Benchmade Knives

OREGON CITY, Ore. --(Ammoland.com)-The US Green Building Council (USGBC) has awarded Benchmade Knife Company with Gold Certification LEED EB: O&M for their facility in Oregon City, Oregon.

This award represents an extensive effort by Benchmade to adhere to a number of environmentally rigorous standards. Benchmade is the first Oregon manufacturing company to achieve this highly esteemed Gold Certification.

“Our entire workforce played a role in helping us get LEED Gold,” says Les de Asis, Founder and CEO of Benchmade. “These efforts will payoff in terms of both reducing our environmental impact as well as improving our bottom line.”

Developed by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), LEED is an internationally recognized green building certification system. The system identifies best practices for buildings in the areas of energy efficiency, water conservation, sustainable grounds, healthy indoor air quality, and environmentally friendly materials. LEED EB: O&M certification, otherwise known as LEED for Existing Buildings: Operations & Maintenance, identifies and rewards current best practices and provides an outline for buildings to use less energy, water, and natural resources, improve indoor environment, and uncover operating inefficiencies.

“LEED certification identifies Benchmade Knife Company as a pioneering example of sustainable design and demonstrates their leadership in transforming the building industry” commented S. Richard Fedrizzi, President, CEO and Founding Chairman, US Green Building Council.

To attain LEED EB: O&M, a building must address five broad categories: sustainable sites, water efficiency, energy & atmosphere, materials & resources, and indoor environmental quality. Benchmade discovered innovative ways to improve the efficiency of their building, including:

• installed economizer on all HVAC units controlling and reducing emissions for office environments
• installed ENERGY STAR™, White PVC Versiflex roof
• installed T5HO4 Lamp fixtures for operation general lighting, resulting in annually saving of 51,073 kWh, 88% Return on Investment (ROI), estimated by Energy Trust of Oregon
  installed ultra water saver faucet aerator (0.5 gpm @ 60psi)
  monitoring and controlling industrial water
  reduce, reuse, recycle materials

“Taking the necessary steps to achieve LEED Gold Certification was not easy, but it’s wonderful to be acknowledged for our efforts” said John Ciorba, Benchmade’s Facilities and Maintenance Manager.

Benchmade was assisted on the project by Green Building Services, a comprehensive sustainable development consulting firm. To date, Green Building Services has managed the certification of more than 350 LEED projects worldwide.

The Gold certified 50,400 square-foot manufacturing facility is located at the Benchmade headquarters in Oregon City, Oregon. Benchmade expects a financial return on their investment in attaining LEED Gold within two years, perhaps sooner.

Benchmade Knives

OREGON CITY, Ore. --(Ammoland.com)- The Shooting Industry Academy of Excellence presented its 2011 Knife of the Year Award to Benchmade Knife Company for the model 915 Triage™. The awards were presented during the Shooting Industry Masters event on July 22 in Bowling Green, Kentucky. This was the 20 anniversary of the Shooting Industry Academy of Excellence.

“The Shooting Industry Academy of Excellence Knife of the Year award is extremely meaningful to Benchmade,” says Les de Asis, CEO and Founder of Benchmade Knife Company.

“We are very honored to receive this award because it not only recognizes our high-quality American-made products, but also the dedication and hard work of our employees.”

Benchmade Knife Company Model 915 Triage Knife

The 915 Triage is an excellent utility tool, featuring a folding knife, a safety hook and a carbide tip glass breaker. Built with Benchmade’s patented AXIS locking mechanism, this knife uses N680 corrosion resistant blade steel and has textured G10 handle scales available in orange or black. It’s the first time ever that Benchmade has manufactured a multi-functional tool. Unlike any other product in the Benchmade line, this tool offers multiple uses and variations. For more information on the 915 Triage, please visit: www.benchmade.com/915

Benchmade has won Knife of the Year for three consecutive years and eleven times since 1998 when the category was introduced. Previous Benchmade Knife of the Year winners include 741 Onslaught (2010), 585 Mini-Barrage (2009), 610 Rukus (2006), 425 Gravitator (2005), 921 Switchback (2003), 556 Mini-Griptilian (2002), 690 Elishewitz (2001), 720 Mel Pardue (2000), 710 McHenry & Williams (1999), and the 910 Stryker (1998). For more information on previous winners, please visit: www.benchmade.com/shooting_industry

For a recap of all winners at the Shooting Industry Academy of Excellence, please visit: www.shootingindustry.com

Benchmade Knives

OREGON CITY, Ore. --(Ammoland.com)-  Benchmade is proud to announce that the documentary film Shepherds of Helmand won the Platinum Sponsors Award at the GI Film Festival. The Platinum Sponsors Award is presented by the Military Channel.

“It is such an honor to be chosen out of several other influential films at the festival,” says Gary Mortensen, Director of Shepherds of Helmand. “It is truly rewarding to share the story of these brave soldiers and their sacrifices for our country.”

Shepherds of Helmand

The Shepherds of Helmand tells the story of 17 Oregon National Guard soldiers deployed to Afghanistan to train a battalion of the Afghan National Army in 2008.

The film depicts their mission to conduct counter narcotics patrols in the deadly Helmand Province, a region notorious not only for its opium production but as a Taliban stronghold. Shepherds of Helmand is the true story of one of the most decorated units in Oregon National Guard history.

“We were very proud to support the making of the film and are thrilled to see all of awards and accolades” says Rob Morrison, Benchmade’s Director of Marketing and Strategic Planning. “Gary did a phenomenal job of pulling the material together and sharing the story of these true American heroes.”

The GI Film Festival (GIFF) is a 501 c(3) non-profit educational organization dedicated to sharing the military experience in and out of the arena of war. The GI Film Festival is the first film festival in the nation to exclusively celebrate the successes and sacrifices of the service member through the medium of film. This year’s event took place May 9th through 15th in Washington, DC. For more information on the GI Film Festival and other films, please visit: http://gifilmfestival.com.

In addition to the GI Film Festival, the Shepherds of Helmand has also been an official selection of the Riverside Film Festival, Capital City Film Festival, Sunscreen Film Festival, and was picked Best Documentary of the Queens World Film Festival.

To purchase a copy of the DVD of Shepherds of Helmand, please visit www.benchmade.com/.

Benchmade Knives

OREGON CITY, Ore. --(Ammoland.com)- OREGON CITY, Ore. --(Ammoland.com)- The Shooting Industry Academy of Excellence has selected the 915 Triage as a finalist in the Knife of the Year Category.

The 915 Triage is a new product for 2011 from Benchmade.

The new Benchmade 915 Triage is the perfect utility tool, featuring a folding knife, a safety hook and a glass breaker for additional safety.

Benchmade 915 Triage Knife

The AXIS locking mechanism and modified sheepsfoot blade style is a great cutting tool for numerous applications. Built with N680 highly corrosion and water resistant steel and ambidextrous thumb-stud openers, the 915 Triage is an easy-to-use tool.

The textured G10 handle is available in orange or black and provides excellent grip and feel.

Whether you’re using this knife in the outdoors or in an emergency situation, the 915 Triage is the dynamic tool to rely on. This USA-made product is designed and built for the individual who appreciates the difference that a high-quality cutting tool can make.

“We are thrilled to be selected as one of the top three knives in our industry,” said Rob Morrison, Benchmade’s Director of Marketing.

The 20th Anniversary Shooting Industry Academy of Excellence Awards will be announced Friday evening July 22, at the Holiday Inn University Plaza in Bowling Green, Kentucky.

Benchmade Knives

OREGON CITY, Ore. --(Ammoland.com)- A final judgment has been awarded to Benchmade Knife Company in a case brought by Benchmade and Mentor Group LLC against Jonathan Benson, an internet knife dealer, and his company, RoadsideImports LLC, a Colorado company.

The judgment, issued by federal judge Ancer Haggerty of the District of Oregon, finds Defendants Benson and RoadsideImports liable on all counts of the complaint, including patent infringement, trademark infringement, counterfeiting, false advertising, and libel, and enjoins Defendants Benson and RoadsideImports from such conduct in the future.

In issuing the final judgment, the Judge noted that Defendant Jonathan Benson repeatedly missed deadlines and failed to comply with the orders of the court. Earlier this year, Judge Haggerty ordered Benson to pay Benchmade as a sanction for failing to comply with the court’s previous orders.

“We’re very pleased with this ruling from the court,” says Les de Asis, Founder and CEO of Benchmade Knife Company. “Over the past twenty years, we’ve spent a great deal of time and money building the Benchmade brand and we take great pride in building a quality, USA-made product. We’re happy to have this case behind us once and for all.”

Specifically, the Final Judgment and Order against Defendants Jonathan Benson and RoadsideImports, LLC found that:

a. Mentor’s U.S. Patent Nos. 6,550,832 and 6,675,484 are valid and infringed by Defendants;

b. Mentor’s U.S. Patent No. 5,822,866 is valid and infringed by Defendants;

c. Defendants are ENJOINED from further infringement of U.S. Patent Nos. 6,550,832, 6,675,484 and 5,822,866;

d. Defendants have infringed Benchmade’s trademarks BENCHMADE® and BENCHMITE® under 15 U.S.C. § 1114 and under the common law;

e. Use of “Benchmite” and “Benchlite” by Defendants is likely to cause confusion or mistake, or to deceive concerning the origin, sponsorship, affiliation, or association of Defendants or their products with Benchmade under 15 U.S.C. § 1125(a);

f. Use of “Benchmite” and “Benchlite” by Defendants is passing off under the common law;

g. Defendants’ use of “Benchmite” in connection with the advertising and sale of a knife substantially identical to Benchmade’s BENCHMITE® knife constitutes use of a counterfeit mark pursuant to 15 U.S.C. § 1114;

h. Defendants are ENJOINED from use of “Benchmite” or “Benchlite” or any other name or mark confusingly similar thereto when applied to Defendants’ goods or services;

i. Defendants have falsely advertised themselves as an authorized BENCHMADE® dealer under 15 U.S.C. § 1125(a) and under the common law;

j. Defendants are ENJOINED from representing themselves as authorized dealers of Benchmade knives or otherwise suggesting a relationship with Plaintiffs;

k. Providing a knife made in China in a box bearing “USA Stainless Steel Knife” is a false designation of origin pursuant to 15 U.S.C. § 1125(a);

l. Defendants are ENJOINED from any activity that states, implies or suggests that products made outside of the U.S.A. are made in the U.S.A.;

m. Defendants shall ensure that all products sold by them are marked with a country of origin in accordance with 19 U.S.C. § 1904;

n. Defendants have defamed and libeled Benchmade by publishing false and defamatory material;

o. Defendants’ false and defamatory statements about Benchmade were willful and malicious with specific intent to damage Benchmade; and

p. Defendants are enjoined from publishing that “Benchmade stole Spyderco’s designs.”

Benchmade 9101 Auto Stryker Knife

Benchmade Knives

OREGON CITY, Ore. --(Ammoland.com)- The 9101 next generation Benchmade Auto-Stryker incorporates a larger, stronger locking button, open back spacer design for easy maintenance and increased spring force.

Push-button automatic with integrated safety. Made with 54CM stainless steel tanto blade (58-61HRC).

Machined 6061 T-6 black anodized aluminum handle with reversible tip-up pocket clip. NSN: 1095-01-577-1801 (9101SBK)

• BLADE LENGTH 3.60″ (9.10 cm)
• BLADE THICKNESS 0.124″ (3.15mm)
• OPEN 8.30″ (21.08cm)
• CLOSED 4.70″ (11.94cm)
• WEIGHT 4.20oz (110.56g)
• HANDLE THICKNESS 0.50″ (12.70mm)
• MSRP: $250

For more information, contact our Customer Service Team at 800.800.7427.

Note: This is a restricted item. Procurement is regulated by law.

Benchmade Knives

OREGON CITY, Ore. --(Ammoland.com)- Benchmade is proud to announce the release of Shepherds of Helmand, a documentary about 17 Oregon National Guard soldiers deployed to Afghanistan to train a battalion of the Afghan National Army in 2008.

The film depicts their mission to conduct counter narcotics patrols in the deadly Helmand Province, a region notorious not only for its opium production but as a Taliban stronghold. Shepherds of Helmand is the true story of one of the most decorated units in Oregon National Guard history.

“I am very passionate about preserving our veteran’s legacies and supporting programs that help support our wounded veterans,” says Gary Mortensen, Director of Shepherds of Helmand. “This film couldn’t have been possible without the support of Benchmade.”

Shepherds of Helmand

Filmmaker Gary Mortensen worked on the project for over two years and utilized photos and video clips provided by the soldiers. Shepherds of Helmand is narrated by Don Trump Jr. and features music by Zac Brown Band. Both were thrilled to be involved and support this powerful documentary about the soldiers who served in Afghanistan.

“We’re extremely proud to support the making of this film,” says Rob Morrison, Benchmade’s Director of Marketing and Strategic Planning. “These stories help us understand what the soldiers go through on a daily basis when at war, bringing us closer to their personal sacrifices.”

Shepherds of Helmand will have its Portland, Oregon screening on Thursday, February 3rd at 7:00 pm at the Hollywood Theater. The showing is open to the public and will include an introduction by the director, as well as a Q&A session with the six soldiers who appear in the film. Tickets will cost $5 and are available from The Hollywood Theatre: www.hollywoodtheatre.org

A portion of the proceeds from the screening and DVD sales of the film will support Honored American Veterans Afield (HAVA). HAVA is a 501(c) 3 non-profit organization that was formed with the purpose of raising awareness and further assisting disabled active duty military and veterans with their healing process through active outdoor sports activities. For more information about HAVA and to purchase your own copy of the Shepherds of Helmand DVD, please visit: honoredveterans.org.

To view the movie trailer, or for more information about the Shepherds of Helmand, please visit: shepherdsofhelmand.com

Benchmade Knives

OREGON CITY, Ore. --(Ammoland.com)- Benchmade Knife Company is proud to announce Cameron Grantham as the new Program Manager of Federal Law Enforcement Sales on their Federal Government team.

Mr. Grantham brings over eight years of military and law enforcement sales experience to Benchmade. For the past two years, he served as the Military and Law Enforcement Tactical Division Business Development Manager for Danner/LaCrosse Footwear in Portland, OR. Prior to that, he worked in the Military/Law Enforcement Tactical Division at Leupold & Stevens Inc. in Beaverton, OR.

“I am excited to join the Benchmade Federal Government Sales team,” says Mr. Grantham. “I look forward to strategically expanding Benchmade’s brand within the military and law enforcement markets.”

Benchmade Knife Co's Cameron Grantham

Grantham has also served with several law enforcement agencies as an officer, SWAT team member and as a weapons instructor.

“Cameron brings a wealth of experience and has a successful business track record in the Law Enforcement market.” says Mike Nack, Benchmade’s Fed/Gov Sales Manager. “His knowledge and skills will contribute to Benchmade’s growth and development among our Federal Government team.”

Mr. Grantham will work out of the Benchmade headquarters in Oregon City, OR.

For more information on Benchmade Knives, contact our Customer Service Team at 800.800.7427 or visit www.benchmade.com.

Paul W Poehlmann Axial Knife Series

Benchmade Knives

OREGON CITY, Ore. --(Ammoland.com)- Benchmade Knife Company is proud to announce new partnerships with three custom designers: Butch Ball, Paul W. Poehlmann, and Bill Harsey, Jr. Their world-class custom designs and innovative ideas will allow Benchmade to discover the newest locking mechanisms, modern materials, and custom finishing techniques.

Butch Ball grew up with a fascination of knives and began building his own knives in a machine shop in Florida. In 2001, he built his own shop in Virginia, where he currently resides.

The first Benchmade-Ball collaboration knife will be the new Harley-Davidson 13450 T-Rod. This knife is a push button, two-position knife that can be either a fixed blade or a dagger. Featuring a modified clip point 440C stainless steel blade and aluminum handles, this knife also includes a black leather sheath. MSRP $120.

Paul W. Poehlmann is a skilled custom knife maker and designer of mechanical solutions. He draws on an engineering career in the aeronautical industry where he designed escape system hardware and survival equipment. Poehlmann’s passion for precision has resulted in some of the smoothest and safest folding knives ever made. He invented the Paul axial locking mechanism and holds over forty utility patents and two design patents.

The new Axial series of knives will be released within the Benchmade product line. These knives all feature the Paul locking mechanism and are available in a variety of sizes and handle materials, including G10, Carbon Fiber, Cocobolo and Ivory Micarta.

Finally, Oregonian Bill Harsey Jr. is an award-winning knife maker and designer. Known for his unique ergonomic designs, he has crafted many one-of-a-kind folding and fixed blade knives that have become the preferred edged tools of several Special Forces units.

The 3800 NTK is the new Benchmade-Harsey collaboration featuring a double action locking liner automatic mechanism, D2 tool blade steel and Nylon handle with textured Kraton.

“I am excited to add three very talented custom designers to the Benchmade team,” says Les de Asis, Founder and CEO of Benchmade Knife Company. “These additions will help Benchmade continue to create the most innovative and functional designs in the industry.”

All of these new knives will be officially released in January at the SHOT Show in Las Vegas, NV.

BenchMade 480-1 Shoki Nakamura Design Knife

Benchmade Knives

OREGON CITY, Ore. --(Ammoland.com)- Benchmade Knife Company is pleased to announce the new manual version of the 860 Bedlam Knife.

The 480-1 Shoki knife includes a Nak-Lok locking mechanism, a crowned blade spine and thumb-stud opener.

A Flat grind bevel M390 super steel blade (60-62HRC) and a Carbon fiber handles with titanium liners and nickel-plated hardware. Sheath included and made in the U.S.A.

• 480-1 Shoki
• BLADE LENGTH 2.89″ (7.35cm)
• BLADE THICKNESS 0.09″ (2.29mm)
• OPEN 6.67″ (16.94cm)
• CLOSED 3.79″ (9.63cm)
• WEIGHT 1.80oz (51.02g)
• HANDLE THICKNESS 0.37″ (9.39mm)
• MSRP: $220

For more information, contact our Customer Service Team at 800.800.7427 or visit www.benchmade.com.

Benchmade Knives

OREGON CITY, Ore. --(Ammoland.com)- Benchmade Knife Company is pleased to announce the new manual version of the 860 Bedlam Knife.

The popular Auto-Bedlam is now available in a manual version.

1. AXIS® Lock Mechanism
2. 154CM stainless steel blade (58-61HRC)
3. Ambidextrous dual thumb stud opener
4. Black G10 handle scales and tip-up reversible clip

Benchmade 860 Bedlam Knife

860SBK Bedlam

• BLADE LENGTH 3.95″ (10.03cm)
• BLADE THICKNESS 0.125″ (3.18mm)
• OPEN 9.71″ (24.66cm)
• CLOSED 5.76″ (14.64cm)
• WEIGHT 7.10oz (201.28g)
• HANDLE THICKNESS 0.60″ (15.18mm)
• Configurations/MSRP : 860 $220; 860S $220; 860BK $235; 860SBK $235

For more information, contact our Customer Service Team at 800.800.7427. For more information on the Benchmade portfolio of brands, visit www.benchmade.com

Benchmade Knives

OREGON CITY, Ore. --(Ammoland.com)- Benchmade Knife Company is pleased to announce four new brand managers who will help drive growth for their portfolio of brands.

The four brand managers are: Jason Boyd – Benchmade; Adam Navarro – Harley-Davidson Knives; Tom Garlock – HK Knives; and Matt Elliott – Lone Wolf Knives.

Each brand manager will be responsible for the performance of their respective product lines, assessing market and competitor activity, establishing pricing and merchandising programs, and working with Benchmade’s engineering and operations teams in the introduction of new products.

They will also work closely with Benchmade’s sales managers in all markets – Commercial, Federal Government & Military Sales and Hardware/Industrial.

All four brand managers will report to Rob Morrison, Benchmade’s Director of Marketing and Strategic Planning.

“As we continue to expand our portfolio of brands and look for growth opportunities in a variety of markets, it’s critical to have dedicated brand professionals in place,” according to Greg Mooney, President of Benchmade.

The position of Brand Manager is new for Benchmade.

• Jason Boyd: Mr. Boyd has been Benchmade’s Product Line manager for the past two years. He began his career at Nike working in Retail, Sport Marketing and Product Development in both the Equipment and Apparel Divisions. He then moved to LaCrosse Footwear where he was a Product Line Manager for the Danner Work and Uniform Lines. He has done project work at both adidas and Norm Thompson Outfitters. Mr. Boyd received his Bachelor’s of Arts degree in Psychology from Gonzaga University in Spokane, Washington.
• Adam Navarro: Mr. Navarro has been the Sales Coordinator for Harley-Davidson Knives for the past two years, overseeing all sales and event activity for the line. Prior to joining Benchmade, Mr. Navarro was with Red Bull for seven years and Latus Motors Harley-Davidson.
• Tom Garlock: Mr. Garlock brings over twenty years of experience to Benchmade. He has spent several years in the sports industry where he worked for Nike, adidas and Mizuno focusing on the marketing and sales side of the business. Mr. Garlock graduated from Oregon State University.
• Matt Elliott: Mr. Elliott most recently was Marketing Coordinator for Wilsonville, Oregon-based Houdini Automotive Escape Tools. He has also worked for Sportsman’s Warehouse and spent two years in Bristol Bay, Alaska as a sports fishing guide on the Togiak river. Mr. Elliott graduated from Portland State University with a Bachelors of Science in International Marketing and Advertising Management.

Benchmade Knives

OREGON CITY, Ore. --(Ammoland.com)- Benchmade Knife Company is pleased to announce their acquisition of Wilsonville, Ore.-based Lone Wolf Knives, Inc.

The addition of Lone Wolf Knives to the Benchmade portfolio will allow the company to compete at the heart of the sports cutlery market with a purpose driven product line influenced by the outdoors.

“The acquisition of Lone Wolf Knives will be a great addition to the Benchmade family of brands,” says Les de Asis, Founder and CEO of Benchmade Knife Company.

“Those familiar with Lone Wolf Knives appreciate the extremely strong connection the brand and product has with the outdoors.”

New Lone Wolf Knives product will be developed in the coming months and will be launched at the NSSF SHOT Show, January 18th-21st at the Sands Expo & Convention Center in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Lone Wolf Knives

Over the past several years, Benchmade has been building a stable of quality brands. In addition to the flagship Benchmade Knife Company product, the company also has exclusive licensing agreements to design, manufacture and market Harley-Davidson Knives and HK Knives.

Despite the recent turbulent economy, Benchmade has been able to post several years of consecutive double-digit growth and recently added 20,000 square feet of manufacturing and office space to their manufacturing headquarters in Oregon City, Ore.

“We’ve been blessed to have talented employees and loyal customers and dealers that have helped us grow despite the economy” said de Asis.

“We are very excited about the opportunities that will emerge as a result of our acquisition of Lone Wolf Knives.”

For more information on the Benchmade portfolio of brands, visit www.benchmade.com

Benchmade 940SBK Folding Knife Carried By Injured Vets

Benchmade Knives

OREGON CITY, Ore. --(Ammoland.com)- Benchmade Knife Company is sponsoring “Soldiers to the Summit,” an extreme mountain climbing expedition of expert climbers and wounded combat veterans from the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq.

The climb is organized by World TEAM Sports, a non-profit organization that supports disabled athletes through team athletic events.

The team includes 12 injured soldiers and 10 expert climbers, including Erik Weihenmayer, the first and only blind person to reach the summit of Mount Everest.

Soldiers to the Summit

The team will attempt to climb the 20,075 foot Lobuche East, a technical snow and ice climb in the shadow of Mount Everest. The expedition will take place for 20 days from October 2nd through October 21st.

“Benchmade is proud to support these wounded warriors and climbers embarking on this incredible journey,” says Rob Morrison, Director of Marketing and Strategic Planning for Benchmade Knife Company.

“This is a wonderful cause and we are glad that the soldiers and climbers will be using our knives during their expedition.”

Each soldier and climber has been outfitted with a model 940SBK folding knife that has been personalized with a customer laser mark. This is the second time that Benchmade has supported Erik Weihenmayer who first reached the summit of Mount Everest in 2001, also with a model 940SBK in hand.

For more information on the “Soldiers to the Summit,” visit their website and follow the expedition at: www.soldierstothesummit.org.

Benchmade Knife

OREGON CITY, Ore. --(AmmoLand.com)- The Shooting Industry Academy of Excellence presented its 2010 Knife of the Year Award to Benchmade Knife Company for the model 741 Onslaught.

The awards were presented at the Shooting Industry Masters event on July 23rd in Grand Island, Nebraska.

“Benchmade is honored to receive such a prestigious award and be recognized for our American-made products and high-quality manufacturing,” says Les de Asis, CEO and Founder of Benchmade Knife Company.

Benchmade 741 Onslaught Knife

The 741 Onslaught features Benchmade’s patented AXIS® Locking Mechanism, contoured G10 handle scales with 420J stainless steel liners, and 154CM stainless steel blade.

The knife was designed by renowned custom knife maker, Bob Lum. For more information on the 741 Onslaught, please visit: http://www.benchmade.com/products/741

741 Onslaught Benchmade has now won Knife of the Year twice in the past two years and ten times since 1998.

Previous Benchmade Knife of the Year winners include 585 Mini-Barrage (2009), 610 Rukus (2006), 425 Gravitator (2005), 921 Switchback (2003), 556 Mini-Griptilian (2002), 690 Elishewitz (2001), 720 Mel Pardue (2000), 710 McHenry & Williams (1999), and the 910 Stryker (1998).

• For more information on previous winners, please visit: http://www.benchmade.com/shooting_industry/recap/
• For a recap of all winners at the Shooting Industry Academy of Excellence, please visit: http://www.shootingindustry.com/10SIAEwin.html

Benchmade Knife

OREGON CITY, Ore.--(Ammoland.com)- Benchmade Knife Company is proud to announce Eli Gonzalez as the new Program Manager of Special Operations Forces (SOF) on their Federal Government team.

Mr. Gonzalez brings twenty years of U.S. Army Special Operations experience to Benchmade.

Benchmade Knives Eli Gonzalez Program Manager of Special Operations

For the past five years, he served as Business Development Manager for ATK Tactical Systems/Eagle Industries Inc. Prior to that, Mr. Gonzalez worked with SAAB Technologies, as the Program Manager for Special Operations in charge of Special Operations Signature Management initiatives.

“I am honored to be part of the Benchmade team. I look forward to strategically expanding Benchmade’s brand within the federal government markets,” says Mr. Gonzalez.

“Eli comes to Benchmade with many proven successes and a solid reputation in the industry,” says Mike Nack, Fed/Gov Sales Manager. “His knowledge and expertise will be strategic to Benchmade’s growth and development among our Federal Government team.”

Eli will reside in Fayettecille, NC outside of Fort Bragg, home of the 18th Airborne Corps and the U.S. Army Special Operations Command.

About Benchmade:
For two decades, Benchmade Knife Company has been committed to designing and manufacturing world-class sports cutlery and superior edged tools. We continually strive to provide high quality edged tools that will deliver unparalleled performance and exceptional value for our customers.

American Knife & Tool Institute

Rochester, MN --(Ammoland.com)- One of the founding members of the American Knife & Tool Institute (www.AKTI.org) will speak at the Outdoor Writers Association of America’s annual conference in Minnesota.C.J. Buck, who is a current member of the AKTI Board of Regents and the CEO of Buck Knives, will talk about the non-profit organization’s efforts “to clarify state and federal knife law.”

C.J. Buck, the CEO of Buck Knives, will be among the featured speakers at the Outdoor Writers Association of America’s annual conference June 10-13 at the Kahler Grand Hotel in Rochester, MN. The association’s membership includes outdoor writers, editors, authors, broadcasters, producers, photographers and artists.

Buck, one of the founders of the American Knife & Tool Institute (www.AKTI.org) and a member of its Board of Regents, will talk about “AKTI and our efforts to clarify state and federal knife law.” He is scheduled to speak Thursday, June 10, 11:15 a.m. to 1 p.m.

C.J. Buck of Buck Knives

A fourth-generation knife-maker, Buck’s great-grandfather Hoyt planted the seed for the family business more than a century ago. He described Hoyt as “a guy with an anvil, forge and a grinder” who eventually moved to San Diego and taught his oldest son, Al, the art of knife-making. That legacy was passed onto to Buck’s father, Chuck.

In the 1950s the company grew steadily, but it was the introduction of the Model 110 Folding Hunter in 1964 with its innovative “lockblade” mechanism that put the company on the map. It became popular with hunters, ranchers, farmers and the military. Model 110 is still “extremely popular and a huge seller,” Buck said.

With success came responsibility, so Buck, along with Les de Asis of Benchmade Knife Company, met with industry leaders and others at a number of knife-related events in 1997 to discuss forming a national advocacy and education organization embracing every segment of the knife industry. American Knife & Tool Institute, Inc., was formed the following year.

According to its Executive Director, Jan, Billeb, AKTI’s goal are to:

• Educate the public, legislators and law enforcement about knives.
• Promote reasonable, responsible and consistent knife legislation.
• Inform with accurate industry, historical and technical information.

“A knife is a valuable tool — and ought not to be used as a weapon,” AKTI Board member Buck said, adding that a simply worded law that said that would be more effective than the sometimes vague and complex laws that can infringe on individual rights.

AKTI has been able to help achieve that clarity in a number of states, including Texas, California, Florida and Arkansas, Buck said, adding that his goal as a speaker to the Outdoor Writers Association of America will be to enlist their help in getting the word out to sportsmen regarding this issue as well as explain “what AKTI is, what we do, and what we plan to do next.”

ABOUT AKTI:
The American Knife and Tool Institute is a non-profit organization (501(c)6) representing the combined efforts of manufacturers, distributors, retailers, custom knife artisans, journalists, and concerned citizens united to educate, promote, and inform the American public about various types of knives and folding multi-tools. It was formed after discussion among industry leaders about the need for a unifying organization to represent the knife-using and knife-making community. For more information, call (307) 587-8296 or visit www.AKTI.org.

Benchmade Knife

Oregon City, ORE – -(AmmoLand.com)- Benchmade is proud to support the Clackamas Academy of Industrial Sciences (CAIS), a new charter school in Oregon City.

Sponsored by the Oregon City School District and Clackamas Community College, CAIS allows high school students to prepare for an industrial career by working for local manufacturing companies and earn college credits.

The program is structured with the first two years of classes at Oregon City High School. The junior year allows students to spend time in different industrial settings, and senior year focuses on an internship and CCC courses. The program begins this fall for the 2010-2011 school year.

The CAIS program allows students with engineering and industrial interests to focus and develop the skills they need to join the workforce. CAIS curriculum is still being developed, however the structure of the program will cover on the job skills, as well as other aspects relating to manufacturing and engineering, including math, physics, and science.

“It is important that students realize that manufacturing is a critical aspect in the workforce,” says Rick Murphy, Director of Finance at Benchmade Knife Company. “By joining forces with other local companies, we are proud to encourage the youth in our community.”

Students will become involved in several different aspects of the manufacturing process and learn skills that will help them to grow and become successful in our community. Other local companies that will be participating are Miles Fiberglass in Clackamas and Pioneer Pump in Canby.

For more information on the Clackamas Academy of Industrial Sciences (CAIS), please visit: http://www.orecity.k12.or.us/schools/cais

Benchmade Knives

OREGON CITY, Ore.- -(AmmoLand.com)-  The Oregon City Chamber of Commerce presented Benchmade Knife Company with the 2009 Business of the Year Award.

The award ceremony took place at the Oregon City Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner and Auction on Saturday, January 30th, 2010 at the Abernethy Center in Downtown Oregon City, Oregon.

“Benchmade is honored to be recognized by the Oregon City Chamber of Commerce,” says Les de Asis, Founder and Owner of Benchmade Knife Company. “As a Clackamas County business owner and based in Oregon City for the past fourteen years, Benchmade remains committed to supporting our local community.”

Other award categories recognized at the event include Business Person of the Year, Chamber Citizen of the Year, Community Enhancement Award, and Rookie of the Year Award. The award for Business of the Year is based on three primary criteria: business responsiveness and employee involvement in serving the community, business growth in the past year, and participation in the local community.

Other finalists nominated for the Business of the Year award include Beavercreek Cooperative Telephone Company (BCT), The Verdict, West Coast Bank, My Mother Knows, and the Abernathy Center.

For more information, please visit the Oregon City Chamber of Commerce website: www.oregoncity.org

About Benchmade:
For two decades, Benchmade Knife Company has been committed to designing and manufacturing world-class sports cutlery and superior edged tools. We continually strive to provide high quality edged tools that will deliver unparalleled performance and exceptional value for our customers.

Benchmade Knife Company

OREGON CITY, Ore. -(Ammoland.com)- Benchmade Knife Company is proud to announce an official partnership with WARN Industries, Inc. High quality edged tools will become available in early 2010 that will deliver superior performance and provide great value for customers.

Founded in 1948, WARN Industries, Inc. is best known for their off-road products. Headquartered in Clackamas, Oregon, WARN designs, manufactures, and markets more than 600 products and accessories for off-road, industrial and commercial users.

“We are very excited about the partnership with Benchmade.  Their history of producing the best knives in the world couples extremely well with WARN’s industry leading off-road technology.  We believe that putting these two great brands together will result in world class products and exciting new options for our combined customer base,” comments John McCalla, President at WARN.

Benchmade Knife Company Partners With WARN Industries

“WARN is one of the world’s most recognized names in the off-road community,” said Greg Mooney, President of Benchmade Knife Company. “This partnership will help expand the Benchmade brand into new markets and reach new consumers.”

Four new products are set to launch in 2010 and  incorporate a variety of different mechanisms, materials, and price points. They include:

Model 583-1/587-1 – Large and Small AXIS® Assist Folding Knives:
Designed for maximum utility, the 583-1 is a great folder for any situation. The tanto blade shape, AXIS® Assist locking mechanism, and machined G10 handle is sure to feel natural in the palm of your hand. Made in USA.
MSRP – 583-1 $150 satin blade; 583SBK-1 $165 black ceramic coated blade
MSRP – 587-1 $130 satin blade; 587SBK-1 $145 black ceramic coated blade

Model 9 CB-1 Utility Hook:
The new 9 CB-1 Carabineer Hook is a great accessory for any outdoorsman. This new safety cutter has the ability to cut up to ½” diameter of rope and features a retractable safety blade cover. A carabineer clip and bottle opener completes the package. Made in USA.
MSRP- 9 CB-1 $25

Model 30110-1 Houdini AET (Automotive Escape Tool):
Be prepared for any situation that could put you or your family in harms way by always having your Houdini™ AET near by. It’s the keychain that could save your life. Includes a seatbelt cutter, LED flashlight, spring-loaded glass breaker, and safety whistle.

MSRP 30110-1 $25

About Warn Industries:
Warn Industries is the world’s most recognized brand in off-road products such as hub locks and vehicle recovery winches. The company designs, manufactures and markets a full line of off-road equipment and accessories that enhance the performance of four-wheel-drive and powersport vehicles. Warn Industries has employees in and around Portland, Ore., Livonia, Mich., the Netherlands and Saltillo, Mexico.

About Benchmade:
For two decades, Benchmade Knife Company has been committed to designing and manufacturing world-class sports cutlery and superior edged tools. We continually strive to provide high quality edged tools that will deliver unparalleled performance and exceptional value for our customers.

Benchmade Knife Company Most Admired Company Award

OREGON CITY, Ore. - Benchmade Knife Company is pleased to announce a partnership with USA Shooting in order to help in their mission of preparing American athletes to win Olympic medals and promote shooting sports throughout the United States.

These USA Shooting Team Exclusive knives feature Benchmade’s patented AXIS® locking mechanism, a 440C stainless steel blade with the USA Shooting Team logo, and a blue glass reinforced nylon handle. The 527BK-USA and 527SBK-USA will be offered at $105. A portion of the proceeds from every unit sold will be donated to the USA Shooting Team.

Benchmade USA Shooting Team Exclusive Knife

Founded in 1995, USA Shooting is dedicated to furthering the sport of shooting and supporting athletes and members of the organization. Shooting remains a competitive sport in the United States with nearly 20 million target shooters. The Olympic Games has become a successful event for American shooters, with over 100 Olympic medals won by the United States.

“As a 501c3 non-profit organization, USA Shooting relies on support from those who take a strong interest in the development of the U.S. Shooting Team,” says Buddy DuVall, Executive Director of the USA Shooting Team Foundation. “As our program continues to grow, we are excited and optimistic about the sponsorship efforts from Benchmade.”

USA Shooting is headquartered at the Olympic Training Center (OTC) in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Located on the OTC campus, the Olympic Shooting Center was built in 1985 and is used for elite and resident athlete training, competitions, national championships, coaching seminars, camps, committee meetings and local clubs. Approximately 25 resident and day-use athletes train at the OTC during the year.

The Shooting Center is the largest indoor shooting facility in the Western Hemisphere and the third largest in the world. Three separate ranges provide 29 firing points from 50 meters and 73 firing points from 10 meters for training and competitions. It also houses the administration offices, a gunsmith room and locker rooms for resident and visiting athletes.

“Benchmade takes great pride in supporting American athletes and manufacturing quality, USA-made products,” says Rob Morrison, director of Marketing for Benchmade Knife Company. “We are very excited about the partnership with USA Shooting.”

For more information about USA Shooting, please visit
www.usashooting.org

Benchmade Knives

OREGON CITY, Oregon --(AmmoLand.com)- The Portland Business Journal recognized Benchmade Knife Company as one of Oregon’s Most Admired Companies within the Manufacturing Companies division.

The Most Admired Companies Luncheon took place on Thursday, December 10th at the Hilton Hotel in downtown Portland, Oregon.

“It is an honor to be recognized among such admired and prestigious organizations in the state” says Les de Asis, Founder and Owner of Benchmade Knife Company. “We are thrilled to be in such select company.”

Benchmade Knife Company Most Admired Company Award

Most Admired Companies were awarded across nine different categories: professional services, agriculture and forest products, health care, financial services, nonprofits, commercial real estate, technology, manufacturing, and across all industries.

Surveys were sent to more than 1,800 CEO’s throughout the Oregon and Southwest Washington region and asked them to select the companies they most admire. These awards recognize companies that CEO’s believe to be the very best organizations in the region.

Other companies winning awards in the manufacturing category include Nike Inc., Columbia Sportswear Co., Precision Castparts Corp., Jeld-Wen Inc., Leatherman Tool Group Inc., ESCO Corp., A-dec Inc., Oregon Iron Works Inc., and Rejuvenation Inc.

For a recap of the Portland Business Journal “Most Admired Companies” Awards, please visit: www.portland.bizjournals.com

Benchmade Knives

OREGON CITY, Ore.--(AmmoLand.com)- Executives of Benchmade Knife Company and Heckler & Koch USA are pleased to announce the continuation of their licensing partnership and the launch of a series of new products.

“HK is a strong brand with a tremendous following. We are proud to be associated with such a great company” says Greg Mooney, President of Benchmade.

Wayne Weber, President of Heckler & Koch USA comments, “Benchmade’s commitment to quality and innovation is a perfect match for the HK brand.”

Several new models of HK Knives are now entering the marketplace. These knives incorporate a variety of different mechanisms, materials, and price points.

The following models are now available:

• 14800 Tumult™
• 14650 P30™
• 14301/14351 Ascender™ Tanto
• 14302/14352 Ascender™ Drop Point
• 14440SB-Combo (includes folding knife, multi-tool, and LED light)

Benchmad P300 H&K Knife

Background:
For over half a century, Heckler and Koch has been a leading designer and manufacturer of military, law enforcement and civilian firearms. HK’s reputation for quality, innovation, and safety make them a recognized leader in technologically advanced products.

This dedication to innovation continues with HK Knives. Created and manufactured by Benchmade Knife Company, these superior edged tools combine leading technology with artful and practical design. Patented functional technologies like the AXIS locking mechanism, push-button autos with an integrated safety and the lightning fast Nitrous assist opener are deployed throughout the product line. Plus, manufacturing processes adhering to tolerances usually reserved for the aerospace industry provide a go-together fit and finish.

Our customers live the HK motto on a daily basis-No Compromise. We consider it a fundamental obligation to deliver the best possible products to those we support, whether they are military forces defending our rights and freedom or law enforcement professionals maintaining order. You have our commitment that we will continuously pursue quality, innovation and performance in all of the products we offer.

Benchmade Knives

OREGON CITY, Ore. --(AmmoLand.com)- Form and function are the key ingredients to any knife design. That is the reason Benchmade believes working with custom designers creates the most innovative and functional designs in the industry.

The latest partnership between Benchmade Knife Company and custom knife designers Eddie Killian and Shane Sibert will pave the way for new innovative and quality designs that are built for performance, reliability and dependability. Collaborating with world-class custom designers allows Benchmade to tap into the newest locking mechanisms, modern materials, and custom blending and finishing techniques.

Born with a love of knives, Eddie Killian has carried a knife in his pocket since the second grade, and began making his own knives in his garage in 2003. A volunteer Search and Rescue Team Leader, Eddie is also a Certified Technical Rigging Instructor specializing in Technical/Tactical Rope Rescue Rigging for Search and Rescue teams, Fire Agencies, Law Enforcement and Military personnel. He is the founder of Durango, CO based K5 Tactical.

He works as an industrial two-way radio system designer and consultant, as well as Military and Law Enforcement equipment designer. Eddie has worked with countless local, state and federal agencies including the California Highway Patrol, U.S. Secret Service, Department of Justice, and the Department of the Treasury.

Since 1994, Shane Sibert’s goal has been to design and create unique knives that will invoke pride of ownership, while at the same time perform tasks and challenges with exceptional ease. A life-long avid backpacker, Sibert draws inspiration from hiking throughout the Pacific Northwest’s vast wilderness. He’s an occasional practitioner of martial arts, and enjoys S.C.U.B.A. diving in Oregon’s chilly waters.

“We are thrilled to be working with such skilled knife designers,” says Les de Asis, Founder and CEO of Benchmade Knife Company. “This partnership with Eddie and Shane supports Benchmade’s mission of manufacturing innovative and superior edged tools.”

New designs from both Killian and Sibert are expected to be released in early 2010.

About:
For two decades Benchmade Knife Company has been designing and manufacturing world-class sports cutlery and superior edged tools. We strive to provide high quality U.S. made products that will deliver superior performance and provide great value for our customers.

Benchmade Knives

OREGON CITY, Ore.- -(AmmoLand.com)-The Portland Business Journal presented its 2009 Manufacturer of the Year for a Medium Sized Company to Benchmade Knife Company. The Oregon Manufacturing Awards Luncheon took place on Thursday, October 29th at the Portland Art Museum in downtown Portland, Oregon.

“It is an honor to be presented with such a prestigious award within the Oregon community” says Les de Asis, Founder and Owner of Benchmade Knife Company. “We are thrilled to be recognized as a leading manufacturer because of our dedication to providing U.S.-based jobs and commitment to customer satisfaction.”

Other award categories recognized at the event include Manufacturing Company of the Year Awards (Small, Medium & Large), Excellence in Training Award, and Product Innovation of the Year Award.

The award for Manufacturer of the Year is based on company performance, overall business strategy, and innovative approaches to internal operations, manufacturing processes, and sustainable practices involving customers, partners and suppliers. Other finalists nominated for the Medium-sized Company Award include Korvis Automation, Inc., and Williams Controls, Inc.

For a recap of the Portland Business Journal Awards, please visit: http://portland.bizjournals.com/portland/stories/2009/10/26/daily53.html

Benchmade Knives

Oregon City, Ore.--(AmmoLand.com)- Benchmade Knife Company is proud to announce Dave Winterling as the new Director of Manufacturing.

He will be responsible for all manufacturing operations at the Oregon City plant.

Benchmade's Dave Winterling

Mr. Winterling brings twenty-four years of manufacturing and metal-working experience to Benchmade. For the past 10 years, he was the Director of Manufacturing at The Stanley Works plant in Milwaukie, Oregon. Prior to that, he spent fourteen years with Kennametal/ Greenfield Industries in various positions including Director of Operations, Plant Manager, Materials Manager, and Engineering Manager. Mr. Winterling was also a Technical Services Engineer for the Timken Company.

“I look forward to focusing on Benchmade’s manufacturing efforts to achieve success in lean manufacturing concepts,” says Mr. Winterling. “I am excited to continue the development of world-class manufacturing at Benchmade.”

“Dave comes to Benchmade with substantial global manufacturing experience,” comments Greg Mooney, President of Benchmade. “I am confident his leadership and knowledge of the industry will help Benchmade’s continued growth and development.”

Mr. Winterling graduated with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Mechanical Engineering from Cornell University in Ithaca, New York.

International Hunter Education Association Foundation

Federal Heights, CO - -(AmmoLand.com)- The International Hunter Education Association (IHEA) Foundation Benefit Auction to raise funds to help hunter education programs nationwide has added over 30 new items to the auction. The auction is being conducted in partnership with www.GunBroker.com.

In recent days, IHEAF and GunBroker.com have added over 30 new items to the auction-all are products of interest to hunters, shooters and those who spend time in the outdoors. Included are: five more rifles, a 3-day Argentina Dove hunt

From SCI, tickets for a 3-event NASCAR package at Talladega Superspeedway from Realtree, a Laser Shot home theater shooting simulator system, hunting coats, a second guided Florida fishing trip, a Bushnell: rangefinder, weather monitor and GPS with XM radio/weather, a case of custom Hornady ammunition, Coleman outdoor equipment, two more Benchmade knives, and more.

The bidding for one group of outdoor equipment and gear currently posted will expire on Sunday, July 20. Interested bidders must watch individual items as they expire at specific times during the day. Some of the merchandise in this group includes a Columbia Quad hunting parka, a Sentry 24-gun safe, a case of Hornady ammo, a PSE compound bow, a Bushnell trail cam, a Benchmade knife, an Alpen spotting scope and more.

Several “Extended Listing” items, running throughout the month of July include a one-of-a-kind, IHEA 60th Anniversary Henry Golden Boy .22LR with special laser engraving, a Mossberg side-by-side 12 ga. shotgun and a Zingelani Safari’s 7-day African safari for two people-with three plains game species included in the base cost.

Proceeds from the auction go to the IHEA Foundation to help fund hunter education programs nationwide. GunBroker.com has generously included IHEA in their “Treasures & Traditions” Auction, a part of their Heritage Partner Program.

Visit GunBroker.com to bid.

About:
IHEA is affiliated with the Association of Fish and Wildlife agencies. Goals of this group include serving as the primary resource for information on hunter education; promoting hunter education by fostering cooperative efforts between government agencies, organized groups and industry; striving for constant improvement in hunter education programs; and providing opportunities for the exchange of related ideas, knowledge and experiences.

For more information about IHEA, visit www.ihea.com .