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Benchmade Freek

The Benchmade Freek occupies an interesting position in the brand's lineup as a knife that quietly earned its reputation through performance rather than fanfare. Released without the celebrity designer collaborations or media attention lavished on other models, the 560 Freek simply delivers practica… View more

Benchmade Freek

The Benchmade Freek occupies an interesting position in the brand's lineup as a knife that quietly earned its reputation through performance rather than fanfare. Released without the celebrity designer collaborations or media attention lavished on other models, the 560 Freek simply delivers practical functionality for those who need a larger folding knife. Benchmade positions it for bigger hands and bigger tasks, but the advanced ergonomics actually suit a wide range of hand sizes. What started as an understated release has evolved into what enthusiasts affectionately call the ‘Super Freek’.

 

What sets the Freek apart is a design feature borrowed from Doug Ritter's historically significant RSK 1 knife: the ramped section between the pivot and thumb stud. This allows you to really bear down on the blade for demanding tasks, providing leverage that most folders can't match. The 9.1cm drop point blade features a high flat grind that makes it an exceptional slicer despite the substantial overall size. At 21.5cm open and 12.3cm closed, this is genuinely a large folder. But at 104.9g to 122g, depending on configuration, it carries lighter than you'd expect.

 

Available versions span from the original with dual-density Grivory and Versaflex handles in S30V steel, through the 560BK 1 ‘Super Freek’ with layered black and grey G10 over red liners in CPM M4 steel, to premium carbon fibre editions featuring S90V. The Mini Freek (model 565) offers a more compact 7.6cm blade for those wanting similar ergonomics in a smaller package. All versions use the AXIS lock for ambidextrous operation and include jimping on the spine for thumb control.

 

Looking at other large folders? The Benchmade Adamas provides even more robust construction for extreme duty. The Benchmade Griptilian offers proven reliability in a more traditional format. Our Top 10 Benchmade knives guide covers the brand's most influential designs. And our Brand of the Month feature explores Benchmade's approach to ergonomic knife design.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What makes the Freek's blade design special?
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The Benchmade Freek's blade design incorporates a ramped section between the pivot and thumb stud, a feature inspired by Doug Ritter's RSK 1 knife. This ramping allows you to position your thumb for maximum leverage when bearing down on the blade during demanding tasks. Combined with the high flat grind and 9.1cm drop point geometry, this creates an exceptionally capable cutting tool. The blade thins significantly behind the edge despite being 2.9mm thick at the spine, resulting in outstanding slicing performance.
Are there different versions of the Freek available?
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The Benchmade Freek range is available in several configurations to suit different preferences and budgets. The original 560 features grey Grivory and black Versaflex handles with an S30V blade. The 560BK 1 'Super Freek' upgrades to layered black and grey G10 handles with striking red liners and a CPM M4 blade. Premium versions feature carbon fibre scales with S90V steel and red accents. There's also the Mini Freek (model 565) offering a 7.6cm blade in a more compact package. All versions maintain the same advanced ergonomics and AXIS lock mechanism that define the Freek platform.
How does the Freek compare to the Benchmade Griptilian?
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The Benchmade Freek shares some design philosophy with the Griptilian range but offers a distinctly different blade profile and ergonomics. The Freek features a wider drop point blade more reminiscent of Benchmade's hunting knives, compared to the Griptilian's more traditional EDC geometry. The Freek's blade incorporates the ramped thumb area for increased leverage during hard use. At 9.1cm, the Freek's blade is longer than a standard Griptilian but similar to the large Griptilian. Both use the proven AXIS lock and represent excellent value in Benchmade's lineup.