Benchmade 555-1 Mini-Grip Prototype. Collector or User?

[Ruggdogg87]

Hey everyone! I just picked this Benchmade 555-1 Mini-Griptilian Prototype up from Blade HQ and I love this knife. But I have a dilemma. It may sound dumb but just want clarification. Do I keep this as a safe knife or use it? I mean I want to use it. I think it's neat that it's a prototype. But is it dumb to use it? Just want to get some opinions from our experts! Thanks in advance!

 

[Murdamook]

I'd use it. I don't know if the "prototype" label truly adds to the value of a Benchmade as it's still a production knife. For example, something like an Emerson proto is actually handmade by Emerson.

 

[JSMcustoms]

User... It's pretty much in the same boat as first production runs. To my knowledge (and maybe someone can confirm this), Benchmade produces these for consumers to view/handle at knife shows etc. before the knife goes into regular production.

 

[Brusiedmeat]

I would use it.. Maybe a tiny bit of extra value to the few that might care. I avoid any unnecessary print on my blade as I feel it takes away from the overall design, but that's just my opinion. It took me some patience to finally find one without production number/prototype etching.

Is that still hollow ground on the sheepsfoot? I thought I read somewhere that the cpm-20 sheepsfoot came in flat ground and would like some clarity. Cant really tell from the pic..

 

[sabre cat]

I may be wrong but it is my understanding that Benchmade's "Prototype" knives are made as a production run. Maybe to work out the kinks before their "First Production Run".

If it just states "prototype" on the blade without any limited edition materials, steel or serial numbers, many consider it nothing more than another marketing ploy.

Bottom line, it's a Griptilian. Benchmade's entry level knife.

 

[Ruggdogg87]

I would use it.. Maybe a tiny bit of extra value to the few that might care. I avoid any unnecessary print on my blade as I feel it takes away from the overall design, but that's just my opinion. It took me some patience to finally find one without production number/prototype etching.

Is that still hollow ground on the sheepsfoot? I thought I read somewhere that the cpm-20 sheepsfoot came in flat ground and would like some clarity. Cant really tell from the pic..

I am normally the same way. I like plain blades. But this one was the same price as the production version and I thought it was neat. So said why not. Yes I believe it is the hollow grind

 

[Ruggdogg87]

I may be wrong but it is my understanding that Benchmade's "Prototype" knives are made as a production run. Maybe to work out the kinks before their "First Production Run".

If it just states "prototype" on the blade without any limited edition materials, steel or serial numbers, many consider it nothing more than another marketing ploy.

Bottom line, it's a Griptilian. Benchmade's entry level knife.

I guess from other readings Benchmade makes them to have dealers and customers see them before they are produced. Usually at gun shows and other events. Very try in its a Grip. Not like it's a highly sought after model or anything.

 

[Mingecutter]

Is that still hollow ground on the sheepsfoot? I thought I read somewhere that the cpm-20 sheepsfoot came in flat ground and would like some clarity. Cant really tell from the pic..

I have a First Production Run 555-1, so I can confirm....partial flat grind. Not a hollow grind on this series.

 

[Ruggdogg87]

I have a First Production Run 555-1, so I can confirm....partial flat grind. Not a hollow grind on this series.

Thanks for the clarification. This is my first Grip. I am still learning grinds so cannot really tell the difference Lol

 

[Brusiedmeat]

Thanks for the responses guys.