Benchmade 173 Mini SOCP Fixed Blade Knife Review

The Benchmade 173 Mini SOCP Fixed Blade Knife: First Use to Final Thoughts

For years, I’ve relied on solid, dependable tools that perform without fuss, whether I’m working in a dusty workshop, a sterile lab, or out in the elements. When the need arose for a discreet, easily accessible cutting tool for everyday carry and unexpected situations, I started looking for something beyond the usual suspects. My search led me to the Benchmade 173 Mini SOCP Fixed Blade Knife. My previous experiences with Benchmade have generally been positive, though I was also aware of their premium pricing, so I approached this particular model with a mix of optimism and professional skepticism.

The impetus for this purchase was a growing concern about always having a reliable blade readily available without drawing undue attention. I’d found myself in situations where a small, robust cutting edge would have been incredibly useful, from opening stubborn packaging at my workbench to needing a quick tool during unexpected outdoor excursions. I considered some of the popular folding knife alternatives, but the simplicity and inherent strength of a fixed blade, especially one designed for concealment, held a strong appeal. My first impression upon unboxing this knife was its compact size and the distinct, utilitarian aesthetic. There was an immediate sense of readiness, a feeling that this tool was designed for action.

Real-World Testing: Putting Benchmade 173 Mini SOCP Fixed Blade Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing ground for the Mini SOCP was my own backyard and a local state park. I carried it clipped inside my waistband, tucked into the provided sheath, to see how it felt during a brisk walk and while performing some light yard work. The sheath’s retention was immediately noticeable, perhaps a bit too much so, as I’ll detail later. It was designed to be accessible, and in that regard, it succeeded; it was always there when I needed it.

During these initial uses, the knife was mostly employed for basic tasks: cutting twine, opening plastic packaging, and trimming small branches. I intentionally exposed it to a bit of dampness from morning dew and kept it clipped to my belt through the heat of the day. The intended purpose of concealed carry meant I wasn’t expecting extreme environmental abuse, but consistency in basic function was paramount. My biggest initial surprise was the lack of sharpness on the blade’s edge right out of the box.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over the following weeks, the Benchmade 173 Mini SOCP Fixed Blade Knife became a constant companion. I found myself reaching for it more often than anticipated for various small tasks around the house and workshop. Its slim profile made it easy to forget it was there, which is precisely the goal of a concealed carry knife.

However, the durability of the sheath system quickly became a major concern. The clip, intended for secure attachment, proved to be far too weak for its intended purpose. It consistently detached from my waistband, pulling the entire sheath and knife assembly with it. This wasn’t just an occasional inconvenience; it happened with everything from athletic shorts to heavier duty work pants. Furthermore, after only a few days of consistent, albeit not extreme, use, the retention clip mechanism on the sheath itself began to loosen. The small bushings holding it in place started to work their way out, rendering the clip ineffective and the sheath unreliable.

Breaking Down the Features of Benchmade 173 Mini SOCP Fixed Blade Knife

Specifications

The Benchmade 173 Mini SOCP is a compact fixed blade knife with an overall length of 6.25 inches, making it unobtrusive for concealed carry. Its 2.22-inch blade is crafted from 440C stainless steel, which is a decent, though not premium, choice for this type of utility tool. The blade itself is Diamond-like Carbon (DLC) coated for added durability and a non-reflective finish, a feature that’s appreciated for its tactical appearance. The handle, also made from 440C, is integrated directly into the blade’s tang, creating a full-tang design for maximum strength.

This full-tang construction is a significant specification, ensuring the knife is robust and less prone to breaking under stress. The 0.175-inch blade thickness contributes to its sturdiness. The knife weighs in at a very light 3 ounces, making it comfortable for all-day carry. The included sheath is made of plastic, designed for injection molding and MOLLE compatibility, offering versatile attachment options, though my personal experience found its retention mechanism lacking.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of its primary function as a cutting tool, the Benchmade 173 Mini SOCP Fixed Blade Knife falls short of expectations, primarily due to its edge retention and initial sharpness. While the point of the dagger-style blade is acutely sharp and penetrates well, the actual cutting edges were surprisingly dull upon arrival. The grinding seemed rough, and it required significant effort to achieve a clean cut on even basic materials like paracord. This lack of sharpness made it less effective for general utility tasks, which is a primary consideration for an EDC knife.

The self-defense aspect, implied by its design, relies on a keen edge and a functional deployment mechanism. While the point is effective, the dullness of the edges negates some of its utility in rapid, precise cuts. The double-edge dagger blade style is more suited for piercing and slicing than fine cutting tasks, but even then, a sharp edge is crucial for optimal performance. It simply did not perform as expected for a knife in this price bracket.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Mini SOCP is undeniably sleek and purpose-built for discreet carry. Its slim profile and the integrated handle blend seamlessly into a compact package. The Diamond-like Carbon coated finish not only looks good but also helps to reduce glare.

Ergonomically, the handle, despite being made of 440C steel, feels surprisingly comfortable in hand due to its contoured shape and integrated finger choil. It offers a secure grip for its size, preventing slippage during use. The lanyard hole is a thoughtful addition, allowing for further customization or the addition of a lanyard for quicker retrieval. The overall build quality, aside from the sheath issues, feels solid, as one would expect from Benchmade.

Durability & Maintenance

The durability of the knife blade itself appears to be adequate for its intended purpose, owing to the 440C steel and full-tang construction. However, the sheath, which is integral to the knife’s usability as a concealed carry tool, proved to be a significant weak point in terms of durability. The retention clip and its associated hardware failed prematurely, highlighting a design flaw in the sheath’s construction and attachment system.

Maintenance for the blade is straightforward; being 440C stainless steel, it’s relatively resistant to rust and corrosion and easy to clean. However, the real maintenance issue lies with the sheath. It’s not designed for user repair of the clip mechanism, meaning once the retention system fails, the sheath’s primary function as a secure carrier is compromised. This makes the knife less reliable for its intended purpose without significant modification or replacement of the sheath.

Accessories and Customization Options

The primary accessory included with the Benchmade 173 Mini SOCP Fixed Blade Knife is its injection-molded plastic sheath. This sheath is designed with MOLLE compatibility, allowing it to be attached to tactical gear or backpacks. It also features a deep-carry clip designed for tip-down carry, which is crucial for concealed carry applications.

While the knife itself is fixed, customization options largely revolve around how the sheath is carried or modified. Some users might opt to replace the stock clip with a more robust aftermarket solution or adapt the sheath for different carry styles. The presence of a lanyard hole on the handle also allows for the attachment of lanyards or paracord, which can aid in retrieval or provide an alternative grip enhancement.

Pros and Cons of Benchmade 173 Mini SOCP Fixed Blade Knife

Who Should Buy Benchmade 173 Mini SOCP Fixed Blade Knife?

This knife is best suited for individuals who prioritize discreet, lightweight carry and require a tool with a strong, piercing tip for specific situations. It might appeal to those in professions where carrying a larger knife is impractical, or as a secondary, easily accessible blade for tactical applications where the primary tool is bulkier. If you are someone who frequently needs a sharp point for puncturing or a compact tool for emergencies and are willing to immediately sharpen the edges and potentially upgrade the sheath system, this could be a viable option.

However, I would advise against purchasing this knife if you expect it to be razor-sharp out of the box for everyday cutting tasks, or if you rely heavily on a secure sheath clip for your carry method. Those seeking a robust utility knife for general camp chores, food preparation, or frequent box opening would be better served by a different model or brand. If you are on a tighter budget, there are many other fixed blade options that offer better sharpness and sheath reliability for significantly less cost.

Conclusion on Benchmade 173 Mini SOCP Fixed Blade Knife

The Benchmade 173 Mini SOCP Fixed Blade Knife presents a design philosophy focused on extreme concealability and a robust, full-tang build. Its slim profile and lightweight construction are undeniable positives for everyday carry, and the dagger point is sharp and capable of penetration. Unfortunately, the experience is significantly marred by critical flaws in its execution, most notably the abysmal sharpness of the cutting edges upon arrival and the shockingly unreliable retention system of the accompanying sheath.

For a knife carrying the Benchmade name and its associated price point, these issues are unacceptable and detract from its intended purpose. While the core knife is built solid, the essential components that make it a functional EDC tool – the sharp edge and secure sheath – are severely lacking. I cannot wholeheartedly recommend this model given these persistent problems, especially the fragility of the sheath clip. If Benchmade were to address these critical shortcomings in future iterations, particularly concerning the edge geometry and sheath hardware, it could become a far more compelling option for those seeking a discreet fixed blade. As it stands, it’s a premium design let down by fundamental performance and durability issues.