Odd question about my 940-1501

oscar zeta

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Apr 27, 2001
Messages
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I'm hoping some Benchmade aficionados can help me with an issue (or perhaps a non-issue). I took delivery on this 940-1501 just a few days ago and hadn't really had time to sit down and look at it until today. And this is besides the point, but I feel a bit foolish for not picking up one of these earlier. It's seriously one of the nicest knives I've ever handled and I can see myself carrying this for a long time.

The issue I'm having may be my imagination, but I'm posting a photo so you'll can be the judge. When I first looked at the blade, it seemed maybe a bit off. When I looked at it very closely, I swear there appears to be a slight recurve. Can anyone else see that? I looked at other 940 photos online and didn't notice a recurve. It's very slight, but to me, it's definitely there. Anyone else see it? If you do see it, is that the way it's supposed to be? If I'm hallucinating this, maybe it's better if I don't know.

582d5531ddfe8fe6574bb39eed3e5c1f.jpg



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I see a curve. The 940 is not a recurve model. If it bothers you that bad, send it back.

Also, do you like the black and blue scales? I prefer black and blue over the carbon fiber of the 940-1. Maybe one day I will get a 940-1501 or just trade the CF for Black and Blue.
 
It's definitely there and not your imagination. Looks very similar to the slight recurve on my 698 Foray, which I love. Have you checked to see if the knife works exclusive model comes with a slight recurve? If not it would just come down to personal preference as to whether or not you send it back. I personally like the look of a blade with a slight recurve like that. Although it does make sharpening more difficult, but I plan on just sending my Foray back to Benchmade to sharpen when it's time. I'm not going to attempt to mess with it.
 
Yes OP, that is definitely a recurve grind in the blade. Benchmade has problem with this sometimes. My 940-1 was even worse. Mine looked like a meth-monkey had been grinding on it. I sent it back to Benchmade and they replaced the blade, pivot screw and installed a split arrow clip per my request. I know it's disappointing but send it back if you are dissatisfied and they will take care of you.
 
Ok, thanks guys. At least I know I'm not imagining it. So, should I send it to BM or return it to KW? It was just delivered to me 3-4 days ago.

And yes, the scales are great. I like them better than the aluminum or the carbon fiber. The blue on black is a very attractive contrast and they have a smooth texture, but not smooth enough to be considered slippery.


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send back to kw for an exchange and specifically note the recurve and ask to hand pick one without.
 
I just sent them an email with an explanation and the photo. Thanks for the help.


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So I've been given the option of sending it back for a refund then purchase a new one that can be inspected and sent back out to me. Or I could send it in for an exchange. They say the refund would be faster, but I'm not sure why that is exactly. Either way, I foolishly paid overnight shipping when I bought it and now I'd have to pay more shipping to send it back there because KW doesn't cover manufacturer defects. I suppose that's understandable.

My question is, does it look that bad? Do you'll think it would affect the performance? I ask because I'm thinking of just not going through the hassle and just keeping it as it is.

Or maybe I could just send it back to benchmade. I'd like a deep carry clip anyway and maybe they'd do that for me while it's there.


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I believe it's up to your personal taste/opinion...does it bother you bad enough to go thru the exchange process or will it bother you more later on? I believe it will only make sharpening more challenging but cutting tasks should be fine. I've had one of my 940s for years and love it still...blade shape included.

Also, just call BM and they will mail you a diff pocket clip for free.
 
No - it does not look bad at all. But, when it comes to sharpening, it will require a bit more skills.
 
Just due to the recurve? Even though it seems very slight? I usually use an Edge Pro but I've never sharpened a recurve with it.

I'm still undecided on whether to send it back or not. It's perfect, other than the recurve. Honestly, I didn't think I'd like it this much. It's an excellent edc and I've been carrying it instead of my Sebenzas since I got it. Is there another folder that is this light that has that much blade in this kind of quality package? I mean, it's small and light, but with a really good-sized blade, strong lock and inconspicuous design.


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I'm still undecided on whether to send it back or not. It's perfect, other than the recurve. Honestly, I didn't think I'd like it this much. It's an excellent edc and I've been carrying it instead of my Sebenzas since I got it. Is there another folder that is this light that has that much blade in this kind of quality package? I mean, it's small and light, but with a really good-sized blade, strong lock and inconspicuous design.

Personally, it wouldn't bother me all too much. I'd keep it. Come spa time, you could bring it to Benchmade's attention and they may replace the blade free of charge.

A big blade in a compact lightweight package are rare attributes on a folder. Off the top of my head, the BM 943, Spyderco Caly 3.5, and the ZT 0450 all possess the same blueprint as the 940
 
To me , the recurve is very slight. But if it bothered me then I'd def send it back for a refund/exchange. I think you'll be much happier with a perfect knife. I think the "hassle" of sending it back is a very small price to pay for getting what you really want and peace of mind.
 
agree with the above. I can see it is really bothering the OP. Just send in for a refund or exchange. It is only 7 dollars shipping.
 
It's going to bother you from this point on no matter how much you try to get past it. That will be the first thing you look at every time you open it. It's not right and you know it. Sorry.

Either exchange or refund with new inspected one. That's the only way to be happy.
 
Honestly I would keep it. Yes it does have a slight recurve to it. I would keep it and use it for a while until it gets dull then send it in to benchmade stating you would like the blade replaced due to the recurve. I'm fairly certain they will replace it for free since that is a defect. So basically you have a free blade if you keep it as is. Benchmade's warranty and customer service is great!
 
That's a mild grind line; so small that it really doesn't warrant sending it in. I use my Edge Pro with the 1/2" stones for my 710's and others without any problems. It just takes practice. But as others say, if you're not happy, the CS folks at BKC will take care of you. Knowing the blade doesn't come out of the box like yours did would bother me too. And that's another good reason to have multiple knives in your employ, a good backup is always welcome when one of mine goes up for a Spa treatment.
 
Definitely exchange it for a better grind. That recurve would bother me too.

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It bothers you enough to post a thread about it so it seems worthwhile to address the issue. You don't want to end up annoyed by it, never using it. I would probably send it to Benchmade and get the clip done at the same time. Their turnaround time is pretty quick, in my experience.

Plus, this gives you an opportunity to buy more knives while you wait. :eek:;)
 
Send it back. I can tell it will bother you over time if you don't. Nothing wrong with that. The slow eating / nagging should have will nit pick over time if you don't.
 
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