Description
The Barrage family, designed by Warren Osborne, was the first model to feature Benchmade's patented AXIS assist spring assisted mechanism. Offered in both a full and mini size, this spring assist knife has earned high marks for all around functionality and value. Thanks to the AXIS locking mechanism, you can feel confident that this knife will operate smoothly and have a solid lock up. This Mini-Barrage model, the 586SBK, comes standard with a two tone black G-10 handle and aluminum bolster, stainless steel liners, integrated spine safety and a drop point blade, that is partly serrated, in a black finish. The ultra premium Bohler M390 stainless steel blade opens lightning-fast thanks to the integrated thumb studs and the pocket clip is designed for tip up carry only but is eligible for left or right hand carry options. Made in the USA.
SPECIFICATIONS:
BLADE
OVERALL IMPRESSION
SPECIFICATIONS:
- Blade Length: 2.91"
- Overall Length: 6.91"
- Blade Material: M390 Stainless Steel
- Blade Finish: Black
- Handle Length: 4"
- Handle Material: G-10 / Aluminum
- Weight: 3.9 oz.
Benchmade 586SBK Mini Barrage Assist Knife
The Benchmade Mini Barrage comes in two different steel options. The 586 series features M390 Super Steel. This knife boasts a fast opening blade with a combo edge. The black G10 handle scales are nicely accented by machined aluminum bolsters.
BLADE
M390 Super Steel is considered a stainless steel produced by powder metallurgy. With a highly homogeneous structure and extremely fine carbides, the steel has excellent wear and tear resistance, greater durability than D2, as well as high toughness or resistance to breakage. Overall, this steel is considered one of the better available for knife blades that are going to be used hard and heavy.
On the Mini Barrage, the 2.91" blade is about the perfect size for everyday cutting. Not too big and not too small, for me, this is about the perfect blade. The classic drop point blade opens rapidly with a flick of the ambidextrous thumb studs and it locks in place with the ever dependable AXIS system. It locks open or closed with a slide safety on the spine. I can't say enough good about the AXIS system--it easily rates as one of the best, if not the very best locking systems on a knife. Add in the assist mechanism and you have a very fine knife with excellent action.
HANDLE
The black G-10 handle scales are nicely accented with silver machined aluminum bolsters. Under the scales lie skeletonized stainless steel liners that add strength and rigidity to the handle. The handles have several machined indents that provide gripping points for your fingers as they curl around the handle. The bolsters ramp slightly on the spine and more aggresively on the handle belly to provide a finger groove for your forefinger. The tip up split arrow pocket clip can be placed right or left side. The materials used in the handle construction provide for a long lasting, durable and stable handle--this is the type of knife handle that can last generations with proper care. I really like the size of the handle. My only complaing is that I wish there was a bit of jimping on the spine for more thumb traction. Overall I rate the handle a high 9 out of 10.
OVERALL IMPRESSION
This beefy, compact assist knife rates and easy 9.75 out of 10. The blade is amazing and will perform beyond expectations as a result of its classic style and high quality blade steel. The handle is likewise built strong for heavy use. If you need a heavy duty pocket knife and you like assisted knives, the Mini Barrage from Benchmade is exactly what the Doctor ordered. Once again, Benchmade has produced a knife that you will be proud carry.