Benchmade Osborne, 3.4 in Automatic Folding Knife Review

Let’s Dive into Benchmade Osborne, 3.4 in Automatic Folding Knife

The Benchmade Osborne, 3.4 in Automatic Folding Knife is a modern reimagining of a classic, blending iconic design with push-button convenience. From Benchmade, a brand synonymous with quality and innovation, this knife promises to deliver the same sleek aesthetics and everyday practicality that made the original 940 a legend, now with the added speed and ease of automatic deployment. I was immediately drawn to the marriage of timeless design and modern technology; it seemed like the perfect blend of form and function.

I have always valued a reliable EDC knife, but often find myself wishing for quicker deployment in certain situations. After years of manual folders, assisted openers, and even some fixed blades, I was seeking a high-quality automatic that could seamlessly integrate into my daily routine without sacrificing build quality or aesthetics. The Benchmade Osborne, 3.4 in Automatic Folding Knife seemed to offer just that.

Unboxing the knife, I was immediately impressed by its solid feel and clean lines. The olive-colored aluminum handle felt substantial in my hand, and the reverse tanto blade had a razor-sharp edge right out of the box. The automatic action was crisp and decisive, inspiring confidence in its reliability.

Compared to other automatic knives I’ve handled, such as the Pro-Tech TR-3 or the Microtech Ultratech, the Benchmade Osborne, 3.4 in Automatic Folding Knife stood out due to its more refined and less overtly “tactical” appearance. I chose this knife over others because I appreciated its understated elegance and the promise of Benchmade’s renowned quality. My initial excitement was quickly validated – this felt like a tool built to last.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Benchmade Osborne, 3.4 in Automatic Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

My first real test of the Benchmade Osborne, 3.4 in Automatic Folding Knife came during a weekend camping trip in the rugged terrain of the Appalachian Mountains. I used it for various tasks, from preparing kindling for the campfire to cutting rope for securing my tent. The automatic action was incredibly useful when I needed one-handed operation, freeing up my other hand for stability or to hold materials.

The knife performed admirably in all conditions, even when my hands were damp from the morning dew. The aluminum handle provided a secure grip, and the CPM-S30V blade held its edge impressively well after repeated use. The only slight issue I encountered was learning the precise amount of pressure needed on the button for consistent deployment, but this quickly became second nature.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Benchmade Osborne, 3.4 in Automatic Folding Knife has proven to be an incredibly reliable tool. Despite daily carry and frequent use, the blade shows minimal signs of wear, and the automatic mechanism remains as responsive as the day I unboxed it.

Maintaining the knife has been a breeze. A simple wipe-down with a clean cloth after use is usually sufficient, and I occasionally apply a small amount of oil to the pivot point to keep the action smooth. Compared to some of my previous knives that required more intensive cleaning and maintenance, the Benchmade Osborne, 3.4 in Automatic Folding Knife is remarkably low-maintenance. It has significantly outperformed my expectations in terms of durability and consistent performance.

Breaking Down the Features of Benchmade Osborne, 3.4 in Automatic Folding Knife

Specifications

• Blade Length: 3.4 inches – Provides a good balance between cutting power and portability for EDC. This length allows for versatile use without being overly bulky.
• Overall Length: 7.87 inches – Offers a comfortable grip and adequate leverage for various cutting tasks. The overall size makes it easy to handle and control.
• Blade Material: CPM-S30V – A high-end stainless steel known for its excellent edge retention, wear resistance, and corrosion resistance. This ensures that the blade stays sharp longer and requires less frequent sharpening.
• Handle Material: 6061-T6 Aluminum – Lightweight, strong, and corrosion-resistant, providing a durable and comfortable grip. The aluminum handle enhances the overall durability without adding unnecessary weight.
• Weight: 2.65 oz – Incredibly lightweight, making it comfortable for everyday carry without weighing you down. The low weight contributes to its excellent EDC qualities.
• Blade Shape: Reverse Tanto – Offers a strong point for piercing and detailed work, as well as a robust cutting edge. This blade shape is both practical and visually appealing.
• Lock Type: Axis Lock – Benchmade’s signature lock mechanism, known for its strength, ambidextrous operation, and ease of use. The Axis Lock provides secure blade lockup and convenient one-handed operation.
• Opening Method: Automatic – Provides rapid and effortless blade deployment with the push of a button. This feature is especially useful in situations where one-handed operation is necessary.

Performance & Functionality

The Benchmade Osborne, 3.4 in Automatic Folding Knife excels in its intended role as a high-performance EDC knife. Its sharp CPM-S30V blade effortlessly slices through various materials, and the automatic deployment mechanism provides quick and reliable access when needed. The knife’s balanced design and comfortable grip enhance usability and control.

The main strength of this knife is its combination of speed, reliability, and quality. The action is smooth and consistent, the blade holds an edge well, and the overall build quality is exceptional. The only area for potential improvement could be the addition of texturing to the aluminum handle for an even more secure grip, particularly in wet conditions.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Benchmade Osborne, 3.4 in Automatic Folding Knife is both aesthetically pleasing and highly functional. The olive-colored aluminum handle provides a comfortable and secure grip, and the reverse tanto blade offers a unique and aggressive profile. The knife’s lightweight construction and slim profile make it easy to carry discreetly.

The knife is exceptionally user-friendly, with a simple and intuitive automatic deployment mechanism and an ambidextrous Axis Lock. There is virtually no learning curve, and the knife feels comfortable and natural in hand from the first use.

Durability & Maintenance

Given Benchmade’s reputation for quality, the Benchmade Osborne, 3.4 in Automatic Folding Knife is built to last. The CPM-S30V blade is highly resistant to wear and corrosion, and the aluminum handle can withstand considerable abuse. With proper care and maintenance, this knife should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication. The knife disassembles easily for more thorough cleaning if needed.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Benchmade Osborne, 3.4 in Automatic Folding Knife comes with Benchmade’s standard split arrow pocket clip, which can be reversed for tip-up carry on either side. While there are not extensive customization options directly from Benchmade, the aftermarket offers various clip options and even custom scales to personalize the knife to your liking. Its compatibility with standard pocket clips enhances its versatility and user-friendliness.

Pros and Cons of Benchmade Osborne, 3.4 in Automatic Folding Knife