The Benchmade 940 IS the best knife on the table, and I love my 940-2, but... you don't seem sold on it. The Boker FR, however, looks like a great blade for the price-very capable and light-and I think you'd love it. It pains me to push you away from a 940, but my vote is for the Boker FR.
Love these knife discussions. My vote goes for the 940 or a 940 variant. I upgraded my 940 to the 940-1 a couple years back and I couldn't be happier! 👍
940 Really budget minded vs a CR knife lol... I love these guys who buy a CR and call it a EDC hard use knife... When I get a CR knife I wont let anyone touch it let alone use it in everyday tasks...
I LOVE my benchmade 940-1, it is always in my pocket. The carbon fiber is awesome, s90v stays very sharp for a long time, super light weight. Plus anyone who is asking what you are carrying will appreciate the carbon fiber and lightness it has a great high quality feel even for non knife people.
My vote is the 940. Awesome steel size length lock. A bit long for you like you said tho i believe you'll adjust nicely and come to love it. Just think its popular for a reason
for something that fits the short, slim, gentlemanly preference and is "works at a knife company" impressive, Koenig Knives Zenaida. screwless construction for easy cleaning (thus suitable for apple slicing and other food tasks), phosphor bronze washers, titanium frame, s35vn blade. it is a modern gentleman's knife. i bought mine at BladeHQ and i adore it.
940. The blade is a little think, so it doesn't slice amazingly, but it fits the hand perfectly, it's so smooth, it fits perfectly in the pocket, and it's just so great. It replaced every knife I own, and you can beat the crap out of it, and it just looks better and better. Those first ones are pocket lint magnets. The 940 is perfect. Will never regret it. And t has the axis lock. The AXIS LOCK!
I know it's not in the models suggested in the video, but what I'd recommend is a CRKT Heiho. It's beautiful, has a deep carry pocket clip, and it's never let me down. G10 handle scales, AUS-8A blade steel, comfy thumb disc, strong assisted open, and a gentleman's folder to boot.
I had one Benchmade 942. Loved it so much I got myself a second one! I've been carrying them for about...8 years I think. Definitely would t mind getting a WeKnife next! But if anyone is thinking bout getting a 940, just go for it. You will definitely not regret a thing. You're welcome!
I bought the FR a few month ago. Since then it becomes one of my most carried pocket knives.It's light, it's slim and it has a very versatile and sturdy blade. Not as delicate as the one of the Urban Trapper.
You might like the Sage 3. Thin Spyderco slicer, a not-quite-axis lock, great middle of the road blade length, deep carry pocket clip, S30V. Carries a little broader than the ones you're considering, but might be worth it.
Out of the choices, Benchmade Pardue 531--I love it and it is super light--Axis lock partially kicks the blade out, only model I know of that does it (you don't need the thumb studs). Really though, get a ZT 0450!
Out of the options provided, the Boker Zinker FR is lightweight, compact, classy, and inexpensive. My main issues are that they supposedly use IKBS (not fun to clean), they're Chinese, they don't harden the lock face, and the G10 Urban Trapper that I have has lockup issues (lock stick, lock slip, vertical and horizontal blade play). Since you can examine the knives before you buy them, you can probably find a good one. I just got a LionSteel TRE G10 from BHQ, and it seems like it would fit your preferences as well. Caged bearings, impressive looks, M390 steel,
Benchmade 940 hands down!!! I also was not a fan of the 531 at first but it has slowly become my most used EDC. The thin blade makes it the best slicer on the table for your apples.
Blade HQ Have you thought of the lightweight manix 2? the choils up near the blade would allow you to get your finger near the tip. it may be a bit bigger though.
I love the 940, but it sucks for slicing apples. Of the ones listed, I think the best choice for Ben would be either the Boker Urban Trapper, or the BM Pardue. Pardue will be the better quality of those two. Since you already have a dragonfly, which is perfect for opening boxes and detail work, but not quite long enough for slicing apples, it makes for the perfect companion knife. If you could move towards carrying two knives, then carrying the dragonfly along with, say the 940, you have all of your bases covered. So my final answer is: Pardue if you only carry one knife; 940 if you carry the dragonfly as a companion.
Though it seems like it already doesn't have a chance, based on Ben's preferences & knives he enjoys carrying I'd go with the Benchmade 531...keeping in mind to replace the clip w/the black Parkerized deep carry BM clip. Before I write why, I own a 531 & a 940 so I have personal experience but only with those two out of the five. Going off what Ben said/showed: The knife is slim & light as-all-hell like Ben's Japanese Spyderco's; it's really hard to notice you're carrying it even in comparison to a 940. It has a classically good steel & a great grind which makes it slice really well. The near-FFG is perfect for apple slicing needs similar to what he likes about his Delica. The design of the knife--especially the G10--is very aesthetically pleasing & definitely wouldn't underwhelm someone when they know Ben works for a knife company...no matter if the person is a knife person or not. The blade length is a tiny bit shorter than the 940 so choking up on the tip wouldn't be as difficult as Ben was demonstrating on others. I'm a skinny jean enthusiast & the width of the butt isn't too large to fit/grab other items in the same pocket & is justified since it makes the grip better in the hand to make up for how thin it is. Axis lock. USA made. That's my vote & why. Enjoy whatever you end up getting, Ben!
It's an easy choice a PM2 don't mess around just pull one off the shelf and put it in your pocket. I have 5 my newest is the s110v with blurple G10. Not a big fan of the Blurple but the blade steal make up for it.
I second the spydie chef as an option. Of course, if you prefer the short knife for all other applications, then you may integrate something such as an opinel no.12 into your edc system. In which case, I would recommend the petit urban trapper.
For the category of pull out and impress/ talk about go with the benchmade crooked river -2(the one with wooden scales.) On the table, the benchmade 531 and then do a video on your modifications.
Personally I would say the Benchmade 940 but it's not me buying it...seeing your description and your reactions to things make me think the Boker fr would be a better choice for you. It has that Mayo hole design and you want to have a knife little more flashy, not to mention it did cut the apple how you liked. but for me the 940 still is a great edc for me...Good luck
I know you've already got this assortment picked out, but how about a Lionsteel TRE G10? It's ultra light, in just the right size range, it's a titanium framelock with an excellent flipper, uses one of the best EDC steels on the market, and the fit and finish are incredible. It's from a company that's a bit less "mainstream" and looks pretty exotic, too, which makes it great for a "knife company guy."
I too am considering a unique gentleman knife this year. My current front runner... the Steel Will Mini Gekko, 3.5 inch blade, N690 Italian steel, great looking (my opinion) Draw back, heavy at about 5 oz... To me this is a vastly upgraded Rat1 in D2 steel (similar blade length/weight) at about 4x+ the price of Rat1 D2. if had to choose between the five on table, the 940 (or 943).
Ben, I know its not on the table but you should get a boker KwaiKen Tuxedo if bhq still has one. It's a blend of We and Boker with Benchmade quality, also designed by Squid maker Lucas Burnley. Also, vg-10 steel like your Delica.
Urban trapper. 3 reasons. in no particular order 1. gentlemen's knife. especially in the black handle. 2. slender blade. glides through apples like butter. Parent tested, kid approved. (Like many Japanese kitchen knives is also VG10 steel, and shaped like a paring/steak knife) 3. slender and lightweight as a whole. it sits so small in your pocket, you'll have no problem reaching past it to get to keys. Total weight is ~2oz.
BM 940 is the clear choice. It's a top seller for benchmade for a reason. It also says something about the person who has it in his pocket. Warning-I bought the green with the purple inlay. My wife took it indicating it was too pretty for me. Ben, some advice. You work in the industry. I'd recommend a grail knife. They usually cost more but you get a discount-as it should be. Think Microtech, Strider, Emerson, CRK-Sabenza, Bodega(SP?)-let customers see that Blade HQ caries the premium products. It's a tax write off anyway and a good way to market-showcase BHQ premium offerings. FWIW best wishes. Love your work.
Surprised that I never tried Boker. Over then past 2 months (been on vacation for the past 3 weeks), I've bought 3 CRKTs, amicus compact, graphite, and tighe tac 2. Out of the 3 I found myself playing and using the tac2 the most, and I've only owned it for the past 2 days, it's also real lightweight. Other than CRKTs, I'd say get a ColdSteel, or a Spydie.
940!!! Actually the 940-1.... I own the 940, 940-1 and the 940-2 (the 940-1 is by far my favorite!!!) Especially with a deep carry pocket clip from benchmade :)
You missed 2 great knives!!! try the apple test with the ZT 0450cf and the Para 3. You might just be impressed! At least hold them before you buy another, i daily carry the ZT and will be getting the Para 3 as soon as they are out in a spring run with carbon fiber (love that look and reduced weight).
The shorter Boker fits your requirements for a sub 3.5", easy on the pocket, deep carry slicer. Too bad it's not S30V or it would be perfect. Para 3 might hit all your needs?
I voted for the boker, because from what you say you like in a knife, that seems to be the best of these choices. in all honesty, I own a Benchmade 940, and a 943 ( the clip point version ), and they are amazing knives, but, they are two of my least carried knives. the edge geometry isn't as good as you would think it would be, having a slim blade, so my griptillion actually has better cutting performance. S30v, while its a good steel, in my opinion, isn't a great steal. it's very chippy, doesn't sharpen as easy as other steels, and it doesn't seem to hold an edge much if any longer, so I actually like 154cm a little more. for these reasons, I would put the 940 at the bottom of these knives as far as the best knife for you. I think it might win the popular vote, just because everyone seems to have one, overlooks the flaws, and doesn't look at it objectively
Spyderco Native 5 has been in my pocket a lot lately. Nice, light user of a knife. I also think you should check out the ZT 0450 by Sinkevich. 3.25" S35VN blade, less than 3 oz. KVT bearing pivot. Very sexy!
Based on the things you seem to want... what about the piranha Virus. Disappears in the pocket. In your size range. Good slicer. I also kind of wanted to suggest the ZT 0450cf.
I vote for the 940 or the 940-2 which I am sure is floating around somewhere in your facility. :p Ben if you haven't handled the 940-2 I would HIGHLY recommend playing with it for a day!!!
I would go with the boker fr, meets all your specs without modification. cuts your apples, thin and still classy, short enough to choke up on, and with a price point that doesn't empty your wallet. And while I love the 940, I can't help but feel its become almost as standard as the griptilian
1. I ❤️ Ben 2. I've carried a 940 forever, and I just ordered the We 618 (before even seeing this video) 3. Go with the We 618 or get a Brad Zinker custom. You guys carry them sometimes.
A lot are stating 940 love. but you seem to want a small guy @ 3" or under. Austin seems to like the Urban Trapper. Have you seen the Urban Trapper Petite @ 2.75"? This is a light office knife to dazzle not to baton wood. On the other hand, the FR has a wider blade to better spread peanut and jelly. Lastly, the 940 is fun to diddle with.
I love my 940-2. I want to get the original Osborne color combo. My vote is the 940 but you gotta check the grind. Benchmade has issues getting an even edge on them
Seriously Ben, you're a grown man. Don't sweat a few extra ounces in your pocket. A nice medium size knife that will definitely get that 'Wow factor' you are looking for also provides excellent tip control. Due to the unique blade shape it is unnecessary to have your finger all the way out on the tip of the knife. Hold the 4 oz Spyderco Yojimbo and see the light. The large swoop on the back of the blade is perfect for thumb or even finger when added control for fine cutting is necessary.
The 940 does everything you need it to, except the classy pull out. Go 940-1 if you wanna be that cool guy. Hard to justify $270 for a knife just to be a cool guy though. Good luck Ben.
Of the knives listed, the 940 leads all the others by so far the rest couldn't see the 940 if they had Swarovski binoculars. None have actions as smooth, strong, and reliable as the Axis, and the 940 fits almost every hand in the world.
Lightweight? Mid-length? Lightweight? Low-impact pocket presence? Lightweight? Dude. Let this internet contest pass, then pick yourself up a ZT 0770. Please! You won't regret it. My wife won't put hers down long enough for me to steal it. On a side note, whoever is doing the editing for these banter videos *like, really gets it.* Cheers, ~Mike
For the criteria you describe I think that the 940 covers most the bases. However it's not venturing far from known pastures. The 531 looks horrible to me. I do love a squid though.
We 618 is easily number 1 choice, with the benchy 940 a close second. I personally don't really care for the rest. I'd like to throw in another wildcard and suggest a Protech Newport
If you are cheap and want an excellent edc buy the kizer belgiter in od green or whatever it's called. I own the 950 rift and 940 & I like the kizer equally.
I do truly enjoy these knife banter videos
Lugermonger same
Thanks guys. We appreciate you watching!
Great series, agreed.
Blade HQ what knife did Ben bye
Al Knife addiction, buy* where are u from? It's not your native language?
The Benchmade 940 IS the best knife on the table, and I love my 940-2, but... you don't seem sold on it. The Boker FR, however, looks like a great blade for the price-very capable and light-and I think you'd love it.
It pains me to push you away from a 940, but my vote is for the Boker FR.
The Late Boy Scout I love your channel
But it's such a pain sharpening s90v that's why I sold mine 😂 but it it's a great knife if I bought again it would be the s30v
If I worked at Blade HQ, I'd be broke and single for the rest of my life..
Bet ben has a mountain of blades on his desk look Scarface
@@markblanc5993 Lol!! 😂😂
Considering that I've had my eye on an osbourne 940 for some time, and that it would be my choice, I think you've got to pull the trigger on the 940.
And let it be so, as I have spoken. lol, Anyways have fun with your new knife.
Mark P. +1 on the 940.
Mark P. Yes the 940 is the best I love mine it's so light I don't even feel it.
Yeah the 940 is a dream of a knife I loved mine so much I made my friend get one too
Having just bought the 940-2 and immediately wanting every other version of it, get the 940!!!
Love these knife discussions. My vote goes for the 940 or a 940 variant. I upgraded my 940 to the 940-1 a couple years back and I couldn't be happier! 👍
BudgetBugout I love my 940-1 ....but really wouldn't call it a "budget" edc blade.
Tmankiller72 I also wouldn't call it a budget blade but I would say that it's a blade worth budgeting for which is what I do. 😂
940 Really budget minded vs a CR knife lol... I love these guys who buy a CR and call it a EDC hard use knife... When I get a CR knife I wont let anyone touch it let alone use it in everyday tasks...
These videos with you guys are awesome. Keep it up!
We will!
940. This ones easy. How do you work at blade hq and not have a 940!
i still want one till this day. onyl they are so fucking expensive where i live...
I just said this and then read your comment... LOL...
netherlands, be prepared to pay around 270 euro if it's not on sale
FoodOnCrack It will be on sale for some time probably. Knivesandtools knows you can get it elsewhere.
Always the 940. Been carrying one for a few years and every to this day wants to low ball buy it from me. Lol
I LOVE my benchmade 940-1, it is always in my pocket. The carbon fiber is awesome, s90v stays very sharp for a long time, super light weight. Plus anyone who is asking what you are carrying will appreciate the carbon fiber and lightness it has a great high quality feel even for non knife people.
My 940 has been used for prying, light hammering, underwater work, and as a screw driver (as well as a cutting tool). It’s never failed me!
I would keep using your flat ground Delica. Easily one of the best EDC folding knives ever.
My vote is the 940. Awesome steel size length lock. A bit long for you like you said tho i believe you'll adjust nicely and come to love it. Just think its popular for a reason
940 is a classic.
Suck My Mod Surprised to see your name on here. I watch most of your vape videos. 940 has been a favorite of mine for about a decade now.
for something that fits the short, slim, gentlemanly preference and is "works at a knife company" impressive, Koenig Knives Zenaida. screwless construction for easy cleaning (thus suitable for apple slicing and other food tasks), phosphor bronze washers, titanium frame, s35vn blade. it is a modern gentleman's knife. i bought mine at BladeHQ and i adore it.
940. The blade is a little think, so it doesn't slice amazingly, but it fits the hand perfectly, it's so smooth, it fits perfectly in the pocket, and it's just so great. It replaced every knife I own, and you can beat the crap out of it, and it just looks better and better. Those first ones are pocket lint magnets. The 940 is perfect. Will never regret it. And t has the axis lock. The AXIS LOCK!
I know it's not in the models suggested in the video, but what I'd recommend is a CRKT Heiho. It's beautiful, has a deep carry pocket clip, and it's never let me down. G10 handle scales, AUS-8A blade steel, comfy thumb disc, strong assisted open, and a gentleman's folder to boot.
I had one Benchmade 942. Loved it so much I got myself a second one! I've been carrying them for about...8 years I think. Definitely would t mind getting a WeKnife next!
But if anyone is thinking bout getting a 940, just go for it. You will definitely not regret a thing.
You're welcome!
Definitely 940. No brainer for me
940. No question in my opinion. I waited so long to get my 940 and no longer have eyes for other knives. It is just perfect in my opinion.
I bought the FR a few month ago. Since then it becomes one of my most carried pocket knives.It's light, it's slim and it has a very versatile and sturdy blade. Not as delicate as the one of the Urban Trapper.
I love the Kershaw Knockout. It has a big belly which is good for food prep. Blade length is just over 3". Weight is 4oz.
You might like the Sage 3. Thin Spyderco slicer, a not-quite-axis lock, great middle of the road blade length, deep carry pocket clip, S30V. Carries a little broader than the ones you're considering, but might be worth it.
Out of the choices, Benchmade Pardue 531--I love it and it is super light--Axis lock partially kicks the blade out, only model I know of that does it (you don't need the thumb studs). Really though, get a ZT 0450!
The "head turner" is the 940 and it is an awesome user and perfect in the pocket.
The 940 would have my vote, any of the models are great, it's my most used knife I own and I love the purple backspacer!
I love this channel for knives, I watch none other than this channel.
Out of the options provided, the Boker Zinker FR is lightweight, compact, classy, and inexpensive. My main issues are that they supposedly use IKBS (not fun to clean), they're Chinese, they don't harden the lock face, and the G10 Urban Trapper that I have has lockup issues (lock stick, lock slip, vertical and horizontal blade play). Since you can examine the knives before you buy them, you can probably find a good one.
I just got a LionSteel TRE G10 from BHQ, and it seems like it would fit your preferences as well. Caged bearings, impressive looks, M390 steel,
Benchmade 940 hands down!!! I also was not a fan of the 531 at first but it has slowly become my most used EDC. The thin blade makes it the best slicer on the table for your apples.
Zero Tolerance 0450 Great value (titanium), great in pocket, perfect size.
Opinel 13. Fits comfortably in your pocket and hand. Not to mention your finger can reach the end of it
For those of you TL;DR type of people there is a poll in the cards. Make sure you cast your vote!
Does ben have a pm2?
Why not upgrade the scale on the Griptilian? Gives it a more unique look and you know you already like the knife.
Blade HQ Have you thought of the lightweight manix 2? the choils up near the blade would allow you to get your finger near the tip. it may be a bit bigger though.
What about a Spyderco Delica In Demascus...!?!
Spyderco Caly 3.5
I love the 940, but it sucks for slicing apples. Of the ones listed, I think the best choice for Ben would be either the Boker Urban Trapper, or the BM Pardue. Pardue will be the better quality of those two.
Since you already have a dragonfly, which is perfect for opening boxes and detail work, but not quite long enough for slicing apples, it makes for the perfect companion knife. If you could move towards carrying two knives, then carrying the dragonfly along with, say the 940, you have all of your bases covered.
So my final answer is: Pardue if you only carry one knife; 940 if you carry the dragonfly as a companion.
I have the one in the center and have had it for about 6 years and i love it!
Though it seems like it already doesn't have a chance, based on Ben's preferences & knives he enjoys carrying I'd go with the Benchmade 531...keeping in mind to replace the clip w/the black Parkerized deep carry BM clip.
Before I write why, I own a 531 & a 940 so I have personal experience but only with those two out of the five.
Going off what Ben said/showed: The knife is slim & light as-all-hell like Ben's Japanese Spyderco's; it's really hard to notice you're carrying it even in comparison to a 940. It has a classically good steel & a great grind which makes it slice really well. The near-FFG is perfect for apple slicing needs similar to what he likes about his Delica. The design of the knife--especially the G10--is very aesthetically pleasing & definitely wouldn't underwhelm someone when they know Ben works for a knife company...no matter if the person is a knife person or not. The blade length is a tiny bit shorter than the 940 so choking up on the tip wouldn't be as difficult as Ben was demonstrating on others. I'm a skinny jean enthusiast & the width of the butt isn't too large to fit/grab other items in the same pocket & is justified since it makes the grip better in the hand to make up for how thin it is. Axis lock. USA made. That's my vote & why. Enjoy whatever you end up getting, Ben!
I want to say the 940 but that We is sweet. I've never owned one but it was pretty nice.
It's an easy choice a PM2 don't mess around just pull one off the shelf and put it in your pocket. I have 5 my newest is the s110v with blurple G10. Not a big fan of the Blurple but the blade steal make up for it.
I second the spydie chef as an option. Of course, if you prefer the short knife for all other applications, then you may integrate something such as an opinel no.12 into your edc system. In which case, I would recommend the petit urban trapper.
For the category of pull out and impress/ talk about go with the benchmade crooked river -2(the one with wooden scales.) On the table, the benchmade 531 and then do a video on your modifications.
Boker Urban Trapper. No question about it for me. Fun video, guys!
Glad Ben's back. I voted 940, but would recommend a Skyline.
Personally I would say the Benchmade 940 but it's not me buying it...seeing your description and your reactions to things make me think the Boker fr would be a better choice for you. It has that Mayo hole design and you want to have a knife little more flashy, not to mention it did cut the apple how you liked. but for me the 940 still is a great edc for me...Good luck
940, bought one this summer, haven't gone anywhere without it since.
Definitely the 940! One of the best locking systems, fantastic blade steel, and proven design. Nuff said!
I'd go with the BM 531 (REI Edition) nature green g10. Plus, the thinness of it helps it go through apples like butter
I know you've already got this assortment picked out, but how about a Lionsteel TRE G10? It's ultra light, in just the right size range, it's a titanium framelock with an excellent flipper, uses one of the best EDC steels on the market, and the fit and finish are incredible. It's from a company that's a bit less "mainstream" and looks pretty exotic, too, which makes it great for a "knife company guy."
I too am considering a unique gentleman knife this year.
My current front runner... the Steel Will Mini Gekko, 3.5 inch blade, N690 Italian steel, great looking (my opinion)
Draw back, heavy at about 5 oz...
To me this is a vastly upgraded Rat1 in D2 steel (similar blade length/weight) at about 4x+ the price of Rat1 D2.
if had to choose between the five on table, the 940 (or 943).
Ben, I know its not on the table but you should get a boker KwaiKen Tuxedo if bhq still has one. It's a blend of We and Boker with Benchmade quality, also designed by Squid maker Lucas Burnley. Also, vg-10 steel like your Delica.
I'd go with the WE but Ben said he likes g-10 and axis so the 940-2 would be "perfect" i have the 940-1 and its outstanding!!
Urban trapper.
3 reasons. in no particular order
1. gentlemen's knife. especially in the black handle.
2. slender blade. glides through apples like butter. Parent tested, kid approved. (Like many Japanese kitchen knives is also VG10 steel, and shaped like a paring/steak knife)
3. slender and lightweight as a whole. it sits so small in your pocket, you'll have no problem reaching past it to get to keys. Total weight is ~2oz.
oh, and if you really are thrifty, it's not super $.
The 940 of course you will love it.
940-2!!!! all day the g10 and the design work so well, it's my second favorite after my 555 mini grip
I really like the Benchmade Pardue, super light, super slim. But I gave a vote for the 940. Get it with the black g10 scales though, not the aluminum.
You should try the manix 2 or sog Vulcan but out of those the 940 is a no decision
940 any day. I don't have one, but really want one and I really like it!
BM 940 is the clear choice. It's a top seller for benchmade for a reason. It also says something about the person who has it in his pocket. Warning-I bought the green with the purple inlay. My wife took it indicating it was too pretty for me.
Ben, some advice. You work in the industry. I'd recommend a grail knife. They usually cost more but you get a discount-as it should be. Think Microtech, Strider, Emerson, CRK-Sabenza, Bodega(SP?)-let customers see that Blade HQ caries the premium products. It's a tax write off anyway and a good way to market-showcase BHQ premium offerings. FWIW best wishes. Love your work.
I have a 940-2 and love it, go for the 940!!!! if you want something small the dragonfly is sweet, got one for my pops, he loves it.
Surprised that I never tried Boker. Over then past 2 months (been on vacation for the past 3 weeks), I've bought 3 CRKTs, amicus compact, graphite, and tighe tac 2. Out of the 3 I found myself playing and using the tac2 the most, and I've only owned it for the past 2 days, it's also real lightweight. Other than CRKTs, I'd say get a ColdSteel, or a Spydie.
Working for Blade Hq would be the coolest job ever
Hands down Benchmade 940. Best edc folder I own. If not that, I'd go with the Spyderco delica 4 FFG
and something you didn't mention is the skyline. great steel and the CF version is really nice.
I own a 940-2 and really enjoy it. I don't do that much of apple cutting.
940!!! Actually the 940-1.... I own the 940, 940-1 and the 940-2 (the 940-1 is by far my favorite!!!) Especially with a deep carry pocket clip from benchmade :)
Go with the Spyderco Sage 1...love this knife so much!
Ok, hello from 2022 and its cool to see what looks like it could be a "pre" bugout on the table. That is really interesting!
940 I am a huge knife enthusiast and my favorite is the 940 by far
I would chose the 940 hands down. Look at the 941 as well with the drop point or the 940-1 in carbon fiber.
You missed 2 great knives!!! try the apple test with the ZT 0450cf and the Para 3. You might just be impressed! At least hold them before you buy another, i daily carry the ZT and will be getting the Para 3 as soon as they are out in a spring run with carbon fiber (love that look and reduced weight).
The shorter Boker fits your requirements for a sub 3.5", easy on the pocket, deep carry slicer. Too bad it's not S30V or it would be perfect. Para 3 might hit all your needs?
Both of those boker knives are pretty sweet. But but that 940 is king of the castle!
I voted for the boker, because from what you say you like in a knife, that seems to be the best of these choices. in all honesty, I own a Benchmade 940, and a 943 ( the clip point version ), and they are amazing knives, but, they are two of my least carried knives. the edge geometry isn't as good as you would think it would be, having a slim blade, so my griptillion actually has better cutting performance. S30v, while its a good steel, in my opinion, isn't a great steal. it's very chippy, doesn't sharpen as easy as other steels, and it doesn't seem to hold an edge much if any longer, so I actually like 154cm a little more. for these reasons, I would put the 940 at the bottom of these knives as far as the best knife for you. I think it might win the popular vote, just because everyone seems to have one, overlooks the flaws, and doesn't look at it objectively
Spyderco Native 5 has been in my pocket a lot lately. Nice, light user of a knife. I also think you should check out the ZT 0450 by Sinkevich. 3.25" S35VN blade, less than 3 oz. KVT bearing pivot. Very sexy!
You both do an amazing job! Good job, and Ben, I hope you enjoy your new knife. - Chris
Based on the things you seem to want... what about the piranha Virus. Disappears in the pocket. In your size range. Good slicer. I also kind of wanted to suggest the ZT 0450cf.
940 is a MUST HAVE for any collection is rather have the 940 than all the other knives
We or boker or 940....
Sorry I couldn't help lol
I vote for the 940 or the 940-2 which I am sure is floating around somewhere in your facility. :p Ben if you haven't handled the 940-2 I would HIGHLY recommend playing with it for a day!!!
Ben! :) I love this start in the weekend!
I would go with the boker fr, meets all your specs without modification. cuts your apples, thin and still classy, short enough to choke up on, and with a price point that doesn't empty your wallet. And while I love the 940, I can't help but feel its become almost as standard as the griptilian
1. I ❤️ Ben
2. I've carried a 940 forever, and I just ordered the We 618 (before even seeing this video)
3. Go with the We 618 or get a Brad Zinker custom. You guys carry them sometimes.
You should really consider the crooked river mini it’s small,apple cut worthy and a great blade with that access lock
A lot are stating 940 love. but you seem to want a small guy @ 3" or under. Austin seems to like the Urban Trapper. Have you seen the Urban Trapper Petite @ 2.75"? This is a light office knife to dazzle not to baton wood. On the other hand, the FR has a wider blade to better spread peanut and jelly. Lastly, the 940 is fun to diddle with.
I really like the look of the benchmade 707 sequel. I don't see it on their site anymore, and non 154cm were only limited runs
I love my 940-2. I want to get the original Osborne color combo. My vote is the 940 but you gotta check the grind. Benchmade has issues getting an even edge on them
I did the handle mod on my 531 and it's amazing
Ben, your preferences sound much like Para 3. It has the control you like, not too short for apple test, won't break the bank like WE...
Seriously Ben, you're a grown man. Don't sweat a few extra ounces in your pocket. A nice medium size knife that will definitely get that 'Wow factor' you are looking for also provides excellent tip control. Due to the unique blade shape it is unnecessary to have your finger all the way out on the tip of the knife. Hold the 4 oz Spyderco Yojimbo and see the light. The large swoop on the back of the blade is perfect for thumb or even finger when added control for fine cutting is necessary.
All nice knives, but my favorite small gentlemen's knife is a Spyderco Urban
I'm thinking since you don't have s30v yet and size matters and weight matters. it's got to be the 940. or maybe go with a native 5 Spyderco.
☺
side note to Austin thanks for the response and I got the para 3 in on Monday and have had a couple days with it. love it.👍
Another knife I feel more than fits your criteria is the steel will mini gekko.
The 940 does everything you need it to, except the classy pull out. Go 940-1 if you wanna be that cool guy. Hard to justify $270 for a knife just to be a cool guy though. Good luck Ben.
Of the knives listed, the 940 leads all the others by so far the rest couldn't see the 940 if they had Swarovski binoculars. None have actions as smooth, strong, and reliable as the Axis, and the 940 fits almost every hand in the world.
I have the urban trapper and love it, so if you want it I bet you will love it
Lightweight? Mid-length? Lightweight? Low-impact pocket presence? Lightweight? Dude. Let this internet contest pass, then pick yourself up a ZT 0770. Please! You won't regret it. My wife won't put hers down long enough for me to steal it. On a side note, whoever is doing the editing for these banter videos *like, really gets it.* Cheers, ~Mike
For the criteria you describe I think that the 940 covers most the bases. However it's not venturing far from known pastures. The 531 looks horrible to me. I do love a squid though.
The WE might be your best choice there, but it is expensive. Second place would go for that first Boker though.
We 618 is easily number 1 choice, with the benchy 940 a close second. I personally don't really care for the rest. I'd like to throw in another wildcard and suggest a Protech Newport
I think the Cold Steel Ti-Lite 4im is long enough to slice an apple. Its also going to start a conversation when you pull it out.
940 for sure! preferably the 940-1 or 940-2
If you are cheap and want an excellent edc buy the kizer belgiter in od green or whatever it's called. I own the 950 rift and 940 & I like the kizer equally.
Check out the Steel Will Cutjack Mini. It's an amazing little EDC blade