- Joined
- Feb 4, 1999
- Messages
- 5,786
Benchmade has been attacked that this knife is too similar to Chris Reeve's folders, but I can't comment on that. To me, each knife stands on its own merits, so here are my two cents...first of all, the knife I am reviewing was bought used, but in good condition, so I will assume it is unmodified from the original condition.
<center><h3>Specs:</h3></center>
The 750 has an overall length of 8.4", with a closed length of 4.7" and a blade length of 3.6". It weighs 4.5oz and retails for around $110, although, as you well know with knives, prices vary considerably. Clip is set up for tip down carry.
<center><h3>Aesthetics:</h3></center>
The 750 uses Benchmade's MonoLock technology, which is the same thing as CRKT's frame lock or Chris Reeve's integral lock. Basically the idea is the same as a liner lock, except in this case the lock is integral to the knife handle itself, rather than to a liner. This offer several advantages to be discussed later. The blade of the knife itself is sort of a recurved spear point, with a false edge toward the end 1/3 of the knife and a rather shallow flat grind to the edge. The blade is ATS-34 and comes razor sharp, while the frame/handle is 6Al/4V titanium alloy which has been tumbled.
<center><h3>Performance:</h3></center>
I like this knife a lot. There is little wasted space in the handle, so it is large enough for a good grip, but not so big it is cumbersome. The titanium handle makes for a generally heavier knife than the same size scales in aluminum, but with aluminum the possibility of a MonoLock is not present because of the material's limitations. The recurved blade cuts very well, especially in slicing, and it is excellent for stabbing. The knife was comfortable in forward and reverse using positions, and it would serve well as a defense/tactical or utility knife. The point is centered right in the middle of the knife, and the weight balance is very neutral. Mine was coated in Black Teflon, giving it a nice matte finish, although it does scratch rather easily.
The MonoLock is a very secure lock, and has several advantages. First, it works the same way a liner lock does, although the MonoLock is much beefier since it is cut from the scale itself, rather than a very thin liner. Second, when the grip is tightened on a knife with a liner lock, the tendency is for the lock to release. With the MonoLock, the lock actually tightens, giving an added measure of security. It releases well and it may be a little harder to push the lock than on a liner lock, but to me this is comforting rather than detracting. The thumb stud is well placed anc comfortable to use, and the action of the knife is very smooth with no play in the open position. I did not like the fact that Benchmade has chosen to use Torx screws instead of standard allen bolts, as this means you need special tools to adjust the pivot.
<center><h3>Conclusion:</h3></center>
The 750 is an excellent knife that is very versatile. I feel it is every bit as stout as my REKAT Pioneer, and it weighs a lot less. It is a large folder in my standards, and cuts and slices very well. It is just as usable for utility as it is for defense purposes, and I found it very comfortable to use. If anything, the traction areas that are machined into the handle are a bit sharp, but this is a small complaint. I think Benchmade has made an excellent knife at an excellent price with this one, and I was apprehensive of the seemeingly steep edge bevels, but they are easy to sharpen and cut very well, so looks are deceiving!
------------------
My Custom Kydex Sheath page:
http://www.geocities.com/CollegePark/Lab/1298/frames.html
Palmer College of Chiropractic
On Two Wheels
agocs_s@dd.palmer.edu
Madpoet (Mel Sorg, Jr.) Tribute page:
http://www.geocities.com/CollegePark/Lab/1298/madpoet/main.html
<center><h3>Specs:</h3></center>
The 750 has an overall length of 8.4", with a closed length of 4.7" and a blade length of 3.6". It weighs 4.5oz and retails for around $110, although, as you well know with knives, prices vary considerably. Clip is set up for tip down carry.
<center><h3>Aesthetics:</h3></center>
The 750 uses Benchmade's MonoLock technology, which is the same thing as CRKT's frame lock or Chris Reeve's integral lock. Basically the idea is the same as a liner lock, except in this case the lock is integral to the knife handle itself, rather than to a liner. This offer several advantages to be discussed later. The blade of the knife itself is sort of a recurved spear point, with a false edge toward the end 1/3 of the knife and a rather shallow flat grind to the edge. The blade is ATS-34 and comes razor sharp, while the frame/handle is 6Al/4V titanium alloy which has been tumbled.
<center><h3>Performance:</h3></center>
I like this knife a lot. There is little wasted space in the handle, so it is large enough for a good grip, but not so big it is cumbersome. The titanium handle makes for a generally heavier knife than the same size scales in aluminum, but with aluminum the possibility of a MonoLock is not present because of the material's limitations. The recurved blade cuts very well, especially in slicing, and it is excellent for stabbing. The knife was comfortable in forward and reverse using positions, and it would serve well as a defense/tactical or utility knife. The point is centered right in the middle of the knife, and the weight balance is very neutral. Mine was coated in Black Teflon, giving it a nice matte finish, although it does scratch rather easily.
The MonoLock is a very secure lock, and has several advantages. First, it works the same way a liner lock does, although the MonoLock is much beefier since it is cut from the scale itself, rather than a very thin liner. Second, when the grip is tightened on a knife with a liner lock, the tendency is for the lock to release. With the MonoLock, the lock actually tightens, giving an added measure of security. It releases well and it may be a little harder to push the lock than on a liner lock, but to me this is comforting rather than detracting. The thumb stud is well placed anc comfortable to use, and the action of the knife is very smooth with no play in the open position. I did not like the fact that Benchmade has chosen to use Torx screws instead of standard allen bolts, as this means you need special tools to adjust the pivot.
<center><h3>Conclusion:</h3></center>
The 750 is an excellent knife that is very versatile. I feel it is every bit as stout as my REKAT Pioneer, and it weighs a lot less. It is a large folder in my standards, and cuts and slices very well. It is just as usable for utility as it is for defense purposes, and I found it very comfortable to use. If anything, the traction areas that are machined into the handle are a bit sharp, but this is a small complaint. I think Benchmade has made an excellent knife at an excellent price with this one, and I was apprehensive of the seemeingly steep edge bevels, but they are easy to sharpen and cut very well, so looks are deceiving!
------------------
My Custom Kydex Sheath page:
http://www.geocities.com/CollegePark/Lab/1298/frames.html
Palmer College of Chiropractic
On Two Wheels
agocs_s@dd.palmer.edu
Madpoet (Mel Sorg, Jr.) Tribute page:
http://www.geocities.com/CollegePark/Lab/1298/madpoet/main.html
