With the arrival of 2026, we are building on the momentum of our legacy to deliver even more exceptional tools for the outdoor community, hunters, and everyday carry enthusiasts. This year marks the debut of updated designs, fresh colorways, and advanced features across some of our most beloved models. Whether you’re a long-time fan or discovering our knives for the first time, these latest releases reflect our unwavering commitment to craftsmanship, precision, and performance. Here’s a first look at what’s coming your way in 2026.
A Fresh Spin on Classic Benchmade Models
Throughout the year, we're unveiling seasonal, limited-edition versions of some of our most iconic models, each refreshed with a new colorway. This year’s exclusive palette features Taiga Green handles paired with Tan or FDE PVD Battlewash blades, accented by subtle burnt copper hardware. The color story draws inspiration from the taiga biome, characterized by vast northern forests defined by towering evergreens and rugged terrain, which we’ve translated into a cohesive, modern aesthetic throughout the collection.
February Releases
The Bugout® and Mini Bugout® return with a fresh seasonal aesthetic backed by a significant performance upgrade. Now equipped with ELMAX® stainless powder steel, these icons offer a superior balance of toughness and edge retention for more demanding use. The updated colorways offer a fresh look while maintaining the ultralight build and AXIS® lock that define the Bugout® legacy.
The Shootout® takes a bold step forward with the debut of its FDE PVD Battlewash blade, combining unmatched durability with a striking new colorway. This update reinforces the OTF's reputation as a tough and reliable everyday carry option, now with an exciting seasonal twist.
July Releases
The Bailout® and Osborne® are taking on a premium combination of 6061-T6 aluminum handles in Taiga Green, with S90V stainless steel blades. Known for its exceptional wear resistance and edge retention, S90V enhances both knives' ability to tackle tough tasks while maintaining the precision and performance that made them fan favorites. This update revitalizes these classics while ensuring they continue to offer outstanding durability and performance for demanding tasks.
The Bugout® gets a bold makeover, pairing Taiga Green 6061-T6 aluminum with a brown canvas Micarta onlay for a layered, textured feel. Burnt Copper anodized hardware and an FDE PVD Battlewash blade complete the look, creating one of the most visually refined Bugout® variants to date. This special edition introduces a fresh, elevated style while maintaining the lightweight performance and versatility the original is known for.
534BK Bugout® Vapyr™ : Ultra-thin. Ultra-tough.
The Bugout® Vapyr™ redefines our most iconic folder: 33% thinner and featuring a longer cycle life than the standard model. Inspired by the 748 Narrows™, its liner-less aluminum chassis and torsion-spring AXIS® lock provide maximum performance in our most streamlined form. Built with a premium MagnaCut® drop-point blade in a stealthy black Cerakote® finish, the Bugout® Vapyr™ is everything the Bugout® was meant to be.
SlipRidge™: The Ultimate Tool for Hunters
The SlipRidge™ Fixed sits between the Saddle Mountain Skinner and the Steep Country, offering a balanced blade length ideal for a successful big-game harvest. It features a MagnaCut® drop-point blade with SelectEdge® for razor-sharp performance, coming in two handle options: stabilized wood for a refined, traditional feel, or Rust Orange G10 for rugged durability and high visibility. Both versions include a purpose-built sheath for secure carry and easy access in the field.
The SlipRidge™ Folder builds on the versatility of the North Fork and Taggedout™, introducing improved cleanability with a hidden pivot and handle scales that can be removed for maintenance and customized post-purchase! The MagnaCut® clip-point blade provides enhanced slicing control, while the initial choice of wood or G10 scales allows hunters to balance classic aesthetics with rugged toughness. Additional scale options will be available for purchase.
The SlipRidge™ Hook completes the system as a specialized tool for those utilizing the gutless method. Designed to nest seamlessly onto the SlipRidge™ sheath, it excels at fast, clean zipper cuts during early field dressing, preserving your primary blade for finer precision work.
Benchmade's Cutlery Collection Just Got Bigger
At Benchmade, we understand that those who take their cooking seriously need the right tools to get the job done. That’s why we’ve expanded our Cutlery Collection to offer an even broader range of high-performance knives, built for those who demand nothing less than excellence. From grilling outdoors to prepping meals in your kitchen, these knives are crafted to elevate your culinary experience with every slice, chop, and dice.
Wildcoast™: Precision and Versatility in One Blade
The Wildcoast™ strikes a balance between power and precision, making it an essential tool for the outdoor chef. Built with a CPM-154 stainless-steel clip-point blade and a rugged stonewash finish, this knife delivers effortless performance whether you're at the water’s edge or in the backcountry. SelectEdge® technology ensures razor-sharpness with every cut, while the Maple Valley Richlite® handle provides a durable, comfortable grip built to withstand the elements. For those who demand versatility, the Wildcoast™ is ready for wherever the mission leads.
The Chef Knife: Your New Go-To Knife
For the first time, Benchmade’s full-size Chef Knife steps out on its own, now available as a standalone blade. This knife is designed for a wide variety of tasks—slicing, chopping, dicing, and crushing—bringing professional-level confidence to both home kitchens and campsites. Crafted from CPM-154 steel, it features a new false-edge grind and a satin finish that matches the rest of the line. The Maple Valley Richlite® or OD Green G10 handles, paired with a black bolster, ensure a comfortable, secure grip. For protection during storage and transit, an all-new blade guard is included.
True Paring Knife: Precision in Every Detail
The True Pairing Knife is designed for detailed tasks, from coring fruit to peeling potatoes with precision. Featuring an acute clip-point blade crafted from CPM-154 stainless steel, it excels in fine cuts. The ergonomically designed handle provides an excellent balance of control and comfort. Sharpened with SelectEdge® technology, this knife offers chef-level finesse in every cooking scenario.
The New 3-Piece Set: One Set to Handle It All
Benchmade’s reimagined 3 Piece Set brings together three of the most capable culinary tools for precise slicing, prepping, trimming, and serving. This set includes the all-new Wildcoast™ multipurpose utility knife, the True Paring Knife, and the proven Meatcrafter® hybrid meat processing knife, all crafted from CPM-154 stainless steel. Each blade’s edge performance is enhanced by SelectEdge® technology, ensuring superior cutting power. Available in Maple Valley Richlite® or G10 handle scales, paired with black G10 bolsters, each knife features a comfortable grip and a touch of visual elegance. Accompanied by protective blade covers, this set empowers you to take full control of your countertop with greater authority and versatility than ever.
The SOCP® Family Expands for 2026
The SOCP® family grows in 2026 with updates to its most iconic tools, with the Mini SOCP® Dagger debuting three new colorways: Sand, OD Green, and Tungsten Grey. The introduction of these refreshed models, along with an entirely new format, broadens the lineup for professionals who rely on speed, control, and readiness in critical moments.
The new 174 SOCP® Dagger builds on Greg Thompson’s original design, incorporating feedback from both civilians and operators. The new single-edge blade optimizes for EDC utility with a high saber grind, which alters the blade geometry to improve cutting performance while staying true to SOCP® training roots. It now comes in three Cerakote colors: Graphite Black, Tungsten Gray, and Desert Sand. The redesigned sheath slips easily into MOLLE webbing or can be carried in a pocket or waistband with the J-hook clip.
Building on the 391 SOCP® Folder, the 393 Mini SOCP® Folder brings SOCP® handling into a compact design, featuring a spear-point blade and textured G10 scales for a secure grip. The four-way pocket clip allows for low-profile carry, while the removable finger ring backspacer maintains the signature SOCP® draw. The manual AXIS® Lock ensures reliable opening, with the option of a thumb disc or pocket deployment hook for unassisted use. Ideal for environments where access is limited, it’s a powerful tool for operators, law enforcement, and anyone using the SOCP® platform for personal defense.
Elevating the Standard: Special Product Division and Gold Class
Both the Special Product Division (SPD) and Gold Class represent the pinnacle of Benchmade’s craftsmanship, offering exclusive, limited-run knives designed for collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate rarity and innovation. These special editions are available in small batches and favor cutting-edge materials, features, and design, making them a must-have for those seeking something truly unique.
Special Products Division (SPD)
The Special Products Division is Benchmade's direct-to-consumer incubator for cutting-edge innovation. These small-batch, experimental releases introduce new materials and designs at an accelerated pace, pushing the boundaries and breaking the rules with unbound creativity and innovation. Exclusively available at Benchmade.com for members of The Collective, these limited drops serve as real-world testing grounds: once they're gone, they’re gone for good.
Gold Class
Our Gold Class represents the highest level of material excellence and craftsmanship in the knife world. Each year, we reimagine our most iconic models using exotic materials and rare composites to create functional works of art. Every Gold Class knife is serialized and authenticated, offering a unique piece that transcends function to become a lifelong heirloom.
But Wait, There's More Coming Your Way!
And there’s still more on the horizon. A new variant of the Lowden™ is on the way, along with a new Fishcrafter® 5". You can explore these additions and the rest of the year’s releases in the 2026 Benchmade Catalog.
For an early look at what’s coming next, visit the Coming Soon page, where you’ll find detailed previews and additional information on upcoming products. Stay tuned and keep an eye on the latest releases, so you’re always ahead of the curve.