The Benchmade Griptilian 551BKSN-S30V puts a tactical spin on the classic Griptilian 551: a 3.45" black-coated CPM-S30V drop point over a textured desert sand Grivory handle. Decoding the suffix: BK is the black blade coating and SN is the sand handle color. At 3.82 oz with dual thumb studs and the ambidextrous AXIS lock, this discontinued variant is a light, capable EDC pocket knife with a field-ready look.
Benchmade Griptilian 551BKSN-S30V Specifications
- Blade length: 3.45"
- Blade steel: CPM-S30V stainless (58-60 HRC), black coating
- Blade style: Drop point, dual thumb studs
- Blade thickness: 0.115"
- Overall length: 8.07", closed length: 4.62"
- Handle: Textured desert sand Grivory (glass-filled polymer)
- Lock: AXIS lock, reversible tip-up pocket clip
- Weight: 3.82 oz
- Designer: Mel Pardue, made in USA
Benchmade Griptilian 551BKSN-S30V – FAQ
Is Benchmade discontinuing the Griptilian?
Benchmade has retired several Griptilian variants, including the sand-handled Benchmade Griptilian 551BKSN-S30V. The Griptilian family continues in current CPM-S30V versions, but this exact configuration is out of production.
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 - all present on the Benchmade Griptilian 551BKSN-S30V.
Is CPM-S30V good knife steel?
Yes. CPM-S30V is an American powder-metallurgy stainless steel developed specifically for knives. The Benchmade Griptilian 551BKSN-S30V runs it at 58-60 HRC for a strong balance of edge retention, toughness, and corrosion resistance.
How do you close a Benchmade AXIS lock knife?
Pull back the AXIS bar on either side of the Benchmade Griptilian 551BKSN-S30V and the blade swings free to close - fully ambidextrous, with no fingers in the blade path.
Does Benchmade sharpen the Griptilian 551BKSN-S30V for free?
Yes. Benchmade's LifeSharp service covers the Benchmade Griptilian 551BKSN-S30V for life - Benchmade will clean, tune, and re-sharpen it to a factory edge at no charge.
Where is the Benchmade Griptilian 551BKSN-S30V made?
The Benchmade Griptilian 551BKSN-S30V was made in the USA at Benchmade's factory in Oregon City, Oregon.
Where can I buy the Benchmade Griptilian 551BKSN-S30V?
Going Gear is an authorized Benchmade dealer. The Benchmade Griptilian 551BKSN-S30V is discontinued, so availability is limited to remaining stock; check this page for current status.
