Benchmade Mel Pardue Model 3550

Benchmade Mel Pardue Model 3550

Very slim and comfortable automatic knife intended for professionals (i.e., law enforcement, emergency responders, and military personnel). The flat black anodized aluminum handle is very slim, but fills the hand well. The action is smooth and uniform over the entire opening arc of the blade. The button is slightly recessed, so it is easy to find and more difficult to press accidentally. There is a very small sliding safety lever on the back of the knife and it tends to get pushed on and off as the knife is withdrawn or placed in a pocket. There is no pocket clip. The blade is single-edged and practical in design. Overall fit and finish are superior. Though made entirely of aluminum and steel, this is a lightweight knife for its size.

  • MFG: Benchmade
  • MODEL: Mel Pardue Model 3550
  • TYPE: Automatic
  • ACTION: Side-opening
  • MECHANISM: Coil spring
  • CLOSED LENGTH: 4.2"
  • BLADE LENGTH: 2.9"
  • PROS: Lightweight for size, extremely smooth opening action, fits hand well, highest quality materials, rides well in pocket.
  • CONS: Costs a lot to get all this.
  • VALUE: Great knife, but you pay for it.
  • OVERALL OPINION: This is one of my favorite knives. I just wish it cost about half of what it does.
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