Many people all over the world still use everyday carry knives. In many ways, it’s in our blood; humans have been using sharp tools for thousands of years. Especially for those involved in hunting or other high-stakes outdoor activities, a handy everyday knife is a necessity.
Given the range of options available on the market, though, it can be difficult to choose the right one for your needs. To help you narrow it down, today, we’re going to look at two of the best brands for pocket knives: Spyderco and Benchmade.
Hopefully, our analysis of the contrasts and similarities will help you make a more informed choice between the two brands.
An In-Depth Look at Spyderco Knives
First, let’s learn a little about Spyderco.
Overview
Spyderco is an American brand, established in 1976. Other than the flagship designs, their knives are produced mainly in other parts of the world, such as Taiwan, China, Japan, and Italy.
Spyderco has earned its status as a reliable manufacturer of knives and cutlery. They are renowned for the simplicity of their designs, focus on ergonomics, and a balanced blend of functionality and aesthetic appeal.
Design
One of the defining traits of best quality Spyderco knives, when compared to other brands, is the range of materials and designs that they come in. While most of their knives’ blades will have a clean edge, some also come with partially or fully serrated edges (the latter of which is called the Spyder Edge).
Construction Material
Damascus steel and Damasteel are some of the top picks for Spyderco blade materials, although CPM-20CV, CPM-S30V, CPM-S90V, and Elmax are also used. Handles might be made from steel (of the types mentioned above), G10 fiberglass, or fiberglass-reinforced nylon.
Some of the most popular Spyderco knives are the Dragonfly 2, Paramilitary 2 G-10, Tenacious Plain Edge, Tenacious G-10 and Endura4.
An In-Depth Look at Benchmade
Now it’s Benchmade’s turn to be under in the spotlight.
Overview
Benchmade is known for producing iconic knives in both the EDC and tactical categories. Founded soon after Spyderco, in 1979, the brand has come to be closely associated with high-performing, high-end knives. Some of the most well-known Benchmade knives are the Contego, Infidel, and Griptilian.
Construction Material
Benchmade is recognized for its emphasis on using only the highest-quality materials in manufacturing their knives.
American steel such as D2, 154CM, CPM-20CV and CPM-S30V, Australian steels N680 and M390, and Syrian Damascus steel are used in the making of Benchmade blades.
Meanwhile, handles are built from materials such as carbon fiber composite, titanium, aluminum, G10 fiberglass, and thermoplastic elastomer.
Design
With dynamic designs offering high aesthetic appeal, Benchmark knives are built for precision and durability. The brand prioritizes using the latest available technology in its manufacturing process, and it shows.
The Differences Between Spyderco and Benchmade
Now, we’ll be looking at the most prominent differences between Spyderco knives and Benchmade knives.
Construction Material vs. Technology
The construction of knives from both brands is top-notch and high-quality. However, while Benchmade achieves this by only using the highest quality of steel in their construction, Spyderco prioritizes the use of the latest available technology.
Price Range
While both brands make high-quality knives, you are more likely to find a knife on a smaller budget if you shop from Spyderco. Benchmade knives tend to be on the higher side of the price spectrum.
Specialization
On that note, since Benchmade offers more premium knives, Spyderco is the brand to turn to for simpler, less complex everyday knives. If you’re going to be using your knife in high-stakes situations such as hunting, however, Benchmade is the better option.
Conclusion
Both Spyderco and Benchmade offer some of the highest-quality everyday carry knives money can buy. The question of which one is a better choice, though, can only be answered by you. Consider your needs, skill level, and potential frequency of use before making your choice. Good luck!
