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My First Benchmade

V

Vivi

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Currently deciding on what my first Benchmade folder is going to be.

I don't really like the feel of Minigriptilians, but I haven't handled a full-size one so I don't know how I'd like one. The monochrome and Mini-ambush can both be had for 30$ and look pretty solid for a low-end BM. The benchmite 2 has an interesting design and it'd be cheap to pick up too.

I would like to get somethign with axis lock so I can try one out, but it doesn't need to have it. Just want to get something from them in the 25-70$ range to get a taste of their blades.
 
For that price range with an AXIS lock you should try a Grip, either full sized or mini, you can't go wrong with either. You should also look into a 530, this one is also pretty nice with an AXIS lock.
 
I've been carrying a full size grip for a little over a year now and I've never looked back (ok...well maybe I've looked back, but only to look at a Ritter Grip). I would recommend one in a heartbeat. As long as you aren't looking for a dress knife it's a great choice. I have a feeling that if we had a poll about the BM that's most carried on the forums it'd be a very close race between a grip (of any variety) and a 710.
 
Yeah, grips seem to be popular.

This won't be a dress knife. It'll mainly be used for things like food prep and random outdoor utility. Spending an afternoon in the woods.

The mini-ambush looks like a good deal to me. Some sites say it has steel liners but I remember reading only the full-sized one does. Can anyone clarify this?

http://newgraham.com/detail.aspx?ID=4034

Both it and the full-size look nice. I'll check out a full-sized grip next time I visit my local knife store.
 
I carry BM551 Grip for about 5 month and really like it. If you decide to get it, remember that 2006 model has 154 CM steel blade, which is better steel in many applications than 440C and cost about the same $60.
R
 
Whatever you do don't go out and buy Red Class Benchmade for your first impression.

Get yourself and Axis lock model.

A full size grip is great. It may feel a bit "plastic" to some people but the thing is a tank and gets the job done like mad.

You can't go wrong with either a small or large Griptilian.

Get yourself hooked on the Axis lock :)
 
So I you think I'd be better off with a full-size grip than going with either Ambush?

Well then, I'd like a full-grip in black or dark green, plain edge and good blade steel. Guess I'll go look around and bookmark some sites.
 
The 551 grip was my first Benchmade. It's still the knife I carry most often. I did think the handles were a bit plasticy... but have grown to love them. The axis lock is amazing. Though if you didn't like the mini-grip, not sure what you'd think of the grip. What didn't you like?
 
Just felt a bit too small and the ergonomics didn't feel as good in my hands as I would of liked.
 
My first Benchmade was a Cabela's Grip in D2 with OD scales. I really like it. So much so in fact that I placed an order for a Ritter M2 full size Grip.
The mini Grips just seem to small to me. The full size is easy to carry and very comfortable to use. The axis lock is just amazing. The D2 steel holds an edge really well. I do wipe it off after using on anything moist and when I get a chance I put some CLP on it. No rust/pitting at all so far.
Bob
 
A Griptilian is a great intro into BM Axis knives.

But if you can afford it, I'd suggest just going for a higher-end model right away.

You are probably going to love the Griptilian and then want a 710, Rukus, AFCK, Swithcback etc... anyways. So I feel it might be better just to get a 710 or whatever now.

I got a Griptilian first and don't regret it, but I can't really see a reason why one should make their first Axis lock knife the cheapest one when they can afford (and want) a better one. Yes, in general it is smart to start off cheaper to see if you like it before spending more money, but the difference between a high-end Grip and a 710 isn't really very much, and the Axis lock isn't much of a risky bet.
 
The minigrip, in my opinion, feels fine. It's just a little small, but that perfect for an office environment. But I live my Manix for weekends. Take a look at the Manix or the mini Manix.
 
Vivi,

That price at Newgraham is for the 154CM Model. I think they just forgot to change it on the site. I'd call them and ask just to make sure.

:) I think the 550 is the best choice. Great knife.
 
For your first Benchmade their is no other way to go than the Grip. The grip is one hell of a folder and will get you through just about anything that will need to be done. At first my axis lock was a little rough but after about 100 openings and closings that when away and its now one of my smoothest folders.
 
I have five Grips: two large and three small. For food prep and outdoor utility I think the way to go is the full size Grip. I'd recommend the Cabelas
D2 Grip but the regular steel one will still be great. It's a bit of a pocketful. I carry a MiniGrip during the week and the Big Grip on the weekends. You won't regret buying a Grip of either size.

Now if they would just come out with a "Gentleman's" size Ultra Mini Grip....yeahhhh!

U
 
Ultrastick said:
Now if they would just come out with a "Gentleman's" size Ultra Mini Grip....yeahhhh!

U
Click to expand...

That's called the Mini-Grip.

If they made it any smaller it would be a toy. :D
 
the grips are as everyone says. my edc 5 days a week at work.
the weekend however is a different story, either my 705 or my 707.
spend the extra money now and get the 707, you will end up there anyway.
 
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