Benchmade Weekender Review | Durable Outdoor Companion

87 Overall score

Updated At

Price: $275.00 – $380.00

Customer Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★ 4.2 out of 5 stars

Manufacturer: Benchmade

Blade Material – 30%
9.0
Handle Grip – 25%
8.5
Durability – 20%
8.0
Weight & Portability – 15%
7.5
Versatility – 10%
7.0

Benchmade Weekender Review – At A Glance

Blade Material

Handle Material

Weight

CPM-S90V Stainless SteelBurgundy Canvas Micarta0.35 Pounds

Blade Style

Mechanism

Included Components

Clip Point / Drop-PointSlip JointLock

Special Features

Use Cases

Best For

  • • Foldable
  • • Ambidextrous
  • • Bottle opener
  • • Camping
  • • Whittling
  • • Fishing
Outdoor Enthusiasts

Pros

  • High-quality CPM-S90V stainless steel
  • Stylish and durable handle
  • Versatile dual-blade design
  • Compact and portable
  • Great for various outdoor tasks

Cons

  • Pricier than similar knives
  • Lacks blade lock
  • Challenging to sharpen

Benchmade Weekender Review – At A Glance

Blade Material

Handle Material

CPM-S90V Stainless SteelBurgundy Canvas Micarta

Blade Style

Weight

Clip Point / Drop-Point0.35 Pounds

Mechanism

Included Components

Slip JointLock

Special Features

Use Cases

  • • Foldable
  • • Ambidextrous
  • • Bottle opener
  • • Camping
  • • Whittling
  • • Fishing

Best For

Outdoor Enthusiasts

Pros

  • High-quality CPM-S90V stainless steel
  • Stylish and durable handle
  • Versatile dual-blade design
  • Compact and portable
  • Great for various outdoor tasks

Cons

  • Pricier than similar knives
  • Lacks blade lock
  • Challenging to sharpen

Benchmade Weekender Review: Versatile and Rugged Performance

Finding a reliable, all-purpose outdoor knife can make all the difference when you’re out in the wild. Whether you’re camping, whittling, or enjoying a fishing trip, the right knife should handle various tasks without weighing you down. The right tool can enhance your experience, offering utility and durability in one package.

The Benchmade Weekender is designed to be the perfect companion for outdoor enthusiasts. Featuring premium CPM-S90V stainless steel and a foldable design, it brings versatility and quality to your adventures. In this review, I’ll break down its features, pros and cons, and what makes it stand out.


Product Details – Benchmade Weekender Outdoor Knife

  • Blade Material: CPM-S90V stainless steel
  • Blade Style: Clip point and utility drop-point
  • Handle Material: Burgundy canvas Micarta
  • Blade Length: 4.08 inches
  • Weight: 0.35 pounds
  • Included Components: Lock
  • Special Features: Foldable, ambidextrous design
  • Mechanism: Slip joint
  • Best For: Outdoor enthusiasts looking for a versatile, high-quality knife for camping and general outdoor use.

Benchmade Weekender Review – Pros & Cons

Pros of Benchmade Weekender

  • Premium Materials: High-quality CPM-S90V steel ensures longevity and performance.
  • Versatile Blade Design: Dual blade setup for varied tasks.
  • Compact and Portable: Lightweight, easy to carry in a pocket or backpack.
  • Ambidextrous Design: Suitable for both left- and right-handed users.
  • Stylish Handle: Burgundy canvas Micarta handle with stainless steel pivot rings.

Cons of Benchmade Weekender

  • No Locking Mechanism: Slip joint mechanism lacks blade lock.
  • Price: The premium materials make it more expensive compared to other outdoor knives.

The Benchmade Weekender Outdoor Knife has received mostly positive reviews for its durability and multi-functionality. Users appreciate its premium steel construction and comfortable grip, making it a reliable tool for outdoor adventures.


In-Depth Review of the Benchmade Weekender Outdoor Knife

When you’re out in the wild, having a dependable knife can be the difference between an enjoyable and stressful trip. The Benchmade Weekender is crafted with high-quality materials and features, making it a must-have for those who spend a lot of time outdoors.

Blade Quality and Material

The Weekender’s blade is made from CPM-S90V premium stainless steel, known for its wear resistance and ability to hold an edge longer than most steels. This makes it ideal for extended outdoor use, where constant sharpening isn’t always feasible. Whether you’re cutting rope, slicing through food, or preparing kindling, the knife’s blade maintains sharpness exceptionally well. Both the clip point and drop-point blades offer versatility, making the Weekender suitable for tasks ranging from food prep to detailed cutting work. The black DLC finish also adds durability and corrosion resistance, ensuring the knife remains in excellent condition, even in harsh outdoor environments.

Ergonomics and Handle Design

The Burgundy Canvas Micarta handle is not only durable but also provides an excellent grip, especially in wet conditions. The textured surface makes it easy to handle the knife securely, even when your hands are slippery. In terms of size and weight, the Weekender strikes a perfect balance between portability and functionality. At just 0.35 pounds, it’s light enough to be unobtrusive in a pocket but robust enough to perform heavy-duty tasks.

Versatility and Use Cases

What sets the Benchmade Weekender apart is its dual-blade design. The larger blade is perfect for general cutting tasks, while the smaller blade is ideal for more intricate work. The inclusion of a bottle opener adds to its outdoor utility, making it not just a knife but a multi-tool. Whether you’re camping, whittling, or enjoying an afternoon fishing, this knife can handle a variety of tasks with ease.

Drawbacks: Lack of a Locking Mechanism

While the slip joint mechanism allows for a compact, foldable design, some users may miss the added security of a blade lock. In high-pressure situations where safety is critical, a locking blade could offer more peace of mind. However, the slip joint design isn’t inherently unsafe—it’s just a trade-off for those who prioritize a lightweight, foldable knife over maximum security.

Durability and Maintenance

Thanks to the premium CPM-S90V stainless steel and DLC finish, the Weekender is highly durable and resistant to corrosion. The blade retains its sharpness through heavy use, and the handle material ensures a firm grip in any condition. However, S90V steel can be tricky to sharpen, so if you don’t have experience sharpening harder steels, this could be a drawback.


Who Will Love the Benchmade Weekender Outdoor Knife?

  • ✅ Campers who need a reliable, versatile knife for multiple outdoor tasks
  • ✅ Outdoor enthusiasts looking for a premium-quality tool with dual blades
  • ✅ Fishermen and whittlers who want a sharp, durable knife that stays reliable
  • ✅ Hikers seeking a lightweight yet robust knife for their adventures

Who Might Want to Look Elsewhere?

  • ✅ If you prefer a locking blade for added safety, the Benchmade Weekender may not be the best choice.

Customer Experiences with the Benchmade Weekender Outdoor Knife

We’ve analyzed customer feedback to provide a clear picture of the Benchmade Weekender’s performance in real-world scenarios.

  • Excellent Blade Performance: Users consistently highlight the sharpness and edge retention of the S90V steel, making it an excellent choice for extended outdoor use.
  • Stylish and Functional: The Burgundy Canvas Micarta handle is praised for both its aesthetics and practicality, providing a secure grip even in wet conditions.
  • Versatile Use: Many users find the dual-blade setup perfect for various outdoor tasks, from food prep to whittling.
  • 🚫 Expensive for Some: A few users mention that the knife’s price is higher than expected, though they acknowledge that the quality justifies the cost.
  • 🚫 No Locking Mechanism: Some users express concern over the lack of a blade lock, especially for heavier tasks.
  • Compact Design: Despite being a two-bladed knife, users appreciate the compact design, making it easy to carry in a pocket or backpack.

Value Analysis of the Benchmade Weekender Outdoor Knife

The Benchmade Weekender comes at a premium price, but its value lies in its durable construction and versatility.

Strengths: Durable, High-Performance Steel

  • Durability: Made from CPM-S90V steel, the blade offers excellent wear resistance and edge retention, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts who need a reliable tool over long periods.
  • Multi-Functionality: With two blades and a bottle opener, the Weekender is perfect for those who need more than just a knife while camping or hiking.

Considerations: Price and Blade Lock

  • Price: The Benchmade Weekender’s premium materials justify the cost, but it might not be the best option for budget-conscious buyers.
  • Blade Lock: While the slip joint design works for most tasks, those who prioritize safety may find the lack of a blade lock concerning.

The Benchmade Weekender Outdoor Knife is a solid investment for outdoor enthusiasts who value durability, versatility, and premium materials.


Final Thoughts: Is the Benchmade Weekender Outdoor Knife Worth It?

The Benchmade Weekender Outdoor Knife is a reliable, high-performance tool for outdoor enthusiasts, offering excellent blade sharpness and durability. Its lack of a blade lock may deter some, but the versatile design makes it a standout choice for many outdoor tasks.


FAQs – Benchmade Weekender Outdoor Knife

Does the Benchmade Weekender have a locking blade?

No, the Benchmade Weekender uses a slip joint mechanism, which does not lock the blade in place. This makes the knife foldable and more compact, but some users may miss the added security of a locking blade for heavier tasks.

What is the blade material of the Benchmade Weekender?

The Benchmade Weekender features blades made from CPM-S90V stainless steel, known for its exceptional wear resistance and edge retention. This makes it ideal for outdoor use, where you might not have frequent access to sharpening tools.

How many blades does the Benchmade Weekender have?

The Benchmade Weekender has two blades—a larger clip point blade and a smaller utility drop-point blade. This dual-blade setup provides versatility for various outdoor tasks, making it a practical tool for campers, whittlers, and fishermen.

Is the Benchmade Weekender suitable for left-handed users?

Yes, the Benchmade Weekender is designed to be ambidextrous, making it suitable for both left- and right-handed users. This feature enhances its usability for a wider range of outdoor enthusiasts.

Is the Benchmade Weekender good for camping?

Yes, the Benchmade Weekender is highly recommended for camping. Its durable CPM-S90V stainless steel blades and compact, foldable design make it an excellent companion for outdoor activities like camping, whittling, and fishing.

Does the Benchmade Weekender come with a sheath?

No, the Benchmade Weekender does not come with a sheath. However, it is compact enough to carry in a pocket or backpack, and its slip joint design ensures it folds safely when not in use.

How much does the Benchmade Weekender weigh?

The Benchmade Weekender weighs approximately 0.35 pounds, making it lightweight and easy to carry without adding bulk to your gear.

Is the Benchmade Weekender handle durable?

Yes, the Benchmade Weekender features a Burgundy Canvas Micarta handle, which is both durable and stylish. The textured surface ensures a secure grip, even in wet or slippery conditions.

What is the price range for the Benchmade Weekender?

The Benchmade Weekender typically ranges between $275 to $380, depending on the handle material and blade finish. While it is more expensive than some outdoor knives, its premium materials justify the price.

Can I sharpen the Benchmade Weekender myself?

Yes, the Benchmade Weekender can be sharpened, though CPM-S90V steel can be challenging to sharpen compared to other steels due to its hardness. You may want to use diamond sharpening stones or consult a professional.


Benchmade Weekender Review – Conclusion

The Benchmade Weekender Outdoor Knife is a durable, versatile, and stylish tool for outdoor enthusiasts. With its dual blades, premium steel, and compact design, it’s a solid investment for those who need a reliable, all-purpose outdoor knife.