Description
Benchmade 340 Aphid – Compact 440C Assisted Opening Knife
The Benchmade 340 Aphid is a small assisted opening knife that disappears in a pocket and still handles real cutting work. A nudge on the ambidextrous thumb studs lets the Optimiser spring carry the 2.38" 440C drop point the rest of the way open, and a locking liner holds it there until you release it.
At 1.65 oz with a black Valox handle, the Aphid was built as a light-duty companion for keychains, pockets and packs rather than a hard-use tactical folder. 440C stainless takes a keen edge and resists corrosion well, which suits a knife that spends its life close to the body.
Key Features
- 2.38" 440C stainless drop point blade, 58-60 HRC, satin finish, plain edge
- Optimiser assisted opening with ambidextrous dual thumb studs
- Locking liner keeps the blade fixed in the open position
- Black Valox handle, 1.65 oz total weight
- Reversible black steel pocket clip, tip-down carry
- Made in Oregon City, Oregon, USA
Specifications
- Model: Benchmade 340 Aphid
- Blade steel: 440C stainless, 58-60 HRC
- Blade length: 2.38"
- Blade thickness: 0.100"
- Blade shape: Drop point, plain edge, satin finish
- Handle: Black Valox
- Lock: Locking liner with Optimiser assisted opening
- Closed length: 3.25"
- Overall length: 5.63"
- Weight: 1.65 oz
- Origin: Made in the USA
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an assisted opening knife?
An assisted opening knife needs you to start the blade moving, usually with a thumb stud or flipper, after which an internal spring finishes the motion. The Benchmade 340 Aphid uses Benchmade's Optimiser assist, so a short push on the thumb stud opens the blade quickly with one hand.
Is an assisted opening knife the same as an automatic knife?
No. An automatic knife fires from a button or switch with the blade fully closed, while an assisted knife like the Benchmade 340 Aphid only springs open after you have manually started the blade out of the handle. That difference matters legally in many places, so check the knife laws where you live and travel before carrying either type.
Is 440C stainless steel any good?
440C is a high-carbon stainless steel that balances edge retention, corrosion resistance and easy resharpening. On a small carry knife like the Benchmade 340 Aphid it is a sensible choice, since the blade sees light cutting and benefits from stainless corrosion resistance during close-to-body carry.
What is LifeSharp?
LifeSharp is Benchmade's lifetime factory service. Send your Benchmade 340 Aphid to Benchmade and they will sharpen the blade, replace worn hardware where possible and return it to working condition, free of charge for the life of the knife.
Where is the Benchmade 340 Aphid made?
The Benchmade 340 Aphid is designed and manufactured at Benchmade's facility in Oregon City, Oregon, USA.
Is Going Gear an authorized Benchmade dealer?
Yes. Going Gear is an authorized Benchmade dealer, so the Benchmade 340 Aphid ships as a genuine factory product with full manufacturer warranty and LifeSharp coverage.