Recommendation? Dipping toe into Benchmade

Deinos

Deinos

Joined
Feb 7, 2016
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Been working on the knife collection, and I have decided that I finally need to try a Benchmade. Not looking to fill a specific niche, just general edc tasks (e.g. opening envelopes, packages, cardboard, general daily cutting) and getting a feel for the brand.

My folding collection leans HEAVILY in the spyderco direction (PM2, Manix 2, Delica, some Salts, DFII, GB1, etc.).

Not looking to go more than $175-ish (new or secondary market) and not interested in assisted opening (so, barrage is out).

So, what is the best first? 940? (mini)griptillian (154cm or 20cv)? Stryker? others?
 
I would lean towards the full size grip; there's a reason why so many people have them.
The bugout is great but for me, it's seems to petite and light for an EDC and the mini-grip is just to small for my hands.
I own a rift and you could probably find one used for under $175 but be warned, a lot of people don't care for the pinkie shelf grip on them.
Gratuitous pic of Rift
VFs5Yrr.jpg
 
I wouldn't got for the 940. I would recommend normal/basic griptilian (I didn't like the g10 versison) or the Presidio 2. Both amazing knives that you won't be disappointed with.
 
I personally like the Benchmade 808 Loco. It is my favorite design from them in recent years. Keep in mind though that this is a significantly heavier knife than you are used to based on the spyderco you listed. Maybe even twice the weight of a few of them. But this knife is an absolute beast. Arguably Benchmade’s beefiest.
 
I say buy an FRN Griptilian. In my experience with Benchmade, more $$$ gets you nothing but an upgraded steel or/& machined/contoured handles. More $$$ never increases the overall quality of manufacture. If Spyderco and Benchmade did the dirty and had a baby, the ideal outcome would be the tolerances/mechanics of a Spyderco and the 5 axis milled contoured handles of a Benchmade... I prefer the overall profile of most Spydies over most Benchmades though. As it stands, Spyderco makes a superior product, hands down.
 
g10 20cv full size griptilian. Pay attention to the Exchange, where you can have one LNIB for $150 give or take. If you like loco, hurry to get the one that bruce lee is selling for $135.
 
Benchmade Custom Shop Grip or Mini-Grip with CPM-M4 or 20CV. Great ergos, and with the custom shop, you can really make it your own and keep within your budget.
 
I vote for the -1 Griptilian series as well. 940 is a great knife I just prefer a larger knife. I love the Bugout, Griptilian Series, and Crooked River.
 
How about the Crooked River model? Comes in two sizes and is a good looking knife.
 
My first Benchmade was a North Fork. Handling a Griptilian, it just didn't seem like a hundred dollar knife. Months (years?) later, when the Doug Ritter Grips were about to be discontinued, I bought an orange Ritter Mini-Grip. The knife just works so well that I carry it frequently, much more than the North Fork. The fun color makes the plastic scales make more sense, IMO.

My suggestion for a first Benchmade:
Either find a good deal on a Mini Griptilian, or
Build/spec one on the BM website just like you want.
 
sharp_edge said:
g10 20cv full size griptilian. Pay attention to the Exchange, where you can have one LNIB for $150 give or take. If you like loco, hurry to get the one that bruce lee is selling for $135.
Click to expand...

ScooterG said:
Benchmade Custom Shop Grip or Mini-Grip with CPM-M4 or 20CV. Great ergos, and with the custom shop, you can really make it your own and keep within your budget.
Click to expand...

This and this or the 940 as posted above if you need to have an axis lock.

Or go straight to ZT. ;)
 
I have 2 Benchmade knives: A Crooked River and Grip. You can't go wrong with either of those IMO.
 
The full size Griptilian with the sheepsfoot blade and spydie hole is part of my edc rotation. I highly recommend it, great knife with exceptional warranty.
 
The AXIS Flipper is a good knife too if you are looking for a Flipper.

I especially like the scales.
 
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