For those who venture into the great outdoors, a Benchmarke knife is an indispensable companion. Whether you’re embarking on a camping trip, heading out for a hunting expedition, or requiring a trusty sidekick for tactical scenarios, a Benchmade knife stands ready to tackle any challenge that comes its way.
The rugged wilderness can be unforgiving, but with the reliability of a superbly crafted Benchmade EDC knife by your side, you’ll be well-equipped to handle any emergency scenario that arises. The Oregon City-based company is renowned for crafting high-quality knives and tools that cater to various lifestyles.
If you’re planning a hunting trip, tactical operation, or search and rescue mission, or simply desire a dependable everyday carry (EDC) knife, a Benchmade knife deserves a place in your survival kit, camping gear, or pocket.
The 10 Best Benchmade Knives
Among the array of exceptional products from Benchmade, several standout models have garnered attention for their innovative designs and unparalleled performance. The Benchmade Bugout 535, with its 7.46-inch folding blade, is a prime example. Additionally, the Griptilian 551 Knife, Reverse Tanto 940 Knife, and 980SBK Turret Folding Knife offer impressive feats of engineering and craftsmanship.
For those seeking more compact options, the Mini Crooked River 15080-2 Knife, Mini Boost 595 Knife, and Mini Barrage 585 Folding Knife cater to smaller hands or specific use cases. Meanwhile, the 15061 Grizzly Ridge Knife and Bushcrafter 162 Knife showcase Benchmade’s expertise in crafting high-quality fixed-blade knives. The Saddle MTN Skinner R/L Fixed Blade Knife stands out as our top pick, boasting a unique design that has earned it widespread acclaim.
Our Top Pick for the Best Benchmade Knife
At the pinnacle of our esteemed list stands the Benchmade Bushcrafter 162 Knife, a stalwart companion for outdoor enthusiasts and professionals alike. This exceptional tool boasts a masterful blend of innovative design and unfaltering functionality, ensuring that you’re always equipped to tackle any unexpected situation, from wilderness survival to hunting or tactical operations. And if you’d like to bring this potent ally home, we recommend checking the current price on Amazon.
How to Choose the Best Benchmade Knife
Types of Blades
Benchmade knives are known for their high-quality blades, which come in two primary forms: plain-edges and serrated-edges. The versatility of these blades allows them to be used effectively on a wide range of materials, from meat and wood to plastics and beyond. The plain-edge blade is particularly notable for its ability to make clean cuts and provide more control over the cutting process.
Additionally, it’s generally easier to sharpen than a serrated blade, making it a great choice for everyday use. Its effectiveness extends to tasks such as cutting through a variety of materials, including meat, wood, and plastics. On the other hand, the serrated-edge blade is better suited for more specific applications. Its rougher texture makes it ideal for sawing through tough fibrous materials like rope or animal hide.
However, its effectiveness drops off when trying to cut softer materials like a tomato, and sharpening can be more challenging than with a plain-edge blade.
Blade Finishes
While polished blades boast a striking reflective surface, corrosion resistance, and ease of cleaning, their susceptibility to scratches is a drawback. Satin finish blades, on the other hand, offer good corrosion resistance but may reveal scratches more readily. Meanwhile, black powder or titanium nitride coated knives exude sleek style while boasting impressive rust-resistance; however, the coating can degrade over time.
To ensure optimal performance and longevity of your chosen blade, be sure to clean, dry, and oil it regularly.
Specific Blade Types
The three types of blades – clip-point, drop-point, and tanto – each offer unique characteristics that make them suitable for specific tasks. The clip-point blade boasts a clipped-off end, resulting in a razor-sharp edge perfect for piercing animal hide and quick stabbing actions. However, due to its tapered design, it may not be as strong as other blades, making it less ideal for heavy-duty applications.
In contrast, the drop-point blade, exemplified by the Benchmade Bushcrafter 162, presents a well-balanced and solid design featuring a thicker, sharp pointed end. This versatility makes it suitable for a broad range of cutting tasks and materials. Finally, the tanto blade stands out with its high, extremely strong point and flat grind, making it an excellent choice for both stabbing and cutting through hard materials.
Folding Knives Versus Fixed Blade Knives
A manually operated folding knife offers unparalleled speed and accessibility to its blade. The design is centered around providing quick deployment of the cutting edge, requiring only a deliberate thumb motion and a swift wrist flick. This is achieved through the use of a locking mechanism, such as Benchmade’s proprietary AXIS lock system. With this technology, the blade is released with precision, springing into action once you’ve pressed the thumb stud.
When it’s time to stow the knife, simply repeat the process and the locking mechanism will smoothly re-close the blade, securing it in a safe and secure position.
Blade Length
When it comes to blade length, there’s a significant range to consider – from the relatively short 2.97 inches to the more substantial 4.40-inch. The shorter end of the spectrum is often preferred for delicate cutting tasks that require precision and control, whereas longer blades offer versatility in applications such as cutting rope, trimming branches, or even batoning wood. The choice ultimately depends on the specific task at hand.
Blade Construction
Benchmade knives are renowned for their exceptional blades, and when it comes to the metal used, two primary options stand out: stainless steel and high-carbon steel. The former is characterized by its premium American-made nature, featuring CPM-S30V as a prime example. This results in a razor-sharp edge with superior retention, excellent centering, and impressive corrosion resistance. However, it’s worth noting that this softer metal requires more frequent sharpening using a quality whetstone.
In contrast, high-carbon steel (with HRC ratings ranging from 56-58 to 58-61) is an incredibly hard material that yields an ultra-durable blade with remarkable edge retention. While its extra hardness makes it slightly more challenging to sharpen, it also means the blade is less likely to rust or corrode easily – but only if proper care is taken.
Handle
When it comes to crafting handles, there are several materials to consider. Glass-filled nylon and G10, a high-pressure fiberglass laminate, offer exceptional durability and grip, even in wet conditions. The textured surface with scales provides an enhanced hold, although some individuals may find it uncomfortable. In contrast, wood provides a solid and sturdy handle, but can become slippery when exposed to moisture.
The choice of material ultimately depends on the intended application and personal preference. The thickness of the handle is also crucial, as it directly impacts performance. A slimline handle is ideal for hunting purposes, while a thicker handle is better suited for demanding tasks or combat scenarios where extra stability is required.
Sheath
Having a knife readily available while also ensuring its safe storage and maintenance is crucial. A sheath plays a vital role in this process, allowing you to securely fasten the knife to your belt or backpack while keeping the blade in optimal condition.
10 Best Benchmade Knives – Reviews
Benchmade Bugout 535 7.46-Inch Folding Knife
When venturing into the great outdoors, having a reliable and versatile knife by your side can make all the difference. The Benchmade Bugout 535 Folding Knife is an excellent choice for everyday carry (EDC), hiking, camping, or backpacking. Its 3.24-inch long and 0.090-inch thick premium-quality CPM-S30V stainless steel blade boasts razor-sharpness, exceptional edge retention, good centering, and high corrosion resistance.
The precision drop-point/partially serrated blade is designed for toughness and versatility, allowing it to effortlessly slice through meat, cut firewood and twine, or even slice an apple. A comfortable grip is provided by the fully ambidextrous slimline blue Grivory glass-filled nylon handle, which offers superior durability and an ergonomic, contoured, textured design that fits well in your hand. The manually operated AXIS lock enables smooth one-handed opening and closing of the knife.
For added versatility, the knife features a reversible clip and a lanyard hole. Weighing in at only 1.85 ounces, this ultra-lightweight knife won’t weigh you down and folds into a compact 4.22-inch size that fits easily in your pocket or backpack. The Bugout 535 is also available with a plain edge blade and green Grivory handle for added options.
Benchmade stands behind their product with a lifetime warranty and LifeSharp Service guarantee, ensuring you can trust this knife to be by your side on any adventure.
Benchmade Griptilian 551 Knife
The Benchmade Griptilian 551 Knife is an exceptional choice for those seeking a rugged and reliable blade for everyday carry, camping, or tactical applications. The 3.45-inch long and 0.115-inch thick 154CM high-carbon stainless steel blade boasts a black coated finish that provides added durability and rust-resistance. Its razor-sharp drop-point utility blade edge delivers versatility, making it suitable for tasks such as feathering sticks for firewood, carving wood, or even combat situations.
The manually-operated AXIS lock, renowned for its strength and ambidexterity, enables one-handed opening and closing of the blade. The lightweight yet tough glass-filled nylon handle features a textured grip that provides a comfortable hold. Additionally, the knife’s reversible pocket clip and lanyard hole ensure ultimate accessibility. Choose from two blade types – plain edge/satin finish or serrated edge/satin finish – and two color options: black and orange.
Benchmade backs their product with a limited lifetime warranty and LifeSharp Service guarantee, ensuring your investment remains in top condition. The Griptilian 551 excels due to its high quality, great value for money, and exceptional task functionality. While some may find the AXIS mechanism slightly challenging to open initially, the benefits far outweigh this minor drawback. However, a few users might find the handle too lightweight for heavy-duty tasks.
Overall, the Benchmade Griptilian 551 Knife is an outstanding choice for those seeking a reliable and high-performing blade.
Benchmade Reverse Tanto 940 Knife
The Benchmade Reverse Tanto 940 Knife is a versatile and stylish option for camping, everyday carry (EDC), survival, or tactical situations. Its exceptional build quality stems from its CPM-S30V 58-60 stainless steel construction, which yields a razor-sharp blade with excellent edge retention and rust resistance. Measuring 3.40 inches in length and 0.115 inches in thickness, the reverse tanto blade is well-balanced for smooth operation.
The knife features an innovative manually-operated AXIS lock that allows for one-handed use and boasts exceptional strength and ambidexterity. The lightweight green aluminum handle is ergonomically contoured for comfort during extended use. A reversible pocket clip ensures the knife remains easily accessible, even in compact spaces. Four different blade types and finishes are available: plain edge/coated, plain edge/satin, serrated edge/coated, and serrated edge/satin.
Additionally, Benchmade provides a limited lifetime warranty and LifeSharp Service guarantee, providing peace of mind for users. While the knife’s high quality justifies its premium price point, some may find it expensive compared to similar products. The lack of alternative handle colors and occasional uneven blade grind are also minor drawbacks. Nevertheless, the Reverse Tanto 940 Knife remains an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable and feature-rich EDC companion.
Benchmade 980SBK Turret Folding Knife
The Benchmade 980SBK Turret Folding Knife is a rugged and reliable companion for those in high-stress environments. Its 3.70-inch, 0.124-inch thick, 58-60 high-carbon stainless steel blade is designed to withstand the rigors of tactical scenarios, with its drop-point and partially serrated design providing exceptional versatility. The black coating protects the blade from rust, ensuring a sharp cutting performance even in harsh conditions.
The AXIS lock system allows for smooth, single-handed operation, making it easy to open and close the knife with either hand. The olive drab G10 handle is built to withstand extreme temperatures, offering a comfortable grip even when wet or cold. A reversible deep carry pocket clip and lanyard hole ensure that this knife can be carried securely in your pocket or attached to your gear.
Benchmade’s commitment to quality shines through in the Turret’s construction, with a limited lifetime warranty and LifeSharp Service guarantee backing up its performance. While it may be a bit pricey and heavier than some users prefer, the benefits of its heavy-duty design and exceptional edge retention make it an excellent choice for those who demand the best.
Benchmade Mini Crooked River 15080-2 Knife
The Benchmade Mini Crooked River 15080-2 Knife is an exceptional cutting tool designed for hunters, EDC enthusiasts, fishermen, and survivalists. Its premium quality CPM-S30V 58-60 stainless steel blade is expertly crafted to provide a razor-sharp edge with first-rate retention and high corrosion resistance. The strong clip-point/plain edge design enables quick and controlled cuts.
The contoured stabilized wood handle, backfilled with resin and featuring stainless steel liners, offers unparalleled durability in harsh environments. The knife’s unique manually operated ambidextrous AXIS lock system provides exceptional strength and smooth one-handed operation. For added convenience, the reversible split arrow pocket clip allows for belt attachment or the lanyard hole enables secure backpacking.
Benchmade stands behind its product with a limited lifetime warranty and LifeSharp Service guarantee. The Mini Crooked River 15080-2 Knife boasts several notable pros, including great quality, excellent value, and ideal applications in hunting, EDC, survival kits, and tackle boxes. Its premium steel, edge retention, and corrosion resistance make it a reliable choice for various environments. The contoured handle provides comfort during use, while the AXIS lock ensures smooth operation.
While some may view the knife as expensive, its exceptional quality and durability justify the investment. A few minor drawbacks include potential blade misalignment and soft wood handles that may affect grip.
Benchmade Mini Boost 595 Knife
The Benchmade Mini Boost 595 Knife is an outdoor enthusiast’s best friend, boasting a compact yet robust design that makes it perfect for campers, hikers, and fishermen. Its folding mechanism features a 3.11-inch long, 0.10-inch thick plain-edge blade crafted from high-carbon CPM-S30V steel, offering exceptional hardness, edge retention, and corrosion resistance thanks to its black coating.
The drop-point blade’s smooth cutting action and functionality make it an excellent addition to any outdoor gear. A manually-operated AXIS lock ensures rapid and secure deployment of the blade, with a fully ambidextrous design allowing for one-handed operation. The knife’s handle is constructed from strong and comfortable over-molded Versaflex and dark gray Grivory materials, providing a firm grip.
Weighing in at a lightweight yet durable package, this knife fits seamlessly into tackle boxes, backpacks, or survival kits. Its reversible deep-carry pocket clip makes it ideal for everyday carry. The Benchmade Mini Boost 595 Knife is backed by a limited lifetime warranty and LifeSharp Service guarantee. While some may find the price steep, the quality and performance of this knife make it well worth the investment.
Minor drawbacks include the potential for black coating chip-off and a slightly bulky pocket clip.
Benchmade Mini Barrage 585 Folding Knife
The Benchmade Mini Barrage 585 Folding Knife is an impressive EDC tool for wilderness explorers, boasting exceptional cutting performance. The premium-quality 58-61 high carbon stainless steel blade measures 2.91 inches long and 0.100 inches thick, providing a razor-sharp edge that excels at piercing animal hide or carving meat. Its partially serrated drop-point design allows it to effortlessly cut through thick materials like butter.
The black Valox handle with stainless steel liners ensures stability under extreme temperatures. The manually-operated fully ambidextrous AXIS lock is both strong and responsive, designed for easy one-handed operation. The ergonomic lightweight handle features a textured surface for a secure grip, while the reversible pocket clip and lanyard hole provide convenient accessibility.
Backed by a limited lifetime warranty and LifeSharp Service Guarantee, this folding knife offers exceptional value for its excellent quality, great edge retention, and corrosion-resistance.
Benchmade 15061 Grizzly Ridge Knife
The Benchmade 15061 Grizzly Ridge Knife excels at balancing style and functionality, making it an ideal choice for both hunting and everyday carry. The premium CPM-S30V stainless steel blade measures 3.50 inches long and 0.124 inches thick, boasting exceptional edge retention, high corrosion resistance, and a razor-sharp quality that holds up well to various cutting tasks. Its precision drop-point design provides added strength and versatility in its cutting capabilities. Weighing in at 3.
77 ounces, the knife feels well-balanced in hand, offering complete control over its movements. The Grivory Versaflex ambidextrous handle, crafted from glass-filled nylon, ensures a secure grip while also showcasing superior durability. The smooth AXIS lock allows for one-handed opening and closing of the blade. The knife’s compact design makes it easily pocketable, thanks to its reversible split arrow clip and lanyard hole.
Additionally, Benchmade stands behind their product with a limited lifetime warranty and LifeSharp Service guarantee. With these features, the Grizzly Ridge Knife is an excellent value for money, offering premium quality at a reasonable price.
Benchmade Bushcrafter 162 Knife
The Benchmade Bushcrafter 162 Knife is an exceptional tool for survival enthusiasts, offering unparalleled functionality in harsh outdoor conditions. Its robust design makes it suitable for various activities like camping, hunting, and tactical operations. The premium CPM-SS30V stainless steel blade, measuring 4.40 inches long and 0.164 inches thick, boasts a razor-sharp drop-point utility edge with superb edge qualities and excellent rust resistance.
A full tang design enhances the knife’s strength and reliability. The durable G10 handle is impervious to moisture, remaining stable under extreme temperatures and easy to clean. The full-grain leather sheath features a belt loop and D-ring for secure carrying, while also accommodating a Ferro rod. Additionally, the sheath’s plastic insert keeps the blade safely in place. Users can attach the knife to their backpack using the D-ring.
The Bushcrafter is available in two color options: green and red or sand. Benchmade backs this fixed-blade knife with a limited lifetime warranty and LifeSharp Service guarantee. While some may find the handle thick, making it challenging for those with smaller hands, the overall build quality and performance of the Bushcrafter justify its price point. However, the steel can be difficult to sharpen, which may be a drawback for some.
Benchmade Saddle MTN Skinner R/L Fixed Blade Knife
For big game hunters, the Benchmade Saddle MTN Skinner R/L Fixed Blade Knife is an exceptional cutting tool that sets a new standard for precision and reliability. Crafted with premium CPM-S90V stainless steel, this knife boasts a razor-sharp blade with exceptional edge retention and rust resistance. The well-balanced, full tang design provides greater strength and reliability compared to folding knives. The large 4.20-inch long and 0.
12-inch thick drop-point/plain-edge blade is specifically designed for big game hunters, exceling at cutting and meat removal tasks. Improved jimping along the blade offers increased control during tougher tasks. A comfortable, secure grip is ensured by the durable and ergonomic stabilized wood handle, making skinning and dressing game effortless. The knife also comes with a newly designed low-profile bright orange G10 fiberglass sheath for safe storage in your camping gear.
Additionally, you can attach the knife to your tactical backpack using the lanyard hole. Benchmade stands behind their product with a limited lifetime warranty and LifeSharp Service guarantee, providing customers with peace of mind.
Pros:* Fantastic quality* Excellent value for money* Specially designed for big game hunters* Perfect size for a hunting knife* Beautifully crafted Premium CPM-S90V stainless steel blade* Large, thick, and razor-sharp blade excels at skinning and meat removal* Exceptional edge retention and very good rust resistance* Improved jimping helps with tougher cutting tasks* Durable and comfortable stabilized wood handle* Sturdy fixed blade design* Well-balanced, full tang design provides greater strength and reliability than a folding knife* Easy to clean* Newly designed bright orange G10 fiberglass sheathCons:* Expensive* Handle can be slippery when wet
Our Top Pick for the Best Benchmade Knife
When it comes to selecting the ultimate Benchmade knife, our top recommendation without a doubt is the esteemed Benchmade Bushcrafter 162 Knife. This exceptional tool has earned its reputation as an indispensable survival companion for those who spend their days working or playing in the great outdoors.
Its ingenious design and unparalleled functionality make it the perfect choice for staying prepared for any unexpected situation, whether you’re facing a hunting challenge, responding to a tactical emergency, or simply relying on its reliability as a trusty sidekick.
