Out of these, which for a first Benchmade?

A

AlphaBrass01

Joined
Jul 18, 2003
Messages
101
I am looking to buy my first Benchmade. The local store has a limited selection available for me to 'feel out' and I will be doing that shortly. However, of a few different models, which would you guys recommend for a slightly large edc folder? I'm looking a lot at the Griptillian, the Switchback, and the Ambush. I know their specs, and I will be able to feel them in my hand before buying, but I wanted to know pros and cons that someone might want to share who has experience witht the blades. Thanks
 
I'd say either the 921 or 550 ( I have the 921, just orderd a 550). I had an ambush for a day, and sent it back. It wasn't quite as smooth as an axis lock, and also the handle felt cheap to me. But you do whatever makes you happy!;)

Andrew
 
Another griptilian vote. If you can, handle the knives at a B&M store first, the ambush is BIG!!
 
If your budget is fine with it, the 921 is an awesome knife. In bang for the bucks terms, the Griptillian is a great bargain. The Ambush is a good knife, although apparently the first run is having some teething problems.

If you want to know why Benchmade fanatics love their BMs so much, I wouldn't start with the Red Line (Ambush.) And while I love my Griptillian, it's what I carry when I'm not willing to carry one of my "full built", non-Zytel BMS. (Such as my 940CFD2, or 730CFS30V.)

So I think that, if the price is acceptable, the 921 Switchback is definitely the one to try of those three. If that gives you sticker shock, then the Griptillian is a great intro to Benchmade. I really wouldn't recommend the Ambush as a BM to start with, but that's just my opinion - if you handle one and like it, take it home.
 
If you can, also take a look at the 730 Elishewitz model. The 730 was my first Benchmade (only about 11 days ago), and it is a beauty.
 
The Griptilian and mini-grip are sweet and excellent for the price. The 710 is really nice if you want a large blade at twice the cost.
 
I vote for the Grip. I know they are 440c, but it has to be the best 440c heat treat I have ever seen. Absolutely remarkable performance in edge holding. My coworker has one that I sharpened months ago, and after HEAVY use, it still has a great edge.
 
I'd highly recommend the Switchback for EDC. Beyond that, I'd go with Glockman99's choice of the 730 series.
 
i'd saw the griptilian, it's a good value piece. The 921 is nice but not really a working knife imo. The knife is too pretty, and the handles will get scratched up. The frn handles on the griptilian is a glutton for punishment
 
If you have big hands and like thick knives then get the grip. The 921 (Swithcback) is more gentleman knife than utility, has a very thin but wide profile. Also has a great blade in S30V and a grind that just cuts and cuts. Havent handled the Ambush.
 
The Switchback because of the steel (S30V), but the Grip for everything else. 440C isn´t bad.

So my vote goes to Grip and at second to he Switch.
 
My first (and only) Benchmade is the Griptilian. I am very satisfied with this knife and so would recommend this as your first. It has the Axis lock, a great utility shape, and won't break the bank. Especially if you get one from Cabela's. Cabela's has a limited edition 551 model in D2 tool steel, instead of the 440C. Thus far, the D2 holds a great edge and hasn't had any rust problems. Plus, the Cabela's model costs $70.00. Before spending twice the money on a different model, I advise you to go with the Grip to get a general feel for the Benchmade knives.

PS- here is Cabela's website - http://www.cabelas.com
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top