Benchmade or Spyderco poll

Taking all factors into account, which company is better?

  • Total voters
    204
IMO, Benchmade and Spyderco are about the same when it comes to quality of materials and workmanship. But Benchmade seems to think their name alone makes their knives worth $50-$100 more than comparable knives.

I guess some people like to pay extra for a name.
 
I've owned and sold numerous knives, and my experiences have led me to appreciate different aspects of both Benchmade and Spyderco. When it comes to Benchmade, I particularly enjoyed the craftsmanship and attention to detail in their handle designs. The aesthetic appeal of Benchmade knives is undeniable, as they feature beautifully sculpted handles. On the other hand, Spyderco knives excel in functionality, often to a fault. While some may initially consider Spydercos as unattractive, once you become accustomed to their looks and utilize them, they acquire a unique beauty, a beauty that only a mother could love.

That being said, I have encountered some issues with Spyderco knives, specifically regarding centering on multiple brand new, in-box knives. Surprisingly, this problem was not limited to the cheaper models. However, it's important to note that centering is not a significant concern when it comes to actual usage. In this regard, Benchmade tends to get the centering right more consistently. At least in my experience.

One aspect worth mentioning is my personal preference regarding the Axis lock, which is not my preferred locking mechanism. Although the Axis lock functions adequately, I have experienced instances where the Omega Springs failed, rendering the Axis lock non-functional. Spyderco, on the other hand, leans towards locks that offer better longevity, such as the compression lock, liner lock, ball bearing lock, and frame lock. The closest Spyderco knife to the Axis lock in their lineup is the Manix 2, which I find preferable. It's worth noting that Spyderco resolved the issue of the clear Manix 2 locks breaking by switching to black ones, resulting in improved durability.

Personally, I would appreciate it if Benchmade offered more liner locks or frame locks, as I found the Tengu intriguing, but it lacked a pocket clip, and the Tanto blade shape didn't align with my preferences. In terms of overall appearance and warranty, Benchmade takes the lead as the better-looking knife with a superior warranty.

While Spydercos may not have the same aesthetic appeal, they excel in functionality and longevity. However, I believe it's important to strike a balance between performance and aesthetic appeal. That's why I have ventured into the next tier of knives, exploring brands such as Chris Reeve, Rick Hinderer, Strider, Medford, and even TRM. While I understand that not everyone can afford to invest in expensive knives for various reasons, having a knife that performs well and is visually appealing is a worthwhile investment.

If you held a gun to my head, and I had to pick overall Spyderco or Benchmade, it would be Spyderco. Simply because at this price range you are basically getting a performance beater.
 
Cgw1984 said:
I respect all opinions, amd dont want to get terribly in the weeds about this, but im in agreement. They also have a VERY long history of donating politically to the parties that work to remove our 2nd amendment rights. That trumps the fact that they do make nice knives (and they assuredly do!). I think the guys from spiderco, from what i know, are super solid guys, but im not a fan of thier knives aesthetically (which doesnt effect the usability of the knife, of course!) Im not a big spender on knives, i really like kershaws, and have one zero tolerance.
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I own some Benchmade knives, they are all secondhand and knives I got screaming deals on. Most recent was a cruwear Adamas in like new condition for $60, I would have been a fool to turn that one down. Kershaw and ZT have served me very well over the years.
 
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Don't own any Benchmade's, probably because they discontinued the ones I was interested in back when. Might have bought one by now, but I don't pay much attention to them (which says it all). Just don't have time to keep up with everything in the knife community.

Got a lot of Spyderco's mostly for the ergonomics (large hands) and the various steels. Started buying Spyderco's near 25 years before I even got on line.
 
If customer satisfaction is the gauge, I guess Spyderco has to be deemed the better company. However, I do not own any of their knives, or care to do so.
Ihave a few Benchmades, and there are a couple more I would like to buy. The omega spring is a non-issue for me. I have never broken one. Since it is a known point of failure, however rare, I guess
a guy would be well advised to carry a spare, just as I often carried a spare alternator rotor on my airhead BMWs. The spring notwithstanding, the Axis lock is the best in the business (along with its progeny)
 
I had a BM, lock failed after 3 months. Confidence destroid.

I know some have had their AXIS lock knives for a long time without problems.

But IMO it is just a matter of time befor those thin springs cave in.

I know they are easy to replace, but it's just not my cup of tea. I prefer robustness over fun/fidgeting.
 
353 said:
I had a BM, lock failed after 3 months. Confidence destroid.

I know some have had their AXIS lock knives for a long time without problems.

But IMO it is just a matter of time befor those thin springs cave in.

I know they are easy to replace, but it's just not my cup of tea. I prefer robustness over fun/fidgeting.
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I'm yet to see a spring fail on backlock or triad lock.
 
Zero interest in Benchmade, and I have a few Spydies so by default my vote is Spyderco.
 
Knives with thumb studs, when viewed from the tip, look like some big-snouted animal with small ears. Those with big thumb holes look like they're mutilated.
 
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