The Benchmade Griptilian 551-1 is the premium G10 evolution of Mel Pardue's original Griptilian 551, pairing a 3.45" satin CPM-20CV drop point blade with milled gray G10 scales over bright blue G10 liners and blue barrel spacers. Dual thumb studs and the ambidextrous AXIS lock give fast one-hand operation, and at 4.17 oz it carries easily for a full-size EDC pocket knife. This discontinued G10 Griptilian is among the most sought-after versions of the Benchmade Griptilian 551.
Benchmade Griptilian 551-1 Specifications
- Blade length: 3.45"
- Blade steel: CPM-20CV stainless (59-61 HRC)
- Blade style: Drop point, satin finish, dual thumb studs
- 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: 4.17 oz
- Designer: Mel Pardue, made in USA
Benchmade Griptilian 551-1 – FAQ
Is Benchmade discontinuing the Griptilian?
Benchmade has retired several Griptilian variants, including the G10, CPM-20CV Benchmade Griptilian 551-1. 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 551-1 sharpens that formula with premium CPM-20CV steel and machined G10 scales.
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 551-1 excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance at 59-61 HRC.
How do you close a Benchmade AXIS lock knife?
Pull back the AXIS bar on either side of the Benchmade Griptilian 551-1 and the blade swings free to close - fully ambidextrous, with no need to put fingers in the blade path.
Does Benchmade sharpen the Griptilian 551-1 for free?
Yes. Benchmade's LifeSharp service covers the Benchmade Griptilian 551-1 for life - Benchmade will clean, tune, and re-sharpen it to a factory edge at no charge.
Where is the Benchmade Griptilian 551-1 made?
The Benchmade Griptilian 551-1 was made in the USA at Benchmade's factory in Oregon City, Oregon.
Where can I buy the Benchmade Griptilian 551-1?
Going Gear is an authorized Benchmade dealer. The Benchmade Griptilian 551-1 is discontinued, so availability is limited to remaining stock; check this page for current status.
