Buying my first Benchmade, but can't decide which one...

[AWGD8]

I will only use this for Self Defense and emergency (cutting seat belt) . I am only buying a limited knife to keep the resale value higher.


I love the serrated Tanto blade Stryker II , but the one that sells at KSF is not Tanto blade design, but I can live with it. So basically , I am down to Limited Edition Carbon Fiber Nakamura - Tanto / serrated .

http://www.bladehq.com/item--Benchmade-Nakamura-AXIS-Lock-Knife--27110

VS

Axis Stryker II Limited Edition Carbon Fiber -Drop Point /serrated.

https://www.knivesshipfree.com/benc...fiber-black-blade-drop-point-cpm-m4-serrated/

Which one should I pick and why?

Update: 08/15/2016

I ended up with these...

 

[Sustinet]

I own both the 484-1 and the 908-161. They are both great knives in their own way. However there is a size difference between the two, the Stryker being larger than the Nakamura, which means a little more weight, but more real estate on the handle, and a blade that's about a half inch longer. The Nakamura is a fantastic little knife, and is great as a gentleman's edc, where you don't need anything large and intimidating, just something to get the job done and look classy doing it, I've carried it for a year and it does whatever you need it to, but I'd sure hate to wind up in a self defense situation where I had to rely on it, due to its small size. When I bought it, I did so knowing that I had no intention of using it for any tactical purpose, because it's not really that kind of knife.

I think the Stryker design started life as a black class knife if I'm not mistaken, and the design is perhaps a bit more tactically oriented, at least in my mind. And after carrying the Stryker in my pocket for a couple weeks now, I realize how tiny the Nakamura feels in comparison, I know the 484 is a very robust and practical little slicer, but it just feels so small and dainty in my hand now after having the 908 for a while, the 908 is nice and slim so it doesn't add much bulk to your pocket, and the weight is only about an ounce more, which isn't bad considering the size difference. Between the two, I'd say the Stryker would probably be the more suitable choice for the purposes you've described. I will include a comparison pic below. Good luck on your decision, either way both are great knives.

Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

 

[dalefuller]

I would agree with the Stryker between the two options you're considering. The larger size translates into "easier to find and manipulate in an emergency, longer reach, more secure grip on the larger handle". The first things you're likely to lose in a real emergency are your fine motor skills and the time to think and hunt around for something.

There may be better choices than those two for what you want, but I'd go with the Stryker if you want to stick with those choices.

 

[jkarp_53]

Number one: If you're only going to buy whichever knife for self-defensive purposes, it's not going to get used very much. And it's been proven that If you're not trained, getting into a situation is better resolved by buying a good pair of running shoes. Much safer option for you and your loved ones.

Number two: If you decide to use your knife for other purposes, as intended, the value of your limited edition (still in the works as to which one...) will not go up. It's better thinking to buy a regular production version, and If you like it, then go and buy the limited. The value of a NewInBox knife may not go up much, or at all, or maybe would, depending on a pile of factors.

Number three: I don't like little knives. As Mr. Fuller says above, and well said, I would go for the Stryker also. In various design modifications and combinations over many years, the Stryker line has proven itself over and again.

Number four: Regarding serrations, IMO the biggest error is to buy a small knife partially serrated. Yes the 'scallops' may stay sharper longer, but I use my knives and have never found a valid use for them. I would rather have a larger main blade in plain edge, and have a rescue tool, like the Benchmade Rescue Hook in my kit bag which always goes with me.

Hope this helps, haven't had my tea at this early sitting yet. Oh yeah. One more suggestion would be to find a local dealer and go play with these things. Putting one in your hand that doesn't work, and then another that does, can save time and money in the end. One you know your product better, buying your next knife will get that much easier.

...Joe

 

[AWGD8]

I own both the 484-1 and the 908-161. They are both great knives in their own way. However there is a size difference between the two, the Stryker being larger than the Nakamura, which means a little more weight, but more real estate on the handle, and a blade that's about a half inch longer. The Nakamura is a fantastic little knife, and is great as a gentleman's edc, where you don't need anything large and intimidating, just something to get the job done and look classy doing it, I've carried it for a year and it does whatever you need it to, but I'd sure hate to wind up in a self defense situation where I had to rely on it, due to its small size. When I bought it, I did so knowing that I had no intention of using it for any tactical purpose, because it's not really that kind of knife.

I think the Stryker design started life as a black class knife if I'm not mistaken, and the design is perhaps a bit more tactically oriented, at least in my mind. And after carrying the Stryker in my pocket for a couple weeks now, I realize how tiny the Nakamura feels in comparison, I know the 484 is a very robust and practical little slicer, but it just feels so small and dainty in my hand now after having the 908 for a while, the 908 is nice and slim so it doesn't add much bulk to your pocket, and the weight is only about an ounce more, which isn't bad considering the size difference. Between the two, I'd say the Stryker would probably be the more suitable choice for the purposes you've described. I will include a comparison pic below. Good luck on your decision, either way both are great knives.

Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

I really appreciate your time to post these pics as comparison. Amazing knives you have there!

I think I will go for the Stryker version , this (response) is really very helpful and makes a lot easier to decide.

 

[AWGD8]

I would agree with the Stryker between the two options you're considering. The larger size translates into "easier to find and manipulate in an emergency, longer reach, more secure grip on the larger handle". The first things you're likely to lose in a real emergency are your fine motor skills and the time to think and hunt around for something.

There may be better choices than those two for what you want, but I'd go with the Stryker if you want to stick with those choices.

I am also looking at Centego with glass breaker and a serrated blade for emergency. I know A few years back they have a limited edition of this too.

Thanks for your input!

 

[tjweeks]

I agree with jkarp. I don't care for serrated knives. I have seen many desirable blades be slow to sell because of being serrated.

 

[AWGD8]

Number one: If you're only going to buy whichever knife for self-defensive purposes, it's not going to get used very much. And it's been proven that If you're not trained, getting into a situation is better resolved by buying a good pair of running shoes. Much safer option for you and your loved ones.

Number two: If you decide to use your knife for other purposes, as intended, the value of your limited edition (still in the works as to which one...) will not go up. It's better thinking to buy a regular production version, and If you like it, then go and buy the limited. The value of a NewInBox knife may not go up much, or at all, or maybe would, depending on a pile of factors.

Number three: I don't like little knives. As Mr. Fuller says above, and well said, I would go for the Stryker also. In various design modifications and combinations over many years, the Stryker line has proven itself over and again.

Number four: Regarding serrations, IMO the biggest error is to buy a small knife partially serrated. Yes the 'scallops' may stay sharper longer, but I use my knives and have never found a valid use for them. I would rather have a larger main blade in plain edge, and have a rescue tool, like the Benchmade Rescue Hook in my kit bag which always goes with me.

Hope this helps, haven't had my tea at this early sitting yet. Oh yeah. One more suggestion would be to find a local dealer and go play with these things. Putting one in your hand that doesn't work, and then another that does, can save time and money in the end. One you know your product better, buying your next knife will get that much easier.

...Joe

Thanks , Joe for your input!
The knife is my last resort tool. I conceal carry since Walker (WI) signed the law, and I never owned a knife to pair with it.
It is already 2016...

I went to GanderMT to check both (non limited) and I like both designs. I might also look at the Contego (limited edition)
Since that one has a glass breaker tip. I am not very familiar with knife design, but the serration means easier to cut seatbelt or ropes etc. ? Or should I avoid serration?

Regarding resale value, I just want to have something that does not depreciate much. If I had to sell it, I will only lose less than $50 the most. I have noticed BM knives keeps the value high even for the reg. production ones..

 

[AWGD8]

Base on your inputs, I am also looking at these two.

https://www.knivesshipfree.com/benchmade/benchmade-knives-810-contego/

And

https://www.knivesshipfree.com/benchmade-knives-940-1-osborne-carbon-fiber/


What about auto ? Should I also consider automatic?

 

[-Corey-]

For rescue purposes, the Triage is gonna be the best option since it has an integrated safety hook and glass breaker. If you want good resale value I would definitely steer clear of the serrations. If you're dead set on getting something limited/exclusive, the stryker from KSF is a good choice. Knifeworks has an exclusive contego, 710, and 940, and I think there's still an orange rift being sold by another online retailer. There's also a limited edition crooked river that's coming out soon, it has a good sized blade on it for self defense purposes.

 

[AWGD8]

I agree with jkarp. I don't care for serrated knives. I have seen many desirable blades be slow to sell because of being serrated.

So what is the use of having a serrated blade? Is the negative due to hard to sharpen?
Thanks for the heads up!

 

[AWGD8]

For rescue purposes, the Triage is gonna be the best option since it has an integrated safety hook and glass breaker. If you want good resale value I would definitely steer clear of the serrations. If you're dead set on getting something limited/exclusive, the stryker from KSF is a good choice. Knifeworks has an exclusive contego, 710, and 940, and I think there's still an orange rift being sold by another online retailer. There's also a limited edition crooked river that's coming out soon, it has a good sized blade on it for self defense purposes.

Too many options ! I don't like the heavy Triage since I carry my CCW with backup magazine already. Could you pls pm where the orange limited rift seller is?

I will check these stuff soon!

Thanks a bunch!

 

[Cup4Sharks]

If you don't like the weight of the Triage, then you probably wouldn't like the weight of the Contego - it's almost a full extra ounce ~6oz. How did you like the handle of the Triage? Notice, it is almost identical to the updated Strykers.

Now if you open up the can of worms with the 940-1... Amazing knife and an ideal EDC, but probably not the best for your intended purposes. Similar to the 484-1, great EDC/ gentlemens, fits smaller hands better than larger. Another thing to keep in mind, CF handles tend to be smooth to slick when wet, so although the limiteds might hold their value better in years to come, might be less than ideal for your stated purposes?

Everything SUSTINET said holds true. I'd try to get my hands on a couple options and go with whichever feels best! BTW, own Stryker, Contego, 940-1, passed on Nakamura as it just didn't fit my hands well. ymmv

 

[AWGD8]

If you don't like the weight of the Triage, then you probably wouldn't like the weight of the Contego - it's almost a full extra ounce ~6oz. How did you like the handle of the Triage? Notice, it is almost identical to the updated Strykers.

Now if you open up the can of worms with the 940-1... Amazing knife and an ideal EDC, but probably not the best for your intended purposes. Similar to the 484-1, great EDC/ gentlemens, fits smaller hands better than larger. Another thing to keep in mind, CF handles tend to be smooth to slick when wet, so although the limiteds might hold their value better in years to come, might be less than ideal for your stated purposes?

Everything SUSTINET said holds true. I'd try to get my hands on a couple options and go with whichever feels best! BTW, own Stryker, Contego, 940-1, passed on Nakamura as it just didn't fit my hands well. ymmv

After much consideration, I am now down to

http://www.knifecenter.com/item/BM9...0v-stonewash-plain-blade-carbon-fiber-handles

Or

https://www.knivesshipfree.com/benc...i-carbon-fiber-black-blade-drop-point-cpm-m4/

Should I go for Cerakote coated blade or satin finish on the Axis Srtyker?

 

[-Corey-]

I thought KSF was a paid dealer here, but just checked the list and didn't see em. (found em, they are a paid dealer, edited out the unpaid competition, sorry ) The rift is available from ***********. Its much cheaper than the 2 you've narrowed down to, but I'm not all that fond of the rift myself. For your intended use I think you will be happy with the stryker, I think it only comes with a black coated blade since it has a high carbon steel, CPM-M4. That particular blade steel is well loved by many users and highly sought after at times. I'm sure that knife will hold its value very well.

Here's a side by side of a few of em. The Auto Triage is too bulky for me, but I handled the manual version in a store and it seemed comfortable to me. Forgot to mention the Grizzly Creek earlier, there's not a limited version of it, but it's a comfortable knife to carry and use if you're not opposed to wood. Also forgot about the Volli, it's a descent knife, I just don't care too much for assisted knives, but this one is a recent SHOT show limited edition. You might still be able to find it at a few online retailers.

Auto Triage, Grizzly Creek, Contego, 940, Stryker, Rift, Volli

 

[GB940Rookie]

I would take the 940-1 over the 484 and take the Stryker over both. This is based on SD and emergency applications. I love my 940-1

 

[AWGD8]

Thanks, guys for your input!

-COREY, looking at the last picture you posted, which is very helpful, the Stryker and 940 size seem to fit the bill!

I have been reading some reviews of the Stryker and found it interesting that most military service men use the Auto Stryker a lot. Hence, they left reviews mostly on the automatic blades such as the Auto Stryker.

It makes sense for SD situation while the other hand is busy that auto blade might be suited in my intended purpose.

http://www.benchmade.com/auto-stryker-family.html

It might not be as exclusive or limited edition that I prefer, but when someone jump on you (ambush style) do you think you have time to flick a knife while on the ground? It can happen at the gas station etc...

How is the maintenance on this automatic knife?

 

[Sustinet]

I may need to add a 908bk-1501 to my collection, it's been getting some pretty rave reviews. As far as autos go, at least on the axis models, it has seemed to me to be a bit unnecessary. The axis, once broken in, already allows for lightning fast deployment. An auto would kinda slow it down in my opinion, then there's the other thing, autos usually have a safety, which is just another mechanical step before you get your knife out, whereas with the standard axis it's just a twist of the wrist to deploy via the axis lock. And there's also the odd story of someone's auto opening in their pocket. I have had them before on other knives, but just haven't really felt like it would improve the axis all that much. And then there may be an issue of legality regarding carrying autos, depending on which state you're in. Just things to consider. Your experience may be different. Good luck, let us know what you decide on!

 

[AWGD8]

I may need to add a 908bk-1501 to my collection, it's been getting some pretty rave reviews. As far as autos go, at least on the axis models, it has seemed to me to be a bit unnecessary. The axis, once broken in, already allows for lightning fast deployment. An auto would kinda slow it down in my opinion, then there's the other thing, autos usually have a safety, which is just another mechanical step before you get your knife out, whereas with the standard axis it's just a twist of the wrist to deploy via the axis lock. And there's also the odd story of someone's auto opening in their pocket. I have had them before on other knives, but just haven't really felt like it would improve the axis all that much. And then there may be an issue of legality regarding carrying autos, depending on which state you're in. Just things to consider. Your experience may be different. Good luck, let us know what you decide on!

WI is ok with auto with CCW permit. Yeah, no auto for me since there is really too many hassle as you describe. Thanks for the input!

I am down to Stryker 2 Carbon Fiber (brand new) and a slightly used 940-1 Osborne Carbon fiber .

 

[palonej]

The KSF Stryker is a fantastic knife! And they are a dealer here.......an excellent one!!
I love autos and have a bunch, but this blade deploys just as fast and locks up tight as a drum! The CF is gorgeous and not slippery. Great steel on a very handsome blade!!
I kinda like this one!!
I also have 5 94x and love them......the Stryker is a 'heavier' duty knife and can take lots of abuse!
Good luck!
Joe