Benchmade Griptilian S30V Vs. AL Mar Sere 2000 VG-10

T

Tyronethepro

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Oct 25, 2010
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Just wondering, how do each of these knives compare to one another? anyone own both and have positive/negative experiences they are willing to share?
 
Al Mar's are very well made, but are typically very expensive given the steel they use. VG-10 is a great steel, though. The SERE is one of the tougher folders out there. The main drawbacks I can think of would be price and pinned construction. The Benchmade will feel more plasticky, but it's also a proven blade that should work well. The Axis lock is great, too.
 
the SERE's great. cuts like a lightsaber. mine's not pinned, it has two small torx screws and one large for the pivot. if you can get 'em in hand and compare. both good, just different.
 
Generally, i prefer s30v over vg-10, and the griptilian is about half the price. plus plenty of people make some kicka** scales for it. my $.02, go with the griptilian.
 
I'd get the griptilian, but honestly, the Para 2 is the same price and is better than both of them.

If you want to get a little adventurous I'd get the ZT0400.
 
the al mar sere 2000 is such a beautiful, underrated knife. its strong and hefty, the griptilian feels cheap in comparison with its big hollow plastic handles. i think the sere 2000 is a must have knife.
 
If money is no longer the issue! pick what ever u like (I like them both). for me, I'll get the Benchmade because it's much lower price!
 
I'd chose to take the SERE. By far. Mine isn't pinned, and they have been using the torx construction for a long time, so this is not an issue. It's notable to say that I don't own a Grip, but rather a Presidio Ultra, and would still take the Al Mar by a long shot.
 
My thoughts on the comparison are:
Grip has a better steel, better lock, and is made in America.
Sere has a better handle material, pocket clip, and should fit/ride in the pocket better.
Not sure on Al Mar's warrantee, but Benchmade's is good. The better design is arguable, but most would agree that the Sere looks cooler.
In the end, I'd take the Grip, myself. Mainly due to the country of origin and the lock. Taking into account the price, there's no question for me.
 
Hearing a lot about the beauty of the Sere, but when looking at the price, it is even higher than a Custom Benchmade. The Cheapest Sere i've found was $150. Thank you for helping me decide. Going for the Benchmade.
 
AFAIK to get S30V in a Griptilian you need to get a Ritter RSK Mk 1 or Mini; the standard Griptilian comes with a 154CM blade. Doug Ritter's version (available only at KW) is worth the extra $ imo.
 
I have the fixed blade SERE (i.e. SERE Operator) in VG-10. It is razor sharp, phenomenal fit and finish, and holds an edge very well. I have another premium knife (undisclosed make/model) in VG-10, and it does not perform as well as the Al Mar in terms of edge retention. I only have the griptillian in 154CM and it's not even in the same class of knife. It is much less expensive and my EDC.
 
Griptilian: Axis lock rocks, the knife feels and sounds rather cheap, even though it's not.

Al Mar SERE: Extremely high quality. Fit and finish is miles ahead of the Grip.

I've owned both. They're good knives. You have to decide what qualities you prefer.
 
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