Benchmade 496 Vector Review
June 2, 2020
94 The Good
- CPM-20CV blade
- Blend of modern design and classic materials
- Flipper lock and AXIS lock
- Compound grind
The Bad
- Difficult to resharpen
- Flipper lock wobble
- Not for everyone
Compound grinds offer you the ability to do more with a single blade, and unlike serrations - it’s actually a benefit. That said, like serrations, a compound grind is a bear to hone, especially on the 496 - at the point where it transitions from one grind to another. But, with a little attention to detail, I think anyone can overcome this small bump.
Overall, this knife is the best knife I have tested and used in the past few years. Its carry and deployment are second to none, and when you balance out the price against the materials, as well as all of the aforementioned features, the 496 Vector represents the next evolution in production, EDC knives.
CONSTRUCTION & MATERIALS
You really can’t go wrong when you use G10 for your handle scales, as they’re great for grip and virtually indestructible. If you ask around, CPM-20CV was a gift from some outer space aliens and is beyond compare in terms of steel that can handle everyday use and abuse. The inclusion of stainless steel liners and Aluminum bolsters just proves that Benchmade was out to build the next evolution of bombproof flipper for a lifetime of adventure.
EASE OF USE
The 496 Vector does not only boast premium materials – but also premium features. Aside from the compound grind on the blade, the lockable spring-assisted flipper is a considerable upgrade in overall safety, carry, and deployment. The only issue I foresee is when it comes down to resharpening the knife, which, if you’re so inclined, Benchmade will do for you (and I would recommend unless you’re an advanced knife user and caretaker).
STEEL QUALITY/EDGE RETENTION
CPM-20CV is a highly abrasion and corrosion-resistant, stainless steel that hones to a skin-popping-sharp edge, and holds it for a decent amount of time. CPM-20CV is considered a premium steel and is ranked up there with M4, Elmax, and M390 steels.
DURABILITY
Benchmade has a long history of making knives that can take a beating and still perform as if they were factory fresh and the 496 Vector is no exception. The stainless steel liners and milled Aluminum bolsters beef up the construction of the knife overall, while the G10 is able to maintain that level of durability while keeping the weight down
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