I have both a Fallkniven and a Benchmade and I'm not entirely sure that the comparison is fair.

The F1 is designed for North European conditions. It's one of the toughest production knives ever made. It's also somewhat smaller than the Benchmade. When asked for advise I always recommend Fallkniven. If it's within the asker's means.

Having said that: I also recommend the the Benchmade to people who are on a tighter budget. It's 44oC steel, which under most circumstances I would personally considerer a no-no steel. But, this is Benchmade 440c tempered. Sharpens easily and keeps an edge. Its full tang (I checked with Benchmade) and has a decent low slip handle.

And I would stay away from Gerber. Their steel is a PTA bad joke to sharpen.