Benchmade 550/551

R

Rob64

Joined
Oct 22, 2001
Messages
41
I am planning on getting either a BM 550 or 551, but am having trouble deciding on which one. (Don't tell me to get both, because I might be tempted to do it.) I like the shape of the drop point blade of the 551. Is the modified sheep's foot blade of the 550 a more specialized blade? I am not that familiar with that type of design. Wouldn't the 551 drop point blade be more useful for general cutting tasks than the sheep's foot? I have no preference regarding the thumb stud or opening hole. The 550 does look a little cooler. Which of these knives would be more useful for misc cutting jobs as well as defensive use? Thanks. :confused:
 
I own a model 550 which I really like, but I just don't like the "look" of the 551. Don't ask me why, it just does not look right.

El Cid Campeador
8.gif
 
Get both. :p

Sorry... don't ever tell me not to do something. I may as well be a two year old in that respect.

-Al-
 
I would go with the 550 because I like the hole
opening rather than the thumb stud.
 
el cid, i agree with you, the 550 is much more attractive imho. however, if the 551 had a hole i just might get it. as it is 550 is my only choice.
 
I have a 550 and haven't found it to be too specialized of a blade shape. In fact, I would almost characterize it as a modified spear point blade. It's a great work knife, and the tip is solid and reinforced but still sharp. Of course a knife isn't a pry bar, but for those who worry about a needle sharp tip snapping off during normal use, that won't happen with the 550. It's also one of my smoothest-operating folders.
Jim
 
The 550 looks more interesting and appealing. However for utility and especially defensive use I would prefer 551, mostly due to more versatile blade shape.
 
The grinds and blade geometry on both is the same. 551 just has more point to it.

Phil
 
Yep - the 551 has a nice point - I managed to put it about 3/4" into my thigh, resulting in 3 stitches :) . Kind of funny, now I can contribute to all the "what's the stupidest thing you've done w/ your knife" threads. Was going to sew it up at home, but received some rather forceful prompting from the Fiance to have it looked at in the ED (of the Hospital we both work at - that was interesting :) ). The med student did a fine job closing it up, and I figure that's what my insurance is for anyway :)
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top