Having the perfect knife gives extra confidence, right? So, in between Benchmade 940 vs 943, which one do you think will provide the ultimate satisfaction?
Well, when it comes to the famous Benchmade, it’s very hard to pick one among them as all of their models are just superb. They have a nice mechanism as well as a premium design.
But don’t worry! After going through this Benchmade 940 vs Benchmade 943 comparison guide, you can easily decide the best one for you easily. In this article, I’m going two compare these two models side by side to remove all your confusion.
So, without further ado, let’s start.
Benchmade 940 vs 943: At a Glance
Before jumping at the detail, let me share some core information about the knives. It will help you to understand their basic differences.
1. Benchmade 940: Overall Synopsis
Simplicity with great functionality – Benchmade 940 is a reliable name for knife lovers. It is ideal for pretty much everything. It is one of the most quintessential EDCs of all time!
Do you want to know their specifications? Take a look below.
| Key Features of Benchmade 940 | |
|---|---|
| Designer: | Osborne |
| Mechanism: | AXIS |
| Action: | Manual-opening |
| Blade Edge: | Plain |
| Blade Color: | Satin |
| Handle Material: | 6061-T6 Aluminum Handle, 6061-T6 Aluminum Handle |
| Color: | Green |
| Blade Steel: | Stainless Steel |
| Blade Style: | Reverse Tanto |
| Clip Type: | Standard |
| Clip Position: | Reversible Tip-Up |
| Blade Length: | 8.64 cm / 3.40” |
| Blade Thickness: | 2.92 mm / 0.115” |
| Open Length: | 19.99 cm / 7.87” |
| Closed Length: | 11.35 cm / 4.47” |
| Handle Thickness: | 0.41 mm / 0.41” |
| Weight: | 82.21 g / 2.90oz |
Our Verdict
Feels very sturdy and like it is made of good quality materials.
2. Benchmade 943: Overall Synopsis
Extremely durable, well-designed, versatile – Benchmade 943 is a famous product line of Benchmade. The lightweight design delivers exceptional service. And like the 940 models, it’s also great to use in any outdoor activities.
The specifications of this knife are given below.
| Key Features of Benchmade 943 | |
|---|---|
| Designer: | Osborne |
| Mechanism: | AXIS |
| Action: | Manual-opening |
| Blade Edge: | Plain |
| Blade Color: | Satin |
| Handle Material: | Aluminum |
| Blade Steel: | CPM-S30V | 58-60 HRC |
| Blade Style: | Traditional Clip Point |
| Clip Position: | Reversible Tip-Up |
| Blade Length: | 8.64 cm / 3.40” |
| Blade Thickness: | 2.92 mm / 0.115” |
| Open Length: | 19.99 cm / 7.87” |
| Closed Length: | 11.35 cm / 4.47” |
| Handle Thickness: | 10.41 mm / 0.41” |
| Weight: | 69.17 g / 2.44oz. |
Our Verdict
It is easy to assemble and install. Feels very sturdy and like it is made of good quality materials. It stays very secure on my air vent.
Benchmade 940 vs 943: Which One is the Best?
After seeing the table, you must understand that the dissimilarities between these two models are too little. Is that make you even more confused now? Well, worry not!
Although they seem similar, there are a few explicit differences that remain between these two. From the next segment, I’ll describe them elaborately so it will be easier for you to make a decision.
Now, let’s meet with these features one by one.
Blade Type
If you are new in the Benchmade world, then the number one thing you should be clear about at first is the blade style of this series of knives. Generally, they follow 2 kinds of styles, namely reverse tanto & clip point.
In fact, the main difference between the Benchmade 940 & Benchmade 943 knives is the blade type. As you have seen in the key specs, the 940 has a reverse tanto blade, while the 943 possesses a clip-point blade.
If you are a professional, you definitely know the difference. But let me make it clear for you in case you don’t have a clear concept.
Basically, the tanto blade turns upside down to keep the angular side on the top. As a result, it contains a long cutting edge and a sharp, pointy end. For slicing and chopping work, this cutting-edge design comes in very handy. Meanwhile, the pointy end works great in piercing and stabbing.
On the other hand, the cutting edge of the clip point blade is slightly angled and more pointy. It’s especially good for piercing and stabbing, but they are not as good in piercing and stabbing as the tanto blade.
Blade Steel and Materials
Like any other substance, the quality of the knife entirely depends on the materials used in the making of the knife. Benchmade is a popular manufacturer when it comes to picking one of the best knives based on the durability & performance.
Similarly, the Benchmade knives 940 and 943 models are no different. Both of them are made out of high-quality steel. However, the 940 comes with three variants. They are – 940, 940-1, and 940-2.
Among them, the 940 and 940-2 feature CPM S30V blade steel, which is obviously a premium one. But the 940-1 comes with a CPM S90V blade steel, which is considered to be ultra-premium quality. Because of this, many users like this specific model more.
940-1 has more strength, it can resist corrosion, and it also maintains its edge pretty well, which is also makes them a little difficult to be sharpened. But don’t worry! It’s not a big deal! It just takes a little more time compared to the other blade steels.
Anyway, the 943 model also features CPM S30V steel. It is good at resisting corrosion and maintaining a sharp edge. And it’s not that difficult to sharp either.
Let me remind you of one thing. Fortunately, Benchmade introduced a praiseworthy service called Life Sharp. Under this program, you can send back a knife to them any time, and they will repair, sharpen, and lubricate it for free!
So, whether a knife made with CPM S30V or CPM S90V is doesn’t really matter for you. As Benchmade handles the repairing, you can just forget about this.
Types of Handle
Handles are an essential component of a knife. They ensure your maximum comfort. After all, without having a comfortable grip, you will be able to work properly, and your hand will start feeling the pain & pressure.
That’s why it is more than necessary that the handles are constructed using high-quality materials that last a long time, along with giving a comfortable grip.
In between Benchmade 940 and Benchmade 943, the 940 model is available with more variants in terms of the knife handle. The original one features an aluminum handle scale. However, their later version comes with a carbon fiber handle scale, G10 handle scales.
On the other hand, the 943 model only features an aluminum handle scale.
So, if you want more handling and lightweight, the G10 handle scale will be the best choice. On the other hand, if you are looking for sturdiness and durability, the aluminum handle scale will do the job perfectly.
Quick Product Comparision
Here’s a quick comparison of the products listed above to help you quickly decide which product is best for you.
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|
| |
|---|---|---|
| Name | Benchmade 940 | Benchmade 943 |
| Handle Material | Aluminium, fiberglass, G-10 | Black and green |
| Handle Color | Aluminum | Black |
Locking Mechanism
The two knives use the AXIS Lock locking mechanism. This mechanism was first patented by Bill McHenry and Jason Williams, and Benchmade acquired this in 1988.
Anyway, this locking system contains a spring-tensioned bar, a track in the knife handle, and the tang of the blade. These things ensure a smooth and secure deployment of the blade. Well, it also depends on proper lubricant, and that’s another issue!
Size and Dimension
You can consider the Benchmade 940 as a medium-sized knife. Its blade is 3.4 inches, and the handle is 4.47 inches long, while the weight is 2.9 ounces. This compact size, lightweight knife is perfect for everyday carry and completing any utility tasks.
On the other hand, 943 has the same size measurement. But they weigh a little bit less than the 940. The 2.44 ounces weight makes this knife comparatively lighter. So, if you consider weight a bit seriously, you might want to choose this one!
Pocket Clip
Both the Benchmade 940 & 943 knives have the same clip design. They both have tip-up carry, and you can swap the tip on either side. Thanks to its flexible design that provides an extra convenient design for both left and right-handed people.
Moreover, the knives sit low in your pocket. But the handle remains visible so that you can quickly find and grab it in your pocket whenever you need them.
Durability
All products of Benchmade are undoubtedly durable and long-lasting for sure. However, the 940 model feels more durable because of the beefier blade. For dealing with heavy tasks, they are great. But as the blade of 943 is relatively smaller, it seems less strong.
Other than this, you can’t find any other differences. Both knives are made with stainless steel that resists rust and stain very well. Each of them will undoubtedly serve you for several years, giving the same performance.
Price
Usually, the price of the knife depends on the materials & various other factors of that particular knife. However, the Benchmade knives tend to fluctuate a lot depending on the current market value
Among both these Benchmade knives, the Benchmade 940 is a bit more compared to the Benchmade 943. And it can cost you somehow more than $200.
On the other hand, the second one (Benchmade 943) is a bit less than the Benchmade 940. However, on average, the price is somehow the same & close to each other.
Although, both the knives have an ultra-premium quality blade yet, due to the materials & considering various other factors in mind, the price tends to differ a bit.
Yet, the price won’t be that much different, though. And one thing you can be sure of is that none of them is overpriced. Instead, any of your investments will be totally worth it!
After going through all the differences, what do you think now? Didn’t find your desired result yet? If so, go through the next section as it might answer your question.
Which One Should You Buy Between Benchmade 940 vs. 943?
Still having trouble to pick the ideal one for you? Let’s analyze both of them a bit in short:
In terms of materials, both of them are made using premium quality stainless steel materials. And thus, both knives can serve your purposes really well. Furthermore, they both have an easy-to-use and flexible design.
So, what actually sets them apart is their clip point. If you are into a reverse tanto, go for Benchmade 940. Otherwise, choose Benchmade 943 for a traditional clip point. It is also a great option if you want something more lightweight.
Well, frankly speaking, it is all about preferences & what may be needed or liked by you may not be required by another person. That’s why the smarter call is to take the decision depending on your requirements.
But then again, as the winner can be only one. So after doing much analysis & based on the majority of the votes, the clear winner is obviously Benchmade 940.
They top the criteria list from all angles. You just can’t beat them in anything except for the high-price rate. However, as we all know, good things are always a bit pricey & expensive compared to cheap quality materials.
Therefore, instead of looking at the price tag, think of its durability & performance, as in the long run, it will be a profitable deal for you.
Final Thoughts
After going through this Benchmade 940 vs 943 guides, hopefully, you don’t have any more queries left regarding this topic. Now, it’s up to you which one you are going to choose.
After all, you are the one who is going to use this knife. And if you are not comfortable or it doesn’t meet your requirements criteria, then it will certainly be of no use.
Both are high-quality knives that are equally good from all perspectives. Go for the one that matches your style and budget. Your convenience is what matters the most. So, take your time and choose wisely.
Frequently Asked Questions: Benchmade 940 vs. 943
Are you still confused regarding the Benchmade 940 & Benchmade 943? If so, then this particular section is purely for you. Just go through the below basic questions that most people tend to have doubts or no knowledge of.
So, what are you waiting for? Let’s hop on to clarify all the confusion lingering on your mind:
What is the Key Difference between Benchmark 940 & 943 Series?
The leading difference that separates the Benchmade 940 from the 943 is its reverse tanto point which is basically used for cutting or slicing purposes. On the contrary, the Benchmade 843 comes with a clip point used for stabbing or piercing. Additionally, the Benchmade 940 has 3 different kinds of handles materials, while the Benchmade 943 has only 1.
Does the Price of Benchmade Worth It?
Well, as a premium brand, the Price of Benchmade knives is quite high than the other knives available in the market. But it’s true that quality comes with a price.
The high-quality steel, ergonomic design, and long-lasting durability really justified their price. And one thing you can be sure about this Benchmade knives is You will never be disappointed with their service even for a bit. That much good they are in their features & functionalities.
What’s the Most popular Benchmade Knife?
Benchmade-940 is considered to be one of the most popular product lines of Benchmade. The product variation, high-quality performance, sturdiness, and smooth operation are what make them so popular among all the other knives.
Is Kershaw Better Than Benchmade?
Of course, without any doubt in mind, the clear winner is Benchmade between this two. Be it their quality, looks, customization, or warranty—the Benchmade knife has topped on all criteria that too with flying numbers. On the other hand, the price is the only criteria where Kershaw has the upper hand over the Benchmade.
When Did Benchmade 940 Osborne Come Out?
Benchmade 940 Osborne came out in 2001, and since then, it has remained a popular model. And why not?
Be it their locking mechanism, durability, or aesthetic look—this knife has just got all things covered to make every work of your super convenient than ever. As a result, every knife expert or fanatic tends to always have a thing ongoing for this knife.
Why are Benchmade Knifes Always Expensive?
Benchmade knives are forged using the hardest of metals to make sure that the edge stays sharper & durable for a long time, giving you the same service & experience that you will simply love using. Besides, they are also corrosion-free. So even if you leave it on outside accidentally for an entire evening or night, then rest assured as it will be the same as like you kept it.
