Benchmade is a premium American knife manufacturer known for producing high-quality cutting tools for everyday carry, outdoor survival, and professional use. Based in Oregon City, Oregon, the company has built a reputation for using advanced materials and precision engineering to create knives that last a lifetime. Whether you are looking for a lightweight pocket knife or a heavy-duty fixed blade, Benchmade offers a variety of options tailored to specific needs.
The History of Benchmade
The company was founded in the late 1980s by Les de Asis, who initially began making butterfly knives (balisongs) in his garage. The name “Benchmade” was chosen to represent a middle ground between mass-produced factory knives and custom, handmade knives. This philosophy ensures that while the parts are precision-machined, every knife is hand-assembled and finished by skilled technicians.
Over the decades, Benchmade has moved from a small operation to one of the most respected brands in the cutlery industry. They have pioneered several technologies that are now standards in the knife world. Today, they continue to innovate by collaborating with world-class designers and utilizing high-performance steels.
The AXIS Lock Mechanism
One of the most significant contributions Benchmade has made to the knife industry is the AXIS lock. This patented mechanism is often cited as one of the strongest and most reliable locking systems ever created for a folding knife. It allows the blade to be opened and closed easily with one hand, regardless of whether the user is right-handed or left-handed.
The AXIS lock works by using a small, spring-loaded bar that moves back and forth in a slot in the knife’s handle. When the blade is opened, the bar slides into a notch in the tang of the blade, locking it securely in place. To close the knife, the user simply pulls the bar back, allowing the blade to swing shut safely.
Popular Benchmade Models
Benchmade has a diverse catalog, but a few specific models have become icons in the knife community. Understanding the differences between these models can help you choose the right tool for your specific lifestyle.
The Bugout (Model 535)
The Bugout is currently one of the most popular knives in the world. It was designed to be incredibly lightweight and slim, making it perfect for hikers, backpackers, and anyone who wants a knife they can forget is in their pocket. Despite its light weight, it features a full-sized blade and the reliable AXIS lock.
The 940 Osborne
Designed by the late Warren Osborne, the 940 is considered a masterpiece of functional design. It features a unique reverse-tanto blade shape that provides a strong tip for piercing and a long edge for slicing. It is slim enough for office carry but tough enough for heavy work.
The Griptilian (Model 551/556)
The Griptilian is known for its ergonomic handle, which features a textured surface for a secure grip in wet or slippery conditions. It is available in several sizes and blade shapes, making it a versatile choice for general utility and outdoor tasks.
The Infidel
The Infidel is a high-end “out-the-front” (OTF) automatic knife. It is popular among military and law enforcement personnel for its rapid deployment and tactical design. It features a double-edged dagger blade and a sliding button on the face of the handle.
Understanding Blade Steels
Benchmade uses various types of high-performance steel, each offering different benefits regarding edge retention, toughness, and corrosion resistance. Knowing these terms helps you understand the price and performance of the knife.
- CPM-S30V: A very common high-end steel that offers a great balance of edge retention and corrosion resistance.
- CPM-20V / M390: These are “super steels” known for holding an edge for a very long time, though they can be more difficult to sharpen.
- CPM-CruWear: A steel designed for extreme toughness, making it ideal for knives that will be used for hard labor or survival.
- D2: A tool steel that is very hard and wear-resistant, though it requires more maintenance to prevent rust.
The LifeSharp Service
One of the biggest advantages of owning a Benchmade knife is the “LifeSharp” guarantee. Benchmade stands behind their products by offering a lifetime of free maintenance for every authentic knife they produce. This service is a significant value-add for owners who want to keep their tools in peak condition.
Under the LifeSharp program, you can send your knife back to the Benchmade factory at any time. Their technicians will disassemble the knife, clean it, replace any worn-out internal springs, and sharpen the blade to a factory edge. You only have to pay for the shipping to get the knife to them; the service itself and the return shipping are free.
How to Choose the Right Benchmade Knife
With so many options, selecting the right knife can feel overwhelming. To narrow down your choices, consider how you plan to use the knife on a daily basis.
- Everyday Carry (EDC): Look for lightweight models like the Bugout or the 940 Osborne. These are comfortable to carry in a pocket all day.
- Outdoor and Survival: Look for fixed-blade models like the Bushcrafter or the Puukko. Fixed blades are stronger than folders for heavy tasks like splitting wood.
- Hunting: Benchmade has a dedicated Hunt line. These knives feature specialized blade geometries and handle materials that are easy to clean after processing game.
- Tactical Use: Consider automatic models or knives with larger, more aggressive blade profiles if your profession requires a quick-deploying tool.
Maintenance and Care Tips
While Benchmade knives are built to be tough, regular maintenance will ensure they perform reliably for years. Follow these simple steps to care for your knife:
Cleaning: After use, wipe the blade clean to remove any moisture or debris. If the knife gets particularly dirty, you can use warm soapy water and a soft brush to clean the handle and the locking mechanism. Always dry the knife thoroughly after washing.
Lubrication: Periodically apply a single drop of high-quality knife oil to the pivot point where the blade rotates. This keeps the action smooth and prevents wear on the internal components.
Sharpening: For minor touch-ups, you can use a ceramic honing rod or a leather strop. If the blade becomes very dull, you can use a guided sharpening system or take advantage of the LifeSharp service.
How to Identify Authentic Benchmade Knives
Because Benchmade is a premium brand, counterfeit knives are unfortunately common on the secondary market. To ensure you are buying a genuine product, always purchase from authorized dealers. Be wary of prices that seem “too good to be true” on auction websites.
Authentic Benchmade knives will have a very crisp, laser-etched butterfly logo on the blade. The font of the model number under the logo should be clean and perfectly aligned. Furthermore, the action of the AXIS lock on a genuine Benchmade is typically very smooth, whereas counterfeits often feel gritty or stiff.
Conclusion
Benchmade knives represent a significant investment in quality and reliability. By understanding the different models, materials, and the benefits of the LifeSharp program, you can choose a tool that will serve you faithfully for many years. Whether for utility, adventure, or professional duty, these knives are designed to be dependable when it matters most.
If you found this guide helpful, you may want to explore our other articles on outdoor gear maintenance and everyday carry essentials to help you stay prepared for any situation.