When it comes to premium EDC knives, it’s pretty freakin’ hard to beat Benchmade. Founded by California native and butterfly knife enthusiast Les deAsis in 1979, the brand announced itself in breathtaking and unapologetic fashion.
Its original Bali-Song design by Jody Samson — who went on to make blades for movies such as Conan the Barbarian, The Mask of Zorro and, well, Blade — won Blade Magazine’s Knife of the Year Award.
Nearly half a century later, the now Oregon-based brand continues to manufacture high-end folders and fixed blades that perform just as wonderfully as they look.
Upcoming stunners
Latest evidence of Benchmade’s bona fides? The big box of new knives that landed on Gear Patrol’s doorstep last week.
What follows is an exclusive first-hand look at the next four months of major releases from the brand, presented in order of availability.
Mark your calendars, and keep an eye on GP, as we’ll have more details and images closer to each knife’s expected launch date.
