Benchmade

Benchmade handle scales

Benchmade is a premium American knife manufacturer renowned for high-quality folding knives, fixed blades, and custom designs

Founded in 1979 by Les de Asis in California as Pacific Cutlery, the company initially produced inexpensive butterfly (balisong) knives under the BenchMark brand. In 1987, de Asis rebranded to Benchmade Knife Company and relocated to Oregon, focusing on professional-grade tools with superior materials and craftsmanship

Key milestones:

1988: Introduced the Model 800 (first Axis Lock knife), revolutionizing one-handed opening and lock strength—still a benchmark today
1990s: Expanded into law enforcement and military markets with models like the 940 Osborne (designed by Warren Osborne, 1999)—a lightweight EDC icon
2002: Moved to a state-of-the-art facility in Oregon City, Oregon, emphasizing American-made quality
2000s–2010s: Launched collaborations with top designers (Chris Reeve, Mel Pardue, Bill McHenry, Jason Williams) and introduced LifeSharp free sharpening service
2014: Acquired by Wynnchurch Capital; later independent again
2020s: Continued innovation with Bugout, Adamant, Shoal, and Gold Class customs—using premium steels (CPM-S30V, M390, MagnaCut) and materials (carbon fiber, G10, titanium)

Today, headquartered in Oregon City, Benchmade remains family-influenced and USA-made, trusted by military, first responders, outdoorsmen, and collectors for lifetime warranties, precision engineering, and unmatched durability