Benchmade 440C or D2 Grip?

P

PC356

Joined
Jun 10, 2005
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Considering buying a Griptilian and was wondering if the Cabela's D2 versions are worth the extra money over the 440C versions? I have read that BM does a good job with the 440C heat treat before, but don't know how true that is. I know the 440 is more corrosion resistant, but does the BT2 coating on the D2 blade make much of a difference in it's resistance? I know where I can get a Rescue Hook/551 plain edge combo in 440C for 78 bucks. Knife's going to be used as an edc. Any info appreciated.
 
I would definitely go for the D2 blade. There is nothing wrong with 440c but I'm a steel snob to a certain degree. If the same knife is offered with two different steels then I'm going for the perceived upgraded blade steel. :D
 
Ordinarily, I would say just go the extra mile for the D2. However I have heard that BM doesn't treat their D2 as well as possible. Their 440C is top quality stuff still. I would say it is the better deal.
-KC
 
I use a Benchmade Griptillian 550 with a 440C blade and have been very satified with it's performance. Either one I dont think you can go wrong with.

Sometime I think we ( me included ) get caught up with all this steel hype. Granted, there are some steels better than others, that I agree, But as far as EDC, save some money and the 400C.
 
Hi PC356,

I own and use both in quite humid and cool climate (northern Germany), no rust issues on D2.

551D2 has noticeable better (two or three times on thick cardboard before it starting to rip) edge retention, but 440C dulls also not too easy.

550 is a better slicer, due to its blade geometry.

440C is easier to sharpen than D2.

No clear winner here, but I use 550 arguably often than 551D2 because of geometry (kitchen and so on ;) ).
 
I only have the Cabella's D2 version and say that I like it a lot. I never have had any corrosion problems and it requires minimal edge maintenance.
 
I carry the 440C version and I think as a EDC you would be happy with it's stain resistance and ease of sharpening. If you consider the hundreds of uses an EDC goes through, you'll find that 440C, although not considered a high end steel, is a true workhorse material. I have many knives with many steels and have gone back to 440C as my EDC. Benchmade Griptillian for now.
 
If you take care of your knives, keep em clean, lubed, and protected(Tuf-Glide), corrosion resistance doesnt matter, go for the D2.
 
Personally, I love my D2 Cabela's. After watching Cliff test the stuff in knife reviews and testing, I had to try it.
 
The coating provides complete protection from corrosion, except for the edge. But D2 is pretty good at not rusting anyway.
 
I have the Griptilians in D2 and 440C. Both steels do what I need, which is occasional home and yard use. You might give some thought to what you will be using the knife for. If you do a lot of cutting, then mebbe the D2 is for you. If it's for EDC and occasional use, maybe the 440C.

One approach might be to get the 440C now and save the difference that you would have paid for the D2. Save your lunch money and before you know it, you will have the other knife.

On the other hand, if you're a steel snob like Easyrider said, or think you might become one, or you want the braggin' rights, mebbe the D2 is it...

No matter what you choose, it'll be a great choice!

U
 
Well to be honest, I just recently bought a RSK Mini-Grip for my first Benchmade pocket knife. Love the edge holding of the S30V and the ergonomics as well as that wonderful Axis lock. Kinda spoiled myself for my first BM. Probably should've eased into this a little more with a cheaper knife, but I find myself wanting a bigger version. These things are addictive but I don't feel like dropping another 100.00 bucks on one so soon either. I'm getting some version of the Grip none the less :D. Thanks for all the help fellas and keep it comin' please if you have anything to add.
 
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