Benchmade Ascent (BM831S) Opinions Please

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Finn-lander

Joined
Apr 12, 2008
Messages
100
Hi All,

I just had a minute to duck into a nearby knife store this afternoon, and saw what I believe was a Benchmade Ascent in the case that caught my eye. What I noticed was that the knife appeared really thin and would make a nice EDC. Unfortunately, I did not have time to look it over (store was busy) so I thought I would go home and do some research on it. To my surprise I have not found much on this knife, and do not see any for sale from the normal sources, so I thought I would ask the experts here. From what I could see, it had FRN handles, 3"+ satin combo blade, thumb stud, it was setting on a red box. Is this an older knife that has been long discontinued? Was it a popular model? Any help would be appreciated.

Finn-lander
 
The Ascent was in Benchmade's budget line, thus the red box.

Some people liked them, some didn't. I thought they were OK, but I am not a fan of lockbacks - though I do have a 835hs.

As you noted, they are thin and light in weight. Pretty basic designs - not a bad thing. Quality seemed to be on par with similar offerings, so the series just didn't have enough "zing" for popularity on the forums.

There never was a lot of cache in these, so a BNIB one should be on sale.

If the knife meets your needs and you like how it feels in the hand, it should give good service.
 
Sounds like a 835,msrp $50 or so good knives ats-34 steel,some had blade play but it is a $50 dollar knife i have several i really liked the ascent series made right made here not CCC,good luck...........
 
The Ascent was actually my first knife about 10 years ago, and at the time I loved it. The BM ats-34 took a great edge. I paid about $45 for it back then. It falls between an Endura and Delica in feel and size.
 
I have one. its USA made, extremely light weight, with good 440C steel and all for $24. I aint complaining
 
Thanks for the replies. The vendor was asking $50 for the knife. For that price, I think I will save a little bit longer for a nicer knife; maybe the FRN Stretch in ZDP-189 coming out soon.

Finn-lander
 
Finn-lander said:
Thanks for the replies. The vendor was asking $50 for the knife. For that price, I think I will save a little bit longer for a nicer knife; maybe the FRN Stretch in ZDP-189 coming out soon.

Finn-lander
Click to expand...

Actually, at $50, I think that is a good deal. The Ascent is out of production, which is why you don't see any info at your favorite vendors.

USA made
ATS-34
Lockback
FRN - no liners

I have one and it still sees pocket time. The ATS34 takes a great edge and holds it well. It's such a light knife that it just tucks into your pocket and you forget it's there. Mine has no blade play. I find the blade shape makes for a great utility blade. It's fairly thin and slices well.
 
I personally think you are making a good decision by saving a little more and buying something better.
 
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