I was just wondering, after looking through BM's site, if anyone has any of the newer axis or assisted opening knives, in particular the Kulgara, or Nitrous Stryker. The Ares is not longer made, but the HK series seem close. The Ares was probably my favorite, but I gave mine to my brother.
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Curious About Newer Benchmades
- Thread starter me2
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I don't own either but have extensive experience with both. As far as I'm concerned they're excellent. What questions/concerns did you have about them?
Of the first round of axis folders, the Ares, AFCK, TSEK, and 710, all but the 710 are no longer made. The second round of axis folders, the Rukus, the Griptilian, and some others didnt really appeal to me. The Kulgura and the one I saw today in BM's catalog, the 950 Rift, are more appealing. The few assited opening knives I've had were nice, and the point profile of the Stryker has always seemed a good idea, with the shallower angle on the tip.
Well, my griptilians (newer axis lock) are outstanding. I have played extensively with the 710, Rift, and Nitrous Stryker (spear point) and they are all excellent. I have a fond soft spot for Benchmade's D2. In the future I see myself buying a Rift, and a 710 or Stryker model. For now my griptilians are doing excellent duty, and the down economy has me holding off on more expensive knives. I have fondled the HK Axis blades (Snody) and they are also excellent, but my experience with them is slightly more limited.
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I have the 615 which I got just because I think a lot of my friend Neal(I wish I could afford one of his hand made knives). When I ordered it even with the flat ground S30V blade I didn't really think it would dethrone my favorite at that time 735BT, but it did! The only thing I can fault is the very slight flimsey clip, other wise to me it's perfection:thumbup:! Super smooth and for me the fastest Axis yet!
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The HK14205 ( click to see ) has a thicker blade compared to the rest of the BM line. Blade is 154cm and length is the same as the 615 Mini Ruckus (s30v) but has a shorter handle, might be a bit too short as you can nick your finger if you poke it into the blade tip in the closed position. I would say that this model could be a direct replacement for the 735 Ares. Comes with acute main grinds, very good cutting geometry. Shaving sharp edge. I like!!!