Recommendation? Rift or Bedlam?

[Sitzkrieg_70]

I can't decide which one I should get. I like the design of the Bedlam a lot more, but I think that it could be too big to fit into my collection. The rift would only be available with the non-coated blade and that blue- looking handle(I'm not ordering from the US). I don't find that colours pretty to be honest. but the size would fit better.

Could someone who owns both knives show me some comparison pics, or give me some recommendation please? Which one feels better in hand? is the bedlam really so big compared to the rift? I don't use the knive for specific tasks. I am more into collecting.

I am unable to provide an opinion on a comparative basis, as I have neither owned nor handled a Rift. Nor do I have any interest in ever doing so. In my wholly subjective opinion, the aesthetics are highly undesirable. If I encounter a task whereby a blade shape of its nature would be useful, I will instead use the substantially similar blade shape of my Contego. She's also not a beauty queen, as to my personal standards, but the M4 steel of its longer blade and the no-slip grip of its deeply and painfully (literally) textured handle, coupled with the carbide skull-crusher / window breaker, won me over, unlike the offerings and attributes of its smaller counterpart, the Rift.

Regarding my Bedlam, however, it has received more pocket time than any other knife during the course of the last two (2) years. To me, it is Benchmade's embodiment of sheer perfection. Instead of a lengthy recitation harping upon its many virtues, I will clearly state what I find to be its most significant and magnificent characteristic.

Witnesseth, the ergos. Never before have I grasped a more comfortable and confidence instilling handle. Its lengthy, unique handle and relatively heavy steel skull-crusher at the base, provide a balance point that makes its four (4") inch blade seem extremely light when engaged in hand and shockingly easy to maneuver.

But for me, the true brilliance of the handle is the unprecedented degree of radiusing, via Benchmade's use of domed scales and strategically placed chamfering, resulting in the successful emulation of the revered type of "rounded" handle almost exclusively within the province of fixed blades. Coupling the foregoing positive attributes with fully "functional" jimping and a textured, exaggerated thumb ramp, the Bedlam is a dream in most grips, however, pure and unfettered heaven in the saber grip. But be warned. She will sing to you, like an enchanted sword that appeals to your most base instincts, begging to be used for its intended purpose, 25 to life, notwithstanding. A natural extension of one's arm, with an undetectable and seamless transition between knife and hand.

Bravo, Benchmade, as to an outstanding folder, possessing what feels like a truly rounded handle and other key features combining to provide ergos formerly thought to be relegated solely to fixed blades.

 

[Sitzkrieg_70]

In sum, the Bedlam is a special and unique offering, designed to scratch an itch rarely touched upon by Benchmade, in such an overt, yet stylish and classy manner. It posseses de facto custom features, such as a pre-swedge domed portion of the spine, as well as domed, tiger stripe textured and highly chamfered handle scales, emulating revered roundness seldom achieved in folders, thereby providing formerly unimaginable comfort, and game changing ergos.

Mark my ignorant and arrogant words: It will one day be highly sought and treasured, as both a collectible, as well as an instrument narrowly tailored to serve its primary intended purpose, when it is eventually discontinued.

Can the same honestly be said for the Rift, in good faith and conscience, without being disingenuous or asserted simply to be argumentative?

I am not stating or suggesting the Rift is not an excellent knife, or that it lacks qualities and attributes that many may find very appealing. Instead, I do not consider the two (2) knives to be comparable. To me, they are completely different animals. But, Benchmade has other offerings with various similarities to the Rift. Whereas, the Bedlam stands alone, in many respects.

 

[knives_in_nature]

 

[Sitzkrieg_70]

Nice....!!!! How about a satin finish, non serrated version? I was on the fence but ultimately opted for the plain edge version with a satin finish and could not be more pleased. It exceeded my lofty expectations and for two (2) years has been the most frequent occupant of my pocket, by far.

 

[knives_in_nature]

Nice....!!!! How about a satin finish, non serrated version? I was on the fence but ultimately opted for the plain edge version with a satin finish and could not be more pleased. It exceeded my lofty expectations and for two (2) years has been the most frequent occupant of my pocket, by far.

Both are sweet, I think the black blade looks more mean on this dude so thats a + on this design but either way is good to go...