Updated At
Price: $580
Customer Rating: ★ 4.9 out of 5 stars
Manufacturer: Benchmade
Benchmade Narrows Review – At A Glance | ||
|---|---|---|
Blade Length | Handle Material | Weight |
| 3.43 inches | 6Al-4V Titanium | 2.41 oz |
Lock Mechanism | Blade Material | Finish |
| AXIS® Lock | M390 Super Premium Steel | Stonewashed |
Closed Length | Ambidextrous | Blade Thickness |
| 4.58 inches | Yes | 0.08 inches |
Pocket Clip | Warranty | Best For |
| Mini Deep Carry | Benchmade Warranty | Everyday Carry |
Pros
Cons
| ||
Benchmade Narrows Review – At A Glance | |
|---|---|
Blade Length | Handle Material |
| 3.43 inches | 6Al-4V Titanium |
Weight | Lock Mechanism |
| 2.41 oz | AXIS® Lock |
Blade Material | Finish |
| M390 Super Premium Steel | Stonewashed |
Closed Length | Ambidextrous |
| 4.58 inches | Yes |
Blade Thickness | Pocket Clip |
| 0.08 inches | Mini Deep Carry |
Warranty | Best For |
| Benchmade Warranty | Everyday Carry |
Pros
Cons
| |
Benchmade Narrows Review: Precision Meets Lightweight Strength
In the world of everyday carry (EDC) knives, finding a balance between durability, precision, and ease of use is paramount. You need a knife that won’t weigh you down but is tough enough to handle whatever comes your way. Whether it’s for outdoor adventures or urban daily tasks, having a reliable knife is essential.
Meet the Benchmade Narrows— a high-quality, lightweight titanium knife designed for peak performance. This sleek and sturdy tool promises to be your go-to for cutting tasks, blending style with exceptional functionality. Let’s dive into its features, pros, cons, and why it might be the perfect addition to your EDC gear.
Product Details – Benchmade Narrows Folding Knife
- Blade Length: 3.43 inches
- Overall Length: 8.02 inches
- Closed Length: 4.58 inches
- Handle Material: 6Al-4V Titanium
- Blade Material: M390 Super Premium Stainless Steel
- Weight: 2.41 oz
- Mechanism: AXIS® Lock
- Pocket Clip: Mini Deep Carry
- Blade Thickness: 0.08 inches
- Blade Style: Drop-Point
- Finish: Stonewashed
- Ambidextrous: Yes
- Best For: EDC enthusiasts, minimalists, and those seeking a durable, ultra-light knife for everyday use.
Benchmade Narrows Review – Pros & Cons
Pros of Benchmade Narrows
- ✅ Ultra-lightweight titanium handle keeps it durable but easy to carry.
- ✅ M390 steel blade for premium sharpness and edge retention.
- ✅ Slim profile ensures it doesn’t bulk up your pocket.
- ✅ AXIS® Lock mechanism provides smooth, ambidextrous blade operation.
- ✅ Mini deep-carry clip allows discreet carry in your pocket.
Cons of Benchmade Narrows
- ❗ High price point may deter budget-conscious buyers.
- ❗ No serration options for more rugged tasks.
The Benchmade Narrows knife has received mostly positive reviews for its lightweight construction and durability. Users appreciate the sleek design and performance for everyday carry tasks.
In-Depth Review of the Benchmade Narrows Folding Knife
The Benchmade Narrows is more than just a cutting tool— it’s a finely engineered piece of equipment designed for enthusiasts who prioritize quality and precision in their EDC gear. With its lightweight construction, M390 steel blade, and ergonomic design, the Narrows stands out as one of the best in its category.
Slim and Lightweight for Everyday Carry
One of the key highlights of the Benchmade Narrows is its slim profile and featherlight build. Weighing in at just 2.41 oz, this knife won’t weigh down your pocket or gear bag. The handle is crafted from 6Al-4V Titanium, a material known for being as strong as steel but much lighter. This makes the Narrows ideal for users who need a tough knife but prefer minimal bulk, making it perfect for everyday carry. Despite the slim frame, the knife doesn’t compromise on durability— it can withstand heavy use in outdoor or urban environments alike.
Precision Craftsmanship: M390 Blade Steel
The blade of the Narrows is made from M390 Super Premium Stainless Steel, which is regarded as one of the best materials for knife blades. M390 offers excellent edge retention, corrosion resistance, and an incredibly sharp edge. This steel makes the Narrows highly effective in both precision cutting tasks and more rugged activities, such as slicing through rope or cardboard. The 3.43-inch drop-point blade, with its stonewashed finish, enhances durability by hiding scratches, keeping your knife looking sleek and professional even after heavy use.
AXIS® Lock Mechanism
Benchmade is known for its proprietary AXIS® Lock mechanism, and the Narrows doesn’t disappoint in this department. This lock ensures that the blade remains securely in place when open and is just as smooth and effortless to close. Whether you’re left-handed or right-handed, the ambidextrous lock mechanism allows you to operate the knife with ease. The smooth operation of the AXIS® Lock is a standout feature, making it incredibly easy to deploy and retract the blade quickly, perfect for both emergencies and casual use.
Ergonomic and Ambidextrous Design
The design of the Narrows caters to both aesthetics and function. Its slim, minimalist frame fits comfortably in your hand, while the textured titanium handle ensures a secure grip even in wet conditions. The knife also features a mini deep-carry pocket clip, which allows you to carry it discreetly, clipped to your pocket without it being noticeable. The clip is reversible, making it equally accessible to both left and right-handed users.
Drawbacks: The Cost of Premium Materials
As with most premium knives, the Benchmade Narrows comes with a high price tag. Its combination of M390 steel and titanium, along with the craftsmanship, drives up the cost. This knife may not be the best option for someone looking for a more budget-friendly tool. Additionally, while the drop-point blade is versatile, the absence of a serrated edge limits its functionality for cutting through tougher materials, like thick ropes or fibrous materials.
Who Is the Benchmade Narrows Folding Knife Suitable For?
✅ Everyday carry enthusiasts looking for a slim, lightweight knife
✅ Minimalists who prefer sleek, non-bulky designs
✅ Outdoor adventurers who need a reliable, durable blade
✅ Knife collectors valuing high-end materials and craftsmanship
✅ Ambidextrous users seeking smooth operation with both hands
Who Might Want to Look Elsewhere?
✅ Those on a tight budget who might find the price too steep
Customer Experiences with the Benchmade Narrows Folding Knife
After researching real customer experiences, here’s a detailed look at what users have said about the Benchmade Narrows:
- ✅ Lightweight and portable: Users praise how light and easy it is to carry daily, without feeling weighed down by it.
- ✅ Excellent blade sharpness: Most agree that the M390 steel keeps an edge for a long time, needing fewer touch-ups.
- ✅ Smooth operation: The AXIS® Lock mechanism gets high marks for being both smooth and reliable.
- ✅ Durable handle material: The titanium handle is a standout feature, with customers noting its strength and lightweight benefits.
- 🚫 Price: Some users find the cost prohibitive but acknowledge it as a worthwhile investment for those prioritizing quality.
- ✅ Discreet pocket clip: The mini deep-carry clip receives positive feedback for its discreetness and secure fit.
Value Analysis of the Benchmade Narrows Folding Knife
The Benchmade Narrows is undeniably a high-end EDC knife. Its premium construction, combined with top-tier materials, makes it a worthwhile investment for those who value reliability and performance in their tools.
Key Strengths:
- Blade Material: The M390 steel provides superior cutting performance and edge retention. It is designed for users who need long-lasting sharpness in demanding situations.
- Weight: Weighing only 2.41 oz, it is one of the lightest EDC knives, yet it retains its strength and durability thanks to the titanium handle.
- Smooth Action: The AXIS® Lock mechanism is one of the smoothest in the industry, making it easy for anyone to operate.
Considerations:
- Price: At over $500, the Narrows is on the expensive side, which may be a dealbreaker for those who need a basic, budget-friendly knife.
- No Serrated Blade Option: While the drop-point blade is versatile, some users may miss the added utility of a serrated option for tougher cuts.
The Benchmade Narrows Folding Knife is an excellent investment for anyone who values top-tier materials, precision craftsmanship, and lightweight durability.
Final Remarks: Is the Benchmade Narrows Folding Knife Worth It?
The Benchmade Narrows Folding Knife is a high-performance, lightweight option for those who value durability and precision in their EDC gear. While it’s an investment, the slim design and premium materials make it a top choice for everyday carry enthusiasts.
FAQs – Benchmade Narrows Review
Is the Benchmade Narrows knife suitable for everyday carry?
Yes, the Benchmade Narrows is perfect for everyday carry due to its slim profile, lightweight titanium handle, and robust M390 steel blade. It is designed to be highly portable and versatile, making it ideal for both urban and outdoor environments.
What makes the Benchmade Narrows so lightweight?
The Benchmade Narrows is made from 6Al-4V Titanium, which is an aerospace-grade material known for being extremely strong but much lighter than steel. This makes the knife durable but light enough for easy daily carry.
How durable is the blade on the Benchmade Narrows?
The blade is made from M390 Super Premium Stainless Steel, which offers excellent durability, corrosion resistance, and superior edge retention. It’s one of the best blade steels available, designed to handle heavy use without dulling quickly.
Is the Benchmade Narrows knife ambidextrous?
Yes, the Narrows is fully ambidextrous thanks to its AXIS® Lock mechanism, which allows smooth blade operation for both right-handed and left-handed users. The pocket clip is also reversible, catering to both.
Does the Benchmade Narrows come with a pocket clip?
Yes, it features a mini deep-carry pocket clip that allows for discreet and secure carry. The clip is also reversible, making it suitable for both right and left-handed users.
What type of lock mechanism does the Benchmade Narrows use?
The Benchmade Narrows uses Benchmade’s proprietary AXIS® Lock mechanism. This lock ensures the blade stays securely open during use and provides a smooth, easy closing action.
What is the weight of the Benchmade Narrows?
The Benchmade Narrows weighs just 2.41 ounces, making it one of the lightest folding knives in its category. Its slim design adds to its portability, ensuring it doesn’t weigh down your pockets or gear bag.
How long is the blade of the Benchmade Narrows?
The blade length is 3.43 inches, which provides a good balance between portability and functionality. It is long enough for most cutting tasks but compact enough for easy everyday carry.
What is the blade material of the Benchmade Narrows?
The blade is crafted from M390 Super Premium Stainless Steel, known for its exceptional hardness, edge retention, and corrosion resistance. It is a top-tier steel used in high-performance knives.
Does the Benchmade Narrows have a warranty?
Yes, like all Benchmade knives, the Narrows comes with a Benchmade Warranty. Benchmade also offers LifeSharp services, which include free sharpening, cleaning, and adjustments for the life of the knife.
Benchmade Narrows Review – Conclusion
The Benchmade Narrows Folding Knife stands as a premium choice for those who value lightweight, high-performance knives. Its titanium handle and M390 blade combine strength and portability, making it perfect for everyday carry. Though it comes with a higher price tag, the quality of materials and craftsmanship make it a worthwhile investment.