Benchmade Black Class Mini Bedlam Folding Knife Review

What Makes Benchmade Black Class Mini Bedlam Folding Knife Stand Out?

The Benchmade Black Class Mini Bedlam Folding Knife is not your average EDC blade. Manufactured by Benchmade, it blends tactical aesthetics with refined materials in a smaller, more carry-friendly package. The upswept scimitar blade shape immediately catches the eye, suggesting a knife designed for more than just simple cutting tasks, and the premium materials hint at exceptional performance and durability.

I’ve always sought a folding knife that balances aggressive styling with everyday practicality. Many “tactical” knives are simply too large and unwieldy for daily use, while more practical options often lack the visual appeal and robust construction I desire. This led me to the Benchmade Black Class Mini Bedlam Folding Knife, hoping it would bridge that gap.

Unboxing the Mini Bedlam was an experience in itself. The knife felt substantial in hand, despite its “mini” designation, and the fit and finish were immediately impressive. The action was smooth right out of the box, and the blade was razor-sharp; the materials used felt top-tier.

I considered the Spyderco Paramilitary 2 and the Zero Tolerance 0562CF before settling on the Mini Bedlam. The Paramilitary 2 is a great all-around knife, but it lacks the aggressive styling I was looking for. The Zero Tolerance 0562CF is a solid choice, but the Mini Bedlam’s unique blade shape and premium material options ultimately won me over.

My first impression was excitement mixed with a touch of apprehension. The Mini Bedlam is undoubtedly a striking knife, and I was eager to see how it performed in real-world situations. My only concern was whether the aggressive blade shape would prove too specialized for everyday tasks.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Benchmade Black Class Mini Bedlam Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Benchmade Black Class Mini Bedlam Folding Knife during a weekend camping trip in the nearby state forest. This environment allowed me to assess its performance in various tasks, from food preparation to light wood processing. The weather was mild and dry, providing optimal conditions for testing.

The Mini Bedlam performed admirably in its initial tasks. The scimitar blade proved surprisingly versatile, excelling at slicing vegetables for meals and making feather sticks for fire starting. It handled both tasks with ease.

The knife felt natural in my hand, and the Axis Lock was intuitive and secure. No significant time was needed to become comfortable using the Mini Bedlam.

The only slight issue was the blade’s tip, which felt a little delicate when trying to pry apart some tightly bound wood. However, I quickly adjusted my technique and avoided any damage. Overall, I was impressed.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Benchmade Black Class Mini Bedlam Folding Knife has proven to be a reliable and capable tool. I’ve used it for everything from opening packages to assisting with minor repairs around the house. The action remains smooth, and the blade retains its edge remarkably well.

Despite being used frequently, the Mini Bedlam shows minimal signs of wear. The graphite Cerakote finish on the blade of my 865BK-01 version is holding up well, and the G10 handle still looks new.

Cleaning and maintaining the Mini Bedlam is straightforward. A quick wipe down with a clean cloth and occasional lubrication of the pivot point are all that’s required to keep it in top condition.

Compared to other folding knives I’ve owned, the Mini Bedlam stands out for its combination of performance, durability, and aesthetics. It outperforms many similar knives in terms of edge retention and overall build quality. It has exceeded my expectations.

Breaking Down the Features of Benchmade Black Class Mini Bedlam Folding Knife

Specifications

• The Benchmade Black Class Mini Bedlam Folding Knife boasts a 3.45-inch blade length, making it a good size for EDC. This length provides enough cutting edge for most tasks without being overly cumbersome.
• It has a 5.2-inch closed length, allowing for comfortable carry in a pocket or on a belt. The compact design makes it less intrusive than larger tactical knives.
• The blade is crafted from CPM S90V Stainless Steel, known for its exceptional hardness and wear resistance. This translates to outstanding edge retention and long-lasting performance.
• Classified as a Tactical knife, it is designed for demanding use. This means it is built to withstand rigorous conditions and tough cutting tasks.
• The Overall Length is 8.63 inches when fully opened, providing a secure grip and ample leverage. This provides comfortable control.
• Featuring a Scimitar Blade Shape, it is ideal for hooking and slicing motions. This unique shape enhances its cutting performance.
• The Blade Thickness is 0.114 inches, balancing strength and slicing ability. This provides a robust and versatile cutting tool.
• An Axis Lock mechanism provides secure and ambidextrous operation. This is a hallmark of Benchmade knives, known for its strength and ease of use.
• It does not come with a sheath, designed for pocket carry. However, a pocket clip is included for convenient and secure carry.

Performance & Functionality

The Benchmade Black Class Mini Bedlam Folding Knife excels at slicing and cutting tasks. The upswept scimitar blade shape is particularly effective for opening packages, preparing food, and making precise cuts.

The knife’s strengths lie in its edge retention, comfortable grip, and secure locking mechanism. However, the blade’s tip might be a bit delicate for heavy prying.

The Mini Bedlam meets and, in many ways, exceeds my expectations. Its performance is on par with higher-priced knives.

Design & Ergonomics

The Mini Bedlam’s build quality is exceptional. The handle is comfortable in hand, and the Axis Lock is easy to operate.

The knife is user-friendly, with a smooth opening and closing action. The pocket clip is well-positioned for secure carry. No real learning curve is required.

Durability & Maintenance

The Benchmade Black Class Mini Bedlam Folding Knife is built to last. The CPM S90V steel and robust construction ensure longevity.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication. The blade can be easily sharpened with the right tools.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Benchmade Black Class Mini Bedlam Folding Knife comes standard with a pocket clip for secure carry. There are no other included accessories.

While there are no specific Benchmade-branded accessories for the Mini Bedlam, the aftermarket offers numerous options for pocket clips and lanyards. The Axis Lock is also fully ambidextrous.

Pros and Cons of Benchmade Black Class Mini Bedlam Folding Knife

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Who Should Buy Benchmade Black Class Mini Bedlam Folding Knife?

The Benchmade Black Class Mini Bedlam Folding Knife is perfect for individuals who appreciate high-quality knives with a tactical aesthetic and value exceptional performance. This includes tactical professionals, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone who wants a reliable and stylish EDC blade.

Those who prioritize budget-friendly options or require a knife primarily for heavy-duty prying should skip this product. It is an investment.

A quality sharpening system designed for CPM S90V steel is a must-have accessory. Consider adding a custom lanyard to enhance grip and personalization.

Conclusion on Benchmade Black Class Mini Bedlam Folding Knife

The Benchmade Black Class Mini Bedlam Folding Knife is a premium folding knife that delivers exceptional performance, durability, and style. It is a worthwhile investment.

While the price may be a barrier for some, the quality of materials and craftsmanship justify the cost.

I highly recommend the Benchmade Black Class Mini Bedlam Folding Knife to anyone seeking a top-tier EDC blade that combines tactical aesthetics with practical functionality. Experience the difference today!