Imagine a tool that springs to life with just a touch, ready to tackle any task. That’s the magic of an automatic knife, and when you think of high-quality automatics, one name often comes to mind: Benchmade. But with so many impressive models, how do you pick the perfect one for you? It can feel overwhelming, right? You want a knife that’s reliable, strong, and fits just right in your hand, but the sheer number of choices can make your head spin.
Don’t worry, we’ve got your back. This post is your friendly guide to navigating the exciting world of Benchmade automatic knives. We’ll break down what makes them special and help you understand the key things to look for. By the end, you’ll feel much more confident about choosing the Benchmade automatic that’s best suited for your needs and adventures. Let’s dive in and discover your next favorite blade!
Our Top 5 Benchmade Automatic Knife Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Benchmade Automatic Knife Detailed Reviews
1. Benchmade – Barrage
Rating: 9.0/10
The Benchmade 583SBK Barrage is a fantastic knife that works for both tough jobs and everyday tasks. Its strong blade and comfortable handle make it a reliable tool you can count on.
What We Like:
- The 154CM stainless steel blade is super strong and doesn’t rust easily. It stays sharp for a long time.
- The Valox handle feels good in your hand and is built to last.
- It opens and closes really fast with just one hand, which is super handy.
- The AXIS Assist makes opening and closing smooth, even for lefties.
- The pocket clip can be moved to either side, so you can carry it exactly how you like.
- The tanto blade is great for poking and piercing, making it good for serious work.
- It’s also good for regular stuff like opening boxes or cutting rope.
- Benchmade will sharpen your knife for free, forever! They also clean and fix it.
What Could Be Improved:
- The serrated edge might not be ideal for all fine cutting tasks.
- Some users might prefer a plain edge blade for more delicate work.
This Benchmade Barrage 583SBK is a solid knife that offers both tactical strength and everyday usefulness. With Benchmade’s lifetime sharpening service, it’s an investment that keeps giving.
2. Outdoor Self Defense Automatic Jump Knife
Rating: 8.7/10
The Outdoor Self Defense Automatic Jump Knife, 9070 Pocket Folding Knife, is a sharp and handy tool for many situations. Its green fiberglass handle is easy to grip, even when your hands are a little slippery. This knife is designed for everyday use and can handle a variety of tasks, from cutting wires to collecting mushrooms on a hike. It’s a practical choice for anyone who needs a reliable blade on the go.
What We Like:
- It is lightweight and simple to use for many jobs.
- The D2 steel blade stays sharp for a long time.
- The non-slip handle gives you a good grip.
- It’s a legal, two-handed folding knife, making it great for everyday carry.
- The blade coating helps materials slide off easily.
What Could Be Improved:
- The folding action might require some getting used to for some users.
- While it’s multi-functional, it’s not designed for heavy-duty prying.
This knife offers a good balance of features for its intended uses. It’s a solid option for anyone looking for a dependable pocket knife.
3. Benchmade – Bugout 535 EDC Knife with Ranger Green Grivory Handle (535GRY-1)
Rating: 9.1/10
Meet the Benchmade Bugout 535 in Ranger Green – your ultimate everyday carry companion. This knife is incredibly light but still super strong. It’s built for all your adventures, from hitting the trails to just daily tasks. You can take it anywhere you go.
What We Like:
- It’s light as a feather, making it easy to carry all day.
- The CPM-S30V steel blade holds its sharp edge for a long time and won’t rust easily.
- The Ranger Green Grivory handle feels good in your hand and is tough enough for anything.
- The AXIS lock is safe and works smoothly for opening and closing.
- Benchmade offers a lifetime sharpening service, so your knife will always be ready.
- It’s made right here in the USA, in Oregon City, Oregon.
- The reversible clip and lanyard hole give you lots of ways to carry it.
What Could Be Improved:
- While super light, some might prefer a heavier, more substantial feel for certain heavy-duty tasks.
- The Grivory handle, though durable, might not offer the same premium feel as some other materials.
The Benchmade Bugout 535 is a fantastic choice for anyone needing a reliable, lightweight knife. It’s ready for your next adventure or just your pocket.
4. Benchmade – Redoubt Tactical
Rating: 9.4/10
The Benchmade Redoubt Tactical knife is a tough tool built for everyday tasks. Its black Grivory handle has a cool, grippy pattern. This makes it easy to hold, even if you wear gloves. The knife also has a serrated drop-point blade that’s coated in black Cerakote. This blade is strong and ready for anything. The AXIS locking mechanism keeps it safe and opens and closes smoothly. Benchmade even offers a free sharpening service for life, which is a huge bonus.
What We Like:
- The textured Grivory handle gives you a super secure grip.
- The serrated CPM-D2 blade is tough and holds an edge well.
- The AXIS Lock is reliable and makes opening and closing the knife easy.
- Benchmade’s free LifeSharp service for life is amazing value.
- It’s a versatile knife that works well for many jobs.
What Could Be Improved:
- The black Cerakote finish might scratch over time with heavy use.
- Some users might prefer a different blade shape than a drop-point.
The Benchmade Redoubt is a dependable knife that’s great for anyone needing a strong, reliable tool. Its thoughtful design and excellent warranty make it a smart purchase.
5. Benchmade – Bugout 535 EDC Knife with Storm Gray Grivory Handle (535BK-08)
Rating: 9.0/10
The Benchmade Bugout 535 is a fantastic knife for everyday carry. It’s designed to be lightweight and tough, making it a reliable tool for all sorts of tasks. The Storm Gray Grivory handle feels good in your hand, and the AXIS lock keeps the blade securely in place. This knife is built for action.
What We Like:
- It’s super light, so you barely notice it in your pocket.
- The Grivory handle is strong and grippy, even when wet.
- The AXIS lock is easy to use and very safe.
- The drop-point blade is great for cutting and slicing.
- Benchmade makes high-quality knives that last.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some people might find the Grivory handle a bit slippery without gloves.
- The price might be a bit high for some budgets.
This Benchmade Bugout 535 is a top-notch EDC knife that offers great performance and durability. It’s a solid investment for anyone who needs a reliable tool.
Your Guide to Choosing a Benchmade Automatic Knife
Benchmade automatic knives are super cool tools. They pop open fast with just a push of a button. People use them for lots of things. This guide helps you pick the best one for you.
1. Key Features to Look For
When you look at Benchmade automatic knives, check out these important things:
Blade Style
- Drop Point: This is a common style. It has a strong point for piercing and a curved edge for slicing. It’s good for everyday tasks.
- Tanto: This blade has a flat grind and a sharp, angled tip. It’s great for tough jobs and prying.
- Spear Point: This blade is sharp on both sides and comes to a point in the middle. It’s good for piercing and self-defense.
Blade Steel
The steel makes the blade strong and sharp. Benchmade uses different kinds of steel. Some are better at staying sharp. Others are tougher and won’t break easily.
Handle Material
The handle is what you hold. Good handles feel comfortable and grippy. They stop your hand from slipping, even if it’s wet.
Action and Lock-up
An automatic knife has a spring that opens the blade. You want this to be smooth and quick. The lock-up is how the blade stays open. It needs to be very strong so the blade doesn’t close by accident.
2. Important Materials
Benchmade uses top-notch materials to make their knives.
Blade Steel Types
- CPM-S30V: This steel is very popular. It keeps its sharp edge for a long time. It’s also strong.
- 20CV: This is another great steel. It’s super tough and resists rust well. It holds an edge really nicely.
- M4: This steel is known for being extremely strong. It’s great for heavy-duty tasks.
Handle Materials
- Aluminum: This is a light metal. It feels strong and looks good.
- G10: This is a strong, tough material made from fiberglass. It gives you a great grip.
- Carbon Fiber: This material is very light and very strong. It makes the knife feel premium.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Some things make a Benchmade automatic knife better, and some can make it worse.
What Makes it Better
- Precision Machining: When parts are made very accurately, the knife works better. The blade opens fast and locks tight.
- Quality Control: Benchmade checks their knives carefully. This means you get a knife that works right.
- Good Fit and Finish: This means all the parts fit together perfectly. There are no rough edges.
What Can Reduce Quality
- Cheap Materials: Using less good steel or handle material makes the knife less durable.
- Poor Design: If the spring is weak or the lock isn’t strong, the knife isn’t safe or reliable.
- Bad Assembly: If the knife isn’t put together well, it might not open smoothly or stay locked.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
How you use your knife matters. Benchmade automatics are great for many things.
Everyday Carry (EDC)
Many people carry a Benchmade automatic knife every day. They are handy for opening packages, cutting cord, or other small jobs. Their fast action makes them super convenient.
Outdoor Activities
If you go camping or hiking, an automatic knife can be useful. You can use it to prepare food or cut branches. Make sure the blade steel can handle tough conditions.
Tactical Use
Some people buy these knives for self-defense. Their quick deployment is a big advantage in emergencies. Always check your local laws about carrying automatic knives.
Remember, automatic knives can be dangerous if not handled with care. Always keep the blade pointed away from yourself and others. Practice safe handling.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Are Benchmade automatic knives legal everywhere?
A: No, laws about automatic knives are different in different places. Some states or cities ban them. Always check your local laws before buying or carrying one.
Q: How do I maintain my Benchmade automatic knife?
A: Keep the blade clean and dry. You can use a light oil to keep the moving parts working smoothly. Clean out any dirt or debris that gets inside the mechanism.
Q: Are Benchmade automatic knives difficult to use?
A: No, they are designed to be easy to use. You just push a button. However, you should practice using it safely.
Q: What is the difference between an OTF and a side-open automatic?
A: OTF stands for “Out The Front.” The blade shoots straight out the front of the handle. Side-open automatics have the blade swing out from the side, like a regular folding knife.
Q: How sharp are Benchmade automatic knives out of the box?
A: Benchmade knives are usually very sharp when you get them. They use good steel and expert sharpening.
Q: Can I convert a regular Benchmade knife into an automatic?
A: No, you cannot safely or legally convert a regular knife into an automatic. It’s best to buy a knife that is made as an automatic.
Q: How durable are Benchmade automatic knives?
A: Benchmade knives are known for being very durable. They use strong materials and are built to last.
Q: What if my Benchmade automatic knife breaks?
A: Benchmade has a great warranty. They will often repair or replace knives that have manufacturing defects.
Q: Are Benchmade automatic knives worth the cost?
A: For many people, yes. They are high-quality, reliable, and perform very well. The materials and craftsmanship justify the price for serious users.
Q: What is the best Benchmade automatic knife for a beginner?
A: A good starting point might be a model with a popular blade steel like S30V and a comfortable handle material like G10. Look for a reliable action and a secure lock-up.
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.