-
The BladeForums.com 2024 Traditional Knife is ready to order! See this thread for details: https://www.bladeforums.com/threads/bladeforums-2024-traditional-knife.2003187/
Price is $300 ea (shipped within CONUS). If you live outside the US, I will contact you after your order for extra shipping charges.
Order here: https://www.bladeforums.com/help/2024-traditional/ - Order as many as you like, we have plenty.
Emerson Vs Benchmade
- Thread starter dalr753
- Start date
- Status
Emerson wins on warranty/customer service. Benchmade on fit/finish and QC. Benchmade has a wider variety of blade steels/handle materials and lock systems, though I've preferred Emerson's designs.
But if you've got a thing for tantos, find one of the old BM CQC-7's.
But if you've got a thing for tantos, find one of the old BM CQC-7's.
- Joined
- Sep 7, 2006
- Messages
- 6,159
That's a bit like saying I was thinking of getting a Ford or a Chevrolet, which is better? Plus, you've also missed out on the manufacturer you really SHOULD be looking at - Spyderco! 
Emersons are pretty much all the same, the designs just change from knife to knife, otherwise the materials are much the same across the board. Benchmades vary widely, from Gold Class to Blue Class and everything in between. You have to narrow your preferences down.
That said, I personally prefer the axis lock over the liner lock. I also like the fact that Benchmade often use high end steels like M390 and CPM-M4 whereas Emerson still feels 154CM is the end all and be all.
Emersons are pretty much all the same, the designs just change from knife to knife, otherwise the materials are much the same across the board. Benchmades vary widely, from Gold Class to Blue Class and everything in between. You have to narrow your preferences down.
That said, I personally prefer the axis lock over the liner lock. I also like the fact that Benchmade often use high end steels like M390 and CPM-M4 whereas Emerson still feels 154CM is the end all and be all.
You're opening a box of lions my friend.
I like them both. However, my Benchmades sit in the safe along with most of my Emersons - with the exception of my Horseman (mini-CQC-8) which I EDC from time to time depending on where I am going. I think Emerson has the edge in ergonomics, but they are both equal imho regarding fit, finish and quality.
The knife I mostly EDC is my Spyderco Endura 3, which is a far more useful everyday utility knife than either my Benchmades or Emersons.
The knife I mostly EDC is my Spyderco Endura 3, which is a far more useful everyday utility knife than either my Benchmades or Emersons.
What is the knife going to be used for?
I have a couple from both companies and each has their primary function for me. I also enjoy Spyderco's Military and Para-military 2. All 3 companies make great knives, it's mostly about preference at this point. They are all great companies that make excellent knives. Some people complain about fit and finish, and blade steel on Emersons, I have no issues with fit and finish on mine. If 154cm is an issue for you then don't buy it. If it's between these two companies then I guess you are looking for a tactical folder. BM 710, 806 are the ones that I have for that role there are others. I have an auto commander, cqc-15, and recently the roadhouse. When your in this range of production knives I find they are the same as far as quality. If you buy one and don't like it you can always sell it as people are willing to buy them. I'm a paratrooper in the US Army and find a number of uses for my knives other than cutting open MREs. I rely on my knife as much as I do any tool. No, I do not pry with them I have a pocket widget for that, but you shouldn't be afraid to if need be. You also don't have to limit yourself to just these 2 companies. Just my 2cents.
I have a couple from both companies and each has their primary function for me. I also enjoy Spyderco's Military and Para-military 2. All 3 companies make great knives, it's mostly about preference at this point. They are all great companies that make excellent knives. Some people complain about fit and finish, and blade steel on Emersons, I have no issues with fit and finish on mine. If 154cm is an issue for you then don't buy it. If it's between these two companies then I guess you are looking for a tactical folder. BM 710, 806 are the ones that I have for that role there are others. I have an auto commander, cqc-15, and recently the roadhouse. When your in this range of production knives I find they are the same as far as quality. If you buy one and don't like it you can always sell it as people are willing to buy them. I'm a paratrooper in the US Army and find a number of uses for my knives other than cutting open MREs. I rely on my knife as much as I do any tool. No, I do not pry with them I have a pocket widget for that, but you shouldn't be afraid to if need be. You also don't have to limit yourself to just these 2 companies. Just my 2cents.
- Joined
- Jan 15, 2011
- Messages
- 172
In my experience, Benchmade wins in almost every category. I've had faster/better customer service from Benchmade as a whole over the years. The fit and finish on the numerous Emersons I've owned over the years has ranged from fantastic to "who the hell built this one". Not saying I haven't had a couple less than stellar Benchmades either, but my ratio favors Benchmade as the more consistant manufacturer.
I also believe that when comparing new in box prices, Benchmade is a better value. Now on the other hand, Emerson does offer some knife designs that I like very much. CQC-8 and the Commander series in particular. If Emerson makes a design you really like, I'd say go for it.
I also believe that when comparing new in box prices, Benchmade is a better value. Now on the other hand, Emerson does offer some knife designs that I like very much. CQC-8 and the Commander series in particular. If Emerson makes a design you really like, I'd say go for it.
- Joined
- May 13, 2010
- Messages
- 217
Emerson wins every time with me. This is because of the story behind the knives and how great of a man Mr. Emerson is. The fit and finish doesn't bother me with Emersons because I'm not buying an Emerson to sit there and look good I buy them to use. So if you are going to buy a knife to use hard then need it serviced with no questions asked then you should be buying an Emerson
- Joined
- Nov 9, 2009
- Messages
- 44,314
While I really like both manufacturers, I will say Benchmade. You can't cut stuff with a story.
As far as personal philosophies are concerned, I do not buy into any of that stuff. When I buy a knife, I am looking for a cutting tool made by a company that makes them well. I don't need the story.
As far as personal philosophies are concerned, I do not buy into any of that stuff. When I buy a knife, I am looking for a cutting tool made by a company that makes them well. I don't need the story.
Last edited:
- Joined
- Feb 28, 2011
- Messages
- 27,385
If you're just looking in general, I'd go with Benchmade. They're good knives and, in my experience, have the best QC of any of the large manufacturers (Yes, I'm not including CRK in this, yes, I know CRK has better QC than anyone). If, on the other hand, you've fallen in love with a particular Emerson design, I'd go for it. They're very nice knives, I just think they're somewhat overpriced all things considered.
- Joined
- Jan 26, 2012
- Messages
- 1,349
Two different brands IMO!
Benchmade has a very "pretty" fit and finish and is as good as it gets when it comes to production quality. Emerson's are more rugged, the fit and finish is often complained about (personally I don't mind it) but is a workhorse of a knife. The owner of Emerson claims certain special forces use his knives. The "wave feature" is also cool to have!
Personally I'd get both, you're going to anyways.
Benchmade has a very "pretty" fit and finish and is as good as it gets when it comes to production quality. Emerson's are more rugged, the fit and finish is often complained about (personally I don't mind it) but is a workhorse of a knife. The owner of Emerson claims certain special forces use his knives. The "wave feature" is also cool to have!
Personally I'd get both, you're going to anyways.
Benchmade by a mile!
Wider selection, better F+F, better customer service, more options, better materials and better prices.
Emerson knives are decent users, but when comparing the complaints on Emerson vs. complaints on Benchmade...BM gets the nod.
Mr. Emerson may be a great guy, but that has very little to do with the qualiy of his product.
Wider selection, better F+F, better customer service, more options, better materials and better prices.
Emerson knives are decent users, but when comparing the complaints on Emerson vs. complaints on Benchmade...BM gets the nod.
Mr. Emerson may be a great guy, but that has very little to do with the qualiy of his product.
- Joined
- Mar 5, 2009
- Messages
- 2,205
I'll cut and paste what I just wrote in a thread about Emerson's 154cm, short answer though- Benchmade- IMO wins in Heat treat (Higher HRC), Materials (better blade steels, more handle material options), Fit and Finish (pretty obviously), Warranty I'ver heard good things about both, but don't have experience with either aside from BM sending me a new clip for my Mini-Rukus after a quick phone call for free. I do like some of Emerson's designs, as well as the ergonomics, but BM has some great designs and ergonomics as well.
Pasted from a thread about Emerson's 154cm...
Being softer, it will be tougher, though edge holding will suffer, mine was very stiff out of the box, both the opening action and the lock. I had to take mine apart clean it and then break in the lock for about 2 weeks before it was satisfactory. It took two hands to disengage the lock the first week, it's still not the smoothest liner lock I have but it's much better than it was before. I really like the design (blade shape and ergonomics) I would be after another one if it had a higher degree of F&F and upgraded steel or at least a higher HRC, however I can't see spending the $200 plus on a CQC8 (the other design I really like) when there are options that are IMO better in both the steel dept and F&F such as BM 275, Manix 2 XL, ZT 200, etc.
Pictured below is my CQC 13 with what I consider its competition from other brands
Pasted from a thread about Emerson's 154cm...
Being softer, it will be tougher, though edge holding will suffer, mine was very stiff out of the box, both the opening action and the lock. I had to take mine apart clean it and then break in the lock for about 2 weeks before it was satisfactory. It took two hands to disengage the lock the first week, it's still not the smoothest liner lock I have but it's much better than it was before. I really like the design (blade shape and ergonomics) I would be after another one if it had a higher degree of F&F and upgraded steel or at least a higher HRC, however I can't see spending the $200 plus on a CQC8 (the other design I really like) when there are options that are IMO better in both the steel dept and F&F such as BM 275, Manix 2 XL, ZT 200, etc.
Pictured below is my CQC 13 with what I consider its competition from other brands
- Joined
- Aug 9, 2011
- Messages
- 675
Of the two choices Benchmade hands down, however, I will say I like the designs and ergos of Emersons.
- Joined
- Aug 28, 2010
- Messages
- 46
I only have experience with one knife from that manufacturers. It's hard to compare between them because of diferent blade shapes, diferent lock types, diferent steels, diferent purpose (tactical opose to utility/hunting) but let's try. Here I will give only my opinion based on usage and EDC.
Benchmade Bone collector mini (D2 blade, G10 handle, AXIS lock) - still in my possesion
1. D2 steel - holding edge looooong time; hard to resharpen; there was some staining during humid weather
2. G10 handle scales - not so gripy as on emerson but grooves give additional security; rounded handle scales give more confortable feeling
3. AXIS lock - solid lockup even after full year of hard use
4. OPEN/CLOSE - smooth but thumbhole is relatively small - I would prefer a bit larger thumbhole or thumbstud
5. POCKET CLIP - not too tight and not to lose; options for tip up (my prefered) carry left or right
6. FIT AND FINISH - whole package is precisely done
Emerson CQC 7V (154CM blade, G10 handle, LINER lock) - not in my possession any more
1.154CM steel - holding edge "average" time; easy to resharpen; no staining or rust issues during humid weather
2. G10 handle scales - very gripy but no so confortable as Bone Collectors
3. LINER lock - solid lockup first two months but after that not so solid
4. OPEN/CLOSE - at first a bit stiff, after adjusting pivot screw - smooth
5. POCKET CLIP - not too tight and not to lose; just one side position tip up (my prefered) carry
6. FIT AND FINISH - well, to be honest I expected better fit and finish for "that kind of money" knife (and better blade steel)
Conclusion:
We all have preferences between manufacturers, blade styles, steel types, handle materials, locking types etc. If i could choose EDC and tactical knife in "best for buck" category I wouldn't choose any of above. My choice woul be:
- EDC: Spyderco Endura 4 - decent steel VG-10 (outstanding stain/rust resistance, holding edge - average, easy sharpening) , solid lockup, decent handle traction considering that handles are "plastic", pocket clip can be positioned tip up or down and left or right
- TACTICAL: ZT 0350 - great steel S30V, great lockup, great handle traction, pocket clip can be positioned tip up or down and left or right, its a little bit heavy but its "tactical" knife
I used this knives and my opinions are based on that. There are probably beter choices but it's hard to give advice without personaly using knife for some time.
Benchmade Bone collector mini (D2 blade, G10 handle, AXIS lock) - still in my possesion
1. D2 steel - holding edge looooong time; hard to resharpen; there was some staining during humid weather
2. G10 handle scales - not so gripy as on emerson but grooves give additional security; rounded handle scales give more confortable feeling
3. AXIS lock - solid lockup even after full year of hard use
4. OPEN/CLOSE - smooth but thumbhole is relatively small - I would prefer a bit larger thumbhole or thumbstud
5. POCKET CLIP - not too tight and not to lose; options for tip up (my prefered) carry left or right
6. FIT AND FINISH - whole package is precisely done
Emerson CQC 7V (154CM blade, G10 handle, LINER lock) - not in my possession any more
1.154CM steel - holding edge "average" time; easy to resharpen; no staining or rust issues during humid weather
2. G10 handle scales - very gripy but no so confortable as Bone Collectors
3. LINER lock - solid lockup first two months but after that not so solid
4. OPEN/CLOSE - at first a bit stiff, after adjusting pivot screw - smooth
5. POCKET CLIP - not too tight and not to lose; just one side position tip up (my prefered) carry
6. FIT AND FINISH - well, to be honest I expected better fit and finish for "that kind of money" knife (and better blade steel)
Conclusion:
We all have preferences between manufacturers, blade styles, steel types, handle materials, locking types etc. If i could choose EDC and tactical knife in "best for buck" category I wouldn't choose any of above. My choice woul be:
- EDC: Spyderco Endura 4 - decent steel VG-10 (outstanding stain/rust resistance, holding edge - average, easy sharpening) , solid lockup, decent handle traction considering that handles are "plastic", pocket clip can be positioned tip up or down and left or right
- TACTICAL: ZT 0350 - great steel S30V, great lockup, great handle traction, pocket clip can be positioned tip up or down and left or right, its a little bit heavy but its "tactical" knife
I used this knives and my opinions are based on that. There are probably beter choices but it's hard to give advice without personaly using knife for some time.
- Joined
- Jul 6, 2009
- Messages
- 11,678
The Emerson knives are LandRovers or Jeeps. Benchmades are Buicks, GMC's, Cadillacs and occasionally a Lexus.
Apples and oranges.
Emerson "should" get modern with better blade-steel, although he says 154CM is easier to sharpen in the field.
His knives do have great past use with Navy Seals (Marcinko), British SAS, and so forth. Benchmade has produced, on license by Emerson, a CQC-7 in past yrs. Since their license ran out, Emerson is now producing his CQC-7 design in his own California factory.
Emerson: along with Spyderco Para2
Benchmade: models 806-1101 AFCK and 755MPR
Apples and oranges.
Emerson "should" get modern with better blade-steel, although he says 154CM is easier to sharpen in the field.
His knives do have great past use with Navy Seals (Marcinko), British SAS, and so forth. Benchmade has produced, on license by Emerson, a CQC-7 in past yrs. Since their license ran out, Emerson is now producing his CQC-7 design in his own California factory.
Emerson: along with Spyderco Para2
Benchmade: models 806-1101 AFCK and 755MPR
- Joined
- Jul 18, 2011
- Messages
- 791
I would tell you go with Kershaw or zero tolerance, or if you wanted a large knife the Hogue ex01 but out of the 2 companies you mentioned id say Benchmades are worth closer to what you pay for them then Emersons which I think are built worse then a cold steel knife but use a little better steel then cold steel and charge 3 times as much, but I do prefer the liner lock over the axis lock imo the axis lock is ugly on a knife
- Status