Benchmade Mini Grip Thumbstud vs Thumbhole

Thumb stud has a lower profile and the hole sits up a little higher. But, they both have completely different blade shapes and grinds so it is not just a matter of picking stud or hole. Stud version has more of a clip point with a swedge and the hole version is hollow ground with a modified sheep's foot blade.
 
I don't like a wide knife because I carry other things in the same pocket, so I mostly get stud knives.
 
I used to think I wouldn't like thumbholes when all of my knives were studs. After buying a Benchmade Pika II and Spyderco Byrd to try out I actually like the thumbhole system better.
 
I prefer thumbstuds. My thumb is able to open it faster with a stud. And since we are referring to BM grips, I also prefer the pointer tip that comes with the thumb studded grips
 
I prefer the hole. I find that the studs get in the way when doing certain kinds of slicing, basically shortening your effective blade length. Also, with the hole you have more opening options, if that matters.
 
My favorite is the 550HG, and it uses the hole. While I was normally use to studs, I found the hole quite functional.

Since then I've moved on to Spyderco, and you sort of have to love the hole if you love Spydies. :D

I have no aversion to studs, but one thing I have realized is that with studs its a pretty good idea to be able to handle the knife before you buy it, to see how the stud placement "fits" your hand. Variations in the geometry, stud to pivot setup, etc. can make the opening more cumbersome at times.
Holes seem to be more forgiving.
 
Thumb studs do get in the way for sharpening, but I still prefer them as I have short fingers. I have a spyderco Chaparral and I cant flick it open even with middle finger. Thats why I dont like their back liner lock either...binds on the blade.
 
Thumbstuds on BM work fine for me. I will stick to Spyderco for folders of hole opening. Did BM get Sals permission for using the hole? ;) Never mind.
 
It depends on the geometry of the blade. Some blades benefits with a hole and some with thumb studs. Either way I am ok, both have their pros and cons.
 
I dislike any opening method that involves lateral protrusions from the blade. Studs = stops when they hit what you’re cutting through. They’re also annoying to clean around.
 
Thumb hole. At least on the Griptilians.

Unfortunately, most of my knives have studs.
 
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