The Benchmade Griptilian 550S-1 is the partially serrated version of the G10 Griptilian 550, with a 3.45" satin CPM-20CV modified sheepsfoot blade whose serrated section powers through rope, webbing, and fibrous material. Milled gray G10 scales over blue G10 liners, a thumb-hole opener, and the ambidextrous AXIS lock round out this discontinued G10 Griptilian.
Benchmade Griptilian 550S-1 Specifications
- Blade length: 3.45"
- Blade steel: CPM-20CV stainless (59-61 HRC)
- Blade style: Modified sheepsfoot, partially serrated edge, thumb-hole opener
- 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 550S-1 – FAQ
Is Benchmade discontinuing the Griptilian?
Benchmade has retired several Griptilian variants, including the G10, CPM-20CV Benchmade Griptilian 550S-1. The Griptilian family continues in current CPM-S30V versions, but this premium serrated G10 build is out of production and 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 550S-1 adds premium CPM-20CV steel, machined G10, and a hard-working combo edge.
What is a partially serrated blade good for?
The serrated section on the Benchmade Griptilian 550S-1 bites through rope, straps, zip ties, and fibrous material that a plain edge can slip on, while the plain portion of the sheepsfoot edge handles clean slicing and utility work.
Is CPM-20CV good knife steel?
Yes. CPM-20CV is a premium powder-metallurgy stainless steel with excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance; the Benchmade Griptilian 550S-1 runs it at 59-61 HRC.
Does Benchmade sharpen the Griptilian 550S-1 for free?
Yes. Benchmade's LifeSharp service covers the Benchmade Griptilian 550S-1 for life, including its partially serrated edge - Benchmade will clean, tune, and re-sharpen it to a factory edge at no charge.
Where is the Benchmade Griptilian 550S-1 made?
The Benchmade Griptilian 550S-1 was made in the USA at Benchmade's factory in Oregon City, Oregon.
Where can I buy the Benchmade Griptilian 550S-1?
Going Gear is an authorized Benchmade dealer. The Benchmade Griptilian 550S-1 is discontinued, so availability is limited to remaining stock; check this page for current status.
