Need Eclipse/Ascent Quality Opinions

T

Texian

Joined
Sep 7, 2003
Messages
32
First, why is there no Benchmade forum? I'm sure there's a good reason. I just don't know. If I missed it, I apologize.

My real question.

A couple of years ago I had a Benchmade 840S Ascent that I liked a lot, but lost it. Decided to replace it with an 840. Saw one advertised at what I thought was a reasonable price ($50 shipped), since they are no longer in production and seem to be getting scarce. They sent one that the box said was an Eclipse 840.

So was there any quality difference between the Eclipse and Ascent? Should I be ticked at the dealer?

I do like one thing about the Eclipse. It has the older Benchmade Bali-Song Butterfly logo.

Any thoughts?
 
The Ascent/Eclipse are the same knife. Benchmade changed the name of the knife to the Ascent after there was another manufacturer using the Eclipse name. This model is one of my favorate Benchmades. It had an ATS-34 blade and was extremely light in my pocket. The clip was put high up on the handle for a "deep" carry in the pocket or in the waist band. The knife was inexpensive for a benchmade and I would not feel too bad if I lost it. Plus I could open it with the "Spydie drop". :D
 
I have had an Eclipse with a 3.5" ATS 34 blade for about 4-5 yrs. Awesome knife. It was with me everyday until this Christmas when I got my new BM 732SBT Ares in D2 steel. I had the edge down to 19 degrees, and it held very well under uses such as cutting cardboard, paper, and plastic zip ties. I would still carry it except for the genius of the newer Axis lock knives.

Robb
 
I have an Ascent 831, with GIN-1 blade. It is my every-day-work knife. Gets sharp, stays that way reasonably well. Spyderco level of finish and quality.
 
I have one of the big half serrated Ascents, picked it up for about $30 on Ebay. Great all around user knife! Still looks good too, apart from some coating wear. Love that handle, so many grips!!!:D
 
I have owned one also and they are great for the cash. BUT! before you buy another, know that Benchmade is soon releasing a new lightweight lockback called the Pika that will retail for around the tune of 35-40 dollars. I would wait and check one out first.
Matt
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top