Right off the bat, I’ll tell you, I like tanto point knives, for some strange reason. Maybe its because of that secondary cutting edge, or maybe its just the cool-factor. What we have here for review is the new and improved Benchmade Stryker automatic folder, Model 9101. For those of you in free states, where you can legally own an automatic knife, this one is worth looking at. If you live in a state that won’t allow an automatic knife, then Benchmade has several manual opening folders in the Stryker line-up as well.
The new Auto Stryker incorporates a larger and stronger locking button, open back spacer design for easier maintenance, and increased spring force. Personally, I never found the original Stryker lacking in anything – but sometimes improvements are warranted. the blade material is 154 CM – which is one of my favorites. The aluminum handles are black anodized, with a tip-up pocket clip that is reversible from one side to the other. There is also a sliding safety on the top of the handle – it locks the blade in the closed or open position – I’ve never used the safety. The blade is 3.60″ long – which is about perfect for a folder to be carried for self-defense and utility work. Weight of the Stryker is only 4.20-oz. You can have the Benchmade Stryker with a plain edge, or a partially serrated edge – the choice is yours. I find that a partially serrated blade has more utility use than a plain edge does – just my two cents worth. There is also a lanyard hole in the butt of the handle, and I find these useful if you are operating over water – you don’t want to drop your knife and have it lost, when it might be needed the most.
Now, I’m not advocating bringing a knife to a gun fight – that’s foolishness. However, there are still some areas of the country where you can’t legally carry a handgun for self-defense, but you can carry a folding knife. And, believe me, a knife is better than a sharpened stick or a rock any day of the week. Over the years, in my martial arts classes, I’ve taught knife-fighting to my advanced students, and they found it very difficult to defend against a knife attack – and these were trained martial artist. So, they know the effectiveness of using a knife, even a small folding knife for self-defense. Benchmade warrants the Stryker for your lifetime against defects in material and workmanship. the Auto Stryker doesn’t come cheap – then again, quality never comes cheap if you buy junk, you end up buying junk several times over. When you buy quality, you only have to buy it once. The Auto Striker from Benchmade retails for $250.