First Impressions of Flytanium Osborne 940 Handle Kit Ti
The Flytanium Osborne 940 Handle Kit Ti promises to transform the iconic Benchmade 940 Osborne into an even more premium everyday carry. Flytanium offers aftermarket scales and accessories, known for their quality and precision. This kit aims to replace the stock aluminum handles with durable and aesthetically pleasing titanium, aiming for an upgrade in both form and function.
I’ve always loved the design of the Benchmade 940, but the aluminum handles felt a bit lacking for a knife in its price range. The scales felt lightweight, but I wanted to enhance the knife’s durability and give it a more substantial feel. I wanted an upgrade that wouldn’t compromise the original design’s elegance but elevate it to a higher level of premium quality.
Upon unboxing the Flytanium Osborne 940 Handle Kit Ti, I was immediately impressed by the polished stonewash finish. The titanium scales felt significantly more solid and substantial than the stock aluminum. The precision CNC milling was evident, with clean lines and a perfect fit and finish. Compared to aftermarket G-10 scales I’ve seen, the titanium promised a significantly better feel in hand and improved durability. Initially, I was excited at the prospects of making my favorite EDC knife even better with these titanium handles.
Real-World Testing: Putting Flytanium Osborne 940 Handle Kit Ti to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place during a week-long camping trip in the Pacific Northwest. This offered a diverse range of conditions to evaluate the performance of the Flytanium Osborne 940 Handle Kit Ti. The knife with the new scales was used for everything from food preparation to cutting rope and feathering wood for fire starting.
The improved grip of the titanium scales, especially in wet conditions, was immediately noticeable. The original aluminum scales could become slippery when wet, but the stonewashed titanium provided a secure and confident hold, even with damp hands. There were no issues during the initial use, and the knife felt more balanced with the added weight of the titanium.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent carry and use, the Flytanium Osborne 940 Handle Kit Ti has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear on the titanium scales. The polished stonewash finish has proven to be surprisingly scratch-resistant.
Maintenance has been simple, consisting mainly of wiping down the scales with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or grime. I disassembled the knife once to clean and lubricate the pivot, and the titanium scales showed no signs of corrosion or discoloration. Compared to the original aluminum scales, the Flytanium kit provides a significant improvement in durability and resistance to the elements.
Breaking Down the Features of Flytanium Osborne 940 Handle Kit Ti
Specifications
The Flytanium Osborne 940 Handle Kit Ti includes several key components. It comes with two Grade 5 titanium handle scales featuring a polished stonewash finish. The kit also includes two titanium barrel spacers, seven titanium screws for the spacers and clip, and four titanium center body screws. The Flytanium handle kit weighs approximately 1.45 oz.
The choice of Grade 5 titanium is critical for its strength-to-weight ratio and corrosion resistance. The polished stonewash finish adds to the aesthetic appeal and provides a non-reflective surface. The inclusion of titanium screws is a nice touch, ensuring that all the hardware is equally durable and corrosion-resistant. These specifications contribute to a knife that is both lightweight and rugged.
Performance & Functionality
The Flytanium Osborne 940 Handle Kit Ti enhances the overall performance and functionality of the Benchmade 940. The added weight provides a more substantial and balanced feel in hand, which improves control during use. The titanium scales are also more resistant to scratches and wear than the stock aluminum.
One potential drawback is the slight increase in weight, which might not appeal to everyone. However, the improved grip and durability more than compensate for the minimal weight gain. The Flytanium kit meets and exceeds expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Flytanium Osborne 940 Handle Kit Ti closely mirrors the original Benchmade 940 scales, maintaining the knife’s sleek and ergonomic profile. The titanium material adds a premium feel and improves the grip, especially in wet conditions. The polished stonewash finish is aesthetically pleasing and provides a non-reflective surface.
The installation process is relatively straightforward, requiring only basic tools and a bit of patience. The Flytanium kit is user-friendly, but some experience with knife disassembly and reassembly is recommended.
Durability & Maintenance
The Grade 5 titanium construction of the Flytanium Osborne 940 Handle Kit Ti ensures long-lasting durability. Titanium is highly resistant to corrosion, scratches, and wear, making it an ideal material for knife scales. With proper care and maintenance, the Flytanium kit should last for many years.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and lubrication of the pivot. The titanium scales are resistant to most common chemicals and solvents, making them easy to clean and maintain.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Flytanium Osborne 940 Handle Kit Ti does not include any additional accessories beyond the replacement scales and hardware. However, the Benchmade 940 is compatible with a wide range of aftermarket accessories, such as pocket clips and lanyards. The Flytanium scales do not affect compatibility with these accessories.
The handle kit allows for further customization of the Benchmade 940, enabling users to create a unique and personalized EDC knife. The Flytanium scales are a popular choice for those looking to upgrade the aesthetics and durability of their Benchmade 940.
Pros and Cons of Flytanium Osborne 940 Handle Kit Ti
Pros
- Improved Durability: The Grade 5 titanium construction offers superior resistance to scratches, wear, and corrosion compared to the stock aluminum scales.
- Enhanced Grip: The polished stonewash finish provides a secure and confident grip, even in wet conditions.
- Premium Feel: The added weight and solid construction of the titanium scales provide a more substantial and balanced feel in hand.
- Aesthetic Upgrade: The polished stonewash finish adds a touch of class and sophistication to the Benchmade 940.
- Easy Installation: The kit is relatively easy to install with basic tools and some patience.
Cons
- Slight Weight Increase: The titanium scales add a small amount of weight compared to the original aluminum scales, which may not appeal to everyone.
- Price: The Flytanium Osborne 940 Handle Kit Ti is a premium upgrade and comes with a higher price tag than some other aftermarket scales.
Who Should Buy Flytanium Osborne 940 Handle Kit Ti?
The Flytanium Osborne 940 Handle Kit Ti is perfect for Benchmade 940 owners looking to upgrade the durability, aesthetics, and overall feel of their knife. It’s an excellent choice for everyday carry enthusiasts, outdoor adventurers, and anyone who appreciates a premium-quality EDC tool.
Those who prefer an ultra-lightweight knife might want to skip this product, as the titanium scales add a bit of weight. Users completely satisfied with the stock aluminum scales may not feel the need for an upgrade. A high-quality Torx screwdriver set is a must-have accessory for installation.
Conclusion on Flytanium Osborne 940 Handle Kit Ti
The Flytanium Osborne 940 Handle Kit Ti is a worthwhile investment for anyone looking to elevate their Benchmade 940 to the next level. The improved durability, enhanced grip, and premium feel justify the price. The Flytanium kit transforms the Benchmade 940 into an even more capable and desirable EDC tool.
I would highly recommend the Flytanium Osborne 940 Handle Kit Ti to anyone looking to upgrade their Benchmade 940. If you’re seeking a premium upgrade that enhances both the form and function of your favorite EDC knife, look no further. Make your Benchmade 940 truly your own with the Flytanium Osborne 940 Handle Kit Ti!
