Tell me about the Benchmade 550

I've said this a million times and I never get sick of reaffirming it, the Griptilians are some of the BEST value per dollar knives in the market in all prices ranges. To answer your question, good. Very good.

The older versions have 440C and newer ones have 154cm. Both hold nice edges and their sharpness is only limited by your sharpening skills. Either one works great.
 
I have two 550 Grips (the older, 440C versions) and they are excellent. They hold an edge quite well, and resharpen to a scary-sharp edge quickly on my Sharpmaker. The newer 550HG with hollow-ground blade may hold an edge a bit longer, with the 154CM steel, plus it changed from the oval to a round hole for easier opening (IMO).

It's listed as a modified sheepfoot blade, but I like the fact the tip is still very sharp despite being of a sturdier shape than a blade with a needle-point. I consider it more of a highly modified spear or dropped point (very dropped).
Jim
 
I have the Mel Pardue designed 555 mini grip in 440C

It is currently my weekday EDC that I use almost every day. Excellent knife, edge holding is good, easy to sharpen and the occasional few moments work on a leather strop keeps it shaving sharp.

If the full sized grip is as good, which I'm sure it would be, you should get one without hesitation.

Here it is with a couple of friends.

alpine4.jpg
 
It is hollow ground. so it is a real nice slicer. benchmade and spyderco came to an agreement so the new 550hg has a round hole. very good edge holding. just a great hard worker. use mine for camping and hiking and work on the farm.
 
Had a 555 in 440c. Great blade but I wasn't a fan of the handle - to thick for may fat fingers. Could never get my thumb on the oval hole for easy opening. But once opened the ergonomics were fine.
 
556 and 557SBK Mini Grips in 154.
DSC02659.jpg

DSC02643.jpg


Awesome knives for the money:thumbup::thumbup:.
 
I went to store today to try the Griptillian models

The handles are very rough and uncomfortable

No one else finds that here? :(
 
I went to store today to try the Griptillian models

The handles are very rough and uncomfortable

No one else finds that here? :(

I used a 551 regularly when I owned a moving company. The handles would started to get uncomfortable after prolonged use, but not so much that it bothered me too bad.
 
Even in Polish, these are still some of the best 550 vids'.


Griptilian Test 1
[youtube]IgRTTz-lt6c[/youtube]

Griptilian Test 2
[youtube]9c9eufyyXEI[/youtube]

Griptilian Test 3
[youtube]vzuViuCz7g4[/youtube]

Griptilian Test 4
[youtube]a8_E2-x-LoI[/youtube]
 
Recently saw a Benchmade sales rep saying that their axis locks can withstand 5000 lbs.
 
I GAVE IN AND BOUGHT THE BENCHMADE 550:D:D:D

I HAVE ALWAYS WANTED A BENCHMADE :cool:

Thank you everyone for your input :thumbup::thumbup:
 
Back
Top