Benchmade Freek 560 & Mini Freek 565 Folding Knives

Benchmade Freek

Benchmade Freek 560 and Mini Freek 565 Knives

The Benchmade Freek series is one of the strongest performers in the Oregon City lineup, built around a dual-density handle, a workhorse drop-point blade, and the AXIS Lock that put Benchmade on the map. The full-size Freek 560 carries a 3.6 inch blade for harder cutting, while the Mini Freek 565 drops to a 3 inch blade for tighter pocket carry without changing the geometry, lock, or ergonomics. Both sit a step above the Bugout in the catalog as enthusiast-grade EDC folders, and that positioning shows up in the steel choices, the build quality, and the in-hand feel.

Premium Blade Steels Built for Edge Retention

What separates the Freek from most production folders in this size class is the steel program. The standard Freek 560 ships with CPM-S30V for a balanced edge that holds well and sharpens without a fight. The 560BK-1 Super Freek steps up to CPM-M4, a high-carbon tool steel that holds an aggressive working edge and resists deformation under hard cutting tasks, paired with a layered G10 handle for serious grip. The 560-03 runs CPM-S90V, the high-vanadium choice when wear resistance and edge longevity matter more than ease of sharpening. The Mini Freek 565 mirrors this same steel progression in a smaller frame, including the carbon fiber 565-03 in CPM-S90V.

Handle Configurations and AXIS Lock Performance

Standard Freek and Mini Freek models use Benchmade's dual-density molded handle, with a rigid inner frame for stiffness and a softer outer layer for grip and comfort across long cutting sessions. Upgraded variants swap that for layered G10 or carbon fiber with red liners and standoffs, dropping weight and tightening the profile for daily pocket carry. Across every version, the AXIS Lock delivers fully ambidextrous one-hand opening and closing, fires off the dual thumb studs cleanly, and locks up with zero blade play. The reversible deep carry pocket clip rides low and keeps the knife out of sight in the pocket.

Made in the USA with LifeSharp Service

Every Freek is built at Benchmade's Oregon City facility and backed by LifeSharp, the free factory re-sharpening, cleaning, and adjustment program that covers the knife for life. Combined with the lifetime warranty, that service is a real part of why the Freek and Mini Freek hold their value as long-term carry pieces.