Frag Out! Magazine
Issue link: https://fragout.uberflip.com/i/929822
Both knives are comfortable to hold, they don't slip and we do not have any parts that might cause even slightest feel of discomfort. Even those notches in Freek aren't necessary as the rubber is "glued" to the hand. In terms of ergonomics, both knives are superior to the good ol' "Grippie". Handles are slightly profiled, each has a forefinger place. BM560 is perfect for my woman's hands, but it is worth to mention that people with bigger hands will praise Boost. Pocket clip is a standard feature but it allows carrying knife only in tie-up position in both models. There is possibility to place a clip on the other scale so it is useful for left-hand people. BM560, as well as BM590, can be opened using double-sided pin (another good thing for south paws) placed very close to the scales' edge. Boost features assisted opening which practically revealed itself as impeding opening system. Mechanically everything works as a charm, spring "shoots" the blade with considerably big force, blocking works impeccably preventing from accidental knife opening. While opening the knife, cutting edge slides on the fingertip so it is very easy to get cut. Especially with that force generated which makes the grip far from stable. I suppose that is caused mostly by pin placement, but personally I am not a fan of assisted opening in knives being opened with pin or hole. Summarizing – there is a kick, there isn't a fun. Much more pleasant is Freek which blade slides open smoothly and fully controllable. Locking in both knives is Axis Lock, patented by Benchmade. It holds surely, I haven't noticed a "blade play" or instability in any of knives. In disadvantages of axis lock I can place quite hard single hand usage and terrifying ability to gather dirt. MECHANICS www.fragoutmag.com