Benchmade 690-Lock strength/opinion

[timdennis]

I have or have owned a number of Benchmades-820,830,42,31S,720,721.705,710.AFCK,etc. I recently was looking at the 690s in a catalogue. Its a really handsome knife. I was wondering on your views on its lock strength. Its described as a "modofied" liner lock. I'm not sure what the modified refers to although of course I'm familar with liner locks.

 

[tuhkis]

Originally posted by timdennis
I'm not sure what the modified refers to

To be honest I'm not sure either.

That said, I'm not worried about the strength of the lock at all.
(Yes, I own 690 - marvellous knife! )

690 is - maybe - a little bit gent's folder and in that use (opening boxes, evenlopes, peeling a fruit etc. etc.) the lock will not fail.

If you decide to get one - enjoy it! Maybe the nicest blade I own. Light - though strudy. No blade play.

 

[FullerH]

Another BM that fits very nicely as a Gentleman's Pocket Knife is the 770 by Warren Osborne. I have one of the preproduction models that I got from Grand Prairie Knives and it is my constant choice as a dress-up, go-to-meeting kind of knife.

 

[timdennis]

I agree with your opinion of the 770. I have the 770BCI and it is nice and I have confidence in its axis lock. However its a little too small for me and I'm one of those " oddballs" that likes a combo or serrated edge. I couldn't find any 770 variations with it. wheras the 890 is a little bigger and has a combo edge version. In addition i like the open back design on knives. My only concern is with the lock. I posted a similar thread once about the older AFCK with the liner lock and was astonished at the number of forum members that had bad experience with its lock.

 

[knifenerd]

I would consider the 690 more of a medium-sized folder, than a gentleman's folder. It's a great size for a general-use EDC and it has slick looks as well.

The BM "modified" liner lock is really just a liner lock that has a slight radius ground into the rear area of the tang where the liner engages it. This is designed to allow for good long-term wear and positive engagement. Other than that, it's a liner lock.

I have two versions of the 690--a straight plain edge satin finish and a limited edition with ivory micarta scales and a Damasteel blade. The QC, fit and finish on both is top notch. I could recommend the knife without hesitation.

Good luck with your decision!