I am in the market for a new EDC knife to be used in addition to my auto Benchmade that is carried weak side only on duty. I can not decide between a Benchmade 940 (http://www.benchmade.com/products/940) or an Emerson Mini A-100 (http://www.emersonknives.com/ekMA100.php). I have never handled an AXIS knife and don’t know what to expect. I have always heard Emmerson was top notch; however, people also state the AXIS is much better for a defensive knife. On the other hand, I have become spoiled with the Benchmade auto and will have to get used to manually opening a knife again. What do you’ll think? Which would you want for an EDC knife/tool?
Benchmade… But I am bias!
You really cant go wrong either way. I have multiple models from both companies, no complaints. I just always have had a thing for Emerson
Though I do not own any Emerson knives, I have never heard a bad word about them. I would have to guess that the quality between the two is comparable. I would go with the 940 from a design point of view. I have several of the Axis lock knives and can attest to the security of lock up and ease of use. I have the Rift which has the same style blade as the 940 and have to say that it is one of my favorite blade designs.
One thing to consider, regarding the Emerson, is that even though the blade is listed as a conventional v-grind, only one side of the edge is sharpened. Some people don’t like this in a utility blade but I don’t have any problem with it on my Emerson.
Knifeworks seems to have a pretty good deal on the 940 in S30V…$131 after you enter the discount code during checkout (they also have the 940 in D2 for $139).
http://www.knifeworks.com/benchmadeosborneaxislocks30vsteel.aspx
I’ve had knives from both companies. No complaints in ownership here. Hope you find what you’re looking for.
My current EDC for the past 5 or so years is the SF.Delta.FCUK
I took the unknown plunge and ordered an Emerson. I have never had one and not sure if I will fall in love or not; however, I love the older, simplistic look and feel it is just what I want. We’ll see when it arrives. Thanks for the advice.
Best folder I have ever had hands down.
BenchMade Griptillian 550 HG
I like the blade style. It’s lite, keeps a good edge, is a good size and feel good in my hand AND it’s priced appropriately
Others will disagree.
I love keep one in my chest rig as a backup blade. Works well with gloves and the blade is very versatile.
What I don’t like is the way it fits/feels in my pocket. Just not very comfortable
Not to make your decision more difficult, but have you looked at this? http://www.knifeworks.com/dougritterrskmk1pre-order.aspx
Benchmade.
I carry a 710 everyday. After a while you will wonder why your other knives don’t release the blade when you run your thumb along the side of the handle. 
Benchmade is the best bang for the buck
YES!
And the other thing I like about the knife I carry is that the blades shape is excellent for cutting lime.
Versatility is very important.
I voted 940 - I have one in my pocket right now.
Slim & light for EDC & I personally love the blade geometry. I’m also a big fan of the Axis lock - opens and closes lightning fast with either hand, and very sturdy. I have abused the crap out of a couple of different Axis lock knives and never found one wanting in any way.
I have knives from both; you can’t go wrong either way. I will say I like the Benchmade Aries Axis lock and the Emerson Wave feature a lot.
Knifeworks is/was selling the Benchmade(HK-logo’d)Snody Tanto axis folder for just $69.00! If their still available, it’s the best deal on a Benchmade axis folder to be had…