Benchmade 585 Mini Barrage: Mini Tank

The Benchmade Mini Barrage 585 is a great EDC choice. I love the assisted opening Axis lock mechanism. It's fast, strong, durable, and locks up securely with no movement. The Zytel handle offers unimpressive traction but shows interesting styling. I would much prefer a high traction G10 or Micarta scaled version of these knives, especially since the Model 585 hovers around the $70 price point. However, even as is, the handle ergos are good and the 585 places well in hand in either forward or reverse gripping. Sadly upper spine jimping is completely lacking. Thankfully Osborne chose a tip up carry for the Mini Barrage that is reversible for lefties. The thumbstud enables fast deployment and has no "volcano" issues. The 2.9" 154CM drop point blade is well-suited to all kinds of daily utility tasks but might be a little on the thick side for superior slicing capabilities. The phallic "split arrow" pocket clip is functional and the abbreviated, squared off handle carries low (nice). This model wears a spine lock for those who are so inclined in its use. A downside is the 585's chunky 3.6 ounce carry weight. This is significantly more than many other outstanding blade offerings such as shown in the video. The full sized Barrage 580 will share many of the excellent points of this more EDC-able version but will be heavier still. The price may be a steep for some but value should always be categorized under the Second Kind of Cool. So while the price may turn some buyers off, it is unlikely that the speed, smoothness, and strength of the Mini Barrage won't impress most knife fans. For a hard use EDC blade, the 585 is a smart choice. . /////////////////////// Nutnfancy Likeability Scale: 7 of 10