BM 530 vs, Cold steel Ti-lite(Zytel)

timdennis

timdennis

Joined
Sep 4, 1999
Messages
591
A buddy just showed me his cold steel Ti-lite he received on sale. Its one of the strongest liner locks I've seen. I want this or the BM 530. Both are similar-old type spear points,reminds you of the cheap "switchblades" when we were younger. In any event ,if the the price is similar which is a better buy?
 
Keep in mind that the 2006 BM 530 is being upgraded to 154CM from 440C...

The 530 is VERY thin and SUPER light. However, it has that BM axis and that will win out over a liner lock every time. The only Liner lock I have is BM 910HS...
 
It would depend upon what you use it for as to which is best.

Off the cuff, for general utility, I'd recommend the Benchmade. The TiLite's grind is pretty obtuse.

For cool factor, probably a tie (The TiLite sure looks spiffy keen IMO, but the Benchmade has that axis lock).

But in the end, what tickles your fancy will matter most. Pick'em up, hold'em, play with 'em. Decide.
 
The 530 is an incredibly tough ultralight that slices as well as any other knife I have ever used.
It weighs less than 2 ounces but holds up extremely well to long term hard use.
The flat saber grind on the .09 thick blade cuts like a mini light saber.
The first two days in use I was frustrated because the opening studs were not as prominent as on other axis models and I found it hard to open. Two days later, it and I were broken in and the 530 was lighting quick to open and close.
And the axis lock is just plain fun, just pull back and flick.
 
From a technical point of view for the same price the 530 is probably a better product. But heck, neither would be my first choice for a purely utility basis. I love my Ti-lite because sometimes I need an extremely pointy tip for a fine or delicate cutting task.
 
I've usually seen the 530 as priced higher than the Ti-Lite. The Ti-Lite is a solid and fun knife, and the 440A steel I found really nice in specific ways. In comparing which pocket knife/steel give the smoothest and most comfortable shave this is it.

The 530 is a lot easier to carry, though, is thin, and even zip-tie waveable. The 440C is nice and crisp.

If are you looking to stab people, I'd say Ti-Lite. If you don't have that set in your mind, and are just looking for a convient folder to have on your person, then I would recommend the 530.
 
Two completely different knives. I carried both, for a short period of time. The high end Ti Lite was too big for me (and I have hamhocks for hands), and the 530's design just did not appeal to me, but it was convenient for small pocket carry. The Axis lock was poorly located for one hand closing IMHO. If you like both of them, see my signature below :D.
 
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