Benchmade Blue Class Osborne Barrage Folding Knife Review

First Impressions of Benchmade Blue Class Osborne Barrage Folding Knife

The Benchmade Blue Class Osborne Barrage Folding Knife is more than just a cutting tool; it’s a statement. From the moment you lay eyes on it, you know this isn’t your average pocketknife. The Benchmade name carries a certain weight, a reputation for quality and dependability that precedes it, and the Barrage lives up to that expectation. The assisted opening mechanism promises speed and efficiency, while the premium materials hint at a knife built to withstand the rigors of daily use and more.

I’ve been searching for a reliable everyday carry knife that could handle everything from opening packages to more demanding tasks during outdoor adventures. My criteria were simple: a blade that holds an edge, a comfortable and secure grip, and a robust locking mechanism. I needed a knife that could be quickly deployed and wouldn’t fail under pressure.

Unboxing the Benchmade Blue Class Osborne Barrage Folding Knife was a satisfying experience. The knife felt substantial in my hand, with a well-balanced weight that inspired confidence. The milled Richlite handle scales provided a secure and comfortable grip. My initial impressions were very positive; this knife seemed like a premium tool.

Compared to my Spyderco Paramilitary 2 and my Kershaw Leek, the Barrage stood out with its assisted opening and unique handle material. I considered the Benchmade Griptilian, but the Osborne Barrage’s overall aesthetic and assisted opening were more appealing. I was excited by the prospect of a knife that combined the classic Osborne design with modern materials and assisted technology.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Benchmade Blue Class Osborne Barrage Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing ground for the Benchmade Blue Class Osborne Barrage Folding Knife was a weekend camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. The varied tasks included preparing kindling for a fire, cutting rope, and food preparation. I faced damp conditions, with occasional light rain, providing a real-world challenge for the knife’s grip and blade performance.

The Benchmade Blue Class Osborne Barrage Folding Knife performed admirably during the camping trip. The Axis Assist opening was incredibly fast and reliable, even with slightly wet hands. Slicing through paracord and preparing feather sticks for the fire were effortless, and the blade maintained its sharpness throughout the weekend.

The only minor issue I noticed was the initial stiffness of the Axis Assist mechanism. It required a bit of force to overcome, but with a few uses, it smoothed out considerably. I was initially concerned about accidental deployment of the blade, but the integrated spine safety provided ample reassurance.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Benchmade Blue Class Osborne Barrage Folding Knife continues to impress. From daily tasks like opening packages and cutting zip ties to more demanding jobs such as breaking down cardboard boxes, the knife has performed flawlessly. The CPM-S30V Stainless Steel blade has proven to be remarkably durable.

There are minimal signs of wear and tear after months of use. The blade still holds a razor-sharp edge, and the Richlite handle scales show no signs of fading or damage. The action of the Axis Assist is now smooth and consistent, making deployment quick and easy.

Maintaining the Benchmade Blue Class Osborne Barrage Folding Knife has been a breeze. A quick wipe down with a clean cloth after each use has been sufficient to keep it in top condition. I applied a small amount of lubricating oil to the pivot point and Axis Assist mechanism every few weeks to ensure smooth operation. This outperforms my previous EDC knife due to its superior edge retention and ease of maintenance.

Breaking Down the Features of Benchmade Blue Class Osborne Barrage Folding Knife

Specifications

The Benchmade Blue Class Osborne Barrage Folding Knife boasts impressive specifications that contribute to its overall performance. The knife features a CPM-S30V Stainless Steel drop-point blade, known for its excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance. With a blade thickness of 0.1 inches, the blade strikes a good balance between slicing ability and durability.

The handle is made from milled Richlite, a composite material known for its strength, durability, and unique aesthetic. The Axis Assist locking mechanism ensures secure blade lock-up and easy ambidextrous operation. The knife does not include a sheath, as it is designed for pocket carry with its reversible pocket clip.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the knife’s performance and user experience. The CPM-S30V blade ensures long-lasting sharpness. The Richlite handle offers a comfortable and secure grip in various conditions. The Axis Assist provides rapid and reliable blade deployment.

Performance & Functionality

The Benchmade Blue Class Osborne Barrage Folding Knife excels at its primary function: cutting. The CPM-S30V blade slices effortlessly through a variety of materials, from cardboard and rope to food and wood. The drop-point blade shape provides versatility for both general utility tasks and more precise cutting applications.

The knife’s strengths lie in its rapid deployment, secure lock-up, and durable blade. The assisted opening is incredibly fast and reliable, making it easy to deploy the blade with one hand. The lock-up is solid, inspiring confidence during demanding tasks. The CPM-S30V blade maintains its sharpness even after extended use. One area for potential improvement is the size of the pocket clip; a slightly deeper clip could provide more secure carry.

The Benchmade Blue Class Osborne Barrage Folding Knife exceeds my expectations in terms of overall performance. Its combination of speed, strength, and durability makes it a top contender in the EDC knife market. This knife performs far better than expected.

Design & Ergonomics

The Benchmade Blue Class Osborne Barrage Folding Knife features a well-thought-out design that balances aesthetics with functionality. The milled Richlite handle scales provide a comfortable and secure grip, even with wet hands. The knife’s weight is well-balanced, making it comfortable to carry and use for extended periods.

The Benchmade Blue Class Osborne Barrage Folding Knife is user-friendly. The Axis Assist mechanism is intuitive to use, and the integrated spine safety prevents accidental blade deployment. The reversible pocket clip allows for ambidextrous carry, catering to both right- and left-handed users.

Durability & Maintenance

With its premium materials and solid construction, the Benchmade Blue Class Osborne Barrage Folding Knife is built to last. The CPM-S30V blade is highly resistant to wear and corrosion, while the Richlite handle scales are durable and weather-resistant. Proper care and maintenance will ensure that this knife remains a reliable tool for years to come.

The knife is easy to maintain and repair. Regular cleaning and lubrication of the pivot point and Axis Assist mechanism are sufficient to keep it in top condition. Replacement parts are readily available from Benchmade, should the need arise.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Benchmade Blue Class Osborne Barrage Folding Knife comes with a reversible pocket clip for convenient carry. While Benchmade does not offer a wide range of accessories specifically for this model, the knife is compatible with aftermarket pocket clips and lanyard beads. The lanyard hole in the handle allows for easy attachment of a lanyard or wrist strap for added security.

The knife is compatible with various knife maintenance tools, such as sharpening stones and lubricating oils. Aftermarket scales are available for some Benchmade knives. While the Benchmade Blue Class Osborne Barrage Folding Knife offers limited customization options, its overall design and functionality make it a versatile and capable tool straight out of the box.

Pros and Cons of Benchmade Blue Class Osborne Barrage Folding Knife

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Who Should Buy Benchmade Blue Class Osborne Barrage Folding Knife?

The Benchmade Blue Class Osborne Barrage Folding Knife is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, everyday carry users, and anyone who values quality and reliability in a knife. It’s a great choice for hikers, campers, hunters, and survivalists who need a durable and versatile tool that can handle a wide range of tasks. The Benchmade Blue Class Osborne Barrage Folding Knife is also an excellent choice for professionals who rely on a knife for their work, such as tradespeople, law enforcement officers, and military personnel.

Someone seeking a budget-friendly knife or is uncomfortable with assisted-opening mechanisms might consider other options. Those who prefer traditional locking mechanisms or fixed-blade knives may also find the Benchmade Blue Class Osborne Barrage Folding Knife not the right fit.

A quality sharpening stone or steel is a must-have to maintain the blade’s razor-sharp edge. A lubricating oil specifically designed for knives will help keep the Axis Assist mechanism operating smoothly.

Conclusion on Benchmade Blue Class Osborne Barrage Folding Knife

The Benchmade Blue Class Osborne Barrage Folding Knife is a top-tier EDC knife that delivers exceptional performance and reliability. While the price point may be higher than some competitors, the quality of materials, solid construction, and innovative features justify the investment. From its rapid assisted opening to its durable CPM-S30V blade and comfortable Richlite handle, this knife is designed to excel in a wide range of tasks.

The Benchmade Blue Class Osborne Barrage Folding Knife provides excellent value. Its performance, durability, and overall quality make it a worthwhile investment for anyone seeking a reliable and high-performing everyday carry knife.

I would highly recommend the Benchmade Blue Class Osborne Barrage Folding Knife to anyone looking for a premium EDC knife that combines speed, strength, and durability. If you’re ready to upgrade your everyday carry game, the Benchmade Blue Class Osborne Barrage Folding Knife is an excellent choice. Invest in a knife that will not only meet your needs but exceed your expectations.