benchmade north fork vs bugout benchmade north fork vs bugout

GearLab is reader-supported. Benchmade is largely more expensive than a lot of other comparable knife options because of the incredible quality and unbeatable technologies theyve implemented into their knives. 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. It feels cheap to me in the hand and I just can't get past it. Both the Grizzly Creek and Saddle Mountain knives consist of S30V steel which is arguably one of the best stainless steels around for skinning due to their incredible tensile strength, ability to hold an edge even after heavy contact with joints and bones, and exceptional resistance to corrosion. Best Arcteryx Hiking Shorts Guide: Which Is Right for You? Pick something with a slightly lower HRC rating. It checks all the boxes for an excellent EDC knife by utilizing high quality long lasting S30V steel, a drop-point that is technically a bit modified as it has a slight recurve within its belly, and your choice of either a sealed woodgrain finish or the ever so popular G10 handles. That means although it has a natural wood base it wont swell or warp its just as stable as the G10 version. The clip-point blade has origins dating back to the deadly scimitar days so its very fitting that Benchmade used this blade shape to design this blade as it really does feel a lot like a modern-day scimitar! CPM-20CV is not a steel Benchmade is known to use but this particular steel offers incredible corrosion resistance while still being close in hardness to the other ultra-premium steels. Benchmade uses CPM S30V stainless steel that's known for its sharpness and ability to shed corrosives without enduring . The blade shape is specifically designed to cause a lot of damage in one fell swoop. You would be hard-pressed to find a good EDC of this level that can perform utility tasks this well. Usually, pocket-friendly knives make use of less sturdy steel, but that is not so in this knife. The pocket clip is secure and can be switched from one side to the other, depending on your hand preference. What Other Pocket Knives Should You Consider? It is ideal for skinning and for making precision cuts. On different note, do you think my concern about the knife opening unintentionally is a valid concern? Blade Style: Double-Sided Spear-PointBlade Composition: D2Handle Composition: Scale Textured 6061-T6 AluminumBlade Length: 4.52Total Length: 9.21Total Weight: 5.11 ounces. Keep in mind that a higher HRC also means a more brittle knife, and its going to be a nightmare to sharpen. Upon opening up the Benchmade Butterfly stamped sheath youll notice the inside is actually nylon. They would find the Mini Griptilian more comfortable and compact. Stay tuned for the first newsletter in the morning, straight to your inbox. You can actually get the same drop-point attributes with further controllability in tight situations. The blade might seem unassuming and simple, with its plain edge and drop point, however, theres little it cant do. The main drive behind its design was to produce a tool with the performance for dressing out a deer in a small package. Its grippy and made of Valox, and though that gives this knife a sort of cheap feeling, it actually keeps the weight of the knife down. My Review: Oh boy Benchmade does not normally make large blades but when they do, you get something capable of fighting off the Taliban all by yourself. The bugout never gets carried. 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 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. If you are not happy or you got a defective product, you can avail of a refund. It also comes super sharp out of the box, boasting a full flat grind. For the handle, you have a choice between traditional materials like wood or horn, modern composites, or even an all-metal handle. For installation instructions, click here. For this reason the Bailout is also a part of Benchmade's 'Black Class'. Benchmade is the kind of knife that follow my favorite mantra buy once cry once. With the Axis Lock system that the North Fork uses it will not open if dropped or a flicked wrist if you do not depress the lock mechanism. My Review: This knife was designed to get down and dirty outdoors and survive just about any environmental situation. Carrying and utilizing the Griptilian on a daily basis is extremely easy and for that reason, I believe many people would agree, the Griptilian is one of the best values and best overall EDC knives offered by Benchmade today. A difference of two letters in total. If you think that 7.25 total length would be tough to conceal or a bit overkill, you can check out the Benchmade Mini SOCP here. You can refer to the reviews there to check if the seller is authorized or not. Most people likely end up with a drop-point shaped blade when searching for an EDC and that makes sense, considering the drop-point is one of the most versatile blade shapes, however, the reverse-tanto can be just as versatile and when done correctly, as it is on the EDC 940. Ideally, the knife suits anyone keen on getting a reliable folding knife.North Fork-1503 isnt ideal for knives buyers with a relatively small budget.Again, its razor sharp blade can potentially make it unsafe for inexperienced hunting knife users. My Review: First and foremost, the Saddle Mountain is more of a lineup of knives that just a single knife itself. You can also check out the SOCP Rescue tool at this link here. I will mention that the handle may sometimes catch on your pockets if its a real tight fit, due to the ergonomic pistol grip style design, however, I still recommend this as a solid EDC as I believe most people wont have an issue with deploying the knife and since its so light, especially the carbon fiber version, its super comfortable and easy to carry. This is not the case here, though, as the Fact is incredibly strong and since its crafted out of billet aluminum with a premium S30V blade, itll run right up there with full-size heavy-duty knives. This is not a knife that fits into that category. Dark Vintage Bronze Titanium Deep Carry Pocket Clip Made For Benchmade North Fork, Grizzly Creek, Crooked River and Griptilian Knife blade4sell. North Fork 1503 comes with Benchmades AXIS lock, which is fully ambidextrous and extremely strong. The Benchmade Bugout was originally designed as a lightweight pocket knife for hikers and others who prefer ultra-light knives. Its a bit harsh on the hand. For legal reasons, many of the double-sided versions of this knife come dull. For carrying, of course, smaller like this is better. 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! Q: Does a Benchmade Knife Have a Lifetime Warranty? The Bugout is a supremely good design and easy choice only if weight and ease of carry is of primary concern. I saw you listed those two knives above as alternatives, but just wanted to see what you may think again given my specific concerns. Just like the Saddle Mountain series, you can choose whether or not youd like to have a gut hook. I say this because it is my favorite carry of all time. The Axis Assist is a friendly fellow that takes the effort youve put into opening the blade and multiplies it tenfold springing the blade out the rest of the way and making for a quick and easy deployment that is still largely controlled by you. That rescue hook is mean man, Im telling you, that thing slices seatbelts so easily it makes you second guess how good seatbelts really are. Benchmade 15031 North Fork is a compact hunting knife that's also perfect for everyday carry. It is this size that seems to offer the best compromise of ergonomics and portability. In general, its best to go for a single-edged blade. Sure, sharp is sharp; the blade has a pointed edge, or it doesn't. My Review: Adding a little flavor to the list is the SOCP dagger and trainer combo offered by Benchmade. Plain finish, satin finish, matte finish, coated finish, Damascus: there isnt a shortage in types of knife finishes. #knives #north-fork #benchmade #product-overview #north-fork-axis #benchmade-north-fork-who-designed #best-benchmade-north-fork-knife #customizing-north-fork-benchmade #benchmade-north-fork-wood-edc see all. The 440HC steel is not like the typical premium hard to sharpen steels that Benchmade usually uses and can be sharpened relatively easily in a short amount of time. But the way it was added is different. However, this is the biggest Benchmade folder and has a long clip point blade that will suit not only EDC tasks but also tasks during hunting and camping. On the other hand, serrated knives stay sharp for longer but are notoriously tough to re-sharpen. Benchmade doesnt make a whole lot of spear-point folders but when they do, they cost an arm and a leg and probably result in a bit of hot temperament come checkbook balancing day with your significant other. Benchmade Saddle Mountain 15003-2 or 15003-1, Here Are the Best Tactical Benchmade Knives, Unique Benchmade Knife Designs and Notable Mentions, 30. Now, Im really glad they chose to go with 154CM steel on this particular blade because for most people, resharpening this in one of the more premium steels like S30V would be a nightmare. Its so smooth that I cant help but to open it each and every time I pull it out! The Rescue Tool is in the same form factor as the original SOCP dagger but instead of a spear-point blade, youll be getting a belt cutter and pry tool. If youre looking for a boot knife or MOLLE compatible self-defense or combat weapon, this is the package for you. The lock ensures the knife opens and closes single-handedly. There is no AXIS lock or AXIS assisted opening but instead, the blade is held in place via friction from the frame. Best Hiking Watches Hiking Watches for Outdoor Adventures! The Anthem is incredibly lightweight for its size and toughness and that clip is something seriously special. Blade Style: Drop-PointBlade Composition: CPM-3VHandle Composition: Diamond Textured Rubber SantopreneBlade Length: 3.75Total Length: 8.25Total Weight: 4.51 ounces. There is a choice you might care about, though, and thats whether you want a beautifully made custom Benchmade leather sheath or a lightweight and durable Kydex sheath to carry around this beast with. The 15003-1 comes with a black molded Kydex style sheath that, in my opinion, would last longer and likely give you a bit more value. My Review: The Benchmade Bugout is a classic and has been around for quite some time. Or the Benchmade Bailout. Spyderco vs Benchmade Which Should You Choose? Imagine every little task you would expect an EDC knife to do, write it down if you need to. I think the blade deployment concerns are valid, depending on your application. When you purchase through our links, we may earn a commission. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. There are a couple of really good versions of the Freek. The Bailout has a separate backspacer. The Foray Gold Class 698-181 with its marbled carbon fiber handle and hand-folded Loki Damasteel drop-point is one of the most beautiful pocket knives Ive yet to lay my eyes on that you can actually buy. JavaScript seems to be disabled in your browser. Another difference is that the original Freek came equipped with lower quality handles called Versaflex but the Super Freek comes with those G10 handles we all know and love so much. If youre like me and you arent a huge fan of partially serrated blades, you can find this knife with a plain edge as well and that may save you a couple of extra bucks! The knifes drop-point blade is ideal for the avid hunter. Now, just under two Benjamins for a 154CM blade does sound a bit pricey, but this blade encompasses a flavor in a pocket knife form factor that youll be hard-pressed to rival with anything else on the market today. And, to assure complete independence, we buy all the products we test ourselves. As a result, customers have reported this to be the best Benchmade knife for backpacking because it has a comfortable grip and is easy to sharpen with an ordinary knife sharpener. You need something with a cutting edge long enough to be useful, but it also needs to be a size you can carry anywhere. cpm3v is the steel used to craft the plain drop point blade. The purpose The Benchmade Bugout was originally designed as a lightweight pocket knife for hikers and others who prefer ultra-light knives. Additionally, the variables are many. A folder is more compact and safer to carry, but when open and locked the blade is rigid enough for anything youre likely to ask of it. The Wharncliffe design makes penetration and stabbing virtually impossible which means using this blade around sensitive material and even skin is much safer than a regular blade style. The attribute that dubs it a hunting knife is the modified drop point blade. Is it worth it to pay extra for high-quality American made goods? The Drop: Cloud Defensive MCH Dual Fuel Flashlights, The Top 15 BEST Spyderco Knives: Reviews and Buying Guide in 2023, The Drop: aroundsquare Manipulation Tools and Apparel February Release. When you click on links to buy products we may earn money to support. The Bugout is a great knife. Its also rust and corrosion resistant to a great degree, and it retains a razor-sharp edge even after heavy duty. That spring is always under tension so be extra careful with the button! I have had a ton of them. The Barrage is also available in either a partially serrated blade or a full plain edge and overall, the Barrage feels a lot like many of the other 3.6 EDC related pocket knives and it comes equipped with the Benchmade AXIS-ASSIST mechanism, meaning its perfect for quick one-handed operation. If you just want one knife and one knife only that exudes quality and is as versatile as it gets, the Benchmade Turret should be at the top of your list. I'm going to circle back and take a look at this. Its made from 154cm stainless steel that gives it excellent edge retention. Its quite rare in a folded knife, youd notice. 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. Free shipping for many products! If you consider best compromise of ergonomics and portability. Blade Style: Drop-PointBlade Composition: CPM-M4Handle Composition: G10Blade Length: 3.6Total Length: 8.46Total Weight: 4.3 Ounces. A compact AXIS folding hunting North Fork knife with a recurved blade to assist with processing duties. If theres anything better than the blade on this knife, its the glass-filled nylon handle. The 3V depends on personal prefernce but it won't break when prying and so on despite having a thin tip. On the Mini-Barrage, the blade is spring-loaded so that the user just needs to start the process of opening it, and the spring pulls it the rest of the way. Blade Style: Drop-PointBlade Composition: CPM-S30VHandle Composition: Glass-Filled NylonBlade Length: 3.45Total Length: 8.07Total Weight: 3.88 ounces. How to Sharpen a Machete Most Effective & Easy Way at Home. If you have the full size grip I'd double down on the Bugout, very suitable office knife and anywhere else for that matter. It might remind you of Morakniv or Mora knives with the roundish handle and stubby blade. It is ideal for skinning and for making precision cuts. Check them out on our Fire Starters page here. I only have had my mini crooked river for a week and so far it is on top. We Are Hiring! Aside from the somewhat unique blade shape approach, Benchmade has managed to offer you a 3.4 blade in a package that weighs less than 3 ounces and yet still manages to offer an excellent grip and a heavy-hitting S30V steel blade. The satin-finished 6061-T6 aluminum handle is also something Im quite fond of. It is just a simple blade in a handle. By far my favorite benchmade edc even over my 940's. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. It is a boutique piece of equipment, and losing such an expensive pocket knife out on a camping trip would certainly be a tragedy. North Fork-1503 is exceptionally well-designed. It's been in the box since I bought it. The North Fork-1503 is designed to feel comfortable in your hands. Well, many of their knives have another feature called the Benchmade Nitrous. In this respect the Bugout is a little more user-friendly for 'normal' users. When you need a blade that is rigid, powerful, and ready to rock and roll when you need it most, the 154CM 4.5 fixed Tanto is the tried and true fighters knife. It's always handy this way, and largely unobtrusive except in the most formal of situations. All trademarks property of their respective owners The Bugout is available with Grivory, titanium and CF-Elite. On the entire continuum of pocket knife size, the North Fork is near the top. Related Gear: Benchmade Bugout ReviewBuild Your Ultimate Bugout for National Knife Day 2023Benchmade OTF Knives for 2023 - We Review Our Favorites! Most knives of such models are very compact so that you could easily carry them around while camping and hiking. Lifesharp support will receive your knife and immediately disassemble it for inspection. For being a manual opening knife, this thing sure is buttery smooth and that thumb stud is perfectly implemented in a way that allows you to flip open the knife as you pull it from your pocket, making a seamless transition between its carried state and its deployed state. Portability, regarding size, is also at direct odds with ergonomics. MADE FOR HUNTING: The North Fork 15031-1's drop-point, recurved blade is ideal . Blade Style: Drop-Point / Drop-Point With Gut HookBlade Composition: CPM-S30VHandle Composition: Resin Filled Wood GrainBlade Length: 3.5Total Length: 7.84Total Weight: 4.76 ounces. Lets talk about some of the best technologies theyve designed and implemented over the years. This is the knife made for the outdoorsman who wants that classic outdoor knife appeal combined with industry-leading versatility and durability. My Review: Oh boy the Bedlam is a beaut of a blade but I swear, this is not the knife for everyone! Again, what is it that youll do with this Benchmade? However, Id suggest you stay cautious about prying, as that may snap the tip. Weve already reviewed many Benchmade knives in other guides, including our favorite EDC knives here, camping knives here, and fixed blade knives here, but we have yet to truly focus on Benchmade alone. While this boasts a Dymondwood handle and a tough drop point blade with a serrated spine, the shining point of this knife is the folding gut hook that comes along. Got feedback? george kovach cilka. The clip isnt exactly what Id call a deep carry clip, but it is strong, sturdy, and probably one of the most comfortable overall carries in knives of this class. Basically, a dependable cutting tool has a role to play in anything you do outdoors. The Bugout was designed for the modern outdoor adventurer, incorporating the lightest, best performing materials in an extremely slim yet ergonomic package. Another thing that contributes to making this knife a prime choice for hunting is the gut hook that folds into the handle. 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. Understanding the shape and the steel of your future blade will be the largest deciding factor of how the blade behaves when used in your specific environment and situations! And for them, with a very un-Benchmade-like price of around $110, the Bugout is great. All others will prefer the Mini-Barrage. These were actually designed later than the others and were requested by Benchmade enthusiasts. The North Fork 15031-1 is a manual knife that can be opened and closed single-handedly. Anyway, on to the design of the North Fork. What sets the best of the best apart is their weight for the construction quality. 5 Jun. I'm going to revisit this and will update the post with our findings (and your concerns). Red Screw Set For Benchmade Bugout 535BK Bailout 537 Scale & Pocket Clip Screw screw4you. Benchmade invests a lot in making their handles good, and you can pick any one knife and be assured that the handle will be satisfactory. If you dont have a good sharpener, I recommend you buy one alongside your purchase as you will undoubtedly need one. Blade Style: Ringed DaggerBlade Composition: 440HCHandle Composition: Full-Tang Handless DesignBlade Length: 3.22Total Length: 7.25. Overstatement? Ultimately I decided the blade was slightly too short for a lot of tasks, and the handle just a bit small for my preferences. r/Knife_Swap. The razor-sharp, partially serrated blade is 3.6 inches, perfect for daily utility work. Step 2 Construction:Along with size goes construction.