790 Subrosa - Opinions / Feedback Welcomed

AJR576

AJR576

Joined
Feb 15, 2014
Messages
773
I have a chance to trade for a 790 Subrosa that's in excellent condition and I'm curious to hear feedback (both positive and negative) regarding how they've been holding up, etc. Also, does the Subrosa have the steel lock bar insert? Thanks in advance.
 
I've owned a First Production for a couple of years and it's a regular in my rotation. The S30V blade holds a keen edge, and with open standoffs and Ti scales is a powerful but lightweight knife. When deploying, the blade really snaps, and with the addition of that faceted stop pin makes it easy to adjust the lock for wear. Mine does not have a steel lock bar insert, but with a lot of use sows little sign of wear. Here's a pic or two: (thumb studs aren't original, but work great.)





If you can get it at a decent price, go for it!
 
Thanks, it looks like a great knife...I would be trading a like new Contego for it.
 
I've had this one for about 3 years or so, and really like it. I like the mild re-curve, light weight for the blade size and the way it snaps open quite hard.

I would prefer tip up carry on it but I have no real problem with tip down. The edge of the clip provides over travel stop for the lock bar, a simple and effective feature.
There is no steel insert on the lock bar, and from my experience with it, it just doesn't need one.

It's the only assisted folder I have that I'm wary of it opening in my pocket. It never has so maybe my concern is unwarranted, but the detent just feels less convincing than, say, the 581 or 586. The 790 I can quite easily get to open with a sharp jerk of the hand, which a Barrage just won't do.
The blade lock on a Barrage I never use, it just doesn't seem to need it.
There's no blade lock on the 790 but if there was I would probably use it.

The handle is no ergonomic wonder. Partly 'cos the lock bar at the interface end sits lower than the opposite side of the handle, as you can see in the pic. So it's not the most comfortable for extended use.

But on the whole, I really do like this folder. It doesn't get carried very often, but it does get it's outings, sometimes in a zipped vest pocket as a secondary carry as it's nice and light.
As a general EDC folder with a strong AO, I like it and have no intention of parting with it.

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AJR576 said:
I'm curious to hear feedback (both positive and negative) regarding how they've been holding up, etc. Also, does the Subrosa have the steel lock bar insert? Thanks in advance.
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The 790 Subrosa was released back in 2010 IIR, before the use of the steel lock bar insert. Despite being an older model knife I think it more then holds it's own today. It's well made and designed. I've only ever heard good thing's about it.

Congrat's on scoring one!
 
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I had one, and was quite impressed with it. If I ever get a chance I'll own another one. I have an Emissary now as my BM assisted folder. Comparing the two, you get a solid Titanium scale and a frame lock vs aluminum scales and an Axis lock.
 
I bought my Subrosa back in 2012 (I think). I find it to be one of the best looking Benchmades of all time. The assisted opening mechanism pops the blade open with authority. Very nice knife. However , I never carry mine. I prefer manual openers.
 
Thanks guys. Based on the positive feedback, I decided to do the trade and should have the Subrosa by Saturday.
 
So I received the Subrosa and really like it. The assisted opening is fast / smooth and it locks up tight. It's also surprising light and carries nicely for It's size.
 
AJR576 said:
So I received the Subrosa and really like it. The assisted opening is fast / smooth and it locks up tight. It's also surprising light and carries nicely for It's size.
Click to expand...

Glad you like it!
But, we're not inclined to believe it without pics....
 
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