Well Kris, I'm pretty sure they're just about the same knife. Don;t hold me to that but it's nearly true about the fixed blades (different steel, blade shape, and blade finish).

I think the Mk1 has S30V steel as opposed to 154CM (which isn;t a slouch), a different blade shape and finish, like the fixed blades. They both have the AXIS lock. Personally, I like the blade shape on all the Ritters as opposed to the original Benchmade Grips. It's deeper with more belly. $40 difference...the rest is up to individual tastes.

There are some reviews at bladeforums on the Grip, but I haven;t read any on Ritter's knives. I'm sure they're out there.