Benchmade knives have carved a niche in the market for high-quality, durable, and dependable knives. Ranging from everyday carry knives to military-grade equipment, Benchmade has solidified its place among the best. One crucial factor defining how well a knife performs is its edge angle. Benchmade knives are highly regarded for their distinctive edge angles.
Understanding Knife Edge Angles
Before delving into the distinct edge angles Benchmade implements, it’s essential to understand what a blade angle is and why it matters. The edge angle, often referred to as the bevel, is the angle at which the blade is sharpened.
Why is the Edge Angle important?
The edge angle is critical as it underpins the knife’s performance. A smaller or sharper angle implies a sharper edge, enhancing the knife’s slicing capabilities. Conversely, a larger or blunt angle results in a stronger edge, more resistant to rolling or chipping due to its greater metal presence. Hence, the edge angle dictates whether the knife excels in chopping, slicing, or durability.
The Angle of Benchmade Knives
Each Benchmade knife is designed with a specific purpose in mind and features an edge angle that aligns with that function. Most Benchmade knives come with a factory edge angle of 30 to 35 degrees inclusive. However, this can differ slightly based on the specific knife model and design.
Benchmade EDC Knives
Everyday Carry or EDC knives frequently have a narrow edge angle since they are filed for multipurpose use. With a 30-degree inclusive angle, Benchmade EDC knives offer sharp cuts for daily operations like cutting ropes or opening packages.
Benchmade Tactical Knives
Tactical knives or combat knives from Benchmade usually have more significant angles to enhance their durability. In stressful situations, these knives can withstand extreme force without chipping or breaking, ensuring that those on the front lines can rely on their tools.
Benchmade Hunting Knives
Benchmade hunting knives are the perfect blend of the previous two categories. They are designed to offer a great edge retention and toughness, with an angle slightly steeper than the EDC knives, making them ideal for skinning and other hunting prep work.
How to Maintain the Edge Angle on Your Benchmade Knife
With proper maintenance, your Benchmade knife can serve you for a lifetime. Sharpening is a vital component of knife maintenance, keeping your blade reliable and functional.
Choosing the Right Sharpener
Firstly, choosing the correct sharpener is key. When sharpening a Benchmade knife, it’s essential to use a sharpener that suits the blade’s distinct angle. Benchmade offers its own range of sharpeners specifically designed to maintain the angle their knives come with.
Sharpening Step-by-Step
- Securing the Knife: Hold the knife securely, with the edge facing away to ensure safety during sharpening.
- Aligning the Sharpener: Position the sharpener at the correct angle. For any Benchmade knife, 30-35 degrees is usually the sweet spot.
- Sharpening: Slowly and gently draw the sharpener across the blade. Ensure that the sharpener’s entire surface comes into contact with the knife edge.
- Repeat: Repeat the process, maintaining a consistent stroke angle each time.
- Check: Check the sharpness periodically to avoid over-sharpening.
How Frequently Should You Sharpen Your Knife?
The frequency of sharpening depends on how often and intensively you use it. However, a simple rule of thumb is to sharpen your Benchmade knife when you notice a decrease in performance.
The Edge of Innovation – Benchmade’s Unique Blade Angles
Benchmade’s philosophy of constantly striving to make something better is perfectly encapsulated in their unique blade angles. Bridge the gap between a sharp cutting performance and robust durability; Benchmade employs a meticulously calculated edge angle on every knife in its lineup. Tuned to the purpose for which each knife is crafted, these angles are a noteworthy aspect of what makes Benchmade knives amongst the industry’s finest.
Added to the company’s commitment to expert craftsmanship, innovative design, and high-quality materials, it’s clear to see why the Benchmade name has become synonymous with excellence. With a Benchmade knife in your hand, you’re not just wielding a tool – you’re wielding decades of knowledge, skill, and a true understanding of what makes a knife great.
Frequently Asked Questions
What angle is a Benchmade bugout?
The Benchmade Bugout has a blade angle of approximately 30 degrees inclusive. This means that each side of the blade is ground to an angle of 15 degrees per side. The total angle, including both sides, adds up to 30 degrees.
Is my knife 15 or 20 degrees?
Benchmade knives typically come with a factory edge angle of 30 degrees inclusive. Therefore, each side of the blade is sharpened to an angle of 15 degrees. However, it’s important to note that different models may have slightly different angles, so it’s always best to refer to the specific product information or contact Benchmade directly for precise measurements.
What angle do you sharpen a Benchmade S30V?
When sharpening a Benchmade knife with S30V steel, it is recommended to maintain the factory edge angle, which is usually around 30 degrees inclusive. This means sharpening each side of the blade to approximately 15 degrees. However, depending on personal preference and usage, some individuals may choose to adjust the edge angle slightly.
What angle should I sharpen my Benchmade Griptilian?
The Benchmade Griptilian typically has a factory edge angle of around 30 degrees inclusive. This means each side of the blade is sharpened to an angle of approximately 15 degrees. To effectively maintain the sharpness and slicing performance of your Griptilian, sharpening it within this angle range is recommended.
What is the best angle to sharpen a Benchmade knife?
The best angle to sharpen a Benchmade knife depends on the specific model and intended usage. However, the general consensus is that a 30-degree inclusive edge angle provides a good balance between sharpness and durability for everyday use. This equates to an approximate 15-degree angle per side. It’s important to consider your specific needs and preferences when determining the ideal sharpening angle for your Benchmade knife.
Can I change the angle of my Benchmade knife?
While it is technically possible to change the edge angle of your Benchmade knife, it is not recommended unless you have proper sharpening tools and skills. Modifying the angle can affect the blade’s performance, durability, and void any warranty provided by Benchmade. If you desire a different edge angle, it is advisable to consult a professional knife sharpener who can safely and accurately adjust the angle for you.
What is the purpose of a lower angle on a knife?
A lower angle on a knife refers to a narrower blade edge, which can result in a sharper cutting performance. Lower angles, such as 15 degrees per side, are often used for tasks that require a high degree of precision and fine slicing, such as food preparation or paper cutting. However, it’s important to note that lower angles may compromise the overall durability of the blade, making it more prone to chipping or breaking under heavy-duty usage.
Is a lower angle always better for knife sharpness?
While a lower angle can result in a sharper blade, it is not always better for overall knife sharpness, as it sacrifices some durability. The ideal edge angle for sharpness ultimately depends on the intended usage of the knife. For tasks that require precision and fine cutting, a lower angle may be preferred. However, activities that involve heavy-duty cutting or impact may benefit from a slightly higher angle to balance sharpness and durability.
What is the correct sharpening technique for Benchmade knives?
The correct sharpening technique for Benchmade knives generally involves using consistent and controlled strokes while maintaining the desired edge angle. It is recommended to use a whetstone or sharpening system designed specifically for knives and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Starting with a coarse grit and progressively moving to finer grits can help achieve a sharp and polished edge. Ensuring a steady hand and maintaining a consistent angle throughout the sharpening process are crucial for optimal results.
How often do I need to sharpen my Benchmade knife?
The frequency of sharpening your Benchmade knife depends on factors such as usage, cutting materials, and personal preference. In general, a high-quality Benchmade knife with a well-maintained edge should retain sharpness for an extended period, allowing for routine touch-ups every few months of regular use. However, if you notice a significant decrease in cutting performance or difficulty in slicing, it may be a good indication that your knife requires sharpening.