The Benchmade Griptilian 551BK-1 is the black-blade version of the G10 Griptilian 551, with a 3.45" BK1 black-coated CPM-20CV drop point over milled gray G10 scales and blue G10 liners. Note the suffix: BK refers to the black blade coating - the handle is gray G10, not black. Dual thumb studs and the ambidextrous AXIS lock make this discontinued G10 Griptilian a fast, fully ambidextrous EDC pocket knife.
Benchmade Griptilian 551BK-1 Specifications
- Blade length: 3.45"
- Blade steel: CPM-20CV stainless (59-61 HRC), BK1 black coating
- Blade style: Drop point, 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 551BK-1 – FAQ
Is Benchmade discontinuing the Griptilian?
Benchmade has retired several Griptilian variants, including the G10, CPM-20CV Benchmade Griptilian 551BK-1. The Griptilian family continues in current CPM-S30V versions, but this premium 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 551BK-1 adds premium CPM-20CV steel, machined G10, and a low-glare black blade.
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 551BK-1 runs it at 59-61 HRC under a BK1 black coating.
How do you close a Benchmade AXIS lock knife?
Pull back the AXIS bar on either side of the Benchmade Griptilian 551BK-1 and the blade swings free to close - fully ambidextrous, with no fingers in the blade path.
Does Benchmade sharpen the Griptilian 551BK-1 for free?
Yes. Benchmade's LifeSharp service covers the Benchmade Griptilian 551BK-1 for life - Benchmade will clean, tune, and re-sharpen it to a factory edge at no charge.
Where is the Benchmade Griptilian 551BK-1 made?
The Benchmade Griptilian 551BK-1 was made in the USA at Benchmade's factory in Oregon City, Oregon.
Where can I buy the Benchmade Griptilian 551BK-1?
Going Gear is an authorized Benchmade dealer. The Benchmade Griptilian 551BK-1 is discontinued, so availability is limited to remaining stock; check this page for current status.
