The Benchmade Griptilian 550-1 is the G10 upgrade of Mel Pardue's classic Griptilian 550, pairing a 3.45" satin CPM-20CV modified sheepsfoot blade with milled gray G10 scales over bright blue G10 liners. The ambidextrous thumb hole and AXIS lock make one-hand opening and closing effortless in either hand, and the diamond-texture grip lives up to the Griptilian name. A discontinued G10 Griptilian in the classic 550 sheepsfoot configuration, it is one of the most sought-after versions of Benchmade's best-known EDC pocket knife.
Benchmade Griptilian 550-1 Specifications
- Blade length: 3.45"
- Blade steel: CPM-20CV stainless (59-61 HRC)
- Blade style: Modified sheepsfoot with thumb-hole opener, satin finish
- Blade thickness: 0.115"
- Overall length: 8.07", closed length: 4.62"
- Handle: Milled gray G10 with blue G10 liners and blue barrel spacers
- Lock: AXIS lock, reversible deep-carry pocket clip
- Weight: 4.13 oz
- Designer: Mel Pardue, made in USA
Benchmade Griptilian 550-1 – FAQ
Is Benchmade discontinuing the Griptilian?
Benchmade has retired several Griptilian variants, including the G10, CPM-20CV Benchmade Griptilian 550-1. The Griptilian family continues in current CPM-S30V versions, but this premium G10 build is out of production, which makes clean examples increasingly collectible.
Why is the Benchmade Griptilian so popular?
The Griptilian has been a benchmark American EDC folding knife for over two decades thanks to its grippy textured handle, ambidextrous AXIS lock, and easy one-hand operation. The Benchmade Griptilian 550-1 sharpens that formula with premium CPM-20CV steel and machined G10 scales.
What is a sheepsfoot blade good for?
The modified sheepsfoot blade on the Benchmade Griptilian 550-1 carries a long, nearly straight cutting edge with a lowered tip, ideal for utility cutting, slicing, and controlled work, and its thumb hole gives fast ambidextrous opening.
Is CPM-20CV good knife steel?
Yes. CPM-20CV is a premium powder-metallurgy stainless steel with very high chromium and vanadium content, giving the Benchmade Griptilian 550-1 excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance at 59-61 HRC.
Does Benchmade sharpen the Griptilian 550-1 for free?
Yes. Benchmade's LifeSharp service covers the Benchmade Griptilian 550-1 for life - send the knife to Benchmade and they will clean, tune, and re-sharpen it to a factory edge at no charge.
Where is the Benchmade Griptilian 550-1 made?
The Benchmade Griptilian 550-1 was made in the USA at Benchmade's factory in Oregon City, Oregon.
Where can I buy the Benchmade Griptilian 550-1?
Going Gear is an authorized Benchmade dealer. The Benchmade Griptilian 550-1 is discontinued, so availability is limited to remaining stock; check this page for current status.
