705 vs Lightweight Native

[thombrogan]

Which you pick: The 705 production or the Native production? These would be the most current versions with the 705 having 154CM and the Native having S30V.

Both are ambidextrous, both have a point and belly, and both can be closed or opened with one hand (although it's slightly riskier to close the Native with one hand). The 705 retails for $130 and the Native retails for $83.95 while both are available for much less through online dealers.

I would like a 705 in M2 or S30V, but that's not in the cards for a while it seems, so my wife bought me a Native and it follows me everywhere despite my preference for axis locks. I'm spoiled and biased towards the Native.

Which would you choose? Which did you choose, if you've already opened your wallet?

 

[Samurai6]

Two very different knives. For light utility duty, the 705 is better. The blade shape is handier for small tasks, and it is smaller, making it an easier carry. I have taken the clips off of my 705s and carry them in my pocket as pocket knives.

The Native, on the other hand, offers a handle that really fills the hand and a strong blade. You will get better leverage for hard work with the Native. I would carry the Native alone, whereas I almost always carry a larger knife in addition to the 705.

Both are really cool knives for fun and joy of ownership. Both are really strong and well designed. Both knives are in my EDC pool.

 

[Harry Callahan]

I would have to choose the Native. Better price point, better ergos, better blade steel, etc. The BM does have that smooth Axis lock in its favor, not to mention G10 scales.

But my vote goes for the Native.

 

[Patryn]

705

Why? I love Benchmade knives. Spyderco has never done a thing for me. Plus I hate holes. Gimme the thumb stub w/axis any day.

 

[Sticky]

I can't think of how a Lockback on the planet could operate as well as the good ol' Axis...... Benchmade please...thank you!

 

[dtsoll]

Sticky, your choice surprises me!! Anyway, If someone would donate a Native to me I will test it vs. my 705s. It would be tough to beat my 705s but I do like spyderco knives. Someday I will have a Native but it will be a while:grumpy: thanks for the forum. dtsoll

 

[db]

What are the measurements of the 705 closed, lenth, thickness, and width?

 

[dtsoll]

Here ya go db, from the BM site. have a nice day. dtsoll



Blade Length: 2.95"

Blade Thickness: 0.1"
Blade Material: 154CM
Blade Hardness: 58-60
Blade Style: Drop Point
Weight: 2.7oz.
Clip: SS
Lock Mechanism: AXIS™
Overall Length: 6.75"
Closed Length: 3.8"
Sheath Material: None

 

[Greymoor]

My Native is rock solid. However I like the axis lock too. I would have to side with Steve on this one though. If I could only carry one it would be the Native. The Blade steel kicks butt, It fits my hand very well, and has a good price point. I have the plain edge version now and have been thinking about one with the Spyderedge.

Between the two most everyday tasks would be a cinch.

 

[db]

Thanks DTSOLL, but I was wondering about the size when closed. For ex. how wide is it when folded closed, and how thick is the handle?

 

[John Puckett]

I would pick the 705. It is currently my EDC. Love it. I keep it as sharp as I can get it and it cuts great.

 

[RH]

Why would you say the Native is more dangerous to close one handed? I close all my lockbacks one-handed, against my leg, without even looking at them.

 

[thombrogan]

With an axis lock, you just pull back on the lock and the blade glides in its channel without your fingers getting in the way. That's safer than closing a lockback with just your hand or with a hand and leg combination.

 

[Guyon]

Well, I used to have a Native in 440V. I now carry a 705. For EDC, I just like the Benchmade better. Doesn't scare folks as badly, and I like G-10 and the Axis lock. My wife still carries a Native in her purse though.

 

[anthony cheeseboro]

I think both the 705 and Native are great knives. I think that perhaps an even better comparison would be between the Griptillian and the Native. The Griptillian is zytel handled like the Native and it is a more substantial knife to hold in the hand like the Native. Also, their price points are much closer.

 

[musky hunter]

I have griptilian and native. They are both nice blades but the Spyderco will cut circles around the griptilian. The native and griptilian are both solid knives. The griptilian has edge in blade play and smoothness. The axis lock are the only thing that is clearly superior to the Native. I use both as EDC and i like the Griptilian better hard use. I will take my Delica over the two. This knife will cut circles around any production knife. I dont have a 705 to compare. i want one though.

 

[thombrogan]

Originally posted by Sticky
I can't think of how a Lockback on the planet could operate as well as the good ol' Axis...

Lockbacks generally have less play than axis locks after you've adjusted the axis lock to operate as it should (the 806D2 being a great exception to this). On the other hand, the amount of play created is insignificant for most tasks and easily correctable for tasks where it may matter. Plus, who can't do anything but love the axis lock? Were Bladerunner filmed today, suspected Replicants would be handed a mini Griptillian or 940 and if they didn't start flicking the knife open and closed, they'd be confirmed as replicants.

But I still like my Native better. Delica, too. Hopefully, I'll be able to buy a 710HS today and enjoy the design of the 705 with the size and M2 goodness of the 710HS.

 

[musky hunter]

thombrogan,

where u getting the 710HS? used ? local? internet?

I am looking for a new one. If i cannot find a LNIB soon i will get the Al Mar SERE 2000 instead.

 

[thombrogan]

Musky,

There's a brick-n-mortar dealer who sometimes takes online payments who should be receiving two 710HS models tonight. Check your email soon.

 

[musky hunter]

Hi, thanxs for the e-mail. I sent an e-mail regarding the 710HS.