Benchmade Barrage

Benchmade Barrage Series

The Benchmade Barrage is a spring-assisted folding knife series designed by Warren Osborne that introduced Benchmade's AXIS-Assist mechanism — the first combination of the AXIS Lock with spring-assisted deployment. The system uses the same spring-loaded steel bar lockup proven across Benchmade's lineup, but adds a coil spring that propels the blade open once you clear the thumb stud past the detent. The result is fast one-handed deployment with full AXIS Lock security at lockup. A sliding safety on the spine locks the blade in both the open and closed positions.

The series spans multiple configurations across two size platforms. The full-size Barrage runs a 3.6-inch blade with an overall length of 8.35 inches and a closed length of 4.75 inches. The Mini Barrage scales down to a 2.91-inch blade for users who want AXIS-Assist performance in a more compact carry format.

Barrage Models and Blade Steels

Benchmade 580 Barrage — The original full-size model with a 154CM stainless steel drop point blade and black Valox handles. 154CM is a Crucible stainless that balances edge retention, corrosion resistance, and ease of sharpening for hard daily use.

Benchmade 581 Barrage — The premium configuration with an M390 drop point blade, G-10 scales, and aluminum bolsters. M390 is a Bohler powder metallurgy steel that significantly outperforms 154CM in edge retention and wear resistance at 60-62 HRC. This is the upgrade for users who want better steel and a more refined handle in the same Barrage platform.

Benchmade 583 Barrage — Full-size frame with a 154CM tanto blade in black Cerakote with a partially serrated edge. The tanto geometry provides a reinforced tip for piercing and prying tasks where a drop point tip would be at risk.

Benchmade 585 Mini Barrage — The compact version with a 2.91-inch 154CM drop point blade and Valox handles. Same AXIS-Assist mechanism and safety as the full-size models in a package that carries lighter and clears sub-3-inch blade length requirements.

Carry and Construction

All Benchmade Barrage models are built on stainless steel liners with a reversible tip-up pocket clip for left or right-hand carry and an oversized lanyard hole. Handle materials include Valox on the 580, 583, and 585 models, and G-10 with aluminum bolsters on the 581. The AXIS-Assist mechanism operates ambidextrously — deployment and closing work identically from either side of the knife.

Every Benchmade Barrage is manufactured in Oregon City, Oregon and is backed by Benchmade's lifetime warranty and free LifeSharp sharpening service.