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Last Updated: September 4, 2019
If you are as obsessed with knives as I am, you may be on the hunt for “the perfect EDC knife.” You know, the one blade that has it all. Naturally, it is the perfect size, features great materials, is beautifully designed, and carries like a dream. But in my mind a perfect EDC needs to go beyond that. It has to be greater than the sum of its parts, and a little “X factor” never hurt either. Lets be real, for a knife to earn some time in the rotation is one thing, but to stand the test of time the knife has to work for you on another level.
Buy the Benchmade 940 at BladeHQ
That is what drew me to the Benchmade 940. On paper it has all the basic requirements of a good EDC knife, which is always nice to see. But then the 940 had something else. Maybe it’s the unique handle, or the unconventional blade shape. Whatever it was, it drew me in like a moth to a flame, and I know that I am not the first to succumb to this emerald beauty. The 940 has been in Benchmade‘s catalog for well over a decade, and remains one of their most popular designs to this day. Needless to say, it is high time we gave this classic a thorough review.
General Dimensions and Blade Details
The 940 (or “940 Osborne”) has an overall length of 7.87″, a 3.4″ blade, weighs 2.90 ounces, and is made in the USA. In my mind these are real nice numbers for EDC, and that is exactly how I have been using my 940.
But I can also appreciate how the 940 could go beyond a mere EDC item. With an almost 3.5″ blade and an equally generous handle, the 940 could easily be pressed into a self defense role (although I sincerely hope you will never need to use it that way). On the opposite end of the spectrum, the 940 is a beautiful and elegant knife. In many ways exemplifies a modern gentleman’s folder. This is a knife that would do just fine in a suit pocket, or carried on special occasions. So I really like the versatility of the 940. It is fancy enough to make for an upscale EDC, but is big enough to get a lot of work done.
The blade on the 940 is a reverse tanto design. Popularized by the 940’s designer, Warren Osborne, this unique blade shape is best known for providing a sturdy tip, although I think the main draw is just the unique aesthetics. Warren has designed a few reverse tanto models for Benchmade, including the Benchmade Rift and I have generally been impressed by them. This particular blade has been given a high flat grind, and features a swedge running across the top. The 3mm thick blade holds it’s thickness pretty much to the tip thanks to the reverse tanto design. This is an interesting blade shape, and I found it quite capable for all my daily tasks.
The 940 Osborne makes use of S30V for the blade steel, an excellent USA made stainless from the folks over at Crucible. I have spoken about S30V many times before, but as a quick recap S30V is widely regarded as one of the best high end steels commonly found on production knives. When properly heat treated S30V is known for good edge retention, high corrosion resistance, relatively easy sharpening, and a good level of toughness for daily use. I am a big fan of S30V and Benchmade always does a fantastic job with heat treating their blades. Treated to 58-60 HRC, this 940 was no exception.
Handle, Ergonomics and Pocket Clip
The handle on the 940 is where things start to get interesting. First you have the striking aluminum handles. These have been bead-blasted to an attractive matte finish, and then anodized a deep green. I absolutely love the texture of these handles. They aren’t particularly aggressive, but they aren’t slippery either – given the intended use I found it to be a nice balance. Sandwiched between the aluminum handles is a single piece of anodized purple titanium. This backspacer compliments the green handles nicely, and provides a good deal of visual interest.
As for actual construction, the 940’s handle is top notch. There are partial stainless steel liners, and they have been polished to a lustrous shine. I like how when you peer inside the knife the liners reflect the titanium backspacer. It is a little detail, but some times it’s the small stuff that gets you going. Everything has been screwed together with black hardware, and all the pieces line up perfectly. The overall fit and finish of this knife is exceptional.
In 2015 Benchmade released the 940-1, a premium version of the 940 with carbon fiber handles and a S90V blade. It’s a beautiful knife and well worth considering if you are a fan of the original 940. Check out our review of the 940-1 here.
In hand the 940 is surprisingly capable. I say “surprisingly” because at a glance we have a rather thin handle here. In practice I found the handle long enough to comfortably accept my larger hand, and the rows of jimping on both the thumb ramp and finger choil provide a good amount of grip. It is a comfortable knife in forward grips, and I can get some good work done with it. The 940 also works well in reverse grip, and in the closed position as well. Actually, when closed, the 940’s thin profile makes it an excellent choice as a kubotan – another nice option to have.
The pocket clip on the 940 Osborne is a standard Benchmade clip – the same kind you will find in models like their classic Griptilian and Mini Griptilian. I am a big fan of this style of clip. It is simple, sturdy, and works quite well. Benchmade drilled and tapped this model for ambidextrous tip up carry. In pocket the 940 carries wonderfully. Thin and lightweight, this is a knife that you forget you are carrying.
Here is your pocket clip shot:
Deployment and Lockup
The 940 makes use of a pair of ambidextrous thumb studs and an axis lock. Much like many of the other Benchmade knives that I have reviewed with this configuration, deployment on the 940 is extremely fast and smooth. The thumb studs are easy to access allowing you to flick the blade out with alarming speed and very little effort. Phosphor bronze washers aid in that regard, and the net result is reliable deployment in any situation.
Similarly, the axis lock on my knife has also been really well done. Lockup is tight with no blade play, yet the lock is easy to disengage with a single hand, and the blade rotates freely into the closed position. It is no secret I am a big fan of the axis lock, and the 940 is a great example of why. If true one hand operation is important to you (as a righty or a lefty) then I find the combination of thumb studs and an axis lock very tough to beat.
Benchmade 940 Osborne Review – Final Thoughts
The 940 combines excellent materials with smart design and wonderful fit and finish to produce an exceptional daily carry item. On paper this has always looked like an awesome knife, so I was very happy to find that the 940 was just as awesome in real life. Everything works, and it works well. The way I see it, the biggest potential downside here is that the knife isn’t particularly cheap, but for a made in the USA folder with these kinds of features, I actually think the price is quite reasonable.
But what about beyond the specifications? Do we really have a “perfect” EDC knife? I must admit, there is something special about this one. The 940 has really distinguished itself as a design and it has a little something extra that keeps me coming back. I don’t doubt that for many people this will be a perfect EDC knife.
- ALL-AROUND UTILITY: A quintessential EDC tool that combines simplicity with unmatched function, no matter the application; Ideal for pretty much everything.
- AMERICAN MADE CPM-S30V STEEL: For first-rate edge retention and corrosion resistance; Reverse tanto blade is nimble, versatile, and made for the outdoors.
- DURABLE 6061-T6 ALUMINUM HANDLE: Is anodized, fully ambidextrous, has a smooth satin grip, and is suitable for just about any environment that requires a blade.
- AXIS LOCKING MECHANISM: Ensures safety and a smooth open and easy close; Standard reversible clip; Light as a feather for easy carrying and a comfortable grip.
- EVERYDAY CARRY: With its slim profile and lightweight design, the 940 is the perfect addition to your EDC collection, backpack, survival kit, tackle box, and more.
I recommend purchasing the 940 at Amazon and BladeHQ. Buying anything through the links on this website earns BladeReviews a small commission at no additional cost to you. All proceeds generated are used to keep the site running. Thank you very much for your support.
That looks like one worth checking out. It looks like a really nice option for being able to carry a fairly large knife with the weight of a smaller knife.
Richard, that is what really appealed to me with this one. A full size folder, but in a lightweight and discrete package. Thanks for stopping by!
Dan
You really got my interest with this blade…… for EDC I like under 3oz in a tough package. Now I’ll have to go to my local knife shop and put one in hand – which might seal the deal if it feels good. Thanks for the detailed review.
Howard,
First of all, my pleasure entirely! I think this is a very capable EDC knife just under 3 ounces. Handling one in person before buying is always a great idea. If you get a chance, please let me know what you think of the knife after having a chance to check it out. Thanks for stopping by and leaving the nice comment.
Dan
Great review chief!!
Thanks Scott! 🙂
I’ve considered one of these for an upgrade for my old frame locks once I’d picked up a 530 mel pardue. The costliness was just too hard to get past at the time. This would certainly be a high end choice if I wanted to replace the griptilian. As usually great review that makes me envious!
RK, I agree that this would be a nice high end upgrade to the Griptilian. Practically speaking the price is probably my biggest issue although like I said, $140 is a pretty nice deal for this one considering. Thanks so much for stopping by, always a pleasure.
Dan
I used to have one of these long ago but my brother came over and kept telling me how much he liked it so I ended up giving it to him. It turned out to be his favorite knife (I had also given him a microtech SOCOM). Well, he ended up losing it. He liked it so mcuh, he bought two more off “the bay”. Nice review, my brother would agree with your assesment… 🙂
Thanks JT! I am glad your brother likes this one as well, great minds think alike. 😉 Seriously though this is a very well done blade, great design and flawless execution. One of the greats imo. Thanks for stopping by.
One more time, you did a great job with this review, making me buy this knife that I’ve been considering for several months… I bought it by internet and I couldn’t handle it before and I’m not disapointed: it feels a little “bigger” and stronger that I’ve imagined; to me it is a very nice looking knife from the handle to the blade (I love the “modified reverse tanto shape”). The only issue is that the blade is not perfectly centered (it is still acceptable, not like what I saw on some Mcusta, but I’m not use to that with Benchmade…) and a little lateral blade play that comes after several openings: it gets better by turning the pivot screw but the problem comes back. I think I’ll have to use some locktite. However, I guess it will became one of my favorite EDC.
Congratulation for your job, I love your reviews which are very “professionals”, far from what we sometimes see…
I apologize for my english, I’m french and don’t write english very often.
Thank you and stay sharp
Darkflo,
Thanks so much for the nice comment my friend, I am glad you are enjoying the 940. I would try a little lock tite on the pivot, I usually do that with my axis lock knives and it helps shore up any blade play. And I am also glad you have been enjoying the reviews in general. I’ve got more on the way very soon. Thanks again and all the best.
Dan
Nice review. My 940 sees more pocket time than any other knife I own. Wicked blade design hiding in a tuxedo!
Thanks Craig! Glad you like your 940 too.
I just got my 940 Osborne. It fits like a groove on my small hand. Opening however, as my thumb is short, I do have some difficulty but will have to practice a bit there. I am however easily able to open using the axis lock. Do you see any issues with that Dan?
I also have noted the matte finish can easily get marks and you have to brush off.
All in all, I love this knife and will carry with me on those dressier occasions.
Your review was very spot on and those who I have honored with a showing love it a well, especially the purple titanium and quality. It’s a winner.
Hi Steve,
Yes, because the knife is so slim I have noticed that it can be a little awkward to access the thumb studs relative to wider knives in my collection. I don’t have any issues with it per se, but I would agree that it is something of a compromise given the thin profile.
From my experience the green finish is pretty robust. It actually marks up a lot of stuff in my pocket (like my cell phone) so I have to be careful with what I include in that pocket.
Glad to hear you have been enjoying yours. My Dad EDC’s a 940 as well and he really likes it. I recently acquired a 943 which of course is very similar, but I do enjoy the black handle and clip point blade.
Best,
Dan
Your link dosnt work? Am I missing something? Still $180.00 on website, not the posted 140.00 price!?
Hey Caleb,
This article was originally published in 2012. Since then BM has changed some things with their MAAP pricing, and it looks like BHQ no longer offers it at $140. Sorry about any confusion, I’ll go ahead and update the review.
Dan
thanks for updating it, unfortunately the price now is out of my budget. Than you for the review.
I’ve had my 940 for about 8 months now. This knife just shines. You’ve touched on all the obvious points here Dan and I agree. You know what I love about this knife the most? The action. It is my go to knife for what I call ” couch play”. Sitting there. Watching TV. Flicking your knife open and closed about a thousand times? I can’t explain it. The 940 opens and closes with a very satisfying smoothness and ease. It also doesn’t make a huge thwacking noise doing so. Blade is still without any play in it and perfectly centered. It’s one of those knives that at first you are a tad reluctant to use it much. I mean, it’s so beautiful. Eventually I reached the point where I made a conscious decision to USE it for just about everything. I have. It has a few little scratches but still looks great. I keep my Spyderco Sharpmaker on top of my bureau all set up with the ultra fine rids, ready to go. I usually swipe the 940 a couple of times per week with a stropping as well. Maybe 10-20 swipes and another 20 with the strop. It remains capable of shaving hair.
I’ve got the blade bug. Big time now. I’ve now got over 60 fixed blades and 70 folders (yes, I’m still married) and the 940 is numero uno as my favorite EDC. I carry a Cadet in my pocket and have for over 20 years now. The 940 isn’t cheap. But after a few months of daily use you realize that you get what you pay for. If you collect knives, IMO this is a must have.
Hi Greg,
I am so happy to hear you have been enjoying your 940. It has been one of my father’s go to EDCs for some time now, for many of the reasons you describe. I agree, the action is exceptional and it has a great feel to it with the solid aluminum handles, long blade, and phosphor bronze washers.
Thank you for taking the time out to comment and leave some thoughts on the 940 – I appreciate it, and I know other people who peruse the comments section of the reviews appreciate it as well.
Dan
I know BM makes quality products, but the ‘street’ price relative to say Spyderco just doesn’t seem to be justified. I simply can’t get myself to pay $180 for a narrow, thin aluminum knife. I don’t see how it would stay in my hand in a self defense situation. So many people seem to be more concerned with how a knife feels in their pocket than how it reels in their hand. I recently purchased a Domino, and consider it to truly be the ultimate EDC as it fits my HAND perfectly and is forgotten about while in my pocket. I would not hesitate to use it in a defensive matter either. Every time I go to buy a knife I look at BM and end up buying Spyderco, Viper or someone else.
John,
I agree that $180 is steep for the 940. You used to be able to pick these up for closer to $140, and at that price I think it’s a great buy. It’s still a wonderful knife, but as you noted there is a lot of competition in that price range.
Dan
Thanks for the great review.I don’t think the green finish is anodized.It appears to be a type of paint.My only complaint about this knife is the finish wearing thru on the edges.It would be nice if Benchmade would refinish the handles but I doubt that is an option.Keep your reviews coming,I sure enjoy them.
Thank you, Bob. According to Benchmade it is anodized. I am glad you enjoy the reviews. Many more to come!
Best,
Dan
Hi Dan,
I finally went and bought a 940BK. If it sold for same price range as a Para2 it would easily be a 5 star knife. BUT at the $195 internet price (I paid about $30 less at a local store) it is basically highway robbery. This will be my one and only Benchmade until their prices get more in line with reality.
John,
I agree. $200 for this knife is just too much. I paid far less than that for mine (granted it was used). It’s a nice knife but BM’s prices need to come down to earth.
Dan
I really don’t think 200 bucks is too much for the 940. After all, the CR small Sebenza is 350 bucks these days and the 940 is, in my opinion, a much better, more ergonomic and, therefore, more usable knife. While Benchmade knives are expensive and I don’t own a lot of them, the ones I own tend to get carried and used more than any other brand.
Dogman,
It’s a nice knife. When you compare it to the Sebenza like that it makes sense. However people gripe about the handles being aluminum (instead of titanium), S30V being a relatively common steel, etc. I don’t think they examine it from the utility perspective like you do.
Dan
Great job!
I just got one, but mine is pretty stiff, though. It does not open smoothly nor rotates freely. Needs a tough movement to close it. Have you heard of this issue? Could it be a seconds?
Thanks!
Antonio: Have you tried adjusting the pivot and / or lubricating it? Typically axis lock knives are very smooth and easy to open. Something isn’t right.
Dan
Thanks for the answer. I have lubricated it and improved just a little. I will try adjusting the pivot, but I am afraid of decentering the blade or causing blade play. Any advice to avoid decentering? Thanks once again
Antonio,
Unfortunately I don’t have any tips. Sometimes you only need to back off on the pivot very slightly. You can always re-tighten. If there are significant problems then I would send it in the Benchmade. Their warranty service is excellent.
Dan
Thank you, Dan
I tried to adjust the pivot and, moving it just a hair counterclockwise and the blade fell free. Now it is working fine.
Thanks so much!
I’ve been EDCing mine for almost a year now and I couldn’t be happier. It just disappears in the pocket. Edge retention has been amazing, just a few passes on my sharpmaker and it’s shaving sharp again. I can’t recommend this knife enough. The only thing is you have to wait for the pivot to “break in” then tighten it a hair and it’s perfect, I put a little grease on mine for good measure.
I have owned one for a couple of years now
Great knife, only downside is
The SV30 blade gets dull very easily.
I tried my best to sharpen it but it never gets like it was new
I send it in and Benchmade puts the edge on it for me
Schoon,
Sorry to hear your blade dulls easily. I have had good success with Benchmade’s S30V in the past, so I’m a little surprised to hear this, but I’ve had some S30V blades that have performed better than others.
That said, Benchmade’s LifeSharp service is a nice program so I’m glad to hear you have been taking advantage of it.
Hopefully your 940 will provide many more years of service.
Dan