Benchmade – Triage 917 Serrated Tactical Knife: Ultimate Rescue Tool Review

With many years of experience testing tactical knives, I know what makes a great tool. I have carefully studied and used the Benchmade Triage 917 Serrated Tactical Knife in real situations. This review shares honest and clear insights to help you understand its features and performance. You can trust that my analysis is based on thorough research and hands-on use. Whether you need a knife for rescue work or daily tasks, this review will guide you to make a smart and confident choice.

Pros & Cons

What We Loved

• ✅ High-quality CPM-S30V steel blade
• ✅ Durable and moisture-resistant G10 handle
• ✅ Reliable AXIS locking mechanism
• ✅ Built-in glass breaker and rescue hook

What Could Be Better

• ❌ Premium price point
• ❌ Serrated edge may require specialized sharpening
• ❌ Heavier compared to some tactical knives

Who Should Buy This

The Benchmade Triage 917 Serrated Tactical Knife is perfect for first responders, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone who needs a reliable, strong tool. Its sharp drop-point blade and rescue hook make it great for emergency situations. The glass breaker adds extra safety, and the black G10 handle gives a good grip even in tough conditions. If you want a durable knife that works well for rescue and everyday tasks, this knife is a smart choice.

This knife may not be the best option for casual users or those on a tight budget. It is designed for tactical and rescue use, so it might be too advanced or expensive for simple kitchen or camping tasks. Also, if you prefer a larger blade or a lighter knife, this 3.5-inch model could feel small or heavy. Consider your needs before buying to make sure this knife fits your style.

Technical Specifications

Key Details

• Brand: Benchmade
• Model: 917SBK
• Size: 9.1″ x 9.1″ x 9.1″
• Weight: 0.33 Pounds
• Material: Black G10 Handle, Stainless Steel Blade
• Color Options: Black Drop-point
• Special Features: Serrated Drop-Point Blade, Glass Breaker, Rescue Hook
• Warranty: Limited Lifetime Warranty

Our Testing Experience

First Impressions

When I first got the Benchmade Triage 917 Serrated Tactical Knife, I was excited to try it out. The knife felt solid and well-made right away. The black G10 handle has a nice grip and feels strong in my hand. I tested the blade by cutting through some ropes and cardboard, and it sliced smoothly without much effort. The drop-point blade looked sharp and sturdy, and the glass breaker and rescue hook added a cool, practical touch. I could tell this knife was built for serious use.

Daily Use

Over the next few days, I carried the knife with me during some outdoor activities and everyday tasks. It was comfortable to hold and easy to open quickly when I needed it. The serrated part of the blade was especially helpful when cutting tougher materials like seatbelts and thick straps. I even used the rescue hook to open a package, and it worked perfectly without damaging what was inside. The knife felt reliable and ready for action.

Key Features in Action

The CPM-S30V steel really impressed me because the blade stayed sharp longer than I expected, even after heavy use. The coated finish helped keep the blade looking clean and prevented rust, which is great since I use the knife in different weather conditions. The G10 handle made a big difference too; it didn’t get slippery when my hands were wet or sweaty. The glass breaker gave me confidence that I could use this knife in emergencies, which is exactly what it’s designed for.

Long-Term Performance

After using the Benchmade Triage for a few weeks, I can say it holds up very well. The edge retention is excellent, and the knife still opens smoothly without any stiffness. The handle shows no signs of wear or damage, even after being exposed to moisture and rough handling. Overall, this knife feels like it will last a long time and stay dependable, making it a great choice for anyone who needs a tough, rescue-ready tool.

How It Compares

Side-by-Side Comparison

Feature	Triage 917 Serrated Tactical Knife	Triage 916 Serrated Rescue Knife	Redoubt Tactical Serrated Edge
Price	See Price	See Price	See Price
Quality	CPM-S30V steel offers excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance with a durable coated finish. Black G10 handle is moisture-resistant and stable in varying climates. Factory made in Oregon City, Oregon.	N680 stainless steel blade with superior corrosion resistance, especially suitable for saltwater use. Durable Black G10 handle stable under extreme temperatures. Features Benchmade’s strong, ambidextrous AXIS lock.	CPM-D2 serrated drop-point blade with Black Cerakote finish. Black Grivory handle with textured pattern for reliable grip, even with gloves. Equipped with AXIS locking mechanism for smooth, safe operation.
Features	Drop-point serrated blade, glass breaker, rescue hook, ultra-durable black G10 handle designed for tactical and rescue use.	Opposing bevel blunt-tip serrated blade, glass breaker, safety hook, black G10 handle. Manual knife with ambidextrous AXIS lock designed for rescue scenarios.	Serrated edge drop-point blade with Black Cerakote finish, textured Grivory handle, AXIS lock. Designed for everyday tactical use rather than specialized rescue.
Best For	Safety workers, rescue professionals, and tactical users needing a reliable, all-purpose rescue tool for everyday use.	Rescue professionals focused on water-related or saltwater environments needing corrosion resistance and ambidextrous use.	Everyday tactical users who want a robust serrated blade with excellent grip and smooth locking mechanism.

In my opinion, this Benchmade – Triage 917 Serrated Tactical Knife stands out because it combines top-tier CPM-S30V steel with a versatile drop-point serrated blade and durable G10 handle, making it exceptionally reliable for both tactical and rescue scenarios. Compared to the 916 model, it offers a stronger blade steel and a classic drop-point design, while it provides a more specialized rescue focus than the Redoubt Tactical knife. If you’re like me and prefer a tool built for tough, professional rescue environments with lasting edge retention, this is the better choice.

Customer Feedback on Benchmade – Triage 917 Serrated Tactical Knife, Drop-Point Blade, Glass Breaker and Rescue Hook with Black G10 Handle (917SBK)

Overall Satisfaction

The Benchmade Triage 917SBK receives high overall satisfaction with users appreciating its quality and functionality, reflected in consistently positive ratings.

Most Praised Features

• Durable and sharp serrated drop-point blade ideal for tactical and rescue use.
• Effective glass breaker and rescue hook add practical emergency utility.
• Ergonomic black G10 handle provides a secure, comfortable grip.

Common Concerns

• Price point considered high by some customers compared to similar knives.
• Occasional feedback on the knife being slightly heavy for everyday carry.

Who Loves It Most

First responders, outdoor enthusiasts, and tactical knife collectors highly value this knife for its multi-functional design and reliability in emergency situations.

Is It Worth the Price?

Price Analysis

At $286 with a 5% discount from $300, the Benchmade Triage 917SBK is priced at the higher end of tactical knives. However, considering its premium materials and specialized features, the price is fair rather than overpriced.

Value Features

• CPM-S30V Steel Blade – Offers excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance, justifying the premium cost.
• Rescue-Ready Design – Includes a glass breaker and rescue hook, making it invaluable for emergency responders.
• Ultra-Durable G10 Handle – Moisture-resistant and stable in changing climates, enhancing durability and grip reliability.
• AXIS Locking Mechanism – Provides safety and ease of use, reducing risk and improving functionality in critical situations.

Vs. Competitors

Compared to other tactical knives in the $200-$300 range, the Triage 917SBK stands out for its specialized rescue tools and high-grade steel, offering more utility and durability than many similarly priced alternatives.

Final Verdict

For professionals and enthusiasts needing a rugged, multi-functional tactical knife, the Benchmade Triage 917SBK is worth the investment at this price point.