My brothers birthday is coming up. He just recently lost his Benchmade Griptillian and I’d like to get him another Benchmade. He got the Griptillian used as a gift from a friend some years ago, so he’s not necessarily attached to that specific model.
What’s a good, inexpensive entry model from Benchmade? I’d like to keep it under $100 or less I’d possible. I blew my budget on him last year when I got him a handgun and would like to keep it somewhat cheap this year.
I’m also open to recommendations for other knives from other companies, but they must have a similar warranty and outstanding customer service. He’s very hard on his knives and had Benchmade replace his Griptillian blade once and his belt clip twice.
It shouldn’t be hard to find a Griptilian for less than $100 using a Google search or perhaps Ebay (I quickly found them on Ebay <100). Another Benchmade to look at is the Barrage (585) which is very much like the Griptilian with a spring assisted opening. The Barage is $20 or so more expensive than the Griptilian, but worth it IMO. I’ve been very happy carrying both in the mini profile; they’re my favorites due to their left handed friendly operation.
I’ll add to the recommendations for Knifeworks. The Doug Ritter Griptilian and Barrage are good suggestions…they’ve also got a closeout mini-grip in D2 for $64.95.
I’m a HUGE Benchmade fan. I love my 710 and it’s my EDC defense knife (I don’t use it for things that might break the blade) and carry a Kershaw Leek or Blur for normal knife work.
You might want to check them out if you don’t find a benchmade that strikes your fancy.
My daily carry pocketknife is a Benchmade Griptilian (full size only, the mini’s handle to is too small for me). I got a limited edition one from the NRA when they had a sale, it is s30V steel and very nice. Around $85 when I got it on sale.
Thanks for all of the suggestions, guys. I initially chose the BM710 per your suggestions, then accidentally found the 950 Rift. I ended up going with the Rift, as I think he’ll like that grip a bit more. It came in today, so I’ll be able to give it to him this weekend.