This heavy-duty folder from Benchmade can handle your toughest jobs

The Benchmade 980 Turret is part of the Benchmade Black Class that designates knives meant for professional use. This series is normally geared towards the military, police, and EMS markets, but the high-quality steel and heavy-duty features make an excellent tool. This is a knife that you can count on for everyday task and in times when things get tougher. At first glance, the Turret definitely looks tough. At 8.6 inches overall with a 3.7 inch drop point blade it resembles a decently sized belt knife when the blade is deployed. The jimping on the blade and G10 handle allow for a secure full hand grip when power cutting is required. Even though this is not a compact blade by any means the deep carry clip helps the Turret all but disappear when it’s in pocket.

A knife is only as good as the steel that goes into the blade, and this Benchmade comes equipped with CPM-S30V steel. This particular steel is often considered one of the toughest and most corrosion resistant steels currently available. Out of the box, the Turret was shaving sharp and it handled cutting zip ties, cordage, sharpening some improvised tarp stakes, some fire prep, and everything else that was thrown at it. The durability of the edge was noticeably better than softer steels. Likewise, the black blade coating seems to be holding up exceptionally well.

All of these features make a great heavy duty folding knife, but what takes it to the next level is the Axis locking mechanism. While almost every knife user is familiar with a locking pocket knife the Axis is only the same in name. While most frame or liner locks use a contact point at the butt of the blade, the Axis lock uses a crossbar that passes through the handle and is accessible from either side and allows a nearly frictionless disengagement of the lock. While it seems a bit overzealous to say it feels as solid as a fixed blade knife, it is 100% true this is one of the most solidly built folders I’ve used. Anyone that is looking for a full sized high-quality folder would be well served to take a look at the Benchmade 980 Turret.

www. benchmade.com MSRP $220

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