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About the product
The Composite Lite Auto, is our first G10 automatic. It's a great all-purpose, mid-sized platform with a drop-point blade, G10 scales (smooth or textured) and an enlarged actuation button. Made in USA.

Designer: Benchmade
Mechanism: Push-button automatic
Action: Automatic-opening
Blade Steel: 154CM (58-61 HRC)
Blade Length: 3.40" (8.64cm)
Blade Thickness: 0.114" (2.90mm)
Open Length: 7.85" (19.94cm)
Closed Length: 4.45" (11.30cm)
Handle Thickness: 0.49" (12.446mm)
Weight: 3.60oz. (102.06g)

Features

Additional Information

Blade Style/Shape Drop-point
Clip Type Deep-Carry
Clip Position Reversible Tip-Up
Glass Breaker No
Handle Material G10
Lanyard Hole Yes
MOLLE Compatible No
Sheath Type No Sheath
Use Every Day, Tactical

Write Your Own Review

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A review from: Nick
Price
Value
Quality
I’ve had the CLA 4300 for a year and a half now. I specifically own the satin finish blade with plain edge, and black g-10 scales version.As soon as I held this knife in my hand at the dealer I knew this was the knife I had been looking for, for quite some time. This knife has been put through its paces and has been abused and it is still going strong. I keep the blade cleaned with 409 and also use it to keep particles cleaned away from edge while sharpening.Just earlier today my knife developed an issue in the mechanism causing it to not completely open at the push of the actuator button. As this is my only knife, sending it to lifesharp isn’t really my first option, so I decided to “put it under the knife” myself. I began removing the small screws from the sides and I would be lieing if I said I was 100% successful. 50% of the small screw heads stripped out. Luckily I was still able to get the knife apart. To my surprise, once the knife was apart, there wasn’t much junk built up in the mechanism, just a light film of grime built up on each brass washer which was enough to render it a “non-automatic” knife. The mechanism itself is a very simplistic design, I said simple, not bad. The design of the automatic mechanism is a very sturdy, robust design. I Gently cleaned my brass washers with soap and warm water and allowed to dry and reassembled the knife after lubing the parts with “Hoppes” gun oil. The knife operates better now than when it was brand new. Other than the crummy screws this knife is an absolute gold winner in my book. You will not be disappointed with this purchase. If it were up to me, everyone would own one. It is a bit pricey though, considering the low quality screws. Considering buying an Osbourne next to rotate so that when one knife needs some attention I can send it to lifesharp and not be without a quality knife.
A review from: Jeff
Price
Value
Quality
I debated about spending this much cash for a knife. I finally caved in and bought the plain satin blade with the green/black G-10 handles. Wow, what a great knife. It has perfect balance, is lightweight, lightning quick blade presentation, and made with great materials. The deep pocket carry clip is great and the overall looks are second to none. If you're on the fence about spending this much for a knife, jump off the fence and just buy it. You won't regret it.
A review from: Ostie
Price
Value
Quality
From the blade geometry, to the action, to the feel in your hand, everything about this knife is perfect. A week of carrying this as my EDC convinced me to buy one. The quality and balance are amazing, it's everything you would expect from a Benchmade and is absolutely worth every penny of the price. I 100% recommend this knife.
A review from: Sam
Price
Value
Quality
I purchased this knife to replace the mini-barrage I carried with me everyday for 9 years. I wasn't sure I could like a knife better than the one I had but I was wrong. This knife exceeded my expectations and I am very impressed with the craftsmanship. The mechanism works flawlessly and just the same as the first time I engaged it over a year ago. The handle is very slim and lightweight. It has a good ergonomic feel while in use and barely noticeable when clipped in the corner of your pocket. You can't go wrong with this product.
A review from: Hunter
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Perfect size, light in the hand, and a crisp, strong opening action. As with all Benchmade knives, I give this a 10/10.

A review from: Vinnie D.
Price
Value
Quality
This is my first EDC and my first Auto knife. I have a few fixed blade Benchmade knives and have always been impressed with their quality so I decided to give them a shot for a EDC/Auto pocket knife. After doing my research and comparing several knives on this website, I decided to go with the CLA. This is one outstanding knife.

What I really like about it
- overall build quality
- very solid opening mechanism
- razor sharp right out of the box
- no blade wiggle when open
- Incredibly good looking durable handle with an open back for easy cleaning
- perfect size for EDC
- nice locking mechanism
- nice solid (reversible) belt clip that runs to 50% of the handle
- perfect for right hand opening by using thumb to open

What I don't like (and these are really picky)
- awkward left hand opening having to use index finger
- somewhat sharp edges on the safety lock button

I am extremely happy with this knife, Benchmade has created a masterpiece with the CLA, perfect balance of durability, quality, looks, size, weight, balance and price. I highly recommend!

A review from: MJ
Price
Value
Quality
Received this knife today and I must say that I am beyond impressed!! The fit and finish is fantastic, the quality is great. I look forward to carrying this knife for many years to come! Thanks Benchmade!!! It's not just a knife, it's MY BENCHMADE!!
A review from: Lee
Value
Quality
Price
I don't carry this knife daily only because I love my rift auto even more. Excellent for every task so far
A review from: Tino
Value
Quality
Price
This knife is a slim and lightweight auto with a very useful blade profile. The tip works well for precise cutting and the high grind along the length of the blade makes slicing very easy. The black G10 scales are very smooth and help the knife slide in and out of whatever pants you choose to wear without fraying your pocket over time. I like the position of the safety and although it does have some sharp edges I haven't noticed it scraping the back of my hand when I reach into my pocket. The open spine of the handle makes blowing out pocket lint fast and easy. Overall, I'm very happy with this knife but at this price I would like to see a S30V or other higher performance stainless steel blade options.
A review from: Adam
Quality
Price
Value
I bought this knife about a year ago. I am a Law Enforcement officer and I carry this knife everyday. I chose to go with the straight edge. I love the knife so much that I need to send it back to be sharpened with Benchmade's life sharp program and can't bring myself to do it because I don't want to be without this knife. I'm actually considering buying another one just do I don't have to go without it while it is being sharpened. This knife has performed so well and is lightning fast. If you purchase this knife you will be very happy with your purchase. It is worth every penny. I expected quality when I decided to buy a Benchmade knife and they delivered. I'm amazed at how well this knife held up over the last year. If you are on the fence about buying a Benchmade knife, just buy it, you'll be glad you did.
A review from: Jesse
Price
Value
Quality
Bought this knife in all black several months ago to replace my Kershaw. All in all I really like it, but leaves some to be desired. The handle is excellent. Very comfortable in the hand and holds up well. The automatic mechanism is likewise flawless. The serations on the lock are a bit aggressive for my taste, but you definetly know when your on it, especially with the back of your hand in your pocket. I just leave the lock off, the guarding around the trigger does a great job and I have never had it deploy in my pocket. Also, the thing just looks sweet. Now the draw backs. For one, the coating on the blade and especially the pocket clip don't hold up what so ever. Additionally, I'm not a fan of the blade material. The edge knicks very easily and doesn't hold an edge very well. Also I can't get it razor blade sharp. These are all areas that my Kershaw with it's Sandvik 14C28N excelled! If only I could take the blade from my Kershaw and put it in this knife, that would be perfection! Alas, I still love this knife and carry it daily, but find myself wishing it was better, especially for the price tag.
A review from: Lowell
Quality
Price
Value
This knife is pretty good. The G10 handle is awesome. It feels great, its super sturdy, looks great and with an open back is easy to keep squeaky clean. The auto mechanism and safety are perfect and never fail to deploy quickly. The blade steel is 154cm which although sharp and strong is not close to some of the better steel Benchmade uses. That is my only complaint about the knife and I wish Benchmade would offer an S90V steel version of the CLA. Otherwise the knife is functional and aggressive looking and offers the protection needed in any situation. Definitely recommend the CLA.
A review from: Bill
Quality
Price
Value
I just purchased this knife. I like the size as it it easily concealable using the clip. I bought this to compliment my conceal gun, or where guns are not feasible. The small size fits nicely in my front pocket and is easily deployed and can not be easily detected in pocket or if needed when deployed. I like the fast auto action of opening. Will be useful in an emergency situation. I am a retired firefighter and know quality tools and this knife checks all the boxes
A review from: Smitty
Quality
Price
Value
I have several other auto knives but hate that they all have aluminum handles. I use my knives and after 6 months the metal handles look as if a truck ran them over. I love the feel and look of the G10 scales on the CLA. On top of the awesome G10s, the CLA has an open-back design that makes it a breeze to cleanout after use. Benchmade hit a home run with this one!
A review from: drew
Quality
Price
Value
I got this knife recently as a gift from my girlfriend. Thing only thing I can say is wow. Ive been caring a infidel for about 2 years and I loved it, once I got this I haven't stopped carrying it! its by far my favorite knife. some of my close friends have zero tolerances and I personally think this knife opens smoother than those zt's. I have the plain edge with the satin blade and black handle. This knife is very sleek and smooth. One of my biggest pet peeves is when a knife is loose. there is no play in this at all. by far my favorite knife, definetly a quality one as well.
A review from: Trevor
Quality
Price
Value
Well, what can I say... Paid over $200 for stainless scrap. The pocket clip broke off within a week. Now I've had a Buck Vantage (S30V stainless steel) for years with no pocket clip issues. It also COST HALF, with better grade steel. I have contacted Benchmade for pocket clip replacement and have waited months and have not received anything. Benchmade seems to have problems with quality control & customer service. So much for lifetime warranty. This knife is over priced for what you get.
A review from: Glenn
Price
Value
Quality
I absolutely love this knife. I've got the black g-10/ satin blade configuration. It has an amazing edge right off the shelf. I've been carrying this knife for about 6 weeks now and the edge has shown no sign of wear. Until now I've carried cheap Walmart knives like Gerber and Kershaw and the edges don't last even if you don't use them. The action is extremely smooth and functional, and the lock has a very solid engage and disengage which screams quality! My only complaint it the pocket clip, while I do love the deep carry clip (cough cough)... the thing doesn't even touch the side of the knife. I find myself checking my pocket to make sure it hasn't fallen out most of the time. Benchmade had fallen short of even the cheap brands in that aspect.
A review from: Robert
Value
Quality
Price
Best auto I've had from bench made yet. The G10 handles feel great in the hand and create a slim lightweight profile that carries in the pocket extremely well. Bulk and/or weight have been my biggest issues with other autos such as the auto presidio and others I used to carry. The edge, like all other benchmades I've had, holds well. The one quality issue I have is that the factory edge is not exactly symmetrical, but I have yet to find a knife that has a symmetrical factory edge and I prefer to set my own edge at 22.5 or 25 degrees anyways. The lock is in a great location and easy to get used to for everyday use. The auto function is strong and snappy requiring a good grip on the knife when opening. Not a bad thing in my mind, just something to be aware of. Biggest (really only) drawback is the price, but buy quality once and you won't have to keep buying cheaper/lower quality knives over and over.
A review from: James
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Value
Quality
I wear this knife daily and do find it a good knife that I can depend on. Only flaw I've found is that when in my cargo pants pocket it the handle rubbing will pick up the pant color.
A review from: Marcus
Value
Quality
Price
The Benchmade CLA is a solid medium sized auto.

Handle:
The g10 is on this knife is smooth but still provides good grip. I was unsure of how well the pocket clip would hold the blade in pocket but was pleasantly surprised. The clip is mounted well and feels very solid, it also has 3 holes for using different clips. Lock switch is placed in a nice location, easy to access.

Blade:
Shape is very functional and classic.I don't have experience with Benchmades black coating but it looks like it will hold up well. Blade came sharp and looks great. Push button fire is fast and consistent.

The only con I can see with this knife would have to be that it is only a tip up carry. This is not a deal breaker for me though. Benchmade knows how to make a high quality knife and the CLA does a great job of showing this.
A review from: Joseph
Price
Value
Quality
You cannot beat the service team at Benchmade. I recently sent my CLA back for sharpening. I could shave with it!
Wonderful knife and knife company.
A longtime loyal user and will continue to use your tools.
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