Benchmark 6″ Neck Knife w/ Fixed Blade Review

Let’s Dive into Benchmark 6″ Neck Knife w/ Fixed Blade

The Benchmark 6″ Neck Knife w/ Fixed Blade is a compact and affordable option from Benchmark, designed for those seeking a readily accessible cutting tool. Its small size and included sheath make it ideal for neck carry, offering a blend of convenience and practicality.

My journey to finding the Benchmark 6″ Neck Knife w/ Fixed Blade started with a need for a lightweight, easily accessible blade for hiking and camping. I wanted something I could wear around my neck, allowing for quick deployment without digging through my pack.

Upon unboxing, I was immediately struck by its small size and lightweight design. The black micarta handles felt surprisingly comfortable in hand, while the stainless steel blade appeared adequately sharp. The molded plastic sheath seemed functional, although I initially questioned its long-term durability.

I considered other neck knives from brands like CRKT and Ka-Bar, but the Benchmark stood out due to its incredibly low price point. While I knew the materials wouldn’t be top-of-the-line, I was willing to gamble on its potential utility for the price.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic. I was excited about the potential for a convenient and affordable neck knife, but I also harbored concerns about the quality of the materials and overall durability.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Benchmark 6″ Neck Knife w/ Fixed Blade to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Benchmark 6″ Neck Knife w/ Fixed Blade on a weekend camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. I primarily used it for tasks like preparing kindling, opening food packages, and cutting cordage.

The knife performed reasonably well in dry conditions, although the small blade size limited its capabilities for larger tasks. The handle provided a secure grip, even with sweaty hands, and the sheath held the knife securely during hikes. However, I noticed some difficulty drawing and re-sheathing the knife quickly, especially while wearing gloves.

After the first use, I was slightly underwhelmed. While the knife was functional, it lacked the refinement and robustness I expected from higher-end blades.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of occasional use, the Benchmark 6″ Neck Knife w/ Fixed Blade has shown some signs of wear and tear. The blade has developed a few minor scratches, and the sheath has become slightly loose.

The blade steel, while stainless, requires frequent sharpening to maintain its edge. The micarta handle, however, has held up well, showing no signs of cracking or chipping. Cleaning is straightforward; simply washing the blade with soap and water after each use.

Compared to my previous experience with a more expensive Benchmade fixed blade, the Benchmark falls short in terms of overall quality and durability. While the Benchmade felt like a tool built to last a lifetime, the Benchmark feels more like a disposable utility knife.

Breaking Down the Features of Benchmark 6″ Neck Knife w/ Fixed Blade

Specifications

• The Benchmark 6″ Neck Knife w/ Fixed Blade has an overall length of 6 inches, making it compact and easy to carry. The 2 7/8″ stainless steel blade is suitable for small cutting tasks.
• The black micarta handles offer a comfortable and secure grip, while the included molded black sheath with a snap hook provides convenient carry options. The knife features a full tang construction, enhancing its strength and stability.
• The blade material is steel, although the specific type isn’t specified, and has a plain edge. The handle is black micarta and the sheath is plastic.
• The lanyard slot offers an additional carry option and the blade is finished with steel. These additional features contribute to the knife’s versatility and functionality.
• These specifications suggest the Benchmark 6″ Neck Knife w/ Fixed Blade is designed for lightweight utility and ease of carry, rather than heavy-duty tasks. The stainless steel blade offers some corrosion resistance, while the micarta handles provide a durable and comfortable grip.

Performance & Functionality

The Benchmark 6″ Neck Knife w/ Fixed Blade performs adequately for basic cutting tasks. Its small size makes it ideal for opening packages, cutting cordage, and preparing small amounts of kindling.

The knife’s main weakness is its blade steel, which doesn’t hold an edge particularly well. It requires frequent sharpening, especially when used for tougher materials. It meets basic expectations for a budget-friendly neck knife, but doesn’t exceed them in any significant way.

Design & Ergonomics

The Benchmark 6″ Neck Knife w/ Fixed Blade has a simple and functional design. The black micarta handles provide a comfortable and secure grip, even in wet conditions.

The knife is lightweight and well-balanced, making it easy to handle for extended periods. There is a slight learning curve associated with drawing and re-sheathing the knife quickly, but with practice, it becomes relatively easy.

Durability & Maintenance

The Benchmark 6″ Neck Knife w/ Fixed Blade is unlikely to last a lifetime with heavy use. The blade steel is prone to scratching and dulling, and the plastic sheath may crack under stress.

Maintenance is relatively easy, requiring only occasional cleaning and sharpening. The handle material is durable and requires minimal upkeep.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Benchmark 6″ Neck Knife w/ Fixed Blade comes with a molded black sheath with a snap hook. No other accessories are included.

Due to its basic design and construction, there are limited customization options available. Aftermarket sheaths may be available from third-party vendors. Be sure to use caution when exploring after-market modifications due to the inexpensive nature of this particular knife.

Pros and Cons of Benchmark 6″ Neck Knife w/ Fixed Blade

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy Benchmark 6″ Neck Knife w/ Fixed Blade?

The Benchmark 6″ Neck Knife w/ Fixed Blade is perfect for casual campers, hikers, and anyone seeking an inexpensive and readily accessible utility knife. It’s also a good option for those new to knives and looking for a starter blade to learn with.

Those who need a more durable and capable knife for demanding tasks should skip this product. Professionals or serious outdoorsmen will likely find it inadequate. A sharpening stone or steel is a must-have accessory to maintain the blade’s edge.

Conclusion on Benchmark 6″ Neck Knife w/ Fixed Blade

The Benchmark 6″ Neck Knife w/ Fixed Blade is a budget-friendly option that offers decent utility for its price. While it’s not the most durable or high-performing knife on the market, it’s a viable choice for those seeking an affordable and convenient neck knife.

The price is certainly justified, considering its functionality and ease of carry. I would recommend it to those who understand its limitations and are looking for a basic utility blade.

For anyone needing a cheap, readily-available knife that won’t break the bank, the Benchmark 6″ Neck Knife w/ Fixed Blade is an acceptable choice. However, keep its limitations in mind. Go ahead and grab one today!