Benchmade 710 HS versus Paramilitary for EDC and Self Defense?

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bk400

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Nov 1, 2005
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Any thoughts from the experts? My sense is that the 710 HS is a bit heavier and bulkier, but packs a bigger punch than the Para with the significantly longer blade. M2 versus S30V? I can't tell the difference, but maybe other people can.

The compression lock feels safer in my hand than the axis lock. Anyone have an issue with axis lock disengagements during pulling cuts? All in all, I think the Para is a more user friendly knife (nice work, Sal), but I'd love to hear other people's views.
 
when I grip my hand aroung the Para, I couldn't imagine the knife coming out, the grippy G10 and larger handle size make for a powerful grip. But, the Chinook appears to have a even better handle for serious grip. The 4mm blade is very robust, and it lends a confident aura. I appologize I can't give a personal response for the BM, but I would trust my life to my Para, and it leaves me no desire to replace it.
 
bk400 said:
Benchmade 710 HS versus Paramilitary for EDC and Self Defense?
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You posted this question in the Spyderco Forum? What answer were you expecting to get :confused:

Sorry, I've never handled a BM710 so I couldn't compare the 2.

David
 
I have both a 710 and a Para. My 710 is an ATS-34 version.

These might be the two best production folders of the last eight years, so it's pretty hard to go wrong.

I've never had a problem with the Axis lock closing when I didn't want it to. The Axis and Compression locks are both terrific. If the Axis is a 9.5, the Compression lock is probably a 9. The Axis does keep the blade closed over a much bigger radius before it pops open.

Personally I'd choose between these based on which opening method (hole or no hole) you prefer.
 
For me, its too close to call. I find the comp lock very resistant to dirt and dust, but I have never had a problem locking the Axis. Blade shape boils down to personal pref and although the 710 is longer, the para is plenty long enough. I have both, but if I had to choose one it would be the Para because it is a bit slimmer and I love the comp lock.
 
BM seems to be more SD-able since BM thought to make a trainer for it in the first place. It seems to be more stabby
 
I've both and thought of the same in comparing the two. To me, the Papra wins. I don't feel as if the lock might accidently disengage in any hand manuver. The curved handle and grippy G-10 scales make for a better hold, IMHO, with straightforward cuts and pulling back. Plus, the Para's shape gives me a bit more confidence with hand manipulations and while cutting.

With straight stabs into a chunk of wood, the Para felt more secure and I had little fear of my fingers going down over the blade. The 710, in a similar stab, made my fingers nervous (a thumb was over the butt of the handle for both knives when I stabbed).

Either is not shabby, but if I had to chose, It'd be the Para.
 
I recently handled the Para myself and I was not impressed with the construction of the knife.

First of all, NO full length liner in the Para and you could bend the handle when the knife is in your pant pocket when you are sitting down or anything in that matter. For a $120 knife, you would expect even grind edge, NOT in my case, the edge was unevenly grinded. Lastly, when the knife is closed, you can look down the handle and see that the blade is not centered.

I would rather spend about $50 and get the Browning Ice Storm knife in VG-10 with alluminum handle. Better value and not too much hype..
 
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