Benchmade 520 vs 551 for EDC?

[Rhyno37]

Hey guys, I am trading off my Spyderco Sage 2 and have had 2 offers I am really interested in. Before we start, the intended use of the knives will be EDC/work. I had a mini-grip and I thought it was too small to be useful, I couldn't get my pinky on. Mind you first, the 551 is actually a Ritter RSK MK1, which has the stonewashed blade and S30V steal. This trade would include another knife or cash to even out, but I am looking at specifically comparing it against the 520. I couldn't find any comparison threads, and from comparing specs they look to be the same size. What do you guys think is better?

 

[imbryan715]

i really love my grip and it is my edc today! it often beats out my $200 + knives as my edc knife. i have been carrying the h2o model exclusivly since february. the ritter grip is on my short list to get and i would recommend any type of grip. the 520 is a more heavy beefy that i find does not cut as well. i have the brother of it the 5000 which is just an automatic version of the knife. i would jump on that ritter grip asap!

 

[Rhyno37]

How hard are scales to find for it? The Ritter is in orange, which I might want to change to black or get aftermarket.

 

[imbryan715]

How hard are scales to find for it? The Ritter is in orange, which I might want to change to black or get aftermarket.

i have no clue about the plastic. i actually like the plastic grips alot. those wilkins scales are over $200 so you will have a griptilian with scales 2 the price of the knife which is stupid in my opinion

 

[Suveges]

520 is more for tactical use i would say. It's an absulute pocket shredder, and the handles, while grippy get uncomfortable after long periods of cutting.

 

[Justa]

I dont have a 520 but a lot of people say great things about it (aside from the pocket shredding mentioned by Suveges). When I was choosing between the 520 and ritter grip, I finally picked the grip mostly because of the weight. Secondary factors were the steel and the 520's pocket eater rep. Ive been very happy with the grip so far. Its one of my favourite full size user knives. I even like the feel of the handle. Some people says it feels cheap and flimsy but mine feels very sturdy and I like the fuller, rounded handle better than most knives with flat g10 scales.