Great video, as always. I have a 940 I've had for about 15 years. I go to other EDC knives for a slightly smaller size, but always come back to this knife. And every time I see one of your videos and think, "maybe I need a new Benchmade..." I pull out the 940 and realize I have the knife I want. It remains fast and tight after lots of use. Thanks for confirming my bias!
Interesting you brought up the Malibu. I think it's an interesting comparison but I believe it's in a league of its own and deserves a a video of its own like this
I don't think it's been around long enough yet, or has the availability and ubiquitous recognition on a broader level to be put in "icon" status yet by any stretch. All of the knives they've done this with are far more universally available and are able to be recognized by not only "knife guys" but many normal people or people just getting into the hobby. I think of "icon" knives are the ones we all have owned or handled on our journey, and the ones that people immediately point to and recommend as great one an done edc options as you start to dive into it all. The Malibu could get there some day, but I don't think it meets the criteria just quite yet.
I sold mine a long time ago & regret it ever since. So I just ordered another one. Although I gave up on Benchmade a long time ago the 940 is my favorite knife of all time. Can’t live without it & can’t wait to have it in my pocket again.
There have been a few times where I have thought, "Yes, you can beat the icon." However, I'm not sure I feel that way this time. It took me some time to get over the odd shape, size, and color of the Osborne, but after having hands on time, I have come to appreciate the elegant design combined with the "blue collar" toughness. Certainly one of the best knives out there.
The 940 has been in my pocket for many years and is my daily carry with a lot of hard use. It has never failed me and has been the single most reliable knife I have ever owned. I will have one in my pocket for a long time to come.
Definitely a lot of great knives featured in the video, but the 940 is just such a unique knife that I feel like you can't beat it in terms of it being a hard-use, classy looking knife.
my 945 Osborne mini has become my most carried knife. Its small enough to be an everyday, all day, every situation knife. Its light enough to pop it in pocket and forget its there until you need it. and yet it feels like a full sized blade compared to my other small knives. I didn't think I'd like it as much, but the 945 Mini is my new recomendation for one-and-done for just about anyone
@@jaysgood10 heh, god i wish i'd get paid for it. I had a 940, and honestly I didn't get it. It seemed pretty generic, and my other knives were better, cheaper, and more iconic looking. but once i got the 945, it made sense. I still don't get the hype around the 940, but I've yet to find a small-lightweight edc that i'd rather carry over the 945.
@@theotherjoedimaggio Agree. I think the 945 has better proportions than the 940, making it a better looking knife, a better carry knife, and just as capable a user.
The Benchmade 940 Osborne is truly an amazing knife. I did not get it in the beginning. But once you hold it and play with it , the genus becomes clear.
Sweet! Love these videos. This was one of my favorites- I think I’m one of about 7 people on the planet who have not EDC’d a 940 but it’s absolutely an admirable icon. Please do a beat the icon episode for the heavyweight champion (the Griptilian) next!
For years I've enjoyed using my 940-121. I think it was the first gold class and came with M4 Cere Coated blade, titanium scales and carbon fiber bolster. It takes patience to sharpen, but the edge seems to just keep going. It was expensive, but worth having the pleasure of having a premium tool for everyday carry on the job. Now that I'm retired it is on light duty. I don't want to lose an old companion. I've been carrying a Benchmade North Fork in the summer as it's shorter and won't pump out of shallow shorts pockets so easy. The jeans pocket gets a left-handed Sebenza 31, my retirement gift to me. Thanks for the really informative videos.
The OG 940 was my 1st grail knife, and while my collection has far surpassed it, the purple backspacer was the beginning of my love for purple knives, so it has inspired a large portion of my collection, especially my custom knives. My latest custom was a green and purple Arc and Iron Flintlock fixed EDC.
I remember when it dropped at like $125 and I didn't have 2 nickels to rub together. It finally made it into my collection in 2017. It is a great knife for sure!
940-2 is my all time favorite. The best part of this knife is the diamond shape grind on the tip of the blade, makes it very durable. If you have ever broke the tip off a blade you will appreciate it. 945 is a good small knife as well.
I own (3) Rockstead, (4) CRK’s, and a dozen wonderful Spiderco’s. I have (3) BM 940’s, carbon fiber, and titanium Boss handles, but the standard S30V with Forest Green aluminum handle is by far my favorite EDC.
Since my "first production" 940 in 2000, I've owned 13 various versions, selling all but 2 to friends... friends that begged for them. IMHO... 940s are the perfect medium duty knife and have been for 23 years.
In the budget category I think the Kershaw Iridium could probably also throw up a pretty decent fight. Leaf shape blade is a bit in it's own category however.
Problem with the iridium is every one of them that has come to me for sharpening (probably 20-25 of them) all have pretty severe lock rock/up and down play. Past that it's a true banger of a knife.
@@EDCandLace Hu, that's funny I haven't had that problem with the one my dad picked up (Reviewed on my channel). He had it on back ordered for over a month and only got it a few weeks ago so it's probably far from the first production run. I also have a Covalent with no problem which is same locking mechanism. But those are just two examples on my part however. Hopefully later production is doing better... 🤔
Hogue Deka would fit in this category well I think. I still want to get the wharncliffe version one day. Its one of my grail knives for sure. Also, looking forward to the new Civivi Vision knife coming out for 70$ in nitro v and a normal pocket clip. Looks really cool.
Be careful, I JUST heard from my pal (works at a gun/ knife shop) , that a some customers are unhappy with Hogues Magnacut. They worry the heat treat may be sub par. Apparently, they were too easy to sharpen ("soft" steel ?), and there was talk of it losing edge way too soon for a steel of THAT caliber. I hope it's just a fluke, or bad batch, I like Hogue products. Something to think on , before you spend hard earned money
@ervingonzalez4084 didn't want to rain on your parade, but there is good news. The OTHER customers seem very satisfied, and these are very selective knive buyers, like you, me, and the folks on these channels. I wish you luck, in sure it will be fine
Great job David👍🏻 Well researched, very interesting, and great choices. Will any of these knives still be in production in 20 years and be an icon of their own? Time will tell. …that Rockstead though. Wow! That thing is in a world of its own!
Thanks for another great video. Unfortunately paying over $200.00 for a pocketknife is just too much. There are way too many good alternatives that will work just as well. 🔪🎸
Like that they’re branching out with 940 options. Currently carrying a Kershaw Dividend. Nice olive green handle and really like the look of the composite blade. That pattern welded blade on the 940 does look good though!
I think that several of the alternatives you show are better knives than the 940. But the 940 still is kind of unique, so many would rather go for it than choosing a probably better alternative.
my 940-1 has been my carry for several years now. It slips in my pocket and disappears with the only mod being a deep carry pocket clip. I thought I was crazy to pay so much for a pocket knife but it has been my favorite carry and a solid edc tool
That Rockstead reminds me that convex grinds are kinda rare . I recently inherited some firearms and fix blade knives. One knive was a Bowie from the 90's, walnut handle, 52-100 ball bearing steel, WITH A GREAT CONVEX GRIND. I saw the similar one online for 300 bucks! Great heirloom for me
The Osborne is a good, hard use folder that is an icon, but I find myself using the Benchmade Griptilian a lot more, with the wider blade and rounder handle. The aluminum scales make it more of a summer knife around here. Some knives that are comparable to the Osborne in style and feel would also include the Spyderco Paysan, MKM Clap, and maybe even the Artisan Cutlery Archaeo,
Had one of these since 2001. Finally had to send it back to Benchmade last year for a blade replacement as it was sharpened to Hell and back and I use it for blade size comparisons in some videos. It's iconic for sure and I appreciate that the only model for a long time was the colorful version, separating it out from all the other black tactical knives. Its cutting geometry hasn't really kept up with modern trends though, leaning on the thicker side. Never had it bind up when processing cardboard, but I do feel the extra pressure needed compared to a full flat grind. I truly regret letting go of my 921-Switchback I regularly carry the M4-Freek these days. It suits my large hands a bit better and has a taller and slicier blade. Feels a bit like a modernized Ares. The G10 doesn't feel as premium in the hand though, but the knife's price would be WAY to expensive using other materials with their current price structure.
Great Topic , this is one of the knives that Started The EDC CRAZ. We. Have All Noticed the Reverse Tanto ish Shape in so. Many new Knives. The 945 has become my. Favorite. With the life sharp warranty and after market support, You. Can't beat it . 😂😮 .Have more. Than Several !!❤😊 I'm sure Glad I've got a large Benchmade Collection. The. New prices are 😢 almost out of the there Ballpark 😢😮
Let me tell you about my experience with the 940 as an urban edc with s30v steel: Pros 1- Easy to deploy and close 2- Strong for its size 3- Lightweight 4- Good pocket clip Cons 1- The edge chipped slightly while doing basic cutting of zip ties 2- Came kind of doll from factory 3- It needs to be re sharpened more than other knifes with the same steel 4- It never gets really sharp, unless you really know what you’re doing
The Case Kinzua is a honorable mention. I own it and the 940 and they are similar. Same aluminum handle material, about the same size and the Case is either S30 or S35vn
I think this is my favorite knife design ever, at least aesthetically. Of course it's an extremely capable knife but I just love that reverse tonto blade.
Thanks for the video DCA, Thomas and crew. One little cultural niggle - we don't have "ranches" in Australia - apart from as an architectual style. Warren Osborne was probably borne on a "station". Sheep station or cattle station I'm guessing. I love my 940 - I've only had it a few months but it's a thing I've wanted for a while and have been very pleased with it since I had it. It's the most expensive folder I've had - folders - and knives generally are not as much part of our culture these days. When I was younger most every one in my circle carried a knife, but we were all into the outdoors and later some of us were soldiers, but these days carrrying knives outside of the bush is increasingly rare. I had stopped for a good long while, but it feels good to be carrying again, and really good to be carrying such a nicely designed knife from a fellow antipodean - with appropriate props to the good folk at Benchmade.
Yes you can switch the Magnacut blade on the new burnt copper Osborne 940-03 & put it in my green Osborne with the purple back spacer. Now that is a Frankenstein upgrade. 😍
I bought a 940 when they were just released way back in 2000, I carried for the last 4 years I was in the Army every day and then several more years after retiring, and used it for absolutely everything. The only problem is that after about 10 years of carrying it, I mistakenly let my wife use it to cut something, and since then, it has been her everyday carry. I wanted to get one to match it, green aluminum handle with black blade, but I waited to long and now Benchmade does not offer that. I did however get a 941, the 940 but with a clip point blade, and I have to say it is just as good.
Great selection of knives to compare to the 940 Osborne. One that y'all missed that I think deserves consideration is the Fox 515W Terzuola, which has a similar reverse tanto blade profile, similar size, similar grind height, contoured handle, and gentlemanly vibe. The blade steel on the 515W is N690Co, so not quite as premium as what Benchmade is offering, but a good hardworking steel in any case.
I have a first production 940-2 since they came out. It does anything I ask and well, although not used for hunting and fishing. It’s light and totally tight-zero detectable play. The blade is large for such a small handle and the shape is mesmerizing. I don’t know what the reverse tanto is good for, but I choose it because it looks less threatening, and to check out the axis lock-7 years later the axis lock is great. The knife’s main problem is, it’s just too businesslike and competent. A Halo OTF is much more fun, the 940s are fine tools.
I hope they never stop production of the bladehq jade g10/m4 bade steel model! That needs to be a forever edition as it may just be the best. I'm thinking of getting another to keep in box unopened, for just in case.
The Benchmade 940 is one of my grail knives. It’s beautiful and functional and such a great blade shape. I think the only one on the table that even comes close is the Kapara. I am gonna throw one out there that wasn’t on your list of competitors: The Spyderco Centofante 3. It is in the top 5 of my favorite knives in my collection. Yes, it’s a lockback. Yes, it’s VG-10, but it’s a solid, beautifully shaped knife that I think gives the Osborne 940 a little competition. Thoughts?
Thank you for all your reviews. I'm looking for a folder which could be used for a survival situation, as a back up knife, which has two main features: 1/. can be used for limited emergency batoning/splitting of wood 2/. contains a reasonable saw which locks Preferably both at least 5" blade
I thought for sure a small insingo blade sebenza would make the list. A good 940 competitor imo. Maybe not so much in price, but, if you’re taking hard working and special, it definitely comes to mind.
Was absolutely expecting to see the Hogue Deka in this video. I think it's pretty clearly inspired by the 940 and even has a crossbar style lock. I have a Deka and a 940 and I prefer the 940 because it feels slightly more premium to me, but the Deka is absolutely very similar.
Correction: I believe I was mistaken. I got my Benchmades confused. I do indeed own a Deka and a 940, but I also own a Bugout, and that's the knife that is similar to the Deka.
I would argue that on the budget end of knives, the OKnife Drever could be a contender. Flipper/liner lock, not a crossbar lock, but it still has the thumb studs. Profile and specs are similar, the action is amazing and the blade steel is N690 which is perfectly adequate. It's classy enough to be used as a gentleman knife while being rugged enough for hard work. It is one of my usuals in my knife rotation and I have never been let down.
David, here’s an idea for a KniFAQ or a standalone video: you’ve done a video on what knives every self-respecting knife collector should own, but what about a video on what every self respecting “premium” knife collector should own? Maybe starting above $200? It seems like the 940 and the Malibu would slot right into that conversation. If you open it up to fixed blades as well, I think maybe the Randall Model 1 could be the “premium” counterpart to THE Kabar on the “not premium” side. I think there’s enough there for a stand-alone video, maybe!
I've had my 940 since early 2000's.. I've tried to replace it but keep going back to it. Sent it in for repair once and BM replaced the blade with the pointy drop point blade for free!! If only i could find a magnacut replacement reblade for it...
I like 940, but the drop bear is a close 2nd... I switch between these two and it honestly just depends on what I'm doing for the day I think of the 9:40 as a Workhorse in the feild and my drop bear is also a Workforce but more of an EDC for City living tasks... but in my opinion you can't go wrong with either.. price also has a factor in my choice of the drop bear over the Benchmade sometimes if I was purchasing you
I love my 940, got a bunch of knives, don't carry it much, as I want to keep it pristine. I like a few of the other knives you've presented, but ... Anyway, good video, David, thanks.
Exactly!!! That is where Benchmade is missing the boat. They must do a magnacut version!!! Such as a MARBLED carbon fiber, with either green or purple back spacers and thumb stud!
I flip flopped back and forth for months over which Osborne to get, the 940 or the 945. I've had a Mini Griptilian for over 20 years and several years ago I had a notion that I might like the full sized Griptilian, until I actually bought one. It's just too big in my pocket, using that experience, even though the 940 is a slimmer knife than the Griptilian, I opted to get the 945 Mini Osborne. That size knife just fits better in my pocket and suits my daily tasks better than the full size 940. The 945 has become my daily carry knife, usurping the Mini Griptilian that I had carried nearly every day for 20 years. The other knives in this video are all nice but I would choose the 940 over all of them or their mini sizes, if any are made, that would be similar to the 945.
I'm so glad I'm a traditional slip joint kind of guy. I prefer the simplicity, time proven, traditional with a simple carbon steel, budget friendly knives.
The CJRB Pyrite with the “reverse tanto” blade shape should’ve been considered I think. Some of the more premium ones line up with the 940 price wise and have that elegant but workhorse look to them.
Small Sebenza 31 beats it all day. Funny thing too I noticed is the front bolster areas are shaped identically. Ha no wonder why I love them both. Mini osbourne and mini sebenza. But the sebenza is much finer !!
“And last but not least, this sharpened stick reflects the design influence of the 940 . . .”
😂
The 940 is considered to be the best edc ever made
Great video, as always. I have a 940 I've had for about 15 years. I go to other EDC knives for a slightly smaller size, but always come back to this knife. And every time I see one of your videos and think, "maybe I need a new Benchmade..." I pull out the 940 and realize I have the knife I want. It remains fast and tight after lots of use. Thanks for confirming my bias!
Interesting you brought up the Malibu. I think it's an interesting comparison but I believe it's in a league of its own and deserves a a video of its own like this
Agree. I don't think any of the knives shown 'beat' the icon. But the Malibu is equally desirable and has an iconic status of its own.
I don't think it's been around long enough yet, or has the availability and ubiquitous recognition on a broader level to be put in "icon" status yet by any stretch. All of the knives they've done this with are far more universally available and are able to be recognized by not only "knife guys" but many normal people or people just getting into the hobby. I think of "icon" knives are the ones we all have owned or handled on our journey, and the ones that people immediately point to and recommend as great one an done edc options as you start to dive into it all. The Malibu could get there some day, but I don't think it meets the criteria just quite yet.
I sold mine a long time ago & regret it ever since. So I just ordered another one. Although I gave up on Benchmade a long time ago the 940 is my favorite knife of all time. Can’t live without it & can’t wait to have it in my pocket again.
There have been a few times where I have thought, "Yes, you can beat the icon." However, I'm not sure I feel that way this time. It took me some time to get over the odd shape, size, and color of the Osborne, but after having hands on time, I have come to appreciate the elegant design combined with the "blue collar" toughness. Certainly one of the best knives out there.
The 940 has been in my pocket for many years and is my daily carry with a lot of hard use. It has never failed me and has been the single most reliable knife I have ever owned. I will have one in my pocket for a long time to come.
Definitely a lot of great knives featured in the video, but the 940 is just such a unique knife that I feel like you can't beat it in terms of it being a hard-use, classy looking knife.
Absolutely!
In my opinion the malibu is better in almost every way
As an EDC'er of a 940-1, this might be my favorite video you've ever done. :)
my 945 Osborne mini has become my most carried knife. Its small enough to be an everyday, all day, every situation knife. Its light enough to pop it in pocket and forget its there until you need it. and yet it feels like a full sized blade compared to my other small knives. I didn't think I'd like it as much, but the 945 Mini is my new recomendation for one-and-done for just about anyone
Nice commercial..
@@jaysgood10 heh, god i wish i'd get paid for it. I had a 940, and honestly I didn't get it. It seemed pretty generic, and my other knives were better, cheaper, and more iconic looking. but once i got the 945, it made sense. I still don't get the hype around the 940, but I've yet to find a small-lightweight edc that i'd rather carry over the 945.
Agreed, my 945 is always in the pocket. I only occasionally now carry my 940.
Is the 945 mini comparable to the Para 3?
@@theotherjoedimaggio Agree. I think the 945 has better proportions than the 940, making it a better looking knife, a better carry knife, and just as capable a user.
The Benchmade 940 Osborne is truly an amazing knife. I did not get it in the beginning. But once you hold it and play with it , the genus becomes clear.
Sweet! Love these videos. This was one of my favorites- I think I’m one of about 7 people on the planet who have not EDC’d a 940 but it’s absolutely an admirable icon. Please do a beat the icon episode for the heavyweight champion (the Griptilian) next!
For years I've enjoyed using my 940-121. I think it was the first gold class and came with M4 Cere Coated blade, titanium scales and carbon fiber bolster. It takes patience to sharpen, but the edge seems to just keep going. It was expensive, but worth having the pleasure of having a premium tool for everyday carry on the job. Now that I'm retired it is on light duty. I don't want to lose an old companion. I've been carrying a Benchmade North Fork in the summer as it's shorter and won't pump out of shallow shorts pockets so easy. The jeans pocket gets a left-handed Sebenza 31, my retirement gift to me. Thanks for the really informative videos.
The OG 940 was my 1st grail knife, and while my collection has far surpassed it, the purple backspacer was the beginning of my love for purple knives, so it has inspired a large portion of my collection, especially my custom knives. My latest custom was a green and purple Arc and Iron Flintlock fixed EDC.
My exact take. First knife I spent decent money on and it still makes me happy whenever I get it into my pocket!
I remember when it dropped at like $125 and I didn't have 2 nickels to rub together. It finally made it into my collection in 2017. It is a great knife for sure!
I love this series, cant wait to see what you do with the Victorinox❤
940-2 is my all time favorite. The best part of this knife is the diamond shape grind on the tip of the blade, makes it very durable. If you have ever broke the tip off a blade you will appreciate it. 945 is a good small knife as well.
I want a 10 minute B-roll montage of DCA just flubbing front flippers!! We need it. the people need it!
I have both 940s featured here and wouldn't trade them for any of the knives you compared. They have been my EDC for over a decade.
The 940 is my favorite for sure. Blade shape, handle, locking mechanism... it's a great combo. Really like it with CPM-M4 steel too.
I paid $128 for my Benchmade 940 new years ago and imho that’s about what it’s worth ❤
I own (3) Rockstead, (4) CRK’s, and a dozen wonderful Spiderco’s. I have (3) BM 940’s, carbon fiber, and titanium Boss handles, but the standard S30V with Forest Green aluminum handle is by far my favorite EDC.
This video hit home so hard I relived the agony of trying to beat that icon myself 😭
Recommended it to two friends though…lol
Beat the icon time *YES*
Easily, Gerber Gator, made in the USA
@alanpowell7044 NO way I own both and the gator is great but the 940 is better.
Carrying my 9400 today. Love this knife platform!
Since my "first production" 940 in 2000, I've owned 13 various versions, selling all but 2 to friends... friends that begged for them. IMHO... 940s are the perfect medium duty knife and have been for 23 years.
In the budget category I think the Kershaw Iridium could probably also throw up a pretty decent fight. Leaf shape blade is a bit in it's own category however.
I pretty much posted the same thing a few minutes ago
Problem with the iridium is every one of them that has come to me for sharpening (probably 20-25 of them) all have pretty severe lock rock/up and down play. Past that it's a true banger of a knife.
@@EDCandLace Hu, that's funny I haven't had that problem with the one my dad picked up (Reviewed on my channel). He had it on back ordered for over a month and only got it a few weeks ago so it's probably far from the first production run. I also have a Covalent with no problem which is same locking mechanism. But those are just two examples on my part however. Hopefully later production is doing better... 🤔
Is love to see a video of the most famous designs of the most famous designers.
Yup! Spyderco native chief.
Trying to remember how long I’ve had my 940. Been a while. Still love it.
Hogue Deka would fit in this category well I think. I still want to get the wharncliffe version one day. Its one of my grail knives for sure.
Also, looking forward to the new Civivi Vision knife coming out for 70$ in nitro v and a normal pocket clip. Looks really cool.
Be careful, I JUST heard from my pal (works at a gun/ knife shop) , that a some customers are unhappy with Hogues Magnacut. They worry the heat treat may be sub par. Apparently, they were too easy to sharpen ("soft" steel ?), and there was talk of it losing edge way too soon for a steel of THAT caliber. I hope it's just a fluke, or bad batch, I like Hogue products. Something to think on , before you spend hard earned money
@@Monsoonpain interesting. Just bought one is on us way. Hope it was a fluke 😮
@ervingonzalez4084 didn't want to rain on your parade, but there is good news. The OTHER customers seem very satisfied, and these are very selective knive buyers, like you, me, and the folks on these channels. I wish you luck, in sure it will be fine
Great job David👍🏻 Well researched, very interesting, and great choices. Will any of these knives still be in production in 20 years and be an icon of their own? Time will tell. …that Rockstead though. Wow! That thing is in a world of its own!
World? The Rockstead's in it's own universe!! Have a great day.
Thanks for another great video. Unfortunately paying over $200.00 for a pocketknife is just too much. There are way too many good alternatives that will work just as well. 🔪🎸
Like that they’re branching out with 940 options. Currently carrying a Kershaw Dividend. Nice olive green handle and really like the look of the composite blade. That pattern welded blade on the 940 does look good though!
Very nice. I agree that the Malibu should have it's own video.
The CRKT Facet is finger safe, the torsion bar stops the blade at a 90 degree angle rather than dropping fully closed.
I think that several of the alternatives you show are better knives than the 940. But the 940 still is kind of unique, so many would rather go for it than choosing a probably better alternative.
my 940-1 has been my carry for several years now. It slips in my pocket and disappears with the only mod being a deep carry pocket clip. I thought I was crazy to pay so much for a pocket knife but it has been my favorite carry and a solid edc tool
Absolutely love the -1
That Rockstead reminds me that convex grinds are kinda rare . I recently inherited some firearms and fix blade knives. One knive was a Bowie from the 90's, walnut handle, 52-100 ball bearing steel, WITH A GREAT CONVEX GRIND. I saw the similar one online for 300 bucks! Great heirloom for me
The Osborne is a good, hard use folder that is an icon, but I find myself using the Benchmade Griptilian a lot more, with the wider blade and rounder handle. The aluminum scales make it more of a summer knife around here. Some knives that are comparable to the Osborne in style and feel would also include the Spyderco Paysan, MKM Clap, and maybe even the Artisan Cutlery Archaeo,
I think the Benchmade Griptilian is an icon in its own right. Good choice.
Had one of these since 2001. Finally had to send it back to Benchmade last year for a blade replacement as it was sharpened to Hell and back and I use it for blade size comparisons in some videos.
It's iconic for sure and I appreciate that the only model for a long time was the colorful version, separating it out from all the other black tactical knives. Its cutting geometry hasn't really kept up with modern trends though, leaning on the thicker side. Never had it bind up when processing cardboard, but I do feel the extra pressure needed compared to a full flat grind. I truly regret letting go of my 921-Switchback
I regularly carry the M4-Freek these days. It suits my large hands a bit better and has a taller and slicier blade. Feels a bit like a modernized Ares. The G10 doesn't feel as premium in the hand though, but the knife's price would be WAY to expensive using other materials with their current price structure.
The 940 is considered to be the best edc ever made so I’m glad it didn’t keep up with modern trends
Great Topic , this is one of the knives that Started The EDC CRAZ. We. Have All Noticed the Reverse Tanto ish Shape in so. Many new Knives. The 945 has become my. Favorite. With the life sharp warranty and after market support, You. Can't beat it . 😂😮 .Have more. Than Several !!❤😊 I'm sure Glad I've got a large Benchmade Collection. The. New prices are 😢 almost out of the there Ballpark 😢😮
Let me tell you about my experience with the 940 as an urban edc with s30v steel:
Pros
1- Easy to deploy and close
2- Strong for its size
3- Lightweight
4- Good pocket clip
Cons
1- The edge chipped slightly while doing basic cutting of zip ties
2- Came kind of doll from factory
3- It needs to be re sharpened more than other knifes with the same steel
4- It never gets really sharp, unless you really know what you’re doing
The Case Kinzua is a honorable mention. I own it and the 940 and they are similar. Same aluminum handle material, about the same size and the Case is either S30 or S35vn
Just picked up an auto a few weeks ago, price was a little steep $270.00, so far I love it. Hope to have it as my EDC for years to come
I’ve had several 940’s as well as the 945. I really like the 945 the best. Slices a little bit better and is still big enough.
For me, the demko 20.5 replaced my 940 as my edc. I've purchased several nice knives since then and the demko has yet to be dethroned
Nothing compares to the 940. It’s iconic.
Cool. I’ve been carrying the mini Osborne for about a week now, I really love it!
I think this is my favorite knife design ever, at least aesthetically. Of course it's an extremely capable knife but I just love that reverse tonto blade.
I want a Spyderco Smock so bad. Not because I think it's anything like a 940, I just really want one, lol.
Thanks for the video DCA, Thomas and crew. One little cultural niggle - we don't have "ranches" in Australia - apart from as an architectual style. Warren Osborne was probably borne on a "station". Sheep station or cattle station I'm guessing.
I love my 940 - I've only had it a few months but it's a thing I've wanted for a while and have been very pleased with it since I had it. It's the most expensive folder I've had - folders - and knives generally are not as much part of our culture these days. When I was younger most every one in my circle carried a knife, but we were all into the outdoors and later some of us were soldiers, but these days carrrying knives outside of the bush is increasingly rare. I had stopped for a good long while, but it feels good to be carrying again, and really good to be carrying such a nicely designed knife from a fellow antipodean - with appropriate props to the good folk at Benchmade.
I have an O.G. 940 with 154cm and partial serrations. The green anodizing is faded . It is still functional with no broken springs.
Thanks for this thoughtful exploration, Mr. Andersen.
Yes you can switch the Magnacut blade on the new burnt copper Osborne 940-03 & put it in my green Osborne with the purple back spacer. Now that is a Frankenstein upgrade. 😍
940-1 is KING ...Very nice collection of knifes
Agreed! -1 is KING!
I bought a 940 when they were just released way back in 2000, I carried for the last 4 years I was in the Army every day and then several more years after retiring, and used it for absolutely everything. The only problem is that after about 10 years of carrying it, I mistakenly let my wife use it to cut something, and since then, it has been her everyday carry. I wanted to get one to match it, green aluminum handle with black blade, but I waited to long and now Benchmade does not offer that. I did however get a 941, the 940 but with a clip point blade, and I have to say it is just as good.
Spyderco kapara would be my choice !
Getting my Shadow was absolutely worth my trip to Bladeshow
Great selection of knives to compare to the 940 Osborne. One that y'all missed that I think deserves consideration is the Fox 515W Terzuola, which has a similar reverse tanto blade profile, similar size, similar grind height, contoured handle, and gentlemanly vibe. The blade steel on the 515W is N690Co, so not quite as premium as what Benchmade is offering, but a good hardworking steel in any case.
940 is unbeatable!
Great video! I'm not sure if you've done one but a Buck 110 edition will be interesting
Right here Brian! czcams.com/video/VSdX1hrxOMQ/video.html
@@knifecenter well I'll be damned, thank you for the reply!
I have a first production 940-2 since they came out. It does anything I ask and well, although not used for hunting and fishing.
It’s light and totally tight-zero detectable play. The blade is large for such a small handle and the shape is mesmerizing. I don’t know what the reverse tanto is good for, but I choose it because it looks less threatening, and to check out the axis lock-7 years later the axis lock is great.
The knife’s main problem is, it’s just too businesslike and competent. A Halo OTF is much more fun, the 940s are fine tools.
The 940 and smock are my favorites here, but it's hard for my bank account to justify the prices
Love, love, love my Spyderco Kapara! ❤ I see it as an upgrade from the 940, not as an alternative. 👍🏻
Yep, like my Kapara a lot too. It's a great knife.
Finally knife center caught on to me spiking google trends with 940 alternatives searches 😅
Just got the Blade HQ 940 with the M4 blade. It’s been a very good replacement for my 9 year old Endura 4 as a work knife!
I hope they never stop production of the bladehq jade g10/m4 bade steel model! That needs to be a forever edition as it may just be the best. I'm thinking of getting another to keep in box unopened, for just in case.
The Benchmade 940 is one of my grail knives. It’s beautiful and functional and such a great blade shape. I think the only one on the table that even comes close is the Kapara. I am gonna throw one out there that wasn’t on your list of competitors: The Spyderco Centofante 3. It is in the top 5 of my favorite knives in my collection. Yes, it’s a lockback. Yes, it’s VG-10, but it’s a solid, beautifully shaped knife that I think gives the Osborne 940 a little competition. Thoughts?
I just realized the green and purple combo is like spider man green goblin and not to mention it’s called the Osborne. Hmm
Thank you for all your reviews.
I'm looking for a folder which could be used for a survival situation, as a back up knife, which has two main features:
1/. can be used for limited emergency batoning/splitting of wood
2/. contains a reasonable saw which locks
Preferably both at least 5" blade
Surprised that the Hogue Deka didn't make the cut.
Owned two of them. Both of them were stolen. Now I carry a crkt ceo. A quarter the cost and does pretty much the same things as the Osborne
That case is beautiful
The only Benchmade that I’ve ever been interested in
Didn't realise the designer was from Australia, learnt something new today
I thought for sure a small insingo blade sebenza would make the list. A good 940 competitor imo. Maybe not so much in price, but, if you’re taking hard working and special, it definitely comes to mind.
Would love an episode of the best US made knives at each price point.
Wish the Gerber came with a thumb disk vs. single sided stud
Was absolutely expecting to see the Hogue Deka in this video. I think it's pretty clearly inspired by the 940 and even has a crossbar style lock. I have a Deka and a 940 and I prefer the 940 because it feels slightly more premium to me, but the Deka is absolutely very similar.
Correction: I believe I was mistaken. I got my Benchmades confused. I do indeed own a Deka and a 940, but I also own a Bugout, and that's the knife that is similar to the Deka.
I have always thought the crkt facet was a great budget Alternative and I recommend it often
I have about 8 regular use knives and 2 Osbornes. By far my favourite and always the go to for me. Very hard to beat.
I just ordered a Benchmade Osborne 940. I hope I like it.😊
I would argue that on the budget end of knives, the OKnife Drever could be a contender. Flipper/liner lock, not a crossbar lock, but it still has the thumb studs. Profile and specs are similar, the action is amazing and the blade steel is N690 which is perfectly adequate. It's classy enough to be used as a gentleman knife while being rugged enough for hard work. It is one of my usuals in my knife rotation and I have never been let down.
David, here’s an idea for a KniFAQ or a standalone video: you’ve done a video on what knives every self-respecting knife collector should own, but what about a video on what every self respecting “premium” knife collector should own? Maybe starting above $200? It seems like the 940 and the Malibu would slot right into that conversation. If you open it up to fixed blades as well, I think maybe the Randall Model 1 could be the “premium” counterpart to THE Kabar on the “not premium” side. I think there’s enough there for a stand-alone video, maybe!
My Smock is the 20CV version & in my collection, it's the only competition for the 940's in my collection!
You do a good job man…. keep up the good work..👍
Great call on 940 pattern, everyone says reverse tanto but, an Aussie cattleman yes I agree SPEY! Also, Kapara yeah very good Spyderco call
I have one and the more I use it the more I love it. Can’t beat this. So ugly yet so beautiful at the same time. Unforgettable
I've had my 940 since early 2000's.. I've tried to replace it but keep going back to it. Sent it in for repair once and BM replaced the blade with the pointy drop point blade for free!! If only i could find a magnacut replacement reblade for it...
I think the Kapara is the pick of the table to compete with the 940. BTW, I’d love to see Knife Center do the Kapara in their Cruwear/smooth g10.
Also an Australian designer like Osborne funnily enough
When it comes to beater knife tasks or hard hard use I’m always grabbing my 940.
I like 940, but the drop bear is a close 2nd... I switch between these two and it honestly just depends on what I'm doing for the day I think of the 9:40 as a Workhorse in the feild and my drop bear is also a Workforce but more of an EDC for City living tasks... but in my opinion you can't go wrong with either.. price also has a factor in my choice of the drop bear over the Benchmade sometimes if I was purchasing you
I think the a Spyderco Gayle Bradly 2 or Slysz Bowie offers a similar balance of gentleman - work.
I love my 940, got a bunch of knives, don't carry it much, as I want to keep it pristine. I like a few of the other knives you've presented, but ... Anyway, good video, David, thanks.
There’s a reason the 940 is considered to be the best edc ever made
Love the 940. It was my first benchmade and still have it...I hope they offer a magnacut 940!....
Exactly!!! That is where Benchmade is missing the boat. They must do a magnacut version!!! Such as a MARBLED carbon fiber, with either green or purple back spacers and thumb stud!
Hallelujah!!! Coming soon--940 Osbourne in coated magnacut with burnt copper aluminum scales!!!! Yessss!!!!!
I flip flopped back and forth for months over which Osborne to get, the 940 or the 945. I've had a Mini Griptilian for over 20 years and several years ago I had a notion that I might like the full sized Griptilian, until I actually bought one. It's just too big in my pocket, using that experience, even though the 940 is a slimmer knife than the Griptilian, I opted to get the 945 Mini Osborne. That size knife just fits better in my pocket and suits my daily tasks better than the full size 940. The 945 has become my daily carry knife, usurping the Mini Griptilian that I had carried nearly every day for 20 years. The other knives in this video are all nice but I would choose the 940 over all of them or their mini sizes, if any are made, that would be similar to the 945.
Bought 942 yesterday thrift store pick $2.99 very happy to acquire
My benchmade 555 is one of my favorites and most used
I'm so glad I'm a traditional slip joint kind of guy. I prefer the simplicity, time proven, traditional with a simple carbon steel, budget friendly knives.
The CJRB Pyrite with the “reverse tanto” blade shape should’ve been considered I think. Some of the more premium ones line up with the 940 price wise and have that elegant but workhorse look to them.
Small Sebenza 31 beats it all day. Funny thing too I noticed is the front bolster areas are shaped identically. Ha no wonder why I love them both. Mini osbourne and mini sebenza. But the sebenza is much finer !!