Benchmade 940 or Zero Tolerance 0450

My overview and comparison of the Benchmade 940 and Zero Tolerance 0450 knives. I also select my choice for my ideal every day carry knife.
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[@justinkeefe3456]

I own both and I carry the 0450 90% of the time. Looks better feels better in my hand (large hand) I’ve heard you can get a hot spot right the 0450 but my 3 fingers go over the hump at the back and my pinky is behind it perfectly. They are both fantastic knives. There’s just something about the feel of the 0450 blade shape and look of it that makes me grab for it almost every time. I feel like I have better blade control with the sharp of the 0450 but I slightly like the Benchmade I’d say cutting rope on a cutting board. Keeps your knuckles out of the way a slight bit more if you use the middle of the blade. They both stay sharp forever! 0450 slightly longer for what I use it for. Which is well everything but mostly plastic and cardboard. Honestly if you’re a looks person gets the one that looks better to you. Bit open like butter and are easy one handed. ZT flips out like its spring loaded and closes like butter. Once you get used to the Benchmade it can be easier I suppose, but I’m actually quicker with the 0450 opening from my pocket and closing from a grip after cutting. You can swing the blade open and closed all day on the 940 if you hold the tab back to kinda fiddle with it which is fun and much faster like that but from a grip I find the ZT more controlled because of not having to kinda swing it away. Not saying you don’t get used to that. All If you are a comfort person then buy both and rerun the one that doesn’t fit as well. The 0450 looks a bit more scary but kinda balances out because it’s all silver so adds class and slightly dulls the the I’m gonna kill you look. The Benchmade is much less intimidating if you’re in a position to have to pull it out around strangers a lot. ZT feels like a sports car I guess and the Benchmade feels like a a accord. Super reliable and all around great but a bit less sporty. Both are addictive to open in their own ways. The winner goes to the 0450 hands down though for the initial opening. That snap is unlike almost every knife besides it’s big brother I’ve ever felt. Again though you can just flip the 940 back and forth through and jet a kinda butterfly knife feel out of it though. No satisfying snap though. Sorry I’m just kinda vomiting out my thoughts as I go in no structured order lol. All in all if you can afford them. Get them both! They are both fantastic and different enough to not feel redundant at all. I have the g 10 940 so not sure if that makes anything feel much different. So basically if there’s one that is calling your name, then that is the one to get! It’s really easy. If you are rooting for one of them to be better for whatever reason, or looking for excuses to pick one over the other then that for sure is the one to get. Trust me! They are both of the same quality for what you’d use them for. The lock on the 0450 is fantastic and you’d break or bend the knife before you’d have it slip. It’s the whole damn body stopping the blade from coming I on itself. But that Benchmade is really secure but for some reason scares me probably just because you can’t see the actual mechanics of it. When you know how it works though you lose that fear of it chopping a finger off. Now there are some quality control issues with the Benchmade so just make sure you got a good one. And don’t except anything less! Honestly it’d almost be worth just sending it in no matter what and having them done fine it. My lock was almost impossible to open for about the first 200 openings so I just sat there and had to switch it back and forth and was just about to send it in or take it apart and polish it then it broke free. I’d say only 10% have issues at all but that’s still too big of a number. And really rare for that company. So again whichever one you are hoping people are gonna say is better, is the one to get! I assure you on that fact owning both! You will be extremely happy either way. That’s all you have to ask yourself. Which one are you hoping people pride the most? Pick that one, buy it, and love the crap out of it. And use it! It’s a tool not not (only) man jewelry lol. Be proud of yourself if you use it so much you have to repair it or eventually need a new one or have to send it in. Life is too short to not use it. They are expensive but there’s a reason for it they make life a lot easier compared to the lesser quality knives and steel out there. I’ve used my 0450 for the past 1,000 days probably and it looks brand new. And I’m rough on knives. The Benchmade looks like it just came out of the box. Last bit of info lol, (and sorry for the freaking novel there’s just a lot to say about both of these fantastic knifes) is don’t forget to do some Maintenance on them. If you have even more money to spare after buying one of these expensive knives I highly recommend getting some nano oil and cleaning all the oil off with alcohol and a cotton pad then Re-lubricating it. It’s a very high quality oil. You don’t have to do it right away I’m just picky and some knives use pretty crappy oil from the factory I guess to save money I have no idea. And I’d get a bit of ‘blue’ (not red) loctite. Use a very small dab and make sure not to get any on anything else. I do this about once every 4 months or so. And unless you’re a professional is out for these super steels to be sharpened by a pro. You can find one in almost any Corey for like $10. Then just hit it with a steel every now and again to re form the blade and that’ll usually get you another couple few months sometimes. Or be a maniac like me and get a wicked edge sharpening kit. If you are going to sharpen it practice on some crappy knives first. That’s my only complaint with these new fancy super steel knives. They are a SOB to sharpen sometimes. But they stay sharp forever. And again usually stroping it or gently hitting it with a kitchen knife steel will usually bring the edge back to a point. Those are not sharpeners like most people think. they are simply to bring the edge back to a point. If the knife is dull dull they will never get the blade back to a point as they are much too soft to ‘sharpen’ the steel on the knife. Anyway hope some of this helps at least one person and doesn’t annoy too many haha. Good luck all and be happy we have such great knives! Stop stressing about it and get one in your pocket already. If I lost one I’d be more than happy using the other one for another 20 years! Take care all! :) Sorry about the much muchhh to long of a comment. I’m tired and rambling.

[@GOcgyFLAMESgo]

Great comparison, thanks.

[@Sirgromulus]

Two of my favorite knives (along with my Spyderco PM2!) and I carry both regularly. They both have a deep carry clip installed. While I think the ZT is more attractive and is a better fit with my business and formal attire, I actually prefer the 940-2. I am right handed but I can more effectively open the 940 with either hand. The axis lock is more forgiving than the ZT's frame lock in which the slightest finger pressure on the frame prevents or makes opening harder. ( I actually prefer the PM2's mechanism and ease of opening more than these two). The slightly longer handle of the 940 provides a more reassuring grip in my hand. While both are CPM-S30V steel, the 940 seems to hold an edge longer. I also like the stoutness and utility of the reverse Tanto blade more than the ZT's (or the PM2). All and all, the 940-2 is the knife I carry most often since it seems to get more right for me than any of my other knives. All great choices though! YMMV

[@jpbernie72]

Sirgromulus I agree with you regarding the PM2. I think the compression lock is one of the best things out there right now.

[@DobermansRock]

My grandpa left me some money and it started burning a hole in my pocket. Wow the 940-2 really is the real deal. One of the best pocket knives I have even owned. Literally a game changer and a life changer. I used a German made K55K for years. Heck for the price of a 940-2 I could buy at least 4 of those in top factory offering. Thought about some of my other kids but, Mike is my favorite. So all for one in my book these days. Kids are like cars. You gotta have 4 or 5 till you have one you like.

[@hashslinger4203]

Glad to see your a lefty. Not many of us out there! I'm subscribing now!

[@geoff_tac]

Lol, thanks dude..

[@leehyde3952]

ZT has the better blade shape, for me. The 940 is much for fun as a daily carry for satisfying my need to fidget whilst working. That being said, opening the ZT is just orgasmic. I bought both because i couldn't decide.

[@knifeaddict1014]

I can’t choose between the 2 I own both just picked up the 450cf today and I love it so far I’m just afraid or the top breaking not saying I will be prying anything but iv seen and had so many break just from pick out stuff

[@wolfdna788]

You've got good style

[@tonyochoa7097]

I just snagged a 943,(they've been discontinued for about a rear)I really like it,and considering I have around thirty mid to high ends,that's saying something.I basically got it just for the collection,but suprisingly enough,I like everything about it-the way it cuts,the way it carries,the action.Incidently,I had to locktite the pivot-it had a tendency to loosin,but I've got mine perfectly set-drop shutty,and rock solid lockup

[@doejon9424]

I love the 943 more than the 940 ! It's a shame the discontinued it. Hope the bring back a G-10 version!

[@oinnsheathen5684]

I can’t wait for the 0452CF

[@billy_2473]

Best of both worlds is the 943. Regret selling mine literally every day, they’re discontinued now and going for $600 on eBay. Also, S30V is better than S35VN in most practical ways. That being said I like the 0450 in hand better than the 940, but being a lefty the axis lock is just awesome for closing. I would trade so many knives for a 943.

[@gemknives6229]

You can know get a titanium deep carry pocket clip from bench made now

[@whatmakesittick8362]

I have both. I have found over time that the Benchmade product lines of 940 and 535 (along with most of their others) have the same problems. I have owned multiple of each. These problems have not ever been present in any of the ZT and even Kershaw knives I have owned (out of dozens.) Here are my issues with Benchmade: 1) Axis lock Omega springs. They all break in the same spot at the bottom of the arc. I have replaced 5 sets. you can make them from memory wire. 2) Blade centering/ blade play. All of my benchmade knives have had or have issues here. If you want the free action and drop shut fidgeting, you must use loctite and adjust some blade play into the equation. With no blade play the blades do not freely pivot. This is the major draw for a lot of Benchmade users wanting the fidget factor. 3) Poor screw quality/poor threading in metal. I have had several screws from Benchmade come from the factory mis-threaded. The very small fine threads on 2-56 screws means the threading tapped into handles or stand offs have to be even more perfect. I have had one Bugout that had one hole not even threaded at all into the liner! They drove the screw into a drilled out hole too small for the screw, which sheared off the thread (which held the screw in. ) All of the Bugout models I have had once taken apart required at least one screw replacement. I modify my knives frequently. Scales or backspacers, screws, clips, etc have all been replaced on some of my knives and this leads to issues on the Benchmade products. If you intend on just using the knives they should be fine. But for people who like to tinker, I would warn them to stay away from benchmade.

[@Phaminator525]

I love my 940 Osborne more but I have to admit ZT has way better quality control. It's not even close. If you're ordered online 100% go with the ZT. My 940 came in off centered and blade hitting backspacer. Had to send it in for repairs right out of the box. Complete bs Benchmade needs to get their QC up.

[@mikemckenna4816]

@Geoff Tac, do you one hand close your ZT0450? I just got the G10 version and the detent makes mine hard to close one-handed.

[@geoff_tac]

Oh yeah, it is smooth as glass to open or close

[@mikemckenna4816]

Mine seems to get hung up on a detent when closing: kzbin.info/www/bejne/haGpkqWflrifrK8

[@KObags]

Mike McKenna send it in for warranty. I got the cf version and mine does not do that. Like @Geoff Tac said, smooth as glass.

[@lucada8538]

I love my benchmade, i just hate how the aluminium dents, but that's the only knife i have so i use it like crazy.

[@jamesoncross7494]

Random Guy I've never heard anyone complain about the aluminum denting.

[@marktong6755]

Jameson Cross it does, but its barely noticeable, like at the corners or the base when u use it as a hammer lmao

[@codymallett6859]

Buy the carbon fibre one

[@mattf0509]

Get the g10 version, its bar none my favorite knife.

[@knifeaddict1014]

Mark Tong man I couldn’t use it as a hammer use the tools that are required for the job at task js that way you don’t beat up your money, but hey that’s just my 2 cents

[@patplante2782]

which one would you prefer if you had a choice in a trade for a pm2? i have the pm2 and have to choose between the 940 and the 0450. not sure....

[@geoff_tac]

So that is a very tough question. I own a PM2 and both of these still. My use case is office environment and the ZT gets carried far more often. The axis lock is way stronger than the frame lock though. That said, if you need harder use, go 940. If you need light and slick, go ZT.

[@patplante2782]

@@geoff_tac thank you!

[@jpbernie72]

Hey guys. I have the Para 3 as well as the para military too. Just a great sized knife!

[@lalogallardo2387]

940🦋

[@jeffhollar1830]

0450cf is sweet

[@grumpyoldwizard]

I have the ZT 452 and the 940. I love my 940. I have never trusted the Axis lock for some reason.

[@Kenny762c]

I'm with you on the axis lock. I love my 940, but I just don't trust the lock.

[@Phaminator525]

@@Kenny762c axis lock is one of the strongest locks in use. But after years the springs can break.

[@MaicoMoon]

How do you sharpen them? I suck ass at using those whetstones and probably ruining my blades.

[@adamtimmins3035]

I hate how the zt pocket clip hangs off the edge of the handle.

[@geoff_tac]

@TheNomdeguerre yes it is, from Kershaw directly.

[@geoff_tac]

@J Miller Time I disagree, I am not using either as a survival knife. They are light use knives, for me, and the comparison is a valuable one for people looking to buy either. Thanks for the comment though.

[@TailSpin215]

Benchmade will send you a free deep carry stainless steel clip also! Just fyi

[@geoff_tac]

+TailSpin215 i figure as much too, I just haven't tried it. Thanks for the comment.

[@geoff_tac]

so I took action on this comment and requested 3 deep carry pocket clips. I am carrying the 940 as I type this.

[@JohnDoe-ce9ky]

Benchmade even send parts for overseas customer, ZT won't 😑

[@iloveknives6080]

Where they 3 different deep carry pocket clips? I just got a 940 yesterday and called Benchmade and they told me they only had 2.

[@Fcmobile1171]

Ghost I just paid for mine today. It’s true they charge 5 dollars now.

[@BC08]

I love axis lock and bolt lock and like the tip strength of the reverse tanto, so it’s the 940 for me.

[@geoff_tac]

B C all valid points, they are very comparrible and personal preference is impossible to argue with! Thanks for the comment!

[@gemknives6229]

Same I love my 940

[@knifedon]

where can I get the pocket clip thats on the 0450?

[@geoff_tac]

Email Kershaw, they are great about sending out deep carry pocket clips.

[@reddawng43x91]

No they arent, i asked for one for my 0450cf and was told sorry that i should look for an aftermarket option

[@sinjon]

Which ones the better fidget knife?

[@geoff_tac]

940, you can open the axis lock and flip it all day. The 0452 is smooth as glass but you have to disengage the liner and use the flipper to deploy.

[@kendrajones984]

i agree mr Geoff so why at 08:15 do you say the 940 is more involved to deploy. its super easy.

[@Ride2Vibe]

@@kendrajones984 it easyer when you already hold the knife in the opening and closing position but from the full grip youbhave to reposition your hand to close it

[@Templetons]

Only thing the 940 beats it on is the handle and the fact you can open and close easier in one hand. Love my 450 but overall disappointed other than for business attire I use it. 940 better knife

[@HamSammichApex]

Deployment with the thumb stud on the 940 is insanely easy and quick. Also you have to take closing the knife into consideration. With the axis lock the 940 is (in my opinion) much easier to close and put back in the pocket. I will say that I love a flipper though. A 0450 in carbon fiber will be my next purchase. Benchmade does make a mini deep carry pocket clip for the 940 by the way! Thanks for sharing your thoughts! Always nice to hear another opinion!

[@geoff_tac]

I like them both and I got the deep carry clip but the ZT seems more refined. Thanks for the comment!

[@HamSammichApex]

I can see how you feel that way! ZT’s are always built so well! Benchmades quality control isn’t great and usually when I send a benchmade in for its annual warranty “check up”, it comes back better than when I bought it. I can’t wait to get my hands on the 0450CF! I’ll comment again and leave my thoughts after I’ve experienced both! However, I’m a benchmade fan boy because they make some sexy knives and their warranty is just amazing! I love a good flipper though!

[@HamSammichApex]

Do you have any suggestions for a spyderco that’s comparable to these two knives? I’m looking to pick up a spyderco but I want my first spyderco to be very premium and able to compete with the edc ability of my 940.

[@geoff_tac]

@@HamSammichApex I dont have an opinion on Spydercos because they seem more utilitarian or tactical. They are also good about making a lot of knives and killing a lot of then quickly from production. I have a Delica that is similar in size but the thickness is about half the ZT and 940. They also use FRN for scales. They will have sprint runs with premium materials you just need to keep your eyes open.

[@michaelfuxeklint4909]

940 for trekking.........🤔😉

[@MrTJohnston]

I’ve never seen a clip point benchmade 940

[@geoff_tac]

www.benchmade.com/940-943-family.html

[@sputumtube]

I don't trust ball-bearing flippers coz there's too much to go wrong. Having said that, I've had to send my 940 back to Benchmade twice because the spindly little omega springs failed. Twice. I live in the UK so my 940 has travelled further round the world than I have....!!

[@geoff_tac]

I never really considered the ball bearings would go bad, I have several and I know its possible, but I clean and lube mine when they get too fouled. I see the bearings as a wear part, but I don't expect them to wear in my lifetime. Thanks for the comment.

[@lenzielenski3276]

I think your fear of ball bearings is unfounded. If you drive a car, you do realize all the wheels ride on ball bearings, right? Its a pretty sure thing being as how there are still 1920 Model T Fords rolling around on original bearings!

[@N3wbMa5t3r]

Easily the BM 940... The ZT 0450 blade bevels and plunge grind are horrible.

[@spartanswerve7575]

“Stand off pillars?” Barrel spacers. Stop it! Stop everything.

[@beefcurtainz69]

No they are stabilizer columns.... 😂😂😂

[@-trmxzer0-235]

This is what it looks like when a non-knife person does a knife review lol

[@clarkdaniel1289]

Both are nice. 940 is larger, but weighs less. The axis lock is stronger. The reverse tanto is more robust for utility work. Both feel similar in your pocket but the 940 looks less intimidating. 940 Osborne is bigger, lighter, stronger, better suited for utility purposes and feels more balanced with its bigger handle and consistent thickness all the way to the end of the blade. It’s probably the finest edc ever made. 450 and it’s good looks and elegant blade are better for lighter duty work and slicing.

[@8FunGuy8]

Your knifes are backwards...lol

[@geoff_tac]

I am right handed, everyone else is wrong handed! 😁

[@sinjon]

Geoff Tac isn’t the clip uncomfortable like that? Usually the clip is on the bottom of a right handed knife

[@spartanswerve7575]

940 is far from a gentleman carry, it’s a heavy duty beater. Know your blades.

[@geoff_tac]

I know it well, thanks for the comment.

[@ryandelehanty8368]

benchmade sucks

[@gemknives6229]

Benchmade makes great knives. I am just curious, what is your reason for not liking benchmade? But I agree that some of there knives do suck.

[@dschNgz]

Which?