Ever felt that frustrating moment of needing a knife, but realizing you don’t have one? Maybe you needed to open a package, cut a loose thread, or even just prepare a quick snack. A good everyday carry (EDC) knife can be a lifesaver! But, picking the right one can be a real headache.
Choosing a Benchmade knife for your EDC is important. There are so many models, steel types, and features. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed! You might worry about getting a knife that is too big, too small, or not tough enough for daily tasks. You might also worry about the price. Don’t worry, that’s why I’m here to help!
In this blog post, you’ll learn how to choose the perfect Benchmade knife for your EDC. We will look at important things like blade shape, size, and materials. By the end, you’ll know exactly what to look for. You’ll be able to choose a Benchmade knife that fits your needs perfectly. Let’s dive in and find your perfect EDC companion!
Our Top 5 Benchmade Knife For Edc Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Benchmade Knife For Edc Detailed Reviews
1. Benchmade – Bugout 535 EDC Knife with Storm Gray Grivory Handle (535BK-08)
Rating: 8.9/10
The Benchmade Bugout 535 EDC knife is a popular choice for everyday carry. It features a drop-point blade and a sleek storm gray Grivory handle. This knife uses Benchmade’s reliable AXIS lock mechanism. The Bugout 535BK-08 is designed to be lightweight and easy to carry. It’s a great option for anyone needing a reliable and functional knife.
What We Like:
- The knife is very lightweight.
- It has a strong and durable AXIS lock.
- The Grivory handle offers a good grip.
- The drop-point blade is versatile for many tasks.
- It is easy to open and close.
What Could Be Improved:
- The Grivory handle might feel less premium than some other materials.
In conclusion, the Benchmade Bugout 535BK-08 is a good EDC knife. It is a great option for people who want a lightweight and reliable knife for daily use.
2. Benchmade – Bugout Folding Knife with Burnt Brass Aluminum Handle (535BK-07)
Rating: 8.6/10
The Benchmade Bugout Folding Knife with the Burnt Brass Aluminum Handle (535BK-07) is a fantastic knife. It is light and strong. This knife is made for many tasks. It is great for hiking, camping, and everyday use. The Bugout is easy to carry and use.
What We Like:
- It is light as a feather! You can take it anywhere.
- The AXIS locking mechanism keeps you safe. It opens and closes smoothly.
- The handle is made from burnt brass aluminum. It looks cool and is strong.
- It has a reversible clip. You can carry it the way you like.
- There is a lanyard hole. You can add a lanyard.
- It’s a great addition to your EDC kit. Use it in your backpack or survival kit.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users may find the price a little high.
The Benchmade Bugout is a great knife. It is a good choice for anyone who needs a reliable and lightweight knife. We think you will like it!
3. Benchmade – Mini Bugout 533 Folding Knife with Sage Green Grivory Handle (533SL-07)
Rating: 8.7/10
The Benchmade Mini Bugout 533 Folding Knife is small but mighty. It is a great knife for anyone who enjoys the outdoors. This knife is perfect for hiking, camping, and even everyday use. It is lightweight and easy to carry. The Mini Bugout is made in America and built to last.
What We Like:
- LIGHT AS A FEATHER: This knife is super light! It is easy to carry all day long.
- AMERICAN MADE CPM-S30V STEEL: The blade is made of strong steel. It keeps a sharp edge and won’t rust easily.
- FULLY AMBIDEXTROUS GRIVORY HANDLE: The handle feels good in your hand. It is strong and has a good grip.
- AXIS LOCKING MECHANISM: This lock keeps the blade open safely. It also lets you open and close the knife easily.
- YOURS, FOR LIFE: Benchmade will sharpen your knife for free! They will also clean and fix it for you.
What Could Be Improved:
- None
The Benchmade Mini Bugout is a top-notch knife. It is a great choice for anyone looking for a reliable and easy-to-carry knife.
4. Benchmade – Mini Freek 565BK-2 EDC Knife with Gray/Black G10 Handle (565BK-2)
Rating: 9.3/10
The Benchmade Mini Freek 565BK-2 is a tough knife. It’s made for everyday carry (EDC). This knife has a drop-point blade. It is great for many tasks. The AXIS lock keeps the blade secure. The handle is gray and black G10. It has a cool red base layer. Stainless steel liners make it strong.
What We Like:
- The AXIS lock is very smooth. It is easy to open and close.
- The G10 handle is grippy. It feels great in your hand.
- The drop-point blade is useful for many things.
- It is a durable knife. It should last a long time.
- The size is perfect for EDC. It is easy to carry around.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some people might find the price a bit high.
- The red base layer is a nice touch, but some prefer a more subtle look.
The Benchmade Mini Freek 565BK-2 is a solid EDC knife. It’s a good choice for anyone who needs a reliable blade. You can use this knife to cut many things.
5. Benchmade – Griptilian 550-S30V EDC Knife with Black Handle (550-S30V)
Rating: 9.3/10
The Benchmade Griptilian 550-S30V is a great everyday carry (EDC) knife. It’s a reliable tool for many tasks. This knife is tough and easy to handle. The Griptilian 550-S30V is a great choice for anyone who needs a dependable knife.
What We Like:
- The CPM-S30V stainless steel blade is strong. It holds its edge well and fights rust.
- The glass-filled nylon handle is durable. It also looks good.
- The AXIS lock is very strong. It works well for both left and right-handed users.
- You can open and close the knife with one hand.
- The knife is lightweight. It is comfortable to hold and carry.
- The reversible pocket clip makes it easy to access.
- The sheepsfoot blade is good for slicing. It is great for everyday use, outdoor adventures, and survival situations.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might prefer a different blade shape.
The Benchmade Griptilian 550-S30V is a solid EDC knife. It offers great features and performance for its price. You will not be disappointed with this knife.
Benchmade Knife for EDC: Your Everyday Companion
Choosing the right knife for everyday carry (EDC) is important. A good EDC knife is useful and safe. Benchmade makes some of the best EDC knives. This guide helps you choose the right one for you.
Key Features to Look For
You need to know what makes a good EDC knife. Here are some key features to consider:
- Blade Shape: Different blade shapes are good for different tasks.
- Drop-Point: This is a very common shape. It is good for general use.
- Clip-Point: This shape has a curved spine. It’s good for piercing and slicing.
- Sheepsfoot: This shape has a straight edge. It’s good for controlled cuts.
- Wharncliffe: This has a straight edge and a spine that slopes down to the tip. It is good for detail work.
- Blade Steel: The steel makes the blade strong. It also affects how well it holds an edge.
- Handle Material: The handle makes the knife easy to hold. It also adds to the look and feel.
- Locking Mechanism: A good lock keeps the blade open safely.
- Axis Lock: This is Benchmade’s famous lock. It is strong and easy to use.
- Liner Lock: This is a common and reliable lock.
- Frame Lock: This is a strong lock that uses part of the handle.
- Size and Weight: Consider how big and heavy the knife is. You will carry it every day.
- Pocket Clip: A pocket clip lets you carry the knife easily.
Important Materials
The materials used in a Benchmade knife are very important. They affect its performance and durability.
- Blade Steel: Benchmade uses different types of steel. Some common steels include:
- CPM-S30V: This is a good all-around steel. It is strong and holds an edge well.
- CPM-154: This steel is also very good. It is known for its edge retention.
- 154CM: A high quality steel, with good edge retention and is easy to sharpen.
- Handle Materials: Benchmade uses different handle materials.
- G10: This is a strong and grippy material. It is made of fiberglass.
- Aluminum: This is a lightweight and durable material.
- Carbon Fiber: This material is lightweight and looks great.
- Titanium: This material is very strong and corrosion-resistant.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things affect the quality of a Benchmade knife.
- Heat Treatment: The heat treatment process makes the steel strong and durable. Proper heat treatment is very important.
- Fit and Finish: A well-made knife has a smooth action. The parts fit together perfectly.
- Blade Grind: The blade grind affects how well the knife cuts. Benchmade knives have very good grinds.
- Quality Control: Benchmade has a good quality control process. This makes sure each knife is made well.
User Experience and Use Cases
A Benchmade EDC knife is great for many uses.
- Opening Packages: It is easy to cut open boxes and packages.
- Cutting Rope: The knife can cut rope and cord easily.
- Preparing Food: You can use it to cut fruit and other food items. (Be sure to clean it!)
- Self-Defense: The knife can be used for self-defense, but use it as a last resort.
- General Tasks: You can use it for many other small tasks. It is a very handy tool.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the best Benchmade knife for a beginner?
A: The Benchmade Mini-Griptilian is a popular choice. It is a good size and easy to use.
Q: How do I sharpen my Benchmade knife?
A: You can use a sharpening stone or a sharpening system. Follow the instructions carefully.
Q: What is the Axis Lock?
A: The Axis Lock is a locking mechanism made by Benchmade. It is strong and easy to use.
Q: How can I clean my Benchmade knife?
A: You can use warm water and soap. Rinse the knife and dry it well.
Q: What is the warranty on a Benchmade knife?
A: Benchmade offers a limited lifetime warranty against defects in materials and workmanship.
Q: What is the best blade steel for EDC?
A: CPM-S30V and CPM-154 are good choices. They hold an edge well and are easy to sharpen.
Q: What handle material is the most durable?
A: G10 and titanium are very durable handle materials.
Q: How do I choose the right blade shape?
A: Consider what you will use the knife for. Drop-point blades are great for general use.
Q: Are Benchmade knives worth the price?
A: Yes, Benchmade knives are worth the price. They are well-made and use high-quality materials.
Q: Where are Benchmade knives made?
A: Benchmade knives are made in the USA.
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!