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Benchmade 556 S30V Mini Griptilian Axis Lock Folding Knife
Our editorial team reviews specifications, product data, and field-use information to keep pages accurate.
$150.00
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SKU: WX2*0715481
Overview
Built for hunters and outdoorsmen who want a compact folding knife without giving up core utility, this model pairs a straightforward drop-point blade with a secure Axis lock and a glass-filled nylon handle. Its smaller size makes it easy to carry, while the reversible pocket clip supports left- or right-side tip-up carry for everyday field use. The CPM-S30V stainless blade and satin finish give it a refined, practical look, and the included Benchmade limited lifetime warranty and Lifesharp lifetime sharpening and maintenance add long-term support.
Why Hunters Choose the Benchmade
Compact Mini
Griptilian format offers the same
Patented Benchmade
Axis lock supports simple manual
Cpm-s30v Stainless
58-60 HRC hardness
Drop-point Blade
Profile suits straightforward, no-nonsense utility
Glass-filled Nylon
Handle provides a no-slip grip
Key Features
- Compact version of the Griptilian in a smaller, more portable package.
- 2.91-inch drop-point blade with satin finish.
- CPM-S30V stainless steel blade with 58-60 HRC Rockwell hardness rating.
- Glass-filled nylon handle with patented Axis Lock.
- Reversible pocket clip supports left- or right-side tip-up carry.
- Includes Benchmade limited lifetime warranty and Lifesharp lifetime sharpening and maintenance.
Best Used For
- Hunters wanting a compact folding knife for everyday carry and camp tasks
- Users who prefer a smaller version of the Griptilian with manual opening
- Left- or right-handed carriers needing a reversible tip-up pocket clip
- Those who value a drop-point blade and secure Axis lock operation
Specifications
| Blade Finish | Satin finish |
|---|---|
| Blade Length | 2.91 in |
| Blade Steel | CPM-S30V stainless steel |
| Blade Style | Drop-point |
| Designer | Mel Pardue |
| Handle Material | Glass-filled nylon |
| Hardness | 58-60 HRC Rockwell hardness rating |
| Locking Mechanism | Axis Lock |
| Opening Mechanism | Manual opening |
| Pocket Clip | Reversible pocket clip for left or right tip-up carry |
| Sharpening Service | Lifesharp lifetime sharpening and maintenance |
| Warranty | Benchmade limited Lifetime Warranty |
Pros
- Compact Mini Griptilian format offers the same core design in a smaller package.
- Patented Benchmade Axis lock supports simple manual opening and secure locking.
- CPM-S30V stainless steel blade is specified with 58-60 HRC hardness.
- Drop-point blade profile suits straightforward, no-nonsense utility use.
- Glass-filled nylon handle provides a no-slip grip surface.
- Reversible pocket clip allows left- or right-side tip-up carry.
Considerations & Trade-offs
- The 2.91" blade and compact format make this a more carry-friendly option, but it gives up some working length compared with larger Griptilian models.
- The glass-filled nylon handle keeps the knife lightweight and practical, though it is a simpler material choice than premium handle scales.
- The manual opening and Axis lock are straightforward and dependable, but they do not offer assisted or automatic deployment.
- The reversible pocket clip supports left- or right-side tip-up carry, but the knife is still set up around pocket carry rather than a dedicated belt sheath.
Suggested Comparisons
- Compact folding hunting knives
- Drop-point folding knives
- Manual-opening pocket knives
- Reversible-clip EDC knives
Suggested Accessories
- Pocket clip
- Knife sharpener
- Knife storage pouch
- Replacement pocket clip
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the Mini Griptilian different from the larger Griptilian?
Benchmade describes the 556 Mini Griptilian as a smaller, more compact version that keeps the larger model’s performance and customizability.
What blade steel and blade style does this knife use?
It uses CPM-S30V stainless steel with a 2.91-inch drop-point blade and a satin finish.
How does the knife lock open?
It uses Benchmade’s patented Axis Lock for manual opening and blade security.
Is the pocket clip set up for left- or right-handed carry?
Yes. The reversible pocket clip supports left- or right-side tip-up carry.
What handle material is listed for this knife?
The handle is listed as glass-filled nylon, described in the short description as a no-slip reinforced nylon handle.