Benchmade Infidel Review The Premium Tactical OTF Knife

As you hold the Benchmade Infidel in your hand, you can’t help but notice the exceptional quality that radiates from every aspect of this premium tactical OTF knife. From the anodized aluminum handle’s rugged grip to the menacing yet mesmerizing double-edged dagger point blade, every detail screams top-notch craftsmanship. But what really sets the Infidel apart is its performance – and that’s where things get interesting. You’ll want to know how it handles, how the OTF mechanism works, and whether it’s worth the hefty price tag otf knives.

Design and Build Quality

Frequently, the first aspect you’ll notice about the Benchmade Infidel is the design and build quality.

It exudes a sense of premium craftsmanship, which is expected from a high-end OTF knife. The anodized aluminum handle is sleek and ergonomic, fitting comfortably in your hand.

You’ll appreciate the subtle texture, providing a reliable grip even in wet or oily conditions. The precision-crafted pivot point ensures a smooth, consistent action.

You’ll notice the attention to detail in the handle’s contours, which guide your hand to the optimal grip position. The overall design is both functional and aesthetically pleasing, making the Infidel a great addition to your EDC collection.

When you hold the Infidel, you’ll feel the weight of its quality construction, reassuring you that it’s built to last. The design and build quality of the Benchmade Infidel undoubtedly justify its premium pricing.

Blade Features and Performance

The Infidel’s blade is a masterclass in precision and functionality, boasting a 3.95-inch double-edged dagger point that’s both menacing and mesmerizing.

You’ll appreciate the blade’s high-carbon content, which makes it incredibly resilient and resistant to corrosion.

The Infidel’s edge retention is also impressive, thanks to Benchmade’s proprietary BK1 coating.

This coating not only reduces drag but also helps maintain the blade’s edge for an extended period.

When you need to make a cut, the Infidel’s blade deploys swiftly and smoothly, thanks to Benchmade’s renowned out-the-front (OTF) mechanism.

You’ll notice that the blade locks securely into place, giving you the confidence to tackle even the most demanding tasks.

Ergonomics and Handling Experience

As you hold the Infidel in your hand, you’re immediately struck by its ergonomic design.

The contoured handle comfortably in your palm, with subtle finger grooves that guide your hand into a secure grip. The textured G10 scales provide a solid grasp, even in wet or slippery conditions.

You’ll appreciate the well-designed thumb ramp, allowing your thumb to rest naturally on the handle, giving you excellent control and leverage.

The balance of the Infidel is spot on, with the weight evenly distributed between the blade and handle.

This balance, combined with the ergonomic design, makes the knife feel like an extension of your hand. You can easily manipulate the Infidel with precision and finesse, making it an excellent choice for both utility and tactical tasks.

Deployment and Lockup

With the Infidel securely in your grip, you’re ready to deploy the blade.

You’ll notice the dual thumb studs are ergonomically positioned, allowing for easy access and deployment.

The action is smooth and consistent, with a satisfying “click” when the blade locks into place.

When the blade is deployed, you’ll notice the Infidel’s proprietary AXIS locking mechanism.

This mechanism ensures the blade remains locked in place, even under heavy use.

The lockup is rock-solid, with zero play or wobble.

You can feel confident the Infidel will hold up to whatever task you throw at it.

The AXIS lock also allows for easy blade deployment and retraction, making it an intuitive and natural process.

Value and Cost Considerations

You’ve invested in a premium knife, so it’s essential to consider the value and cost considerations that come with owning a Benchmade Infidel.

The Infidel’s high-quality construction, premium materials, and exceptional performance come at a cost. With a price tag hovering around $400, it’s a significant investment for any knife enthusiast.

However, when you consider the Infidel’s durability, reliability, and performance, the cost becomes more justifiable.

You’ll also want to factor in the cost of maintenance and upkeep. While the Infidel is designed to be low-maintenance, you’ll still need to clean and lubricate it regularly to ensure optimal performance.

Additionally, you may need to replace the blade or other parts over time, adding to the overall cost of ownership. Despite these costs, the Benchmade Infidel’s exceptional performance, durability, and prestige make it a valuable addition to any collection.

Conclusion

You’ve got your hands on a premium tactical OTF knife that’s crafted to impress. With its exceptional design, high-carbon blade, and swift deployment, it’s a force to be reckoned with. The ergonomic handle ensures a comfortable hold, even when wet or oily. While it comes with a hefty price tag, the Infidel’s performance and durability make it a valuable addition to your collection.