Benchmade NRA - Any good?

N

nonbox

BANNED
Joined
Jul 3, 2000
Messages
894
Benchmade NRA - Any good?

Why isn't the Benchmade 12800 NRA Outdoors Osborne Gaucho listed on the Benchmade website? When are the other NRA models coming out?



__________________________________________________________________

http://nbox00.tripod.com
 
The Gaucho is, Can't speak for the others yet. But when we got the Guacho in I was impressed with it, It is along the lines of most any other BM Osborne knife in fit and finish Blue box fit I would say maybe even some of the Black box knives. I don't know if the other NRA knives will be this good or not but the 1st one is very nice. Cool design too. Here is a pic I took:

BM_GAUCHO_12800.jpg
 
nonbox said:
Are the NRA equal to the BM Blue Class in quality and fit and finish?
Click to expand...

BM is always good quality. Even the Red Class is pretty good. Although, I would think they would be Black Class since it's an NRA knife? :confused:

It's all good.
 
As far as I know all the H&Ks will be Blue/Black class level, but there are some more inexpensive knives in the NRA line that are likely to be more like the Red line. I believe everything in the NRA line is made in the USA though.
 
Is Benchmade's name or logo laser etched on it? Is it on the box?
Click to expand...
BM name or logo not on knife at all. Osborne boomerang logo is on reverse of blade. The box has no obvious BM reference, but in a tiny-lettered blurb on the back there is something about "...in conjunction with Benchmade Knife Company...". :rolleyes: But IMO, the Gaucho is a most unique and elegant Osborne creation and it virtually screams Benchmade even though it don't say it:eek:
 
If you go to the Benchmade forum, a person who works for BM says that the following NRA models are made in the USA: 12400, 12410, 12500, 12520, 12550, 12800.

I believe not all of the NRA knives are USA made.
 
Is it just me or does that Gaucho knife look alot like a slight variation on the Pika. And its about the same as the retail price and materials too.
 
Is it just me or does that Gaucho knife look alot like a slight variation on the Pika. And its about the same as the retail price and materials too.
Click to expand...
I don't think so. ;) Perhaps you mean the Pika is like some other NRA model. The Gaucho BM12800 is an Osborne design. It has aluminum handles, a 154CM blade, an Axis lock, a stainless split-clip, and cost over a $100. The Pika has Zytel handles, a back lock, a N690 blade, a very different blade shape, and cost about $25. The Gaucho is the equivalent of Blue class while the Pika is red class. They are not in the same ballpark.:D

If you inspect the photo of the Gaucho that NGK-Webmaster posted above you'll notice that the Gaucho looks very un-like the Pika. Very cool pics BTW! :cool:
 
MarkMM said:
I don't think so. ;) Perhaps you mean the Pika is like some other NRA model. The Gaucho BM12800 is an Osborne design. It has aluminum handles, a 154CM blade, an Axis lock, a stainless split-clip, and cost over a $100. The Pika has Zytel handles, a back lock, a N690 blade, a very different blade shape, and cost about $25. The Gaucho is the equivalent of Blue class while the Pika is red class. They are not in the same ballpark.:D

If you inspect the photo of the Gaucho that NGK-Webmaster posted above you'll notice that the Gaucho looks very un-like the Pika. Very cool pics BTW! :cool:
Click to expand...
FYI, the Pikas use 440C.
 
My error, 440C seems to be the current steel indeed. Do you know, did they change it lately? The reason I ask is because I have seen the Pika advertised with both 440C and N690 on line. But now I see the BM2005 catalog shows 440C.
 
Here are some spec's I was able to obtain.

Flat Rate Shipping...Benchmade in partnership with the NRA is proud to introduce the new Osborne. A progression in design exemplified in glassy smooth function and stealthy structure. Unsurpassed AXIS™ lock mechanics are set into motion with a thumb flick of the ambidextrous opener stud. From chores around your urban world to adventurous exploration outdoors.


Benchmade NRA Osborne Specifications:

Blade Length: 3.40"
Blade Thickness: 0.115"
Blade Material: 154CM
Blade Hardness: 58-60
Blade Style: Modified Reverse Tanto
Handle Material: Machined Aluminum
Weight: 2.90oz.
Clip: Reversible Stainless Steel
Lock Mechanism: AXIS™
Overall Length: 7.87"
Closed Length: 4.47"
 
MarkMM said:
My error, 440C seems to be the current steel indeed. Do you know, did they change it lately? The reason I ask is because I have seen the Pika advertised with both 440C and N690 on line. But now I see the BM2005 catalog shows 440C.
Click to expand...
Benchmade told me at SHOT Show that they were shifting away from N690 in all knives except for the Monochrome. That was as of Jan 2005 of course.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top