Benchmade: Original Benchmite (310) Vs. Benchmite II (10610)?

[kmcrawford111]

I've taken an interest in picking up a Benchmite recently. It'd fit nicely in that little pocket on the front-right of my Levis. The Autos are out of the question for me, so I'm debating whether to look for the original model (310) or the sequel (10610). I've noticed that the 10610 is in their red class and made overseas. It also can be bought for much less. The originals seem to be sought after and are hard to find for sale.

The biggest difference between the two that I can tell looking at the specs is the blade steel. 310 is 154 CM, while the 10610 is AUS-8. Is AUS-8 simply much cheaper? I have 154 CM on my Leatherman Charges, but no experience with AUS-8. I have noticed that SOG uses AUS-8 for many, or even most of its models. It doesn't seem like it would be a poor choice of steel for general purpose. The extra sharpening that may be required isn't a big negative for me.

Other than this, it seems like the two models are nearly the same. Well, it does seem odd that the 10610 weighs 60% more. The lack of the Celtic knot cuts in the handle can't make that much of a difference. I do like the look of the blue/silver 310 more but function is king for me, and the bead blast 10610 looks almost as nice. So what's the deal here? Is there a big difference in quality in the two models? Is there something big the 310 has over the 10610 I'm missing? Or is the 10610 simply cheaper / not as sought after / more available because it's made overseas? Is it all about the Celtic knot?

Anyone know where I can get a new 310, other than possibly eBay?

Finally how are the grips on these models? Obviously using a full hand isn't an option... but are the handles slick or do they have a decent texture?

Many thanks in advance. :thumbup:

 

[orthogonal1]

I was under the impression the 310's scales were Ti.

And, of course, they probably had a bit better fit and finish.

Taiwan manufacturers can and do make some great knives, so no qualms there (from me, anyway).

154CM is a better steel, though you may not notice it in this application IMO.

Unfortunately, I never owned one of these gents knives. But when I handled the 310 it felt fine for its size. As with many metal handled knives, "slippery when wet" is probably a truism.

 

[Redguy]

AUS8 is quite a good steel but it won't hold an edge like 154CM. I'm a steel snob, so I would chose 154CM in a bigger blade without hesitation but the difference is not relly significant, especially in a tiny blade like this. I have a taiwanese knife (Ka-Bar Mule) and I've seen several others (BM Monochrome, CRTKs, etc.) and there is nothing wrong with them. American and Japanese ones are slightly better, but taiwanese knives from a respectable company are very good bang for the buck.:thumbup:

Edited to add: if weight is an issue for you, go with the Benchmite I, but I don't really think that 0.40oz really justifies the difference in price.