Griptilians

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L2bravo

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Jun 14, 2013
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I am looking at geting a Griptilian, for edc, and duty use. How are they in terms of longevity? Are they are pretty robust design? Do they stay solid, over the long run?

I have an Adamas, and don't expect it to be in that category, but I like stuff that is built to last, so to speak.

Also, how does the 154 that BM perform? Do they run it pretty hard? Good edge retention?

Opinions please. Thanks
 
Get a griptillian. Yes, yes & yes - quite simply to all the questions. The material they use for the scales is probably stronger then the blade itself.
154CM is a classic BM steel that they use in a lot of their lines...it performs well, and in my experience with most BM's, slices like a laser.

The axis lock is one of the better locking mechanisms in the knife market. You needn't worry about durability.

If you want a different steel, get the Doug Ritter version. It's the style I prefer most- it comes in S30v and M4(rarely).

Also, some people complain about the scales feeling "plasticky" - while I agree with this assessment, I can assure you that there is practically nothing you can do to break them. They are incredibly strong and durable. However, if this bothers you too much they're are several options for handle customization, whether it be micarta, G10, carbon fiber, Ti, what have you; that you can find craftsmen here on BF or elsewhere on the net.


Hope this helps.
 
I can't comment on the full size Griptillians. I have two Mini Griptillians (556 and 555) and they are great. Very strong, solid knife. The 154 steel works great. Takes a nice 40 degree edge and holds it for a good long time.
 
supercoup said:
Get a griptillian. Yes, yes & yes - quite simply to all the questions. The material they use for the scales is probably stronger then the blade itself.
154CM is a classic BM steel that they use in a lot of their lines...it performs well, and in my experience with most BM's, slices like a laser.

The axis lock is one of the better locking mechanisms in the knife market. You needn't worry about durability.

If you want a different steel, get the Doug Ritter version. It's the style I prefer most- it comes in S30v and M4(rarely).

Also, some people complain about the scales feeling "plasticky" - while I agree with this assessment, I can assure you that there is practically nothing you can do to break them. They are incredibly strong and durable. However, if this bothers you too much they're are several options for handle customization, whether it be micarta, G10, carbon fiber, Ti, what have you; that you can find craftsmen here on BF or elsewhere on the net.


Hope this helps.
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+to all. I have only had the mini's but BM really does a great job with the HT on 154CM...easily sharpened to a razor edge and holds it at least as long as VG10...still one of my fav BM steels. In addition, you can use an Adamas clip on the mini for deep carry too!
 
How do you guys like the 550HG? It looks like it has a pretty nice "slicer" grind to it, and appeals to me. Any feedback on them?
 
I cant give advice yet but I have done a ton of research and could only find a very small amount of criticism on both the full size or mini. I just ordered a custom mini with s30v blade last week and plan to carry it on duty as well. Orange handles and all silver hardwear. Go to Beanchmade's website and look for "Customize Griptilian" under the Services tab. You can chose handle color, blade steel, color or hardwear and pocket clip. I currently carry a 3550 auto but its so beat up from years of use I wanted a new EDC/Duty knife. Also if you did not know, law enforcement folks get a 30% discount. There is a place on the Benchmade website to fill out the paperwork for the discount and to be able to order auto's.
 
Thanks Croc.......But I ride firetrucks. LOL. They actually take care of pretty much anybody in uniform. Which pretty much makes them pretty stand up in my eyes. I don't know of any other knife companies that do that, do you???

I'm leaning toward the full size. It just seems a little more versatile to me.
 
L2bravo said:
Thanks Croc.......But I ride firetrucks. LOL. They actually take care of pretty much anybody in uniform. Which pretty much makes them pretty stand up in my eyes. I don't know of any other knife companies that do that, do you???
.
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Hinderer and ESEE to name a couple.
 
L2bravo said:
... I'm leaning toward the full size. It just seems a little more versatile to me.
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Also a little more secure if you work with gloves. The large Grip is comfortably rounded and pretty secure to hold. It's also easier to manipulate the thumb studs or opening hole in a slightly larger package than the mini-G. If you're looking mostly for a good slicer, I'd suggest the large Ritter Grip. The regular Grip's blade makes a great all-around user, though. BM does a great job with their 154CM. IMAO, it's a good combination of toughness, corrosion resistance, and edge holding. It's also pretty quick and easy to work with when it needs sharpening.
 
Yeah, unless you have small hands, go full size, that's my opinion and ymmv etc.
 
Can't speak to the Grip as I never had one but as far as BM's 154CM it's good stuff. Excellent blend of edge holding, toughness, corrosion resistance, and not too difficult to sharpen.

One of my favorite steels, but as I often say, I'd be had pressed to tell the difference between most of BM's premium steels. They do a great job with the heat treatment and really do seem to get the best out of their steels.
 
The mini Grips are good solid working knives. Full liners, axis lock and the 154cm is good steel. I do my edges at about 30 deg. inclusive and no problems at all. The 555 and 556 are my favorite of all the Benchmades. They will last unless you just try your damnest to tear them up.
 
You really can't go wrong with a Griptillian. They do everything very good. The only thing I wish the had a larger handles. I've had 154 steels from other manufactures but BM seems to do it right.
 
L2bravo said:
Thanks Croc.......But I ride firetrucks. LOL. They actually take care of pretty much anybody in uniform. Which pretty much makes them pretty stand up in my eyes. I don't know of any other knife companies that do that, do you???

I'm leaning toward the full size. It just seems a little more versatile to me.
Click to expand...

SOG, and I believe KAI, too.
 
I have been EDCing a full size Grip 551 plain edge for over three years now. I have been looking at the Spyderco PM2, but just cant bring myself to give up my Grip. I have used it for everything from cutting cardboard at work to gutting and cutting Salmon. A buddy at work used his to field dress both a cow and a calf moose that he and his hunting partner got during hunting season year before last. My son inlaw has beaten the living day lights out of the one I bought him when he returned from Afghanistan, it never leaves his pocket.
Ya so I'm kinda pro Grip.
 
Get one!!! They are excellent edc knives. Blade is great. 154 steel holds up very well. The ergonomics are almost perfect. Need I say anything about the lock? Oh and it doesn't hurt that benchmade has outstanding customer service.
 
I was the PROUD owner of a 551 Griptilian until my pocket clip failed and I lost it :-( The blade was amazing and had every intention of getting another however I found a 950 Rift at a steal so I jumped on that instead. I would NOT hesitate to snag a Griptilian if given the opportunity.
 
I bought a 710 and a 551 around the same time a few months ago. I have been edcing the 710 ever since but after reading this thread it has inspired me to switch to the 551 for a while. Haha thanks guys!
 
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