Benchmade Bedlam 8600: Initial Impressions

Bushido185

Bushido185

Joined
Sep 21, 2013
Messages
449
This knife is built like a tank! The feel of the knife in hand is remarkable and the weight is perfect for a knife this size. I really like the texture on the scales, functional and looks great. Balance is toward the rear of the handle given the skull crusher location, something I would not want to be hit with. I was a little disappointed with the speed of deployment, seems a little slow but it locks up like a bank vault and is easy to actuate. The 154cm blade is razor sharp as expected but the grind is off on one side, definitely going to have it re-profiled. The clip seems a bit flimsy too, even though it's tight the clip flexes and moves when using a moderate to tight grip. I've seen people that have tried to fix this problem by adding another finger groove/depression in the clip and it doesn't look too bad, just not sure I want to modify a new knife yet. Overall, I'm impressed with the fit and finish and wouldn't hesitate to recommend this knife.



 
Last edited:
I got one of these too. I think it's pretty cool and I would agree that the action isn't strong, but thems the rubs I guess. I like the secondary lock on the spine, with they added that to the manual Contego and Adamas.
 
I like the location of the lock too. Makes it easy to find and use. Not sure I can get use to the pocket clip, it's just flimsy. The rest of the knife is built like a tank.
 
The pocket clip is a bit odd. It feels too long, compared to the knives weight. I've noticed it moves a bit much in the pocket. I have to say that I do love the Persian style blade though, and the ergos on this knife are awesome. I'm guessing this is an in-house design maybe?
 
here's mine w my 51

51bk_w_8600s_zpse54c5709.jpg
 
I haven't found any info on who designed the Bedlam so it could be an in-house design. They usually like to brag about the designer otherwise. I agree that the clip seems a bit too long and it will likely bend pretty easy if snagged. The blade is just sick and the knife almost disappears in hand it's so comfortable. I probably should have went with the manual version too. It looks easier to close with one hand for sure. I've been practicing closing the 8600 with one hand and accidentally loped off the tip of my pinky finger lol. Needless to say, the knife and I have bonded. Damn this blade is sharp! :)

Auto_Luver, those are some nice knives bro. How well do you like the BM serrations?
 
Have you guys foud that the spring on these is pretty weak on all of them? or you think you just got unlucky with a light firing one?
 
Escobar said:
Have you guys foud that the spring on these is pretty weak on all of them? or you think you just got unlucky with a light firing one?
Click to expand...

Most Benchmade autos with Axis locks don't really have that same snap that a button lock auto has. It's not about the snap when they open, it's more about how they cut and lock up.
 
I have the manual 860 version and like the knife, but like the rest of you, I find the pocket clip suspect in strength. I wish they had put a standard Benchmade 3 hole clip on it so that the clip would not have to be skeletonized to allow access to the screws. That being said, I like the knife, despite the clip and it also possibly being a little heavy for a knife with an AFCK length blade.
 
RevDevil said:
Most Benchmade autos with Axis locks don't really have that same snap that a button lock auto has. It's not about the snap when they open, it's more about how they cut and lock up.
Click to expand...

I agree, the Bedlam locks up like a vault and cutting is effortless. It would be nice if it fired a little quicker, but the way it is the blade is easier to close with one hand and you don't get much jump which gives better control.
 
Man I have been carrying The Bedlam for 6 months now. 4 months with the 8600BK and the last 2 with the 8600SBK. After getting one my best friend had to have one so I let him pick. I dunno anything weak about the spring. I do Froglube the shit outta my blades and firearms. You guys might wanna try some froglube. I agree with the clip could have been made a hell of alot better maybe benchmade will make a better one soon. Otherwise what a wicked EDC. For self defense its has the damage potential of a folding karambit at the same time being more pratical as a tool. I could go on forever.........it baffels me that it isnt one of their top sellers.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top