Not a Knife, a 'Dynamic Triple Utility Tool!'

Benchmade Knife Company has received no shortage of accolades for its 915 Triage, a “dynamic triple utility tool,” in the company’s nomenclature, that has a blade, a cutting hook, and a glass breaker on its butt. It was a nominee for “knife of the year” from one organization, and the knife-ogling press seems transfixed with the stout tri-purpose tool. What makes it so special? We got a sample 915 Triage in to test.

In the hand, right out of its box, the 915 feels capable and solid. Its 3.5-inch blade is made of a quality steel (N680), and an ambidextrous thumb-stud opener flings the sharp edge up in an instant. A fiberglass-based laminate called G10 comprises the handle.

Turn the knife over to access a hook-shape cutter for seatbelts and cord. On the knife’s end is a carbide tip made for breaking glass. Trapped inside a car sinking into a river? This knife can save you in a flash!

Designed with rescue workers in mind — or for people who want to be prepared for anything — the 915 is all business. There are no fancy touches or aesthetic bits, just a get-the-job-done design with sturdy materials and sturdy construction.

The 915 is the sharpest out-of-box knife I have ever seen. I give each new knife I test a shave-the-arm-hair trial, and the 915’s blade left a clean bald patch — the term “razor sharp” is not some cliché overstatement with this knife.

If there’s a wart on the 915 it’s the heft of the knife. At 5 ounces, the knife feels a little heavy for an everyday pocket knife. But with a 3.5-inch blade it was designed for heavy-duty use. I have been using it for chores and around-the-house work for weeks. It is comfortable and capable in the hand for a variety of tasks, and even after abuse the blade remains sharp.

The 915 Triage comes in black or orange, and the company offers multiple blade types on the model. Pricing starts at $165. Whether you are on call to rescue those in need, or just searching for a workhorse of a knife, this one from Benchmade I agree is a winner.

—T.C. Worley