Ok, "thoughts" is a little strongly-worded. More like a thought.

A while back, my mini-Grip springs broke, and I posted a thread about my (very good) experiences with BM support. In that thread, Doug mentioned one of the big benefits of the Axis lock system: If the lock did happen to fail, you could still use the knife by putting a twig or stick through the mechanism to hold it open.

I just realized something I hadn't known about the Barrage: It has a lock that serves this same purpose. I'd never really looked closely at this knife before b/c I'm not really a fan of assisted openers, but this seems like it'd be a very good feature.

So, just thought I'd toss that out there. Would love to hear from anyone who has a Barrage, too, as I'm considering one for my next folding knife purchase.

Link to BM page:

http://www.benchmade.com/products/product_detail.aspx?model=580

If the Griptillian had the assisted opening I would be ALL OVER IT! That's the reason I never got the full size, I have the Mini, but my main carry is my SOG Flash II because of the assisted opening, use it ALL the time with one hand in tight spots that slinging is not an option...

The Barrage looks nice, good quality steel probably TOO good for my usage

I have both the Barrage and the Mini-Barrage and love them both. Standard Benchmade quality and good design. The manual safety was a purchase point for me, but I end up never using it. Its difficult to explain, but the distance you need to move the blade before the assist spring takes over is the real safety mechanism and is well thought out. I can't see a situation where one would accidentally open in your pocket, but the manual safety is there if you want it.

Craig.

I have to admit that is one super sexy lookin' knife. I EDC a waved Endura that I'm really hapy with as far as functionality, but dang... That Benchmade just looks awesome.

BTW, to Celler and anyone else with first-hand experience, how does the full-sized Barrage compare to the Mini Barrage? The full-size model looks pretty big from the reviews I've seen on YouTube. The Mini Barrage looks like it would be easier to EDC though I don't like the blade profile (and specifically the tip shape) as much.

Heck, I've never owned a Benchmade before but this one simply looks so attractive I might step in and shell out some bucks... Can't ever have too many tacticool knives.

I carry the full size Barrage every day and do not find it bulky or heavy. On suit days, I switch to the Mini Barrage to deal with the smaller pockets. I prefer the weight and size of the Barrage for every day carry.

Craig.

FWIW, the RSK has dual thumb studs so is easy, ambi one-hand opening. Of course, the full size also slings much easier than the mini so I rarely use the studs at all, but if that isn't option the use of dual studs on the RSK are well thought out IMO.

-john

They do help but they are nothing like the nudge on my SOG FlashII and the blade slings open... I`m sure if I carried the push-open the last many years I'd be fine but I've adjusted to the push-n-fly open on it's own L O L!!

RSK is a nice upgraded griptillian if it had the assisted/spring it would be the perfect knife for me

I have never had to sling my RSK mini open, the thumb studs work fine themselves. In fact, never thought of moving to an assisted opener for that reason (and the legality of it in VA if you are not EMS or LE).

Bill