Looking for a better Benchmade 710D2 - suggestions requested.

PsychoSword

PsychoSword

Joined
Jul 2, 2002
Messages
349
I've had a couple of 710D2's. While they seemed like reasonable quality production knives, I just can not warm up to G10 on anything, no matter how hard I try. And to me, the handle of the knife seems a little flimsy. I've heard other people make this comment as well, so I know it's not just me. The BM910 Stryker I had was even worse in this way. I had an auto-Stryker, which seemed more solid, but I sold it. I probably should have kept it, but I could open the BM910 faster than the Auto-Stryker, so I figured what's the point? :) What is out there in the same size as a 710D2 with similar function, but more solid and maybe a little bit higher quality construction?
 
I have heard other people say the same thing about G-10. They just dont like it. Have you thought about putting aluminum handles on your 710? I dont personally have one with aluminum handles but from what I have heard the very reasons people do it is because of the same complaint you have......plus some think the aluminum looks better. Just a thought.
 
Are you specifically looking at aluminum or metal scales? Do you need the Axis Lock. You could go for a Bradley Alias.
 
Not necessarily. But I do like titanium handles. The Bradley Alias looks like a nice knife. The grip is smooth though, I'd prefer something with some knurling of some type. And the blade length is a little short at 3.6", I'm looking for something more like the length of the BM710 like 4.2" or slightly longer, but probably not over 5.5".

I would like to stay with D2 as well, but it's not a deal breaker if a knife is not offered in it.
 
I second the Ruckus. Its big. Its tough. and its built like a tank compared to the 710.
 
Personally, I love my 710 D-2, but if you don't, and want a high quality D-2 blade, try the Spyderco Military in CPM D-2.

The BM 610 Rukus in S30V is also a great knife, and I am beginmning to like S30V almost as well as D-2. :)

Ben
 
Personally, I love my 710 D-2, but if you don't like them, and want a high quality D-2 blade, try the Spyderco Military in CPM D-2. It's even better than standard D-2, with it's finer grain structure, and smaller carbides.

The BM 610 Rukus in S30V is also a great knife, and I am beginmning to like S30V almost as well as D-2. :)

Ben
 
Nice, is there a plain blade model?

What about a Sebenza, are there any made in that size range?
 
PsychoSword said:
Not necessarily. But I do like titanium handles. The Bradley Alias looks like a nice knife. The grip is smooth though, I'd prefer something with some knurling of some type. And the blade length is a little short at 3.6", I'm looking for something more like the length of the BM710 like 4.2" or slightly longer, but probably not over 5.5".

I would like to stay with D2 as well, but it's not a deal breaker if a knife is not offered in it.
Click to expand...

I miss my Cuda Maxx for this, the feeling of the Ti handle.
 
I don't have any love for the 710... But how is it that they are flimsy handles.... Not heckling, just wondering..
Matt B.
 
He doesn't like the feel of the G10. With that I would not suggest the Military, as it has . . . G10. To me, they do not feel flimsy at all. http://benchmade.com/products/product_detail.aspx?model=610
Plain edge. Every once in a while someone will say - G10 is flimsy, FRN is Flimsy, just can't get used to it, etc ad nauseum. I just don't see it. My Delica, Mini Grip, Para Mil, all seem REAL solid to me.
Its a bit on the small side for you, but Kershaw Shallot might fit the bill, you can also look at the Zero Tolerance line.
 
PsychoSword said:
Nice, is there a plain blade model?

What about a Sebenza, are there any made in that size range?
Click to expand...

Wow! I really like the BM 710.

The large classic Sebenza has a blade that is a little shorter than the 710 but it is wider. You can get the Sebenza with a plain Ti handle, or fancy with a graphic (engraved) Ti handle,
or an inlayed Ti handle. In the pic below I tried to line up the pivot pins.

Large Rebular Sebenza with damascus blade and unique graphic handle
Large Classic Sebenza with dual finish blade and wood (Tamboti) inlay handle
BM 710 D2
Large Classic Sebenza with plain Ti handle
Large Classic Sebenza with micarta inlay
 
i know there not made anymore which is a tragedy but if you want a quality knife with aluminum handle the bm/hk 14200 is very solid as long as u don't mind rubber overmold grips. i love them but would not mind g10
 
Thanks for the suggestions so far. Some interesting pieces. One thing I also wish about the 710 is that it was drilled in all four spots instead of just for tip up carry.
 
If that's a problem, it shouldn't be too hard to drill it yourself.
Just make a template of the three existing holes, and then line them up under the pivot pin for an easy access type of mount. If you want "low profile" but much less easy draw, put them in front of the pivot pin.

You don't have to drill very far; maybe 1/8" at most. Use whatever screws you want, as long as they fit the holes on the clip. Use some lock-tite on them just in case you don't drill the holes very well. You shouldn't have any problems. You might have to bend the clip slightly to clear the pivot pin, I don't remember how much it sticks out.

I doubt that would even void the warranty; just measure the scales for thickness, and take a good look to see there is only g-10 where you are drilling. If you make sure to use some good cement, there's no reason why you'd have to drill all the way through the g-10.
 
If the 710's G10 scales are the major problem for you, you could check with STR and see if he can make some Ti or wood scales for yours. Chase Axinn at Chax Knives also does some nice work in micarta, aluminium, bone, ivory, etc.

If you want to try something different, the large regular or classic Sebenza might be to your likin'. It'll feel very different than an Axis folder. My large classic has the feel of a larger knife, I think because of its Ti handle scales and tight lockup. It also doesn't flick like an Axis knife will, but I like that. It has a very smooth, but not effortless, opening motion.
 
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