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The Benchmade 940 Osborne and Benchmade CLA share a reputation for quality and versatility, both featuring 3.4-inch blades and a variety of handle materials like G-10 and carbon fiber. The 940 Osborne stands out with its manual AXIS lock, ideal for everyday carry, while the CLA impresses as an automatic knife, perfect for tactical use.
Overview
Overview
Benchmade 940 Osborne
Benchmade 940 Osborne
The Benchmade 940 Osborne is a manual knife with a strong steel frame. It has different blade finishes and handle materials, making it great for everyday use and outdoor activities.
Benchmade CLA
Benchmade CLA
The Benchmade CLA is an automatic knife with a push button opener. It has a 3.4-inch drop point blade made from strong steel, and comes with a G-10 or carbon fiber handle. Ideal for everyday carry.
Side-by-Side Comparison: Benchmade 940 Osborne vs Benchmade CLA
Side-by-Side Comparison: Benchmade 940 Osborne vs Benchmade CLA
Here is a detailed comparison of the Benchmade 940 Osborne and Benchmade CLA based on key specifications and features.
| Feature | Benchmade 940 Osborne | Benchmade CLA |
|---|---|---|
| Model Name | 940 Osborne | CLA |
| Intended Use | Great for camping, hiking, and everyday tasks. | Ideal for quick access and daily tasks, especially in tactical situations. |
| 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 | 2.44 oz - 2.90 oz | 3.29 oz - 3.47 oz |
| Frame/Liner Material | Steel | Steel |
| Color Options | Green, Gray, Black, Blue | Black, Green, White, OD Green |
| Handle Material | Carbon Fiber, Titanium, Aluminum, G-10 | G-10, Carbon Fiber |
| Handle Thickness | 0.41" - 0.44" | 0.49" - 0.53" |
| Handle Length | 4.47" | 4.40" - 4.46" |
| Handle Width | N/A | 0.75" - 1.08" |
| Edge Type | Plain, Serrated | Serrated, Plain |
| Blade Finish Options | Stonewash, Damascus, Black, Satin | Black, Satin, Stonewash, Black Stonewash |
| Opener Type | Thumb Stud | Push Button |
| Blade Grind Type | Flat | Flat |
| Blade Style | Reverse Tanto, Clip Point | Drop Point |
| Blade Hardness | 59-61 RC, 58-60 RC | 58-61 RC, 58-60 RC, 60-62 RC |
| Blade Material | CPM S90V, Damascus, CPM S30V, CPM M4 | 154CM, CPM S30V, CPM MagnaCut |
| Blade Thickness | 0.12" | 0.11" |
| Blade Length | 3.40" | 3.34" - 3.40" |
| Blade Width | N/A | 0.63" - 1.00" |
| Cutting Edge Length | 3.10" | 1.38" - 3.36" |
| Overall Length | 7.50" - 7.87" | 7.35" - 8.125" |
Pros & Cons of Using Benchmade 940 Osborne
| Pros | Cons |
| Strong and durable build | Handle can feel small for big hands |
| Easy to carry daily | Thumb stud may be hard to use |
| Smooth and reliable lock | Blade might be too thin for heavy tasks |
| Great for both right and left hand users | Pocket clip can be tight |
| Sharp and long-lasting blade | Lock can be stiff at first |
Pros & Cons of Benchmade CLA
| Pros | Cons |
| Easy to open with a push button | Not legal to carry everywhere |
| Strong and durable materials | Blade can be difficult to sharpen |
| Comfortable grip for long use | Handle may feel bulky |
| Reliable locking mechanism | Automatic mechanism can fail |
| Good for everyday tasks and emergencies | Limited customization options |
Final verdict
The Benchmade 940 Osborne series is a versatile and lightweight option, perfect for camping, hiking, and everyday tasks, with a manual opening mechanism and sleek design. On the other hand, the Benchmade CLA series offers quick automatic access and is well-suited for tactical situations and daily tasks needing immediate deployment. For outdoor enthusiasts, the 940 Osborne is ideal, while those needing rapid access might prefer the CLA.
Ready to Make Your Choice?
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