Benchmade Vector, 3.6 in Assisted Opening Folding Knife Review

Let’s Talk About Benchmade Vector, 3.6 in Assisted Opening Folding Knife

The Benchmade Vector, 3.6 in Assisted Opening Folding Knife is a statement piece. This isn’t just another folding knife; it’s a Benchmade, promising quality, durability, and performance, wrapped in a sleek, modern design.

What drew me to the Vector was its assisted opening and the promise of a robust, everyday carry (EDC) blade. I needed something reliable for occasional outdoor tasks and daily cutting chores, but with the added assurance of quick deployment when necessary.

The moment I unboxed the Vector, I was impressed. The G10 handle felt secure and substantial, and the weight felt just right – not too heavy to carry comfortably, but solid enough to inspire confidence. The satin finish on the blade was immaculate, and the action, even before fully broken in, was smooth and responsive.

Compared to my old Spyderco Paramilitary 2 and a Kershaw Blur, the Benchmade Vector felt like a step up in overall fit and finish. The Spyderco is a workhorse, but the Vector offered a more refined feel. The Kershaw, while a decent assisted opener, lacked the premium materials and feel of the Benchmade.

My first impression? This knife felt like a serious piece of kit. It was both practical and aesthetically pleasing, giving me a feeling of quality I hadn’t experienced with other knives in this price range.

Real-World Testing: Putting Benchmade Vector, 3.6 in Assisted Opening Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Benchmade Vector was on a weekend camping trip. I used it for various tasks, from preparing kindling for the campfire to opening food packages. The CPM-S30V steel blade sliced effortlessly through cardboard and rope, maintaining a sharp edge throughout the weekend.

I encountered some damp conditions, but the G10 handle provided a secure grip even when wet. The assisted opening proved invaluable when I needed to quickly cut a tangled rope while setting up the tent in fading light. There were no hiccups or failures; the knife performed exactly as advertised.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Benchmade Vector has become my go-to EDC knife. It’s seen everything from opening boxes at work to assisting with minor repairs around the house. The blade shows minimal signs of wear, and the assisted opening mechanism remains as smooth and responsive as day one.

Durability has been excellent. Despite some accidental drops on hard surfaces, the G10 handle has held up without any cracks or chips. The blade still locks up tight with zero play.

Maintenance is straightforward. A quick wipe down after use and occasional oiling of the pivot point are all it takes to keep the Vector in top condition. Compared to some of my other knives, which require more frequent sharpening or cleaning, the Benchmade Vector is remarkably low-maintenance. It outperforms other EDC knives I’ve owned in terms of edge retention and overall durability.

Breaking Down the Features of Benchmade Vector, 3.6 in Assisted Opening Folding Knife

Specifications

• Blade Length: 3.6 inches. This provides ample cutting surface for a wide variety of tasks while remaining manageable for everyday carry.
• Closed Length: 4.82 inches. It’s compact enough to carry comfortably in a pocket without feeling overly bulky.
• Overall Length: 8.42 inches. This is a generous size when fully deployed, offering a secure and comfortable grip for most hand sizes.
• Blade Material: CPM-S30V. This is a premium stainless steel known for its excellent edge retention, wear resistance, and corrosion resistance.
• Handle Material: G10. G10 is a composite material known for its high strength, durability, and excellent grip, even in wet conditions.
• Weight: 4.11 oz. This strikes a good balance between being substantial enough to feel solid and being light enough for comfortable everyday carry.
• Blade Shape: Spear Point. The spear point blade is versatile and well-suited for both piercing and slicing tasks.
• Blade Finish: Satin. The satin finish offers a sleek look and helps to reduce glare.
• Handle Color: Black. The black handle provides a tactical and understated appearance.
• Lock Type: Axis Assist Flipper With Integrated Safety. This provides a secure and reliable lockup, as well as enhanced safety during use.

These specifications translate to a high-performance, durable, and reliable folding knife. The premium materials and thoughtful design contribute to an exceptional user experience.

Performance & Functionality

The Benchmade Vector excels in its primary function: cutting. The CPM-S30V blade is incredibly sharp and holds its edge for a long time, making it suitable for demanding tasks. The assisted opening is quick and reliable, allowing for rapid deployment when needed.

The knife’s strengths lie in its robust construction, excellent edge retention, and comfortable ergonomics. The only potential weakness is its size, which may be slightly large for some users.

The Vector exceeded my expectations in terms of overall performance and build quality. It’s a tool that I can rely on for a wide range of tasks, both indoors and outdoors.

Design & Ergonomics

The Benchmade Vector features a sleek and modern design. The G10 handle is contoured for a comfortable and secure grip, even during extended use. The weight is well-balanced, and the knife feels solid and substantial in hand.

The knife is incredibly user-friendly. The assisted opening is intuitive, and the Axis lock is easy to operate with one hand. There’s no learning curve; it’s ready to use right out of the box.

Durability & Maintenance

The Benchmade Vector is built to last. The high-quality materials and robust construction ensure excellent durability. With proper care, this knife should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is simple and straightforward. Regular cleaning and occasional lubrication are all that’s needed to keep the Vector in top condition. Disassembly and reassembly are relatively easy for more thorough cleaning or maintenance.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Benchmade Vector comes with a standard pocket clip for convenient carry. While there aren’t a plethora of aftermarket accessories specifically designed for the Vector, its standard dimensions make it compatible with many universal pocket clips and lanyards.

Given that the Axis Assist Flipper With Integrated Safety mechanism is proprietary, there are very limited modifications possible beyond aesthetic changes like custom lanyard beads.

Pros and Cons of Benchmade Vector, 3.6 in Assisted Opening Folding Knife

Who Should Buy Benchmade Vector, 3.6 in Assisted Opening Folding Knife?

The Benchmade Vector is perfect for:

• Everyday carry enthusiasts who appreciate a high-quality, reliable, and stylish knife.
• Outdoor adventurers who need a durable and versatile blade for camping, hiking, or other outdoor activities.
• Tactical users who require a fast-deploying knife with a secure lock.

Who should skip this product? Those on a tight budget or those who prefer smaller, more discreet EDC knives.

Must-have accessories or modifications? A quality sharpening stone to maintain the edge, and potentially a custom lanyard for added personalization and grip.

Conclusion on Benchmade Vector, 3.6 in Assisted Opening Folding Knife

The Benchmade Vector, 3.6 in Assisted Opening Folding Knife is an outstanding EDC option for those who value quality, performance, and style. It boasts a premium CPM-S30V blade, a durable G10 handle, and a smooth assisted opening mechanism, making it a pleasure to use in a wide range of situations.

While the price tag of $325.00 is certainly an investment, the exceptional build quality, performance, and durability justify the cost for serious knife enthusiasts. This isn’t just a knife; it’s a Benchmade, and that name carries a promise of excellence.

I would absolutely recommend the Benchmade Vector to anyone looking for a reliable and high-performing EDC knife. If you appreciate quality craftsmanship and demand the best from your gear, the Vector is an excellent choice. Invest in a Benchmade Vector today and experience the difference!