Benchmade 940 Osborne Review

It’s Benchmade time again, folks, and we are back with the classic review. You all know how much I love the Mini Griptilian and other knives operating on Axis-lock. For me, it has always been great pleasure to get and use new blades from the company with a butterfly logo. What we have now is collaboration between Benchmade and acclaimed knife maker Warren Osborne. Yes, all the Rift, Contego and Barrage knives are the legacy of the very same Osborne. Now, stay awhile and read a story about why this knife actually rocks!

To start with, Benchmade 940 Osborne is probably the only knife that bears its creators name as a model. I mean, duh, there are numbers, but serial numbers are usually assigned to all the Benchmade (and other company’s) folders. Just a fact. Anyway, the blade comes in a standard blue box with the proud “Benchmade Knife Company, USA” imprint. It is American made, has a lifetime warranty and the MSRP of $200. The price actually depends on the blade shape, edge, finish and handles material. The model sent for our review is the basic 940 with reverse-tanto blade and green aluminum handles. The knife has overall length of 7.87 inches and a 3.40 inch blade.

Key Specs

  • Blade length: 3.40″
  • Overall length: 7.87″
  • Closed length: 4.47″
  • Weight: 2.90oz.
  • Blade material: S30V Premium Steel
  • Country of origin: USA

benchmade-940-osborne-review

Benchmade 940 Osborne  >>   Check Price

  • Blade
  • Handle
  • Design
  • Price
4.7

Summary

It’s perfectly suited to be an EDC knife and its dimensions and weight mean that it is easily stored in your pocket without a fuss. The S30V steel blade is sturdy and sharp, and able to keep its edge longer than most knives.

Blade

The first thing I liked about this knife from the box is the blade shape. Although being a fan of more classic forms, this reverse-tanto once and for all became a one love for me (such a knife-head I am, guilty as charged). The name is, by the way, mostly suggested by the designer and the official website. You can also hear people call it a drop-point or by mistake a wharncliffe. Anyhow, the blade has flat grind which starts about halfway down the blade stock. This makes the tip of the blade fat and strong enough not to break on you. However I personally didn’t have troubles piercing wood and cardboard with it. All thanks to the prominent 2/3 blade length swedge, which runs straight to the tip. Cutting with 940 Osborne is absolute pleasure. But again, name me at least one American Benchmade knife, that cuts awfully bad. That’swhen we get to talk about the blade steel.benchmade-940-osborne-review

The blade steel material on Benchmade 940 Osborne is, I would say, “standard” CPM-S30V. This premium steel hardened to 58-60 HRC makes the knife an excellent all-round tool good for both urban and bushcraft tasks. I personally carried this model for a week in the country, did some carving and feather sticking. And the knife worked well. Yes, it won’t process wood as good as any scandi-grind blade. But, after all, nothing does the job with wood as good as the old-school puukko knives. Cardboard and letter opening are not worth mentioning. Check and check. Sharpening S30V sacrifices some time. So just take a deep breath, turn on your favorite 80s flick and sharpen that beast. Yes, it is tiresome. But, look, you can always send it back to LIFESHARP service for Benchmade to hone. Been there, done that. Trust me: this cutting edge will last for real long this time.

Another thing to highlight is the blade finish. Although the official website calls it satin, in practice the blade has blackened stonewash touch. And it looks just fantastic. The blade tone adds something tactical to the overall gentleman’s green anodized scales. Additionally this bead-blasted finish is extremely scratch resistant. So again, no worries about the annoying notches on the blade. Long story short, the blade works superb andlooks even better.

Handle

Literary, the second thing that catches the eye with this here knife are the scales. Man, ain’t they gorgeous? I don’t know why the green color. Why not olive drab, orange or grey. But this green here anodized aluminum scales work awesome with the slim profile and overall aesthetics of Benchmade

Osborne. The slightly bent shape with the good index-finger choil and jimping makes this knife stick to your hand and stay there for good. There isn’t much of a thumb ramp, but is this really what you need in a slim blade like this? It won’t let you down anyway, so why bother. Finally, the icing on the cake…the color anodized titanium back spacer. I rarely see stuff like that on custom blades. But, hell, on a serial manufactured knife like this – this is definitely worth an additional buck. Not only it looks great, but the overall weight of Benchmade Osborne appears to be 2.90 ounces. And isn’t that a miracle for a knife with 3.4 inch blade. No seriously, my Kershaw Scallion weighs more in hand than this here full sized folder. Consequently making my think about the ergonomics part of my review.

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Ergonomics (belt-clip, lock, deployment)

I’ve been always writing spoilers in every preface of the ergonomics part for a long time. Will I change anything? Won’t even think about it! So hear this – the knife feels and works absolutely fantastic. Man, I start looking for some new words to tell you how good it is. Anyway, let’s not make a hustle and just go through all the main features step by step.

The belt clip on 940 Osborne is the same you see on most Benchmade knives (Griptilian including). It’s wide, stiff and reliable. Had no problems clipping the blade to my pocket one handed, at least. Same goes with taking the knife off my pants. So in terms of how good the belt clip works, I’d say it works perfect. A thing we rarely notice appears to be useful when most needed. So you won’t stumble over the cloth folds when putting the knife into your pocket anyway. Good job, Benchmade, you did it again.

The lock, as mentioned before, is the Axis-mother-of-all-Lock. You know, it sometimes becomes boring to describe how good some frame or liner locks work. But never with this Axis here! Yes it is complicated, yes the dirt can get inside, and blah, blah, blah. Come on, it’s obvious. That is not why we love or hate it. The fact is – this spring operated locking mechanism works. Deal with it. The blade stays in place now and will stay there in a year, in two generations, whenever. Another thing is of course the deployment.

My hobbies include mountain biking, drawing, camping, knives… and playing with Benchmade 940 Osborne. Opening and closing a Benchmade knife has never been so smooth and fast at the same time. No, seriously, you should try it. Due to quite a blade length and weight this thing shoots out blade like crazy. It is not assisted but actually feels like one. I don’t know, guys, what they did to 940 Osborne, but it definitely works better than Griptillian. Again, you can open the knife using the dual thumb studs or by depressing the lock. Anyway – it is a great pleasure seeing your pocket blade work like that.

Conclusion

In the end of every day it’s quite important to ask yourself – have you done what you’ve planned? Like so, Benchmade company along with Warren Osborne designed a really good and functional knife. Have they actually made the Knife as planned? Yes, sir. And with flying colors! There are few knives I recommend holding in hand and testing. Benchmade 940 Osborne is definitely among those favorites. Check it out in the nearest Arms store and decide what’s right for you. Good luck and stay sharp.

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50 thoughts on “Benchmade 940 Osborne Review

  1. I carried a benchmade 940 exclusively for years at work. The amount of abuse that it took at that time was ridiculous! I would never try some of the stuff I put this thing through with other knives!

  2. I’ve had a benchmade 940 for 3 years and it’s been the best knife! It’s cleaned deer, been run over, cut so much wire and just keeps going!

  3. I bought my benchmade 940 from a friend almost three years ago and I haven’t bought another knife since then. My benchmade 940 has seen the most pocket time out of all my knives since I’ve got it.

  4. The Benchmade 940 Osborne is a popular folding knife that has gained a reputation for its excellent design and quality construction. There are several reasons why this knife is so highly regarded:

    1. Ergonomic design: The 940 Osborne is designed to fit comfortably in the hand and has a slim, lightweight profile. The handle is made of durable, lightweight aluminum with a textured finish, providing a secure grip even in wet conditions.

    2. High-quality materials: The blade is made of premium S30V steel, which is known for its excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance. The knife also features Benchmade’s patented AXIS locking mechanism, which provides a smooth, easy opening and secure lockup.

    3. Versatility: The 940 Osborne is a versatile knife that can be used for a variety of tasks, from everyday carry to outdoor activities. The blade length of 3.4 inches is legal in most jurisdictions and is suitable for a wide range of cutting tasks.

    4. Aesthetics: The 940 Osborne has a sleek, modern design that appeals to many knife enthusiasts. The knife is available in several different handle and blade finishes, allowing users to choose a look that suits their personal style.

    Overall, the Benchmade 940 Osborne is a well-designed, high-quality knife that has earned a reputation for its excellent performance and versatility. Its popularity among knife enthusiasts is a testament to its quality and design.

  5. Both the Benchmade 940 and the ZT 0450 are excellent folding knives with their own unique features and advantages. The choice between them largely depends on your personal preferences and needs.

    The Benchmade 940 is a classic and well-regarded knife that has been a favorite of many for years. It features a slim, lightweight design, a comfortable and ergonomic handle, and a high-quality S30V steel blade that is both durable and sharp. The knife also features Benchmade’s patented Axis lock, which is highly reliable and easy to use.

    The ZT 0450, on the other hand, is a newer knife that has quickly gained a following among knife enthusiasts. It features a sleek and modern design, a comfortable and sturdy titanium handle, and a high-quality S35VN steel blade that is both tough and sharp. The knife also features ZT’s signature KVT ball-bearing system, which allows for smooth and easy opening and closing.

    Ultimately, the choice between these two knives will depend on your personal preferences and needs. If you prefer a classic and well-regarded design, the Benchmade 940 may be the better choice for you. If you prefer a sleek and modern design with high-end features, the ZT 0450 may be the better choice. Both knives are highly regarded and will serve you well, so you can’t go wrong with either one.

  6. The Benchmade 940 is a popular and highly-regarded EDC knife, but whether it is the right choice for you depends on your personal needs and preferences. Here are a few factors to consider:

    1. Size and weight: The Benchmade 940 is a medium-sized knife with a blade length of 3.4 inches and an overall length of 7.87 inches. It weighs 2.9 ounces, which is relatively light. If you prefer a larger or smaller knife, or have specific size and weight requirements, you may want to consider other options.

    2. Blade shape and material: The 940 has a reverse tanto blade shape and is made of high-quality S30V steel. This steel is known for its excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance. If you prefer a different blade shape or steel type, you may want to explore other options.

    3. Locking mechanism: The 940 features Benchmade’s Axis lock, which is a reliable and easy-to-use mechanism. However, if you prefer a different type of locking mechanism, such as a liner lock or frame lock, you may want to consider other knives.

    4. Price: The Benchmade 940 is a relatively expensive knife, with a retail price of around $200. If this is within your budget and you value quality and durability, it may be worth the investment.

    Overall, the Benchmade 940 is a well-regarded EDC knife that could be a good choice for many people. However, there are many other great EDC knives on the market, so it’s worth doing some research and considering your personal needs and preferences before making a decision.

  7. I can provide you with some general information about the Benchmade 940 and its features to help you make an informed decision about whether it would be the right EDC knife for you based on your personal needs and preferences.

  8. I bought a benchmade 940 and it was a knife that made me stop buying knives. It felt like the perfect one. I love it! Slim profile but still gives you a long blade and when it’s in your pocket I could still get my relatively wide hand in the pocket without having to fight for space with a knife.

  9. The Benchmade 940 features an Axis Lock, which is a patented locking mechanism that provides a secure and reliable lockup.

  10. Yes, the Benchmade 940 is considered to be a great EDC knife due to its compact size, lightweight design, and versatile blade shape.

  11. Yes, the Benchmade 940 comes with a reversible pocket clip that allows for tip-up carry.

  12. The price of the Benchmade 940 can vary depending on the specific model and retailer, but it typically ranges from $200 to $250 USD.

  13. I have been a fan of the benchmade 940 line for awhile. Always love rotating it to the pocket. Hope they never stop making them 🙂

  14. I’ve had a benchmade 940 for a decade or so, and it is still one of my favorites. The balance is amazing.

  15. The benchmade 940 is an awesome knife. I kinda like the standard green the best but love the variety that it is getting these days.

  16. My benchmade 940 comes in so handy when working on cars. It can do light prying scraping the tip is very strong and oh yes it can cut. Pops plastic rivets so many uses and it holds up to it all. Very unique!

  17. I like the ragular benchmade 940 with the aluminum in green. What can I say, I’m traditional.

  18. I feel like the benchmade 940 is just a knife any collector or enthusiast should own. Even if you only want one knife for the rest of your life.

  19. I lost my benchmade 940 last week after carrying it for 9 years. I’m hoping it will maybe pop up. I’m very sad.

  20. Benchmade may release limited edition versions of their knives, including the Benchmade 940. Limited edition scales for the Benchmade 940 can vary, and the availability of specific scales depends on the releases made by Benchmade. Since new limited editions may have been introduced after my last update, it’s recommended to check Benchmade’s official website, authorized dealers, or online forums for the latest information.

    Here are some factors to consider when looking for limited edition scales for the Benchmade 940:

    Official Benchmade Releases:

    1. Benchmade may release limited edition versions of their knives with unique scales. Check the official Benchmade website or contact authorized dealers for information on any recent limited edition releases.

    2. Aftermarket Custom Scales:

    Some enthusiasts and custom scale makers create aftermarket scales for popular knives, including the Benchmade 940. Explore online forums, social media groups, or specialized websites where custom scale makers showcase their work.

    3. Collaborations and Exclusive Releases:

    Benchmade occasionally collaborates with other companies or individuals to create exclusive versions of their knives. Keep an eye out for collaborations that may feature distinctive scales.

    4. Limited Edition Sprint Runs:

    Limited edition knives are sometimes part of sprint runs, where a specific quantity is produced for a short period. Check with Benchmade or authorized dealers for information on any recent or upcoming sprint runs for the Benchmade 940.

    5. Online Marketplaces:

    Check online marketplaces and auction websites where collectors and enthusiasts may sell or trade limited edition Benchmade 940 knives with unique scales.

    Remember to verify the authenticity of any limited edition scales, especially when purchasing from third-party sellers. It’s also a good idea to participate in knife enthusiast forums or communities, as members often share information about new releases and aftermarket customization options.

    For the most up-to-date and accurate information on limited edition scales for the Benchmade 940, I recommend checking Benchmade’s official channels, authorized dealers, and online knife enthusiast communities.

  21. Choosing a custom clip for your Benchmade 940 can enhance both its aesthetics and functionality. Here are some popular options for custom clips for the Benchmade 940:

    1. MXG Gear Deep Carry Clip:

    Made from titanium.
    Offers a deep carry design for discreet pocket carry.
    Precision machined for a secure fit.
    Often praised for its durability and quality construction.

    2. Lynch Northwest Benchmade Clip:

    Titanium construction for strength and light weight.
    Available in various colors and finishes.
    Provides a deep carry option for discreet carry.
    Well-regarded for its design and craftsmanship.

    3. Flytanium Benchmade 940 Titanium Pocket Clip:

    Crafted from high-quality titanium.
    Offers a sleek and minimalist design.
    Enhances the overall look of the Benchmade 940.
    Known for its durability and precise fit.

    4. Ripps Garage Tech Titanium Deep Carry Pocket Clip:

    Titanium construction for strength and corrosion resistance.
    Designed for deep pocket carry.
    Available in different finishes.
    Precision machined for a secure fit.

    5. Rockscale Design Titanium Deep Carry Clip:

    Made from titanium.
    Deep carry design for discreet carry.
    Well-crafted and durable.
    Enhances the overall aesthetics of the Benchmade 940.

    When choosing a custom clip, consider factors such as material, design, deep carry capability, and color options. Additionally, reviews and feedback from other Benchmade 940 users can provide insights into the performance and durability of specific custom clips. Ensure that the chosen clip is compatible with the Benchmade 940 model, and if in doubt, you can reach out to the custom clip manufacturer for clarification.

  22. To purchase a deep carry pocket clip for your Benchmade 940, you have a few options

    1. Benchmade’s Website:

    The official Benchmade website often offers replacement parts and accessories for their knives, including pocket clips. Visit the Benchmade website and check their accessories section. You can also contact Benchmade customer service for assistance.

    2. Authorized Benchmade Dealers:

    Many authorized Benchmade dealers carry replacement parts and accessories. Check with your local knife shops or online retailers that are authorized Benchmade dealers.

    3. Knife Accessory Retailers:

    There are online retailers that specialize in knife accessories and replacement parts. Websites like BladeHQ, KnifeCenter, or other similar platforms might have the deep carry pocket clip for the Benchmade 940.

    4. Online Marketplaces:

    Consider checking online marketplaces like eBay or Amazon. However, be cautious when purchasing from third-party sellers and ensure that the product is genuine and compatible with your specific Benchmade model.

    5. Benchmade Lifesharp Program:

    If your Benchmade 940 is eligible for the Lifesharp program, you can send your knife to Benchmade for maintenance, including the possibility of receiving a replacement pocket clip. Check the Benchmade website for details on the Lifesharp program.

    Before purchasing a replacement pocket clip, make sure to verify the compatibility with your Benchmade 940 model, as there might be variations in clip designs. If you have any doubts, you can contact Benchmade customer service for guidance on the specific replacement part you need.

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