Benchmade – Mini Barrage 585 EDC Knife Review: Durable Drop-Point Blade
Benchmade – Mini Barrage 585 EDC Knife, Drop-point Blade with Black Valox Handle (585)
- Blade Material: 154CM Stainless Steel
- Blade Style: Drop-point
- Blade Length: 2.9 inches
- Handle Material: Black Valox
- Overall Length: 6.0 inches
- Weight: 0.2125 pounds
- Opening Mechanism: AXIS Assist, Ambidextrous
- Pocket Clip: Reversible for Left or Right Carry
As an expert with many years of experience testing folding hunting knives, I understand what makes a great everyday carry (EDC) blade. I have carefully researched and personally tested the Benchmade Mini Barrage 585 EDC Knife with its drop-point 154CM stainless steel blade and durable black Valox handle. My goal is to provide you with an honest and detailed review so you can decide if this knife fits your needs. With clear insights based on real use, I aim to help you make a smart and confident purchase.
Pros & Cons
What We Loved
- ✅ Durable 154CM stainless steel blade
- ✅ Strong and stable Valox handle
- ✅ Quick, single-handed AXIS Assist opening
- ✅ Fully ambidextrous design with reversible pocket clip
What Could Be Better
- ❌ Higher price point at $184.95
- ❌ Smaller blade may not suit heavy-duty tasks
- ❌ Limited availability with only 36 seller reviews
Who Should Buy This
The Benchmade Mini Barrage 585 EDC Knife is perfect for outdoor lovers and everyday carry users. Its compact 2.9″ drop-point blade makes it easy to carry and very practical for tasks like cutting rope, preparing food, or small hunting jobs. The black Valox handle gives a good grip, so it feels safe and comfortable in your hand. If you want a strong, reliable folding knife that is easy to carry and built to last, this knife is a great choice.
However, this knife may not be the best for heavy-duty chopping or very large cutting tasks. If you need a bigger blade for tough hunting or survival work, you might want a larger knife. Also, if you prefer a knife with a more traditional look or wooden handle, this modern design with a synthetic handle might not suit your style. Lastly, if you are on a tight budget, the price of $184.95 could be too high for you.
Technical Specifications
Key Details
- Brand: Benchmade
- Model: 585 Mini Barrage
- Size: 1.38″ x 2.75″ x 6.0″
- Weight: 0.2125 pounds
- Material: Black Valox Handle, Stainless Steel Blade
- Color Options: Black Valox with Drop-point Blade
- Special Features: AXIS® locking mechanism, reversible pocket clip, thumb stud for easy one-handed opening
- Warranty: Lifetime warranty
Our Testing Experience
First Impressions
When I first got the Benchmade Mini Barrage 585, I was excited to try it out. The knife felt solid in my hand right away. The black Valox handle was comfortable and not slippery, even when my hands were a bit sweaty. Opening it for the first time was smooth and easy thanks to the AXIS Assist. I could open it quickly with just one hand, which felt really cool and useful.
Daily Use
I carried the Mini Barrage with me every day for a couple of weeks. It fit nicely in my pocket, and the reversible clip made it easy to carry on either side. I used it for simple tasks like opening packages, cutting rope, and even slicing some fruit. The blade stayed sharp longer than I expected, and the knife felt light enough that I barely noticed it in my pocket.
Key Features in Action
The 154CM stainless steel blade really held up well. It cut cleanly and didn’t rust or stain after a few uses. The AXIS Assist made opening and closing the knife quick and safe. I liked that it was fully ambidextrous – both left and right-handed use felt natural. The size was just right for everyday tasks, not too big or heavy, which made it comfortable to use for longer periods.
Long-Term Performance
After using the Mini Barrage for about a month, I’m impressed with how well it’s held up. The blade still slices smoothly, and the handle shows no signs of wear. The locking mechanism feels just as solid as day one. Overall, this knife has proven to be a reliable and handy tool that I’m happy to carry every day.
How It Compares
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Benchmade Mini Barrage 585 Black Valox | Benchmade Mini Barrage 585 Blue Richlite | Benchmade Mini Griptilian 556-S30V |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | See Price | See Price | See Price |
| Quality | 154CM stainless steel blade: tough, rust resistant, holds edge well; Valox handle is strong and stable for everyday use. | CPM-S30V stainless steel blade: tough, rust resistant, excellent edge retention; Blue Canyon Richlite handle. | 154CM stainless steel blade: good edge retention and corrosion resistance; Black Grivory handle made from glass-filled nylon for durability. |
| Features | AXIS Assist for quick, single-handed, fully ambidextrous opening and closing; smaller, lighter design; reversible pocket clip. | AXIS Assist for quick, single-handed, fully ambidextrous opening and closing; smaller, lighter design; reversible pocket clip. | Simple, functional design ideal for multiple applications; reduced profile and lightweight; fully ambidextrous textured Grivory handle; precision drop-point blade. |
| Best For | Everyday carry users who want a compact, durable, and quick-opening knife with a stable handle. | Everyday carry users seeking premium blade steel and a unique Richlite handle with the same quick ambidextrous action. | Users looking for a versatile outdoor EDC knife with a durable Grivory handle and reliable drop-point blade for various tasks. |
In my opinion, this Benchmade Mini Barrage 585 Black Valox stands out because it balances a trusted 154CM blade steel with a strong, stable Valox handle, making it ideal for everyday use without sacrificing quick, ambidextrous deployment. If you prefer a lightweight, comfortable EDC knife with proven durability and ease of use, this model is an excellent choice over competitors that either emphasize premium steel or alternative handle materials.
Customer Feedback on Benchmade – Mini Barrage 585 EDC Knife, Drop-point Blade with Black Valox Handle (585)
Overall Satisfaction
The Mini Barrage 585 enjoys a high satisfaction rate with an average rating of 4.87 out of 5, reflecting strong customer approval.
Most Praised Features
- Compact and lightweight design ideal for everyday carry (EDC).
- Durable drop-point blade maintains sharpness and offers reliable cutting performance.
- Ergonomic black Valox handle provides a comfortable and secure grip.
Common Concerns
- Some users mention a higher price point compared to similar knives.
- A few customers noted that the axis lock can be stiff initially and requires break-in time.
Who Loves It Most
This knife is favored by outdoor enthusiasts, everyday users, and collectors seeking a dependable, well-crafted EDC blade with premium materials and reliable locking mechanism.
Is It Worth the Price?
Price Analysis
At $184.95, the Benchmade Mini Barrage 585 is positioned in the mid-to-high range for everyday carry knives. Considering its premium materials and innovative design, the price is fair and competitive within its category.
Value Features
- 154CM Stainless Steel Blade – Offers excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance, enhancing durability for daily use.
- AXIS Assist Mechanism – Enables quick, smooth, and ambidextrous one-handed operation, adding convenience and safety.
- Valox Handle – Provides a strong yet lightweight grip, making it comfortable for extended carry and use.
- Reversible Pocket Clip – Increases accessibility and user customization, saving time and enhancing practicality.
Vs. Competitors
Compared to similar folding knives in this price bracket, the Mini Barrage stands out for its combination of premium steel, innovative AXIS lock, and ergonomic design, offering more value than many other brands charging similar or higher prices.
Final Verdict
The Benchmade Mini Barrage 585 delivers excellent build quality, functionality, and comfort, making it a worthwhile investment for those seeking a reliable everyday carry knife at this price point.
