Benchmade 3550 Pardue Automatic

Joined
Dec 29, 2012
Messages
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What's good folks?

Georgia's laws regarding knives were re-written in 2012, legalizing automatics among other things. . .becuase of this an auto has been high on my list. In June during Blade Show there was this used Parude automatic sitting in a case, and I couldn't help myself!

The basic specifications are: 4.10" closed, 7.10" open, a 2.82" blade, and it weighs 2.80oz (more detailed specifications here/here). The handles are black anodized aluminum and the blade is 154CM.

The handles are fairly comfortable, just not comfortable enough to use for extended periods. This is probably due to my large hands though, the ergonomics are fine but the handles are just a little too small for me. It's more designed for lighter tasks anyway.

The 154CM has been excellent. It holds an edge for awhile, sharpens easily, and has a beautiful polished/stonewashed finish. It's groud thin, and the large swedge leads to a fine an extremely fine tip.

The weight is easily manageable at 2.8 ounces and the size is perfect. I took off the clip and it sit at the bottom of my pocket, personal preference. When there's a larger knife in my front pocket I'll attach a deep carry clip and put it in my back pocket. The weight is almost unnoticeable and the clip makes it disappear.

It fires hard, the button doesn't stick, and the safety is hard enough to move that it won't engage or disengage accidentally. There isn't even a hint of any side to side or up and down play, it is perfectly centered. . .and this knife is constructed very very well. BenchMade definitely kept it stupid simple, 12 parts, the washers and back spacer are both integral parts of the handles.


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At ~$110, I'd buy one again. . .but for the $160 (current price at most dealers) I'd look at Protech's offerings. They have quite a few knives available at or under $160 which are certainly on par with Benchmade's quality. The Pardue is a great knife though. The overall symmetry is attractive, it's fun to play with, the grinds are beautiful, and it's light enough to carry around without noticing it too much.

Don't hesitate to ask any questions. :)
 
I just ordered one, had to pay full pop, the local dealer only carries BM/HK in autos, so I was limited to either of those. Looking forward to it. How are the auto mechanics holding up? any issues?
 
I just ordered one, had to pay full pop, the local dealer only carries BM/HK in autos, so I was limited to either of those. Looking forward to it. How are the auto mechanics holding up? any issues?

Well the spring broke. I'm fairly sure it was my fault, though. The spring bent slightly during assembly, a couple days later I pressed the button and nothing happened. Took it apart and sure enough, spring broke right where the bend was. :/ On the bright side, it's just a 3/8" coil spring with four wraps, they're like $2 plus shipping online haha.
 
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