For more information about us or joining the team, check out the About Us tab. It has a base G10 layer and a gray and black layered and milled G10 layer on top. No matter which sheath or set of handles you choose, the Saddle Mountain series is sure to be as rough and tough as you are with absolutely no exceptions. The 15003-2 comes with a dark brown leather sheath that is of super high quality, however, it doesnt last long since its so good at hugging the blade that the blade actually tears into the leather. Despite being expensive, many people flock to buy Benchmade knives. For example, the Benchmade Bugout 535-191 Gold Class edition consists of a Damascus steel blade thats hand folded hundreds of times and a handcrafted carbon fiber handle. CPM-S30V, a Benchmade favorite stainless steel to use in their premium blades, is more than strong enough to slide right through bones and will hold an edge for many outdoor adventures. Benchmade Saddle Mountain 15003-2 or 15003-1, Here Are the Best Tactical Benchmade Knives, Unique Benchmade Knife Designs and Notable Mentions, 30. Think of this as a smiles per gallon as opposed to a miles per gallon type of purchase, its a Lambo and not a Honda. While Benchmade still offers knives with regular manual locking mechanisms, theyre rare and usually found on their lower-tier offerings. I will mention that, under the same exact circumstances, I would expect the Grizzly Creek to last a little longer since its handle is a bit more technologically advanced and perhaps a bit less prone to damage, but both knives are pretty equally amazing. It finally made sense. Benchmade Knives Custom Handle Scales Custom Bugout Scales Custom Bugout Scales These custom scales fit any version of the 535 Bugout from Benchmade. Copyright 2017 - 2023 ProHunting Knife | All Rights Reserved. We can be brief when it comes to the similarities: the handles of both knives look alike. Blade Style: Spear-PointBlade Composition: CPM-S30VHandle Composition: Skeletonized 6061-T6 Billet AluminumBlade Length: 3.95Total Length: 8.72Total Weight: 3.24 ounces. The size is such that it clips relatively unobtrusively to your pants pocket. (0.090" Bugout / 0.115" 940) As a slicer, the Bugout is fine, but IMHO, a daily carry knife should be able to handle all kinds of tasks from cutting to prying, and the ever most important, to shotgun that beer! More importantly, its great for a bit of carving work. I have both but usually find myself carrying the Griptilian 551. Speaking of sliding into your pocket, youll be getting a reversible pocket clip that will allow you to carry it on either side. The price of a Benchmade is primarily based on three things. Have some money burning a hole in your pockets and you need something that your buddies are sure to gawk at? The North Fork-1503 is designed to feel comfortable in your hands. Our experts test thousands of products each year using thoughtful test plans that bring out key performance differences between competing products. Sure, it doesnt take a rocket scientist to know that a knife consisting of a titanium handle is probably of decent quality but what a lot of people miss is that the chunk of titanium consists entirely of just one single piece. Carbon takes a better edge and holds it longer, but stainless needs less maintenance to keep the rust off it. I have the North Fork g10 and it is edc perfection. Benchmade Bugout vs Bailout - Knivesandtools Its no secret that the Saddle Mountain series was designed to be a hunters best friend. The Benchmade Knife Company is well known for creating superior blades, so I was eager to put the North Fork to the test. In this case we are talking about the different handle materials: the Bailout comes with a Grivory and an aluminium handle. The North Forks handle is made from wood thats been vacuum-impregnated with resin to increase durability. The Top 3 Best Two-Person Tents for Couples (or Close Friends). Never underestimate a good handle, since a sturdy, ergonomic, and grippy handle can make the knife so much better. Before we evaluate the North Fork, lets establish some general evaluation criteria: The big question is what sort of knife you want to carry. Byrd Robin 2 Produced by Spyderco, this is a tiny folding knife with a 2.4-inch blade and back lock. It's a more solid feeling knife than its bigger brother because the liners fill almost all of the handle area. Standard, because it is great for daily tasks. Some people are quite partial to G10 handles, while some prefer the lightness of glass-filled nylon or Santoprene. I believe this is due to state by state restrictions on double-edged blades and of course, they cant hold inventory that fits each and every states laws independently. I personally chose the gut hook version of this knife because I think there are tons of other drop-point fixed blades from Benchmade and the gut hook makes this one stand out. The Bugout, while certainly not a bargain-bin blade, is offered at one of the lowest price points in all of Benchmade's catalog, clocking in at $160 for the base model. the blade would come out without my intending it. Because everyone is different, Benchmade includes offerings for both the OTF (Out the Front) and OTS (Out the Side) lovers. I'm going to circle back and take a look at this. Of course, if youre not a hunter or fisherman, the gut hook likely wouldnt be of much use to you and in terms of actually using a gut hook, Id personally prefer a fixed blade, but this knife is more than usable in each and every way that the Saddle Mountain is. Click, Skip to the beginning of the images gallery. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. In many cases the answer is an unequivocal yes, however, Id say it really depends on your situation and what you need a knife for. Red Screw Set For Benchmade Bugout 535BK Bailout 537 Scale & Pocket Clip Screw screw4you. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc or its affiliates. Spyderco folding knives tend to come with a thumb hole in the spine instead of a thumb stud to open the blade, and thats called a Spydie hole. The Benchmade Bugout is a medium-sized utility knife. I wont lie to you, these arent exactly the saw-teeth youd want for camping or outdoor use, but they will cause wounds that a normal drop-point would never be able to cause, ensuring your assailant is immobilized and you are free to carry on. With that said, the Valox handles here are nothing to scoff at and trust me, they are super durable and ultra-strong, possibly just as strong as any other material. What are the differences, Spyderco Delica 4 vs Spyderco Paramilitary 2, Spyderco Endura 4 vs Spyderco Paramilitary 2, Spyderco Paramilitary 2 VS Benchmade 940 Osborne, Spyderco Para 3 vs Benchmade 945 Mini Osborne. Most knives of such models are very compact so that you could easily carry them around while camping and hiking. It opens smoothly, locks smoothly, and cuts smoothly. Blade Style: Drop-PointBlade Composition: CPM-S30VHandle Composition: G10Blade Length: 3.48Total Length: 8.33Total Weight: 5.28 ounces. We will explain! We cannot discuss them all in this comparison. You can sharpen it in the field, but we recommend doing it at home and taking your time. As a finishing touch the pocket clip is identical. Because often I need to use my EDC for piercing or prying, and this sturdy, capable tip means I can do that without worrying about the tip snapping off. Additionally, the variables are many. These are among the safest and most reliable locking mechanisms found in folding knives on the market thus far. For the best experience on our site, be sure to turn on Javascript in your browser. This is an obvious safety concern, but could also be considered a pro if you are using it heavily for certain outdoor tasks. Normally you might find Benchmade blades coated or uncoated and typically the user will decide which version to buy based on personal preference, but the Freek only has one option and that is a nice matte black Cerakote. Step 3 Shape:Blade shape is a very personal choice. When youre in a sticky situation you hadnt thought youd end up in, the Bailout with its slim and light design sitting comfortably in your pocket is awaiting a quick flip of the wrist to reveal the ever-so-deadly 3.38 Tanto. Gerber Sharkbelly Folding Knife- this versatile folding knife boasts a 320HC stainless steel blade for both precision cutting and for cutting remarkably tough materials.The scratch-resistant pocket clip offers a tip down carry that prevents the knifes razor sharp blade from tearing your pockets. You can think of the Benchmade North Fork knife as a special edition of the Benchmade Mini-Barrage 585. Notable differences include fewer customizable options, the wooden handle, and the lack of assisted opening. Benchmade has taken this idea and, in my opinion, refined it to be as handy and as durable as possible given the current steel and knife technology. These blades are insanely hard, much harder than what Benchmade usually uses such as CPM-S30V, 154CM, M390, etc. The Griptilian fits in just about any pocket you slide it into and after just a few minutes, it sits so lightly and comfortably that you may forget its even there until of course, you need it! My Review: The Nimravus is host to one of the strongest penetrating points of any blade offered by Benchmade. Blade Style: Drop-PointBlade Composition: CPM-S30VHandle Composition: Textured G10Blade Length: 3.7Total Length: 8.6Total Weight: 5.81 ounces. If youre worried about nicks and dings showing up, a plain or brushed finish would be good for you. Things That Don't Suck: Benchmade Mini Bugout 533BK-2 EDC Folding Knife A: The Benchmade Knife Company is behind Benchmade knives. Blade Style: TantoBlade Composition: 154CMHandle Composition: Rib Textured 6061-T6 AluminumBlade Length: 4.5Total Length: 9.45Total Weight: 5 ounces. Best Hiking Watches Hiking Watches for Outdoor Adventures! The 154CM isnt my favorite steel and certainly isnt the best offered by Benchmade but it does excel in some areas such as being easier to sharpen than some of Benchmades favorite steels, like S30V. However, it is not at the very top. Mi cuenta; Carrito; Finalizar compra; Contacto I'm just a survivalist and knife lover. My Review: This knife was designed to get down and dirty outdoors and survive just about any environmental situation. Whats important is that you pick a knife according to what you need and you like, and youll definitely love what you end up buying. Its extremely lightweight for a knife this capable, and due to the axis locking mechanism, its very user friendly as well. My Review: The Grizzly Ridge is essentially the same knife as the Grizzly Creek but with an arguably better handle. Consisting of CPM-S30V steel probably makes this one of the toughest and strongest little mini-tools you could possibly carry. It is just a simple blade in a handle. All you might think you care about, as it pertains to a knife's edge, is "is it sharp?" Youd be amazed at how this knife would start to feel like an extension of your arm. Benchmade 940 EDC 2. However, Id suggest you stay cautious about prying, as that may snap the tip. Anyway, on to the design of the North Fork. If youd like to show your support to Les De Asis and the Benchmade family, visit this link and find out how you can become a part of the Benchmade community by contributing to his Makerspace memorial contribution fund that is geared towards educating our youth for further exploration, innovation, and entrepreneurship. All trademarks property of their respective owners I have owned 5 northforks and just about as many mini grips. Blade Style: Drop-PointBlade Composition: M390Handle Composition: G10 or Carbon FiberBlade Length: 3.08Total Length: 7.03Total Weight: 3.52 ounces. Throw it in your truck, keep it in your bugout bag, use it with your survival kit, whatever, this knife is so light and compact that youll forget its there until you need it! This method of identifying fake Benchmade knives is excellent because it works in-person as well as online. BUT. it may be knocked off the throne by my mini crooked river. A little oiling also makes sure the axis locking joint is smooth as butter. However, make sure you dont go swimming with this in your pocket as the handle will expand and be unusable for a while. For self-propelled, wild travels, the Benchmade Bugout is arguably the best pocket knife we have tested. Keep in mind that the warranty is valid when you buy from authorized sellers. The drop-point blade shape at its core is very versatile and poses a lot of use cases, especially for general outdoor activities. Its fully ambidextrous and grippy but isnt too abrasive on the palm. Benchmade North Fork Backspace - Etsy Absolutely! If you need serrated knives for tasks like rope cutting or some light sawing that cant be accomplished by a straight edge, consider a partially serrated EDC. These are the fastest and least requiring effort to open and use a spring to flip the knife out immediately. Of course, what youre getting isnt even a full plastic design. I would say northfork. If you consider best compromise of ergonomics and portability. Designed and manufactured by Benchmade, North Fork-1503 is an all-round compact knife featuring a recurved blade to help you with your cutting tasks. What Other Pocket Knives Should You Consider? Unlike cheap friction held blades, this one actually does hold in place quite well and despite having an amazing grip on the blade, its very easy to deploy. Of course, if whipping this terrifying thing out doesnt scare off your attacker, it is just as easily used in disabling an attacker as it weighs nearly 6 ounces, hosts a very deadly reverse-tanto with a tight point, and is massive, coming in just under 10 when unfolded. A: You can purchase it from an authorized seller on Amazon. I will mention this about the clip, it isnt like the standard Benchmade deep carry clips and doesnt do well on exceptionally thin material like gym shorts but feels great and stays in place snuggly when used on thick materials like jeans or tactical pants. Some of the reasons I personally prefer the Bugout over the Mini Grip include the longer blade length at 3.25 vs 2.91, the blade shape lending itself better for slicing, the weight reduction, and the awesome short carry clip. The Grivory handles ensure the knife stays close to that ultra-light 2oz mark while still ensuring that the deadly Tanto blade is well supported when utilized. However, its not textured so you might not get as much grip as youd expect from other EDC knives. Grivory is basically a super hard plastic that Benchmade used for this knife due to its lightness without sacrificing rigidity. Valox is also a lighter material and easier to work with giving the designers and artists a little more room to add character to the knifes appearance and ergonomics. On the back its straight for about half its blade length then curves gently down to give a fine, slim tip. That is until you get a hold on the Valox handles it comes with. That passion has led me to build this site, Read on for my story. For the aluminium versions of the Bailout the backspacer is also enhanced with a glass breaker. The curvature of the blade makes it rather difficult to sharpen those ultra-hard super steels and thus, I think 154CM was the right call here. Mini-Grip, Bugout or North Fork? | BladeForums.com The Anthem is super thin despite feeling hefty and strong and this makes for an excellent middle-ground between comfort when carrying and girth when holding the knife, something you usually have to give in on one side or the other. The Griptilian doesnt exactly exude fashion or style but what it does do is get the job done. Theres a lanyard hole at the pommel end, which is drilled through the liner and exposed by cutouts in the scales. The blade is namely made from CPM S30V. What I really love about the Puukko 200 is its simplicity. A: One of the many advantages of getting a Benchmade knife is its warranty. A flick of the wrist sends the blade out, and it worries me that if I were to drop it by accident, etc. Be sure to check out the latest pricing here. Ever since Benchmade set out to craft the best and most tactical knives in 1988, the company has never disappointed its clients for it has been manufacturing high quality knives each year.Benchmade North Fork 1503 is a relatively new entrant into the market, but the tactical folding knife is already winning the hearts of many folding knives users. Both knives fit the same use case and both knives are of the same exceptional Benchmade quality. Are Benchmade Knives Worth the Expensive Price Tag? Smaller knives (with no limit, really) are more portable. Do you love tool steel and favour a tanto blade? Blade Style: TantoBlade Composition: CPM-3VHandle Composition: GrivoryBlade Length: 3.38Total Length: 8.07Total Weight: 2.05 ounces. It has a blade length that measures in at 3.24 inches long, and the handle measures in at 4.22 inches long That brings the overall length on the Bugout to 7.46 inches when the blade is fully locked out. In his free time, he enjoys hunting, hiking, running, shooting guns, and reviewing gear. A drop-point blade is a classic and effective shape for a hunting knife, and the North Fork makes effective use of it. Benchmade is the kind of knife that follow my favorite mantra buy once cry once. Here you also see that the Bailout was intended for tactical use. 4.9 out of 5 stars 23. Keep in mind that a higher HRC also means a more brittle knife, and its going to be a nightmare to sharpen. Portability, regarding size, is also at direct odds with ergonomics. Q: What Materials Are Used to Create Benchmade Knives? (89.58g) Features You May Also Like Mini Crooked River Family As low as $300.00 The only two folding knives I own are the Bugout and a full size Grip. If that 3.45 blade is a tad too much and you prefer something a little more compact, you can check out the Benchmade Griptilian Mini 556 here. While you might be thinking this will be your next EDC of choice, Im thinking this would make a great gift! The grind leaves a stiffening spine to about three-quarters of an inch from the point, and there are two grooved sections to give better purchase for your thumb just in front of the pivot, and at the front end of the spine. Lastly, lets take a look at the Dymondwood handle. Good luck! When you purchase through our links, we may earn a commission. Three tapped holes left and right just beside the lanyard hole mean the clip can be mounted on either side.