Emerson / Benchmade

[Al]

Comparison thots & opinions anyone?

 

[BigHonu]

Al,

The thoughts here are my opinions only.

Both brands produce a great product.

Benchmade:
The axis lock on most Benchmade models is one of the strongest out there.
They use good materials for both blades and handles/scales.
Overall fit and finish is good for a factory piece, though some may say that the early models had off-centered blades and other QC issues.
Price is reasonable.

Emerson:
Liner lock is a reliable locking system (again, you may get various opinions)
Ergonomics are excellent on the pieces I've handled
The Wave is cool (but hard on your pants)
Chisel grind makes cutting straight lines hard for me (righty)
Overall fit and finish is good

I personally do not care for Benchmade in general (even if I own a discontinued model which stays at home). NOT saying they make a bad knife, but just not my cup of tea. Most guys like the 7XX series last I checked.
The only Emerson I own is a 2000 Commander just because I thought the Wave was cool and recurve blade is just wicked. I carry this one in my briefcase.

If you really want to get the scoops on knives, visit Bladeforums, Knifeforums, or UsualSuspectsNetwork.

Aloha

 

[WaltH]

I've got a Benchmade 9500SBT which is a great knife. Very smooth action. But being an automatic I don't carry it much. I find myself using my Microtech Socom much more.

But I have to say you can't go wrong with BM or Emerson.

 

[SPECIALIST]

In the way of BM's and EKI's i own a commander, a cqc7, and a BM 722. Overall I would say that the BM is probably the best overall workmanship, but i don't think it would be able to stand the abuse a cqc7 could. The biggest plus for emerson is that it can be completely disassembled and cleaned thouroughly. IF you do this to a benchmade, you will void the warrenty.

There has also been some doubt raised about the axis lock system in that it may disengage in a most inoportune time. While i have not seen this happen myself supposidly CJ Carraci (spelling?) an ex navy seal and tactical instructor says this is a major flaw. You can look this issue up under the archives in the CJ Tactical forum in Bladeforums.com.
Now if you want a knife that will handle anything you want a strider GB or AR!

 

[BigHonu]

Strider Knives definitely kick a**!!!

Aloha

 

[Terrapin Flyer]

I'm beginning to move from production knives to custom and semi-custom knives. I had an equal mix of Benchmades and Emersons until recently when some of the Benchmades went to new homes. The Emersons found their way into my pockets more often. They really love hard use, they open smoothly, they're well constructed, and I've never had a warranty problem (only problem was some badly finished screws and they sent me new ones pronto).

Not sure how big a knife you want, but I'm thoroughly enjoying my Emerson Mini-Commander with the "wave". My Emerson La Griffe also came into play a couple times this weekend for some minor cutting chores.

Depends on what you want to spend and your intended purpose. Some fine knives are made by Benchmade, and the Axis lock is SOLID. You might also do well looking at the EDC by Camillus - great knife for very few $$. It's based on a Darrell Ralph design and can be found for $50 - $60 with a 154CM blade. Great value for a nice knife.

Uh oh, I'm running on about knives again....