555HG or 530?

C

Chrottos

Joined
Mar 9, 2013
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I've been stuck between two models for a while now – the Mini-Griptilian sheepsfoot and the 530 Pardue. Which one should I get? Pros and cons (especially cons)?
 
I would vote for the 530, which was my first Benchmade. I like the slim profile and light weight, it's an easy carry. I don't like the Axis release bar on this model, the indents on both sides can be a chore to pull back, and can be an issue for those with large hands. The 555HG has the opening thumbhole instead, and makes it easy to open the knife, but at 3.87" compared to 4.17" for the 530, even with my smaller hands I can't get a full grip on the handles, my thumb always hangs off the end. The grippy texture is good on both, with a nod towards the 555HG, but some complain that it's too rough...the 530 doesn't have that problem, mainly due to it's slim profile. Both have partial liners and the Very safe Axis lock...my recommendation would be for you to find a local REI or other dealer to see how they both fit...which would save time and could save money in the end. Hope that helps~!
 
Thanks, bud. Problem is, I live in Norway and Benchmade dealers are few and far between. Chances are I'll never get my hands on neither of them before I potentially buy one. As many knife nuts experience, the urges for new knives often come in waves. I guess I'll just have to ride this one out and wait for the next one. Maybe I have decided then, sigh.
 
Chrottos said:
Thanks, bud. Problem is, I live in Norway and Benchmade dealers are few and far between. Chances are I'll never get my hands on neither of them before I potentially buy one. As many knife nuts experience, the urges for new knives often come in waves. I guess I'll just have to ride this one out and wait for the next one. Maybe I have decided then, sigh.
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You're welcome. Since you're across the continent and more, let's put it this way; I would buy a 530 and use it because it's a keeper. I would refuse the 555HG, having owned one and buy another 530 because I like the design so much better. And yes, in my answer I neglected to log where you live...! :rolleyes:
 
I own a mini-Grip, but not a 530, and that's by choice, if that tells you anything. The 555HG has full liners. The 530 has partial liners, apparently. The 555HG is hollow ground. The 530 is not (I don't care as much for hollow ground). The 530 is lighter due to no liners. It's more of a dress type of knife, owing to its thin design, and will cut things just fine, but for harder use, the mini-Grip wins out. My son has used his camping with the Boy Scouts, but it's the 556 version. I wouldn't take a 530 for that. The limited editions of the 530 with upgraded scales and steel really put the knife where it belongs -- in the sheeple-filled office environment, where it won't scare sheeple as much as a "black tactical" knife might.
 
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Thanks for all the advice, people The only thing keeping me from buying the 530 is the small thumb studs and weird concave axis knobs. I have slim, medium sized hands, but my hands are still growing. How big of a problem is it?
 
Chrottos said:
Thanks for all the advice, people The only thing keeping me from buying the 530 is the small thumb studs and weird concave axis knobs. I have slim, medium sized hands, but my hands are still growing. How big of a problem is it?
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I'm a little more wordy than friend Skimo is, but no, once the pivot tension is adjusted properly the studs aren't a problem. I can open my 530 as quickly as any of my larger models.
 
I have owned both and I still own the 555. The 530 is a nice knife,I had the blue handles version but the only thing I found is it's to light for my uses and tends to flex in my hand during hard use. I know this is more of a light weight EDC but I found the Mini just more all around use knife. The 530 would still be a keeper but between the two The 555hg wins for me. IMO
 
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