Benchmark Knives

Benchmark Knives emerged in the 1970s under the guidance of legendary knife designer Blackie Collins, establishing its headquarters in Gastonia, North Carolina. Founded during a transformative era in American knifemaking, the brand has built a reputation for producing diverse cutting tools that span from tactical folders to precision kitchen cutlery.

The company's product line reflects a comprehensive approach to knife manufacturing, offering fixed blade knives, folding pocket knives, kitchen knives, and balisong designs that cater to various user needs. This versatility has allowed Benchmark to serve both outdoor enthusiasts and culinary professionals with equal dedication.

In the folding knife category, Benchmark produces USA-manufactured pocket knives featuring durable metal alloy handles that prioritize both functionality and longevity. These designs embody the practical ethos that has characterized American knife production for decades, focusing on reliable everyday carry options.

The kitchen knife segment showcases Benchmark's material diversity and global manufacturing partnerships. The brand offers Japanese Damascus steel kitchen knives that combine traditional pattern-welded construction with modern culinary design. Additionally, Benchmark has embraced contemporary materials by producing ceramic-bladed kitchen knife sets, providing home cooks and professional chefs with options that maintain edge retention and resist corrosion.

Benchmark's inclusion of butterfly knives in their catalog demonstrates the brand's willingness to serve niche markets and collectors interested in this distinctive folding mechanism. Combined with their fixed blade offerings, this creates a well-rounded portfolio that addresses multiple segments of the knife community.

While the brand maintains a lower profile compared to some industry giants, Benchmark Knives continues to operate from its North Carolina base, producing knives that balance traditional American manufacturing values with modern materials and international partnerships. Their diverse product range reflects decades of experience in understanding what different users need from their cutting tools.