It’s easy to forget that there’s more to an everyday carry knife than just its blade—a great handle can sometimes make all the difference. The original Benchmade Mini Freek won EDCers over for its solid steel, manageable size, and most notably, its impressively grippy Versaflex handles. But that didn’t stop Benchmade from taking the Mini Freek to the next level by upgrading its materials through and through with the new Benchmade 565-1 Mini Freek Carbon. As its name implies, it sports a fresh set of carbon fiber handles in the same great ergonomic shape of the original Mini Freek. Paired with a new blade steel, the Mini Freek Carbon makes for a compelling premium option of a crowd-favorite EDC knife.
The biggest change to the new Mini Freek Carbon is in its handle—gone is the original’s Versaflex-rubberized Grivory plastic. While it offers exceptional grip and handling, some might prefer a more premium feel to their daily blade. The new carbon fiber handle delivers on that front while staying light and durable enough for a comfortable carry experience. The thoughtful curvature on the Mini Freek Carbon provides a secure, comfortable grip and even gives your fingertips more purchase on the top of the knife as your fingers wrap around the handle. Finally, generous jimping on the spine of the knife and inside the finger choil give the Mini Freek Carbon the kind of handling you’d expect on a much bigger knife.
The handle isn’t the only upgrade on the 565-1: it now boasts CPM-S90V super steel on the blade, giving it improved edge retention, strength, and toughness over the original’s S30V. It keeps the same plain edge, 3“ length, and drop-point geometry, an ideal combo for general EDC usage. It deploys via dual-thumbstuds in a stylish contrasting True Red color and secures via Benchmade’s signature AXIS lock. Last but not least, finishing touches like True Red back spacers and a matte black split arrow pocket clip round out this premium package. If you’re after a stylish, compact EDC knife for everyday urban carry that’s made in the USA with excellent fit and finish, don’t miss the Mini Freek Carbon. Grab one from Amazon at the link below or head over to Benchmade’s website.
