Name/Title
Benchmade GriptillianEntry/Object ID
53; Full Code: 53.10.14-KN-NBTags
Knife, EDC, FoldersDescription
This artifact is a Benchmade 551 Griptilian, a centerpiece of modern tactical folding knife engineering. Designed by Mel Pardue, it represents a departure from traditional back-lock folders, documenting a shift toward Ambidextrous Kinetic Deployment and high-speed mechanical cycling. This specimen is a mid-size utility anchor, prioritizing Structural Integrity and one-handed "Administrative Fluidity."
Core Components & Engineering
The Blade (154CM Stainless Steel): A 3.45-inch drop-point blade.
Metallurgy: Forged from 154CM, a high-carbon stainless steel known for its superior toughness and edge retention compared to standard 420HC.
Geometry: Features a Drop Point profile with a broad "belly" for slicing. The spine is etched with the "Mel Pardue Design" signature and the Benchmade butterfly logo.
Deployment Interface: Utilizes dual Thumb Studs, allowing for high-velocity manual deployment from either side of the blade.
The Hilt (Glass-Reinforced Nylon):
Architecture: The handle scales are made of injection-molded Glass-Reinforced Nylon (GRN) with stainless steel liners.
Ergonomics: The surface features a radical "Diamond Texture" pattern. This provides a High-Friction Mechanical Lock with the palm, ensuring the tool stays anchored even in wet or high-stress tactical environments.
The Mechanism (AXIS® Lock): Benchmade's signature locking system.
The Physics: A spring-loaded steel bar slides back and forth in a slot cut into the liners and handle, wedging between a notch in the blade tang and a stop pin.
Mechanical Certainty: This mechanism is entirely ambidextrous and allows the user to close the knife without placing fingers in the blade's rotational path, providing a high level of Operational Safety.Made/Created
Manufacturer
Benchmade USADate made
circa 2008Dimensions
Dimension Description
4.25"Length
3 inCondition
Overall Condition
ExcellentAcquisition
Acquisition Method
Purchase
