Tuesday, April 16, 2013

The Benchmade 710: Just A Good Knife

I usually write about knives that I own myself, but today I am going to write about one that I am getting ready to purchase. I can't be more excited about it. I have ordered the Benchmade 710, a McHenry and Williams design that has become one of Benchmade's more popular knives in recent years.

The thing I love the most about the 710 is the grip. I am a huge fan of G10, and Benchmade does not use that handle material a lot, using anodized aluminum most of the time instead. The 710 has a sleek look and design, with a great grip. Benchmade's AXIS lock is also present, and the blade is made of a premium D2 Tool Steel, which means this knife is made for hard use applications. Take a look:



As you can see, it has a modified clip point, and the blade is almost 4 inches, which is pretty long for an EDC, but the weight is good at under 5 oz, and the balance feels great. Basically, if you have the need for an everyday knife that will work as hard as you do, while still keeping style in mind, this is the knife for you. The knife retails at around $170, and with all it has to offer, is totally worth it!

Anyone have a 710? Leave your thoughts in the comments below!

Sincerely,

TKG

Monday, April 1, 2013

Cheap OTFs: OTF Function, But Worth The Price?

Ok, so as many you of know I am not shy about the fact that I love OTF autos. I am also not shy about the fact that I love quality. Which is why I had to write about the cheap OTF Autos I saw the other day.

First of all, lets call a duck a duck and say what these knives are. They are Microtech knock-offs, plain and simple. They look and function like a Microtech, but are made overseas, and made with much inferior materials and quality. The handles, instead of being anodized aluminum, are made of stainless steel and are painted black. The blades are made of an unknown stainless and are also painted black. Also, they hardly ever come very sharp, and even if you use a good sharpener, they cannot retain an edge at all.

Now, I know this all sounds bad, and while I definitely would never recommend carrying one of these knives as an EDC, they are still interesting to me because of the fact that they are so inexpensive. Most people do not realize that a Microtech-like OTF has more moving parts and a more complex action than a lot of handguns. That is why they are so expensive. Most OTFs START at $200 and can go way up, so much so that you could pay thousands for a custom piece. Also, due to import laws, it is illegal to import automatic knives into the USA, which is why all the big brands make their autos in the USA even when they outsource other knives.

The other day, I saw a knock off selling online for $20. TWENTY DOLLARS. My guess is that people order these and get them and are sometimes unsatisfied with the quality, but what do you expect for $20? It has the same function as a knife that usually costs $200 or more, and while not amazing in the quality realm, this is a fun knife to own, and if you lose it, you aren't out much.

Like I said, I don't recommend these knives as an EDC, however, you have to realize you are paying for the technology. If the knife was not an OTF, it would be a total piece of junk, but considering that it is a functioning OTF, it is great as a novelty or a gift.

All that being said, if you can afford it, get a Microtech!

Thanks!

TKG