Image unavailable
Benchmade 495 Vector Axis Assist Flipper Folding Knife
Our editorial team reviews specifications, product data, and field-use information to keep pages accurate.
$350.00
View on Sportsmans Guide
You'll be taken to Sportsmans Guide to complete your purchase.
Hunter's Outpost earns a commission from affiliate links at no extra cost to you.
SKU: WX2*0715461
Overview
Built for everyday carry, this folding knife pairs a refined look with practical utility for hunters and outdoorsmen who want a capable tool that carries cleanly. The drop-point blade and Axis Assist flipper setup support quick one-handed opening, while the additional safety switch lets the knife be secured in either the open or closed position. A contoured G10 handle with stainless steel liner and tip-up pocket clip round out a design meant for controlled use and convenient carry.
Why Hunters Choose the Benchmade
Cpm-s30v Stainless
Steel blade is described as
Axis Assist
Flipper supports effortless one-handed opening
Safety Switch
Locks the blade closed or
Contoured G10
Stainless steel liner provides a
Pocket Clip
Supports tip-up carry for convenient
Key Features
- CPM-S30V stainless steel 3.6-inch drop-point blade with satin finish.
- Axis Assist and flipper enable effortless one-handed opening.
- Axis lock includes an additional safety switch in the handle.
- Contoured G10 handle with stainless steel liner.
- Pocket clip supports tip-up carry.
- Includes Benchmade limited lifetime warranty and Lifesharp lifetime sharpening and maintenance.
Best Used For
- Hunters wanting a refined EDC knife for everyday carry and camp tasks
- Users who prefer one-handed opening with a flipper and assisted action
- Those needing a locking folding knife with added safety in closed or open positions
- Outdoor enthusiasts carrying a pocket-clip knife for tip-up access
- Buyers seeking a premium folding knife with lifetime sharpening and maintenance support
Specifications
| Blade Finish | satin finish |
|---|---|
| Blade Length | 3.6 in |
| Blade Shape | drop-point |
| Blade Steel | CPM-S30V stainless steel |
| Handle Material | Contoured G10 handle with stainless steel liner |
| Hardness | 58-60 HRC Rockwell hardness rating |
| Locking Mechanism | Axis lock with additional safety switch in handle |
| Opening Mechanism | Axis Assist with flipper |
| Pocket Clip | tip-up carry |
| Sharpening Service | Lifesharp lifetime sharpening and maintenance |
| Warranty | Benchmade limited Lifetime Warranty |
Pros
- CPM-S30V stainless steel blade is described as tough against everyday wear and corrosion-resistant.
- Axis Assist with flipper supports effortless one-handed opening with minimal pressure.
- Safety switch locks the blade closed or open for added control.
- Contoured G10 handle with stainless steel liner provides a refined, structured grip.
- Pocket clip supports tip-up carry for convenient everyday access.
- Includes Benchmade limited lifetime warranty and Lifesharp lifetime sharpening and maintenance.
Considerations & Trade-offs
- The 3.6" blade length may be more than some users want for a compact pocket carry setup, especially if discretion is a priority.
- The Axis Assist and flipper make opening quick, but they also add mechanical complexity compared with a simpler manual folder.
- The safety switch and lock options add security, though they may require a little extra attention during use and closing.
- The premium materials and included lifetime sharpening/maintenance support come with a higher retail price than many basic EDC folders.
Suggested Comparisons
- Folding hunting knife
- Everyday carry folding knife
- Gentleman’s pocket knife
- Assisted-opening folding knife
Suggested Accessories
- Pocket clip
- Knife sharpener
- Knife storage pouch
- Cleaning cloth
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of opening system does the Benchmade 495 Vector use?
It uses Benchmade's Axis Assist system with a flipper, designed for effortless one-handed opening with only a small amount of pressure.
What blade steel is listed for this knife?
The product data lists CPM-S30V stainless steel for the 3.6" drop-point blade.
Does this knife have a safety lock for carry or use?
Yes. The description says the safety mechanism can lock the blade in the closed position for extra safety or in the open position for extra cutting strength, and it also lists an Axis lock with an additional safety switch in the handle.
What handle and carry details are provided?
The knife is described with a contoured G10 handle with stainless steel liner and a pocket clip for tip-up carry.
Does Benchmade include any warranty or maintenance support with this knife?
Yes. The listing says it includes Benchmade's limited Lifetime Warranty and Lifesharp lifetime sharpening and maintenance.