Buying a 710, do I need M390?

J

jayz5000

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Jul 25, 2013
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I am completely sold on the Benchmade 710 but I can't decide whether to buy the plain D2 version or the Knifeworks M390 (Blue and Black G10) exclusive. I plan on using the knife in my EDC rotation and I think the M390 would definitely have better edge retention but is it THAT MUCH better than D2? It seems like the M390 version is more geared towards collectors and not necessarily users.

How does the edge retention of D2 compare to M390, S30Vor other common Benchmade steels?

I'm hoping the D2 version would last a very long time even with every day use but would the M390 Version last longer?

I really want the knife to be great but I'm not sure the M390 version would make it that much better. How does the D2 compare to M390?

What do you guys think?
 
Also, how does the rust resistance compare, am I better off just getting a coated D2 blade?
 
Jayz5000--

I was literally debating the same thing the last couple of days! I have a Griptilian w/D2 and have to say that it keeps its edge very well and is not difficult to touch-up/resharpen. I've also had very good experience with s30v--but it has been Spyderco's and Buck's (custom shop 110). Generally, I am pretty sure that a D2 710 would be fine--if however, the M390 came with black/grey g10 (like the BM 950), I would have pulled the trigger already. I am not completely sold on the Black/blue color pattern (though the sculpted aspect is pretty cool). Lastly, I don't mind the not so stainless side of D2; I like patina on my blades (I have lots of 1095), and don't mind applying a little Ballistol. What irks me just a little is the new BM pricing, but what can one do! Hope my little bit of info helps--I'm curious to see what other people will say.

Best,
Anthony
 
Thanks Aias,

If I end up getting D2 I will most likely buy one off of this forum to avoid the pricing.
 
I just ordered the exclusive. I was guilty for a while, but then I saw my wife spent $60 on a pedicure. I figure I'll have the knife forever, and the resale value will be high.
 
If you don't get it you'll always wonder what you're missing.

M390 holds an edge noticeably better than D2, which is really saying something. It's also much more rust & corrosion resistant than D2 (which is technically not a stainless for all practical purposes is) while being on the tough side for a stainless. It's just a great steel all around & my current favorite. Considering the price difference, it's a no-brainer in my opinion, despite D2 being plenty good for any EDC folder.
 
Not sure. Mine was from the first batch. They get them in batches. Call them up or shoot them an email.
 
Another difference is stand-offs vs. back-spacer, if that makes a difference to you.
 
I've only owned 2. One of the originals in 154cm back around 2000 & the new M390 version. I handled the last KW 710 sprint with regular scales when I ordered one for a friend.

The regular G10 scales didn't seem very aggressive to me. The biggest difference, aside from appearances, is that the old scales are flatter. The new ones are mostly flat with the flat part being almost smooth & the slightly angles sections being jimped. Neither feels slick in hand.
 
I have a 710 from 1999 with ATS-34 and a couple of knives in M390. Since they don't make them with ATS-34, I would get the M390. You picked a great knife. I've carried mine 15 years and never had one single issue. Still just as tight as the day I got it.
 
I'll probably be the only one that says you'll be just fine with D2.

D2 is pretty tough as far as edge retention and is a semi-stainless. If you get the M390 version you also lose the classy G10/black scales. I don't like the blue/jimped scales.
 
If you like the price point, get D2. It is tool steel after all. Unless you use the knife edge substantially, you would not know the benefit of M390. Its 3rd generation particle metallurgy creates hard edge holding steel that is quite corrosion resistant.

I have Benchmade 581, 810, 710 in M390 and it is far superior to S30V. Some say it is stainless M4.
 
MatthewSB said:
M390 is incredible.

If it's an option, always go with it.
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I agree 100%. I have a lot of knives in 154CM and S30V. They are not even close in edge retention in comparison to M390 in my experience. I've sharpened my Benchmades and Emersons multiples times over compared to the times I've sharpened (touched up) my M390 blade.
 
scotchleaf said:
I just ordered the exclusive. I was guilty for a while, but then I saw my wife spent $60 on a pedicure. I figure I'll have the knife forever, and the resale value will be high.
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If you don't spend it, they will. You made the right call, my friend. Congrats :thumbup:
 
No you don't need a 710 in M390. But yes, M390 is a great blade steel and with a high amount of wear resistance. And it's easier to sharpen, compared to their standard issue D2. Like they used to say, 'Try it, you'll like it.' :cool:
 
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