Imagine you’re out in the wilderness, and you need a reliable tool to help you with a task. What do you reach for? For many, the answer is a Benchmade folding knife. These knives are famous for being tough and useful. But with so many different types of Benchmade knives, picking the perfect one can feel like a puzzle.
Maybe you’ve looked at their website and felt a little lost. You want a knife that will last, that feels good in your hand, and that does exactly what you need it to do. It’s tough to know which blade shape is best or what kind of steel will hold its edge the longest. You want to make sure you’re getting the best value for your money, and you don’t want to end up with a knife that just sits in a drawer.
That’s where this guide comes in. We’re going to break down what makes Benchmade knives so special. We’ll help you understand the different features and show you how to find the one that’s just right for you. By the end, you’ll feel confident in your choice and ready to tackle any task with your new Benchmade companion.
Our Top 5 Benchmade Folding Knife Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Benchmade Folding Knife Detailed Reviews
1. Benchmade – Mini Griptilian 556-S30V Outdoor Knife with Black Grivory Handle
Rating: 9.2/10
The Benchmade Mini Griptilian 556-S30V is a fantastic knife for anyone who needs a reliable tool for daily tasks or outdoor adventures. It’s designed to be simple yet highly functional, making it a great choice for almost anything you throw at it. Because it’s small and light, it fits perfectly in your pocket, backpack, or survival kit.
What We Like:
- It is built to perform well in many situations.
- The 154CM stainless steel blade holds its sharpness and resists rust.
- The drop-point blade shape is strong and can be used for many different jobs.
- The Grivory handle is tough and has a good grip.
- It is made for both left-handed and right-handed people.
- The AXIS locking system keeps the blade securely open and makes it easy to close.
- It has a reversible clip and a hole for a lanyard, giving you flexible ways to carry it.
- Benchmade offers a free sharpening service for life through their LifeSharp program.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might prefer a larger blade for heavier tasks.
- The black Grivory handle, while durable, might show scuffs or scratches over time.
The Benchmade Mini Griptilian 556-S30V is a well-made and dependable knife that’s ready for anything. Its solid performance and Benchmade’s excellent warranty make it a smart investment for your everyday carry or outdoor gear.
2. Benchmade – Griptilian 551-S30V EDC Knife with Black Handle (551-S30V)
Rating: 9.3/10
The Benchmade Griptilian 551-S30V is a fantastic knife for anyone who needs a reliable tool. Its tough build and smart design make it ready for anything you throw at it. Whether you’re opening boxes or heading out on an adventure, this knife is built to last.
What We Like:
- The blade is made of super strong CPM-S30V steel. It holds an edge really well and won’t rust easily.
- The black handle is made of strong, glass-filled nylon. It feels good in your hand and can handle tough jobs.
- Benchmade’s AXIS lock is very secure and works for both right and left-handed people.
- You can open and close this knife easily with one hand.
- It’s lightweight, so it’s comfortable to carry and use all day.
- The pocket clip can be moved, so you can carry it exactly how you like.
- The drop-point blade is great for all sorts of tasks, from daily chores to outdoor fun.
- Benchmade will even sharpen your knife for free for its whole life! They also clean and oil it.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the Griptilian is a great value, some might find the price a bit high compared to other everyday knives.
- The glass-filled nylon handle, while tough, might feel a little slippery to some users in very wet conditions.
The Benchmade Griptilian 551-S30V is a top-notch knife that offers great performance and durability. It’s a smart investment for your everyday carry needs.
3. Benchmade – Bugout Folding Knife with Burnt Brass Aluminum Handle (535BK-07)
Rating: 9.5/10
Meet the Benchmade Bugout Folding Knife with Burnt Brass Aluminum Handle (535BK-07). This knife is super light but really strong. It’s a great buddy for hiking, camping, and backpacking adventures. You can also use it every day. It’s a tool you can take anywhere.
What We Like:
- It’s as light as a feather but very tough.
- Perfect for hiking, camping, and everyday use.
- The AXIS locking system keeps it safe and opens and closes smoothly.
- It has a reversible clip and a lanyard hole for easy carrying.
- The aluminum handle feels good in your hand and is super strong.
- Benchmade will sharpen your knife for free, forever!
What Could Be Improved:
- The burnt brass aluminum handle might not be for everyone’s style.
- While durable, the lightweight design might feel less substantial for some heavy-duty tasks compared to heavier knives.
This Benchmade Bugout is a fantastic addition to your gear. Its light weight and dependable features make it a top choice for many outdoor activities and daily tasks.
4. Benchmade – Redoubt 430 Tactical Knife with Black Grivory Handle (430SBK-02)
Rating: 8.8/10
The Benchmade Redoubt 430 is a tough knife built for action. Its black Grivory handle has a special bumpy pattern. This makes it easy to hold on tight, even if you’re wearing gloves. The blade is made of strong CPM-D2 steel and has a black coating. It’s a drop-point blade, meaning it’s good for many different jobs. The knife also has a special locking system called AXIS, which keeps it safe when it’s open and makes it easy to close.
What We Like:
- The textured Grivory handle gives you a really strong grip.
- The CPM-D2 steel blade is strong and holds its sharpness well.
- The black Cerakote finish protects the blade from scratches.
- The AXIS lock is super safe and opens and closes smoothly.
- Benchmade offers free sharpening for life through their LifeSharp service.
- This service also includes cleaning, oiling, and adjusting your knife.
What Could Be Improved:
- The textured handle might feel rough to some users without gloves.
- The black Cerakote finish could potentially chip over time with heavy use.
The Benchmade Redoubt 430 is a reliable tool that is built to last. Its thoughtful design and excellent support make it a smart choice for anyone needing a dependable knife.
5. Benchmade – Mini Bugout 533 Folding Knife with White Givory Handle (533BK-1)
Rating: 9.2/10
The Benchmade Mini Bugout 533 is a fantastic folding knife that’s incredibly light but still very strong. It’s perfect for all sorts of outdoor adventures like hiking and camping, and it’s also a great tool for your everyday tasks. This knife is designed to go wherever you go, making it a super handy companion.
What We Like:
- It’s light as a feather, making it easy to carry anywhere.
- The CPM-S30V steel blade keeps its sharp edge for a long time and won’t rust easily.
- The handle is made of strong Grivory and has a good grip that feels comfortable in your hand.
- The AXIS lock is safe and makes opening and closing the knife smooth and simple.
- Benchmade offers a free lifetime sharpening service, so your knife will always be sharp.
- It’s made in Oregon City, Oregon, which is a sign of quality American craftsmanship.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the Grivory handle is durable, some users might prefer the feel of other materials.
This knife is a top-notch choice for anyone needing a reliable and lightweight cutting tool. You can trust Benchmade’s quality and their commitment to keeping your knife in perfect condition for years to come.
Benchmade Folding Knives: Your Guide to the Perfect Cut
Benchmade folding knives are known for their quality. They are strong and reliable tools. Many people choose Benchmade for everyday carry, outdoor adventures, or even as a collector’s item. This guide will help you choose the right Benchmade folding knife for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re looking at Benchmade knives, a few things stand out.
- Blade Steel: This is super important. Different steels have different strengths. Some are very hard and keep an edge for a long time. Others are tough and won’t break easily. CPM-S30V and CPM-M4 are popular choices for good reason. They are strong and hold up well.
- Opening Mechanism: How does the blade open? Benchmade is famous for its AXIS Lock. This lock is safe and easy to use with one hand. It works for both right and left-handed people. Other knives might have a thumb stud or a flipper. These also make opening quick.
- Handle Material: The handle is what you hold. It needs to feel good and be secure in your hand. G10 is a common material. It’s strong, light, and doesn’t slip. Other options include aluminum or Micarta. These feel different but are also good choices.
- Blade Shape: The shape of the blade matters for what you’ll do with it. A drop-point blade is good for general cutting. A Tanto blade is great for piercing. A sheepsfoot blade is safe for cutting rope without accidentally cutting yourself.
Important Materials
Benchmade uses top-notch materials.
- Blade Steels: As mentioned, CPM-S30V is a stainless steel. It’s made to resist rust and keep a sharp edge. CPM-M4 is a tool steel. It’s known for its toughness and ability to hold an edge, but it needs a little more care to prevent rust.
- Handle Materials: G10 is a strong composite. It’s made of fiberglass cloth and epoxy resin. This makes it very durable and resistant to heat and chemicals. Aluminum is lighter but can scratch more easily. Micarta is a material made from layers of linen or canvas soaked in resin. It offers a good grip, even when wet.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Benchmade is known for high quality. But some things can affect it.
- Fit and Finish: This is how well the knife is put together. Are the parts aligned? Is the blade centered when closed? A good fit and finish means the knife feels solid and smooth. Poor fit and finish can mean a knife feels loose or has rough edges.
- Blade Sharpness: A sharp knife is a safe knife. Benchmade knives usually come very sharp from the factory. If a knife isn’t sharp, it’s harder to cut with. This can be frustrating.
- Locking Mechanism: The lock keeps the blade open when you’re using it. The AXIS Lock is very reliable. A weak or unreliable lock can be dangerous. You want a lock that feels secure and doesn’t wiggle.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you use your knife will guide your choice.
- Everyday Carry (EDC): For EDC, you want a knife that’s easy to carry and use daily. A smaller, lighter knife with a durable blade is ideal. The Bugout series is very popular for EDC. It’s lightweight and easy to carry in your pocket.
- Outdoor Activities: If you’re hiking, camping, or fishing, you need a tougher knife. A blade made of a strong steel like CPM-M4 is good. You might also want a larger handle for a better grip with gloves. The Griptilian series is a great choice for outdoor use.
- Tactical or Self-Defense: For these uses, reliability and quick deployment are key. The AXIS Lock is excellent for this. Knives with a more tactical look and feel, like the Adamas series, are often chosen.
Choosing a Benchmade folding knife means you’re investing in a quality tool. Think about what you’ll use it for most. Then, look at the blade steel, opening mechanism, and handle material. With a little research, you’ll find the Benchmade that’s perfect for you.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Are Benchmade knives worth the price?
A: Yes, Benchmade knives are generally considered worth the price. They use high-quality materials and have excellent craftsmanship. They are built to last.
Q: What is the most popular Benchmade knife?
A: The Griptilian series is very popular. The Bugout is also a top choice, especially for everyday carry.
Q: How do I clean and maintain my Benchmade knife?
A: You should clean your knife regularly. Use mild soap and water. Dry it thoroughly. You can use a light oil on the pivot to keep it working smoothly.
Q: Can I sharpen a Benchmade knife myself?
A: Yes, you can. Benchmade uses steels that can be sharpened with common sharpening systems. However, be careful not to damage the blade.
Q: What does “AXIS Lock” mean?
A: The AXIS Lock is Benchmade’s patented locking mechanism. It’s a spring-loaded bar that slides forward to lock the blade open and back to unlock it.
Q: Is Benchmade a good brand for beginners?
A: Yes, Benchmade offers knives that are easy to use and maintain, making them a good choice for beginners who want a quality knife.
Q: What is the difference between CPM-S30V and CPM-M4 steel?
A: CPM-S30V is a stainless steel that holds an edge very well and resists rust. CPM-M4 is a tool steel that is tougher and can hold an edge even better, but it needs more care to prevent rust.
Q: Can Benchmade knives be customized?
A: Some Benchmade knives can be customized with aftermarket parts, like different colored scales or pocket clips.
Q: Are Benchmade knives made in the USA?
A: Yes, all Benchmade knives are designed and manufactured in the USA.
Q: What is the warranty on a Benchmade knife?
A: Benchmade offers a limited lifetime warranty on their knives. This covers defects in materials and workmanship.
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 Scott Fischer, the voice behind SliceItRight. My passion for food started in my grandmother’s kitchen, where I learned the art of slicing, dicing, and creating delicious meals. Over the years, I’ve explored everything from the perfect kitchen gadgets to mastering culinary techniques, and I’m here to share all of it with you. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced home chef, my goal is to make cooking easier, more enjoyable, and a lot more fun. So, let’s slice it right and cook up something amazing together!