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The Benchmade 710 Axis and Benchmade CLA knives both showcase Benchmade's renowned craftsmanship and quality. Both models are versatile, catering to everyday carry and specific uses like tactical or hiking. The 710 Axis features a manual AXIS lock and diverse handle materials, while the CLA models are automatic, primarily using G-10 handles for tactical applications.
Overview
Overview
Benchmade 710 Axis
Benchmade 710 Axis
The Benchmade 710 Axis is a manual knife with a strong steel frame, thumb stud opener, and various blade styles. It's great for camping, hiking, everyday use, or collecting.
Benchmade CLA
Benchmade CLA
The Benchmade CLA is an automatic knife with a 3.4-inch blade, made for everyday carry and tactical use. It has a push-button opener, steel frame, and a G-10 or carbon fiber handle.
Side-by-Side Comparison: Benchmade 710 Axis vs Benchmade CLA
Side-by-Side Comparison: Benchmade 710 Axis vs Benchmade CLA
Here is a detailed comparison of the Benchmade 710 Axis and Benchmade CLA based on key specifications and features.
| Feature | Benchmade 710 Axis | Benchmade CLA |
|---|---|---|
| Model Name | 710 Axis | CLA |
| Intended Use | Great for outdoor adventures and everyday tasks. | Great for tactical use and everyday carry. |
| Locking Mechanism | Crossbar Lock | Button Lock |
| Opening Mechanism | Manual | Automatic |
| Pocket Clip Orientation | Tip-Up | Tip-Up |
| User Hand Orientation | Right Hand, Left Hand | Right Hand, Left Hand |
| Weight | 4.44 oz - 5.16 oz | 3.29 oz - 3.47 oz |
| Frame/Liner Material | Steel | Steel |
| Color Options | Black, Blue, Gray | Black, Green, White, OD Green |
| Handle Material | Carbon Fiber, G-10, Aluminum | G-10, Carbon Fiber |
| Handle Thickness | 0.45" - 0.48" | 0.49" - 0.53" |
| Handle Length | 4.90" - 5.00" | 4.40" - 4.46" |
| Handle Width | N/A | 0.75" - 1.08" |
| Edge Type | Plain, Serrated | Serrated, Plain |
| Blade Finish Options | Damascus, Satin, Tan, Black | Black, Satin, Stonewash, Black Stonewash |
| Opener Type | Thumb Stud | Push Button |
| Blade Grind Type | Flat | Flat |
| Blade Style | Clip Point, Drop Point | Drop Point |
| Blade Hardness | 60-62 RC, 59-61 RC | 58-61 RC |
| Blade Material | Damascus, D2, CPM MagnaCut, CPM S90V, ATS 34 | 154CM, CPM S30V, CPM MagnaCut |
| Blade Thickness | 0.09" - 0.14" | 0.11" |
| Blade Length | 3.90" - 4.00" | 3.34" - 3.40" |
| Blade Width | N/A | 0.63" - 1.00" |
| Cutting Edge Length | N/A | 2.85" - 3.36" |
| Overall Length | 8.80" - 8.875" | 7.35" - 7.85" |
Pros & Cons of Using Benchmade 710 Axis
| Pros | Cons |
| Strong and durable for tough tasks | Heavy for some users |
| Easy to open and close with one hand | Pocket clip can be too tight |
| Comfortable to carry every day | Thumb stud may be hard to use |
| Works well for both left and right hand users | Needs regular maintenance |
| Good for camping, hiking, and daily use | Not ideal for very small tasks |
Pros & Cons of Benchmade Casbah
| Pros | Cons |
| Strong and durable build | Not legal in some places |
| Easy to open with one hand | Hard to close with one hand |
| Comfortable to carry daily | Requires regular maintenance |
| Reliable for tactical use | Limited blade length |
| Versatile blade styles available | Can be difficult to sharpen |
Final verdict
For outdoor adventures and everyday tasks, the Benchmade 710 Axis offers a robust manual opening system with a variety of handle materials and finishes, making it highly versatile. However, for tactical use and easy everyday carry, the Benchmade CLA's lighter weight and automatic opening mechanism provide quick access and efficient performance.
Ready to Make Your Choice?
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