The Benchmade 560BK-1 Freek is the hard-use upgrade of the standard Freek, and the reason collectors started calling it the Super Freek. Benchmade moved the blade to CPM-M4 tool steel, finished it in black Cerakote, and wrapped the handle in layered black and gray G10 over red liners. You get a genuinely tough 3.60" drop point on the AXIS lock platform that made Benchmade's folders famous.
Why the 560BK-1 Freek stands out
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CPM-M4 tool steel at 58-60 HRC, prized for edge retention and toughness under hard, impact-heavy cutting.
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Black Cerakote finish that adds corrosion protection to a steel that is not stainless.
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AXIS lock, fully ambidextrous, one-handed to open and to close, with no need to put fingers in the blade path.
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Layered black and gray G10 over red liners, textured for grip and light enough to keep the knife at 4.3 oz.
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Made in the USA and backed by Benchmade's LifeSharp service.
Specifications
- Model: Benchmade 560BK-1 Freek
- Blade steel: CPM-M4 tool steel, 58-60 HRC
- Blade length: 3.60"
- Blade thickness: 0.114"
- Blade style: Drop point, plain edge, black Cerakote finish
- Handle: Layered black and gray G10 with red G10 liners
- Mechanism: AXIS lock, manual opening, dual thumb studs
- Length open: 8.46"
- Length closed: 4.86"
- Weight: 4.3 oz
- Carry: Reversible tip-up pocket clip
- Origin: Made in the USA
Frequently asked questions
Does CPM-M4 rust, and how should I care for it?
Yes, CPM-M4 is a tool steel rather than a stainless steel, so it can develop surface rust or a patina if it is left wet. The Cerakote coating on the Benchmade 560BK-1 Freek protects the flats, but the sharpened edge is bare steel. Wipe the blade dry after use, keep a light film of oil on the edge and pivot, and avoid storing it in a damp sheath or pocket.
What makes CPM-M4 worth it over a stainless steel?
CPM-M4 holds a working edge considerably longer than most stainless steels and resists chipping when it meets hard material. On the Benchmade 560BK-1 Freek that trade is deliberate: you give up some corrosion resistance and get a blade that stays sharp through much more cutting.
How does the AXIS lock work?
A spring-tensioned bar rides in slots in the liners and drops behind the blade tang when the blade opens. Pull the bar back on the Benchmade 560BK-1 Freek and the blade swings free, which means you can open and close it one-handed with either hand and never put a finger in the blade's path.
What does LifeSharp cover?
LifeSharp is Benchmade's free factory service. Send in your Benchmade 560BK-1 Freek and Benchmade will clean, oil, adjust, and resharpen it back to a factory edge for the life of the knife.
Where is the Benchmade 560BK-1 made?
The Benchmade 560BK-1 Freek is made in the USA at Benchmade's factory in Oregon City, Oregon.
Is Going Gear an authorized Benchmade dealer?
Yes. Going Gear is an authorized Benchmade dealer, so your Benchmade 560BK-1 Freek arrives new with the full factory warranty and LifeSharp coverage.
