Oregon, USA
  • Comes very sharp
Cons
  • Blade release mechanism is grindy and not super smooth
  • Hard to get a good grip on due to size and design
Bottom Line
The Benchmade Mini-Grip is a great little knife with an ergonomic design, good blade and build quality, and excellent for everyday carry. However, it has some issues with the blade release mechanism, grip, and balance that may be a concern for some buyers. Overall, it is a quality knife that is worth the investment.
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