Imagine needing a reliable tool that fits right in your pocket. That’s where a great pocket knife shines. But when you look at Benchmade knives, you might feel a little lost. So many cool models, so many different features! It’s tough to know which one is perfect for you, right?
Choosing the right Benchmade can feel like a puzzle. You want something that’s strong, easy to use, and looks good. But with so many choices, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. You might worry about picking the wrong one and regretting it later. We’ve all been there, staring at a screen full of options!
This post is here to help you cut through the confusion. We’ll break down what makes Benchmade knives so special and give you the information you need to find your ideal everyday carry. By the end, you’ll feel confident in choosing a Benchmade that you’ll love and trust for years to come. Let’s dive in and find your perfect pocket companion!
Our Top 5 Benchmade Pocket Knife Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Benchmade Pocket Knife Detailed Reviews
1. Benchmade – Bugout 535 EDC Knife with Ranger Green Grivory Handle (535GRY-1)
Rating: 8.9/10
The Benchmade Bugout 535GRY-1 is a knife designed for adventure and everyday tasks. It’s incredibly light, making it easy to carry wherever you go. Whether you’re hiking, camping, or just need a reliable tool for daily use, this knife is ready.
What We Like:
- It is super light, like a feather, but still very strong.
- The CPM-S30V steel blade holds its sharp edge for a long time and fights off rust.
- The ranger green Grivory handle feels good in your hand and is built to last.
- The AXIS lock keeps the blade securely in place when open and makes it easy to close.
- Benchmade offers free sharpening and maintenance for the life of the knife through their LifeSharp service.
- You can easily switch the clip to carry it on either side, and there’s a hole for a lanyard.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might find the Grivory handle a bit slippery in wet conditions.
- While durable, the Grivory handle could potentially scratch over time with heavy use.
This knife is a fantastic companion for anyone who needs a dependable and lightweight tool. Its combination of features and Benchmade’s lifetime service makes it a smart investment for your adventures.
2. Benchmade – Bugout Folding Knife with Dark Olive Grivory Handle (535TN-11)
Rating: 9.1/10
The Benchmade Bugout folding knife, model 535TN-11, is a fantastic tool for anyone who loves the outdoors or just needs a reliable knife for daily tasks. It’s super light, so you won’t even notice it in your pocket. This knife is built tough and ready for adventure.
What We Like:
- It’s incredibly light, making it perfect for hiking, camping, or just carrying around every day.
- The American-made CPM-S30V steel keeps its sharp edge for a long time and resists rust.
- The drop-point blade is strong and can handle many different jobs.
- The Grivory handle feels good in your hand and is very durable. It’s also made for both right and left-handed people.
- The AXIS locking mechanism is safe and makes opening and closing the knife easy.
- It comes with a reversible clip and a lanyard hole, so you can carry it however you like.
- Benchmade offers a free sharpening service for the life of the knife – they’ll even clean and adjust it!
What Could Be Improved:
- While the Grivory handle is durable, some users might prefer the feel of other materials like Micarta or G10 for a more premium grip.
- The lightweight design, while a major plus, means it might not feel as substantial in hand for those who prefer a heavier, more robust feeling knife.
The Benchmade Bugout is a top-notch knife that’s built to last and designed for easy carrying. You can trust it to be there when you need it.
3. Benchmade – Griptilian 551-S30V EDC Knife with Black Handle (551-S30V)
Rating: 9.1/10
The Benchmade Griptilian 551-S30V is a fantastic knife for anyone who needs a reliable tool. Its strong blade and comfortable grip make it perfect for all sorts of tasks, from opening packages to tackling tougher jobs.
What We Like:
- The CPM-S30V steel blade is super strong and won’t rust easily. It also keeps its sharp edge for a long time.
- The black handle feels good in your hand and is made of tough stuff that can handle hard work.
- You can open and close this knife with just one hand, which is really handy.
- The AXIS lock is very secure, so the blade stays put when you use it.
- It’s lightweight, so it won’t weigh you down in your pocket.
- The reversible pocket clip makes it easy to carry on either side.
- Benchmade will even sharpen your knife for free, forever! They call it LifeSharp service.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the glass-filled nylon handle is tough, some might prefer a more premium material for a knife at this price point.
- The Griptilian is a manual opener, so it’s not as fast to deploy as an assisted-opening or automatic knife.
This knife is a solid choice for everyday carry and outdoor adventures. Benchmade truly stands behind their products with their excellent warranty.
4. Kershaw Iridium Folding Pocket Knife
Rating: 8.8/10
The Kershaw Iridium Folding Pocket Knife is a sharp and stylish tool designed for everyday carry. Its sleek grey aluminum handle feels good in your hand, and the D2 steel blade is ready for tough jobs. This knife opens smoothly and locks securely, making it a reliable companion.
What We Like:
- The DuraLock system is super strong and keeps the blade safely open.
- It opens really fast thanks to the KVT ball-bearing system and thumb studs.
- The D2 steel blade holds its sharpness for a long time and is tough.
- The deep-carry pocketclip can be moved for left or right-handed users.
- It looks great with its two-tone blade and bronze accents.
- The medium weight feels just right in your pocket, not too heavy or too light.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the aluminum handle looks nice, it might show scratches over time.
- The DuraLock mechanism, while secure, requires two hands to close.
The Kershaw Iridium is a well-made pocket knife that offers a great balance of style and function. It’s a solid choice for anyone needing a dependable blade for daily tasks.
5. Benchmade – Bugout 535 EDC Knife with Black CF-Elite Handle (535BK-2)
Rating: 8.7/10
The Benchmade Bugout 535BK-2 is a super light and tough knife made for all your adventures. It’s perfect for hiking, camping, or just carrying around every day. This knife is built to go anywhere and do anything you need it to.
What We Like:
- It’s incredibly light, like a feather, but still super strong.
- The CF-Elite handle is lighter and feels stiffer, making it comfortable to hold.
- The CPM-S30V steel keeps a sharp edge for a long time and resists rust.
- It’s made right here in Oregon City, Oregon!
- The handle is designed for both right and left-handed people, with a great grip.
- The AXIS lock is safe and easy to open and close.
- It has a reversible clip and a hole for a lanyard, so you can carry it your way.
- Benchmade will sharpen your knife for free, forever, through their LifeSharp service.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the CF-Elite handle is light, some users might prefer a more traditional handle material.
- The drop-point blade is very versatile, but for very specific tasks, a different blade shape might be preferred.
This knife is a fantastic addition to your everyday carry gear. It’s reliable, easy to use, and backed by Benchmade’s awesome lifetime service.
Choosing Your Benchmade Pocket Knife: A Guide to Quality
Benchmade pocket knives are known for being tough and reliable. They are great tools for everyday tasks and outdoor adventures. Picking the right one can feel tricky with so many options. This guide will help you find the perfect Benchmade knife for you.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re looking at Benchmade knives, keep these important features in mind:
- Blade Steel: This is what the blade is made of. Different steels are good for different things. Some are very strong and hold an edge well. Others are easier to sharpen.
- Locking Mechanism: This keeps the blade open safely when you use it. Benchmade has several popular locks like the Axis Lock. It’s known for being strong and easy to use with one hand.
- Handle Material: This is what you hold. It affects how the knife feels in your hand and how well you can grip it.
- Blade Shape: The shape of the blade helps with different cutting jobs. A drop-point blade is good for many tasks. A tanto blade is strong for piercing.
- Size and Weight: Consider how you’ll carry and use the knife. Smaller knives are easier to carry. Heavier knives can feel more solid.
Important Materials Benchmade Uses
Benchmade uses high-quality materials to make their knives last.
- Blade Steel: You’ll often see steels like CPM-S30V, CPM-M4, and D2. CPM-S30V is a popular choice. It’s very strong and stays sharp for a long time. CPM-M4 is even tougher and holds an edge incredibly well. D2 steel is also very durable and a bit easier to sharpen than the others.
- Handle Materials: Common handle materials include G10 and aluminum. G10 is a strong, lightweight composite. It provides a great grip, even when wet. Aluminum handles are also strong and feel premium. Some knives use durable plastics for lighter weight.
Factors That Affect Quality
Benchmade knives are known for their quality. Several things make them stand out.
- Manufacturing Precision: Benchmade knives are made with great care. The parts fit together perfectly. This makes the knife feel solid and work smoothly.
- Heat Treatment: How the steel is heated and cooled is very important. Good heat treatment makes the blade strong and able to hold its sharpness. Benchmade does this very well.
- Fit and Finish: This refers to how nice the knife looks and feels. Clean lines, smooth action, and no rough edges all show high quality.
- Durability: Benchmade knives are built to last. They can handle tough jobs without breaking.
User Experience and Use Cases
Benchmade knives are used by many people for many reasons.
- Everyday Carry (EDC): Many people carry a Benchmade knife daily. It’s useful for opening packages, cutting rope, or making quick fixes. Knives like the Griptilian or Bugout are popular for EDC. They are light and easy to carry.
- Outdoor Activities: Hikers, campers, and hunters use Benchmade knives. They are strong enough for tasks like preparing food, making kindling, or even field dressing game. Knives with tougher steels and ergonomic handles are good for these uses.
- Tactical and Law Enforcement: Some Benchmade models are designed for tactical situations. They are built for speed and reliability. The Axis Lock is a favorite for its quick deployment.
A well-chosen Benchmade knife will serve you reliably for years. Think about what you’ll use it for most. Consider the blade steel, lock, and handle material. With this guide, you’re ready to find your perfect Benchmade.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What makes Benchmade knives so good?
A: Benchmade knives are good because they use top-quality materials, precise manufacturing, and excellent heat treatment for their blades. They are also known for their reliable locking mechanisms and comfortable, durable handles.
Q: Is CPM-S30V steel good for a pocket knife?
A: Yes, CPM-S30V steel is excellent for pocket knives. It’s very strong, holds an edge for a long time, and resists rust well.
Q: What is the Axis Lock on a Benchmade knife?
A: The Axis Lock is a special locking system Benchmade uses. It’s a sliding bar that locks the blade open. It’s known for being very strong, easy to operate with one hand, and reliable.
Q: How do I choose the right size Benchmade knife?
A: You should choose a size that fits how you plan to carry and use the knife. Smaller knives are better for everyday carry, while larger ones might be better for tougher outdoor tasks.
Q: Are Benchmade knives hard to sharpen?
A: Some Benchmade steels, like CPM-M4, can be a bit harder to sharpen than others. However, with the right sharpening tools and technique, they can be sharpened effectively.
Q: What is the difference between a drop-point and a tanto blade?
A: A drop-point blade has a point that slopes down from the spine. It’s a very versatile shape for many cutting tasks. A tanto blade has a more angular point with a distinct edge change. It’s very strong for piercing.
Q: Can I use a Benchmade knife for heavy-duty tasks?
A: Yes, many Benchmade knives are built for heavy-duty tasks. Models with stronger steels, robust locks, and thicker blades are best suited for demanding jobs.
Q: How do I maintain my Benchmade pocket knife?
A: You should keep your knife clean and dry. Lubricate the pivot regularly with a good knife oil. Sharpen the blade when it gets dull to keep it in top condition.
Q: Are Benchmade knives worth the price?
A: Many people believe Benchmade knives are worth the price because of their high quality, durability, and excellent performance. They are an investment that can last for many years.
Q: Where can I buy Benchmade pocket knives?
A: You can buy Benchmade pocket knives from authorized dealers, reputable online retailers, and directly from the Benchmade website.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Larry Fish, the mind behind MyGrinderGuide.com.. With a passion for all things kitchen appliances, I created this blog to share my hands-on experience and expert knowledge. Whether it’s helping you choose the right tools for your culinary adventures or offering tips to make your kitchen more efficient, I’m here to guide you. My goal is to make your time in the kitchen not only easier but also enjoyable! Welcome to my world of kitchen mastery!