Benchmade 9050 AFO

BENCHMADE MODEL 9050 AFO
The 9050SBK is based on Benchmade's original automatic knife, the model 9000 AFO. The difference between the standard model 9050 AFO and the 9050SBT is the unique BK1® proprietary coating. BK1 coating is a matte black coating that provides excellent corrosion protection, which exceeds the ASTM-117 spec for saltwater while possessing higher scratch resistance.

The 9050SBK features handles machined of solid 6061-T6 aluminum. After machining the handles are bead blasted, to provide a sure grip, and then hard anodized for maximum protection against the elements. The blade is ground from high carbon 154CM stainless steel, and is hardened to 59-61 RC. These blades also feature our ComboEdge™ serration pattern, which is particularly well suited for cutting fibrous materials like rope or nylon webbing. The 9050 model also features a thumb safety to keep the blade from opening/closing when you don't want it to.

The 9050SBK has many features that make it superior to other knives for search and rescue (SAR) or tactical applications. Chief among these is the time proven automatic opening mechanism. This reliable system allows for rapid deployment, even with gloves or under water, yet still allows the knife to be easily closed with one hand and safely returned to the sheath. This is a major safety advantage over fixed blade knives.

The 9050SBK is an approved issue item for all U.S. Coast Guard rescue swimmers, and has been "authorized for use in USAF survival kits, survival vests, and multi place raft accessory containers". Other branches of the U.S. armed forces also issue this knife for a variety of missions, from special operations to search & rescue.

Due to the tremendous acceptance of this model by the military and Federal law enforcement communities, the Defense Logistics Agency has issued NSN-1095-01-446-4348 for the 9050SBK knife. The name assigned to this stock number is: KNIFE, AUTOMATIC, SWITCHBLADE.

The 9050SBK comes with hooded, ballistic nylon sheath for belt or lashed carry. . This sheath can be carried horizontal on belts up to 1.5" or vertical on belts up to 3 ". It can also be attached to harnesses or web gear. The knife is also equipped with a lanyard hole for extra security.

This Series has made to order configurations (Min 20pcs), which are 9050, 9050S, 9050BK.