The Benchmade 3150 Impel is a Matthew Lerch design built as a gentleman's automatic. At 1.98" the CPM-S30V blade sits just under the two-inch mark that keeps it in the California-legal class, and the machined aluminum handle with its black G10 inlay dresses up well enough for a jacket pocket. Press the button and the blade fires; flip the slide safety and it stays put.
Why the 3150 Impel stands out
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CPM-S30V blade steel at 58-60 HRC, a premium stainless that balances edge retention with corrosion resistance and easy upkeep.
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Push-button automatic with an integrated slide safety, so the blade will not fire in your pocket.
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Sub-two-inch blade at 1.98", which places the Impel in the Cali-legal category many buyers look for.
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Machined aluminum handle with black G10 inlay, just 2.10 oz and 3.06" closed.
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Made in the USA and backed by Benchmade's LifeSharp service.
Specifications
- Model: Benchmade 3150 Impel, designed by Matthew Lerch
- Blade steel: CPM-S30V, 58-60 HRC
- Blade length: 1.98"
- Blade thickness: 0.100"
- Blade style: Clip point, plain edge, satin finish
- Handle: Machined aluminum with black G10 inlay
- Mechanism: Push-button side-opening automatic with slide safety
- Length open: 5.03"
- Length closed: 3.06"
- Weight: 2.10 oz
- Carry: Removable tip-down steel pocket clip
- Origin: Made in the USA
Frequently asked questions
What is an automatic knife?
An automatic knife, often called a switchblade, opens under spring power when you press a button rather than pushing the blade open by hand. On the Benchmade 3150 Impel a single press of the handle button fires the 1.98" blade open and locks it.
Are automatic knives legal to own?
Automatic knife laws vary by state and even by city, and some places restrict ownership, carry, or both. The Benchmade 3150 Impel's sub-two-inch blade puts it in a class some jurisdictions treat more permissively, but you should check your current state and local laws before ordering, as we cannot advise on the rules where you live.
Does the 3150 Impel have a safety?
Yes. The Benchmade 3150 Impel has an integrated slide safety next to the firing button. Engage it and the button is locked out, which is what makes an automatic this small comfortable to carry loose in a pocket.
What does LifeSharp cover?
LifeSharp is Benchmade's free factory service. Send in your Benchmade 3150 Impel and Benchmade will clean, oil, adjust, and resharpen it back to a factory edge for the life of the knife.
Where is the Benchmade 3150 made?
The Benchmade 3150 Impel is made in the USA at Benchmade's factory in Oregon City, Oregon.
Is Going Gear an authorized Benchmade dealer?
Yes. Going Gear is an authorized Benchmade dealer. The Benchmade 3150 Impel has been discontinued by Benchmade, so availability is limited to remaining stock.
