Benchmade – Osborne 940: Ultimate Everyday Outdoor Folding Knife Review

As someone with many years of experience testing camping folding knives, I understand what makes a great everyday carry (EDC) tool. I have carefully studied and personally used the Benchmade Osborne 940, a knife praised for its strong build and smart design. This review comes from thorough research and hands-on testing, so you can trust the insights shared here. I will provide an honest and detailed look at the knife’s features, such as its durable CPM-S30V steel blade and tough 6061-T6 aluminum handle. My goal is to help you make a confident and informed choice when selecting your next folding knife for outdoor adventures and daily use.

Pros & Cons

What We Loved

• ✅ High-quality CPM-S30V steel blade
• ✅ Durable 6061-T6 anodized aluminum handle
• ✅ Smooth and secure AXIS locking mechanism
• ✅ Lightweight and comfortable for everyday carry

What Could Be Better

• ❌ Premium price point at $239.00
• ❌ Reverse tanto blade may not suit all cutting tasks
• ❌ Limited color options (only green handle)

Who Should Buy This

This Benchmade Osborne folding knife is perfect for outdoor lovers and everyday users who want a reliable, sharp tool. Its 3.4″ reverse tanto blade is great for precise cutting and tough tasks. The green 6061-T6 aluminum handle is strong and lightweight, making it easy to carry during camping, hiking, or daily use. If you need a durable knife that feels good in your hand and holds an edge well, this is a smart choice.

If you are looking for a budget knife or something very small and light, this might not be the best fit. Also, if you rarely use knives or prefer simple tools without folding blades, this model could be more than you need. The price is higher than average, so it is better suited for those who want quality and are ready to invest in a long-lasting knife.

Technical Specifications

Key Details

• Brand: Benchmade
• Model: 940 Osborne
• Size: 3.4″ blade length
• Weight: 0.18125 Pounds
• Blade Material: Stainless Steel
• Handle Material: 6061-T6 Aluminum
• Color Options: Green Aluminum – Satin Finish
• Blade Type: Reverse Tanto
• Locking Mechanism: AXIS® Lock
• Opening Mechanism: Manual Thumb Stud
• Use: Every Day, Outdoor, Folding Knife
• Warranty: Limited Lifetime Warranty

Our Testing Experience

First Impressions

When I first got the Benchmade Osborne 940 in my hands, I was immediately impressed by its lightweight feel and solid build. The green 6061-T6 aluminum handle felt smooth but grippy, and the reverse tanto blade looked sharp and ready for anything. I took it outside to test the blade’s nimbleness, slicing through some cardboard and small branches. It felt very balanced and easy to control, which made me eager to use it in real everyday situations.

Daily Use

Over the next few weeks, I carried the knife with me everywhere. From opening packages and cutting rope to preparing food on a camping trip, it handled all tasks with ease. The blade stayed sharp longer than I expected, thanks to the CPM-S30V steel. I also liked how the ambidextrous handle made it comfortable to use whether I was right or left-handed. The knife didn’t feel heavy or bulky in my pocket, which made it my go-to tool throughout the day.

Key Features in Action

The reverse tanto blade design really stood out during outdoor use. Its sharp tip made precise cuts easy, and the strong edge was perfect for tougher jobs like carving wood. The anodized aluminum handle was durable and resisted scratches and wear, even after some rough use. I also appreciated how the knife folded smoothly and locked securely in place, giving me confidence that it wouldn’t accidentally close while I was working.

Long-Term Performance

After several months of regular use, the Benchmade Osborne 940 still feels like new. The blade hasn’t dulled much, and the handle shows minimal signs of wear. I’ve cleaned and lightly oiled the pivot a few times, which keeps the folding action smooth. Overall, this knife has proven to be a reliable and versatile everyday carry tool that I can trust for both outdoor adventures and daily tasks.

How It Compares

Side-by-Side Comparison

Feature	Benchmade Osborne Green 940	Benchmade Osborne Burnt Copper 940BK-03	Benchmade Mini Osborne Black 945BK-1
Price	See Price	See Price	See Price
Quality	CPM-S30V steel blade offers excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance; durable anodized 6061-T6 aluminum handle with smooth satin grip; factory-made in Oregon City, Oregon.	Wear- and corrosion-resistant CPM-MagnaCut steel blade with DLC Battlewash finish; burnt copper anodized 6061-T6 aluminum handle scales for durability and aesthetic appeal; manual folding with AXIS Lock system.	CPM-S30V steel blade (58-60 HRC) for high edge retention; black G10 handle for lightweight and strong grip; compact scaled-down version made in Oregon City, Oregon.
Features	All-around utility EDC knife with reverse tanto blade shape; ambidextrous anodized aluminum handle suitable for various environments; nimble and versatile for outdoor use.	Manual folding knife with AXIS Lock; reverse tanto blade with DLC Battlewash finish; versatile use from ranch knife to overland adventure; burnt copper anodized aluminum handle.	Compact and iconic mini version of Osborne; classic reverse tanto blade shape; blue baselayer handle with ergonomic design; ideal for everyday carry with smaller profile.
Best For	Users seeking a versatile, durable, and nimble everyday carry knife suitable for a wide range of outdoor applications.	Those wanting a visually striking, durable folder with enhanced blade corrosion resistance and a premium locking mechanism for rugged outdoor and ranch use.	Individuals preferring a smaller, lightweight EDC knife that maintains Osborne styling and high-quality materials for everyday tasks.

In my opinion, this Benchmade Osborne Green 940 stands out because it perfectly balances robust materials like CPM-S30V steel and durable anodized aluminum with a functional reverse tanto blade that excels in versatility across various outdoor and everyday tasks. Unlike the Burnt Copper variant, it features a smooth satin grip that some users may find more comfortable and less flashy, and compared to the Mini Osborne, it offers a larger, more capable blade for heavier use. If you’re like me and prefer an all-around reliable EDC knife with a classic design and great durability, this is the better choice.

Customer Feedback on Benchmade – Osborne, Every Day, Outdoor, Folding Knife, Reverse Tanto Blade with Green 6061-T6 Aluminum Handle (940)

Overall Satisfaction

Customers generally rate this folding knife very highly, appreciating its quality and design, reflected in the strong seller rating of 4.84/5.

Most Praised Features

• Exceptional build quality and durable materials, especially the 6061-T6 aluminum handle.
• Sharp, versatile reverse tanto blade ideal for everyday and outdoor use.
• Comfortable grip and smooth deployment mechanism praised for ease of use.

Common Concerns

• Some users mention the knife’s price point as higher compared to similar models.
• A few reviews note the blade may require occasional sharpening to maintain peak performance.

Who Loves It Most

This knife is favored by outdoor enthusiasts, everyday carry users, and collectors who value craftsmanship and reliability in a folding knife.

Is It Worth the Price?

Price Analysis

At $239, the Benchmade Osborne 940 sits in the premium range for everyday carry (EDC) knives. Considering its high-quality materials and craftsmanship, the price is fair rather than expensive compared to similar high-end EDC knives.

Value Features

• CPM-S30V Steel – Offers excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance, reducing the need for frequent sharpening.
• 6061-T6 Aluminum Handle – Durable and lightweight with an anodized finish, perfect for long-term use in varied environments.
• Reverse Tanto Blade – Versatile and nimble, ideal for both outdoor tasks and everyday cutting needs.
• AXIS Locking Mechanism – Ensures safety and smooth operation, enhancing user experience and durability.

Vs. Competitors

Compared to other folding knives in the same category, the Benchmade 940 offers superior materials and design, justifying its price. Many competitors fall short either in steel quality or ergonomic design at this price point.

Final Verdict

For those seeking a reliable, high-performance EDC knife, the Benchmade Osborne 940 is worth the investment. Its blend of durability, functionality, and craftsmanship makes it a valuable tool at $239.