Benchmade 556SBK-S30V Mini Griptilian

The Benchmade 556SBK-S30V Mini Griptilian is a compact folding knife with a black Grivory handle and a 73.9 mm modified drop-point blade in CPM-S30V with a black finish. At 80 g and 98 mm closed it takes up little room in the pocket and is designed for everyday tasks – packaging, cord, food and small jobs outdoors.

The Mini Griptilian is the smaller version of Mel Pardue's Griptilian and is based on the same idea: a handle shaped for comfort and control over longer periods, and a steel with a good balance between edge retention and ease of sharpening. The 556SBK-S30V is the all-black version, where the black blade and black handle give a discreet look, and where the lower weight makes it easier to carry every day than the large 551.

CPM-S30V, Grivory handle and AXIS lock

Five features that make the Mini Griptilian a light and versatile everyday knife:

• CPM-S30V powder steel (58–60 HRC): A stainless steel developed specifically for knife blades, with an even balance between edge retention, corrosion resistance and toughness. It holds an edge longer than classic steels such as 440C and is easier to sharpen than harder super steels such as S90V.
• 73.9 mm modified drop-point blade: The blade shape gives good control over the tip for precise cuts, and at 2.54 mm thick the cutting resistance is low in everyday tasks.
• Black blade finish: The black surface gives a matt, non-reflective blade and an extra layer of protection on the blade flats.
• Grivory handle, 12.95 mm thick: Glass-fibre reinforced polyamide is light and impact-resistant and does not get cold or slippery like metal. It is a large part of the reason the knife weighs only 80 g.
• AXIS lock and reversible clip: Benchmade's crossbar lock works the same from both sides, so the knife is Ambidextrous, and the blade can be opened and closed one-handed. The clip can be moved so the knife can be carried in the left or right pocket.

Maintenance and safety

• Wipe the blade after use, and give the AXIS lock and pivot a drop of knife oil now and then – especially after rain and damp.
• Do not use the knife as a pry bar or screwdriver – a 2.54 mm thin blade is made to cut, not to twist.
• Keep your fingers clear of the edge when folding the blade, and guide it all the way closed with the lock pulled back.
• Check the regulations in your country before carrying the knife in public.