Benchmade Gravitator (newbie)

S

subzilla

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Aug 12, 2006
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Just bought 2 Benchmade Gravitators, my first investment in a quality knife (knives). I was looking into getting a Strider PT (which I'm still keen to get!!!!) there seemed to be a question concerning QC? I had also been looking at the Gravitators for a while and finally stumpd up.

I have to first comment on how well the Gravitator is constructed, quality materials, well engineered and nicely finished. The "Grav" seemslot larger in the flesh, but I have carried this knife using the supplied case and in the pocket of my shorts throughout the first week of ownership at it goes un noticed. The blade opens with a real smooth action and I am able to flick it open with ease and it locks up with no slop, the bladeon one knife is "slightly" off centre and I mean slightly. I haven't played around adjusting it yet and possibly won't, this might alter how smoothly it opens. I have not owned a quality knife before and I'm certainly impressed with the build quality and materials used, to be honest I was shocked by the quality. I wonder if a PT would be better or worse in terms of BQ and materials, I am currently on the list for a custom blade, so I'll be interested to see how it compares with my (Benchmark) Benchmade.

My criticisms would be, that there isn't a hole in the handle, the blade starts a little close to the handle, it could do with having 1/2" or so of blunt steel near the bolsters (IMHO) and that's it

I'd be interested to see what you guys think of yours, do custom blades acheive a higher level of fit finish and material?????
 
good choice for a first quality knife. i had one for a short time,and though it wasn't for me it was a good strong knife made by a first rate company. the striders are pretty hard to beat in terms of toughness,but their emphasis isn't on beauty,or centered blades. i recently recieved a pt in a trade,and it's a tank of a knife for it's small size.in my opinion the price you pay for a strider is mostly for the confidence that the knife will not fail,and the rock solid warranty. also to answer your question about custom knives achieving a higher level of fit and finish...yes usually.custom knives are hand made,and hand finished as opposed to being assembled in a factory setting,and more time,and care is taken in their construction,and finish.
 
Used the Gravitator a bit more at work, it has cut everything I've put in front of it, from nylon rope to thick zip ties and nylon netting, not a mark on the blade. I have dropped the knife and no so much as a scuff so far!!!

There have been quite a few shockedfaces when the knife has been produced from my belt, like I'm some kind of mass murderer or something, followed by a look of I want one:) The Gravitator is going to be my EDC work knife, I'll keep you posted a to how it holds up long term, but so far I'm happy
 
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