Benchmade Laro: A $650 Titanium Butterfly Knife That’s Built to Last

Premium, precision, butterfly knife innovation

There's something enduring about a well-crafted tool, especially one that carries the weight of history in its design. When you think of Benchmade today, images of the Bugout, the Osborne, or the Griptilian probably come to mind—modern blades that have earned their place in pockets and packs around the world. But peel back the layers, and you'll find that Benchmade's soul is rooted in something a bit more intricate: the butterfly knife.

Back in 1979, a young craftsman named Les de Asis started hand-making custom knives in Oakland, California. Not just any knives, mind you, but bali-songs—those hypnotic butterfly knives that flip and dance between skilled fingers. So passionate was de Asis about these blades that he founded his company as Bali-Song, Inc., embedding the very essence of the knife into the company's name and butterfly logo.

As the years rolled on, the company evolved into Pacific Cutlery Corp., expanding its offerings but never straying far from its bali-song roots. Old catalogs reveal a dazzling array of butterfly knives with various blade styles and handle treatments—a testament to de Asis's dedication to the craft. In 1987, the company transformed once more into Benchmade Knife Company, Inc., relocating to Clackamas, Oregon, and eventually settling into a sprawling 144,000-square-foot facility in Oregon City.

Though Les de Asis passed away in 2020, his legacy lives on through his son Jon, who now helms the company. And it's clear that the apple didn't fall far from the tree. Enter the Laro, Benchmade's latest release—a knife that feels like a bridge between the brand's storied past and its innovative present.

Set to drop next month, the Laro is only the second butterfly knife currently offered by Benchmade, joining the high-end Necron. But this isn't just a rehash of old designs; it's a modern marvel. The Laro boasts a 3.6-inch MagnaCut stainless steel blade—a super steel that's been making waves for its exceptional toughness, corrosion resistance, and edge retention. With a stonewash finish and a recurved drop-point silhouette, the blade is as functional as it is visually striking.

The handles are milled from single-billet titanium, offering strength without unnecessary weight. Thrust bearing pivots ensure that flipping the blade is smooth and fluid—an essential feature for enthusiasts who appreciate the art of manipulation. A magnetic latch keeps everything secure when the knife is not in use, and a black Boltaron sheath with a pocket clip makes it surprisingly practical for everyday carry.

Priced at $650, the Laro isn't an impulse buy; it's an investment in a piece of craftsmanship that honors a rich tradition. It's designed for those who understand the allure of the butterfly knife—not just as a tool, but as an extension of skill and artistry.

In a market saturated with gadgets and gimmicks, the Laro stands out as a knife with a soul. It's a nod to the origins of Benchmade and a salute to those who appreciate the blend of form and function. For anyone who values quality, heritage, and a bit of flair in their everyday carry, the Laro is more than just a knife—it's a legacy you can hold in your hand.

Pros:

  1. Premium Materials: The blade is crafted from CPM-MagnaCut stainless steel, known for its toughness, corrosion resistance, and excellent edge retention, making it a durable option for everyday use.
  2. Precision Engineering: Milled from single-billet titanium, the handles are lightweight but strong, providing a perfect balance of strength and ease of use.
  3. Smooth Deployment: Thrust bearing pivots allow for seamless flipping and smooth handling, enhancing the overall user experience.
  4. Magnetic Latch: The magnetic lock keeps the latch out of the way during use, ensuring uninterrupted, fluid motion while flipping the knife.
  5. Heritage Design: With its butterfly knife roots, the Laro taps into Benchmade’s legacy, making it a collector’s item for those who appreciate the brand’s history and craftsmanship.
  6. Practical for EDC: Comes with a Black Boltaron sheath and pocket clip, making it an easy-to-carry everyday tool.

Cons:

  1. High Price Point: At $650, the Laro is a premium product that may be out of reach for casual users or those looking for a more budget-friendly option.
  2. Limited Appeal: While well-engineered, the butterfly knife design may not appeal to everyone, especially those unfamiliar with or uninterested in balisong flipping.
  3. Specialized Use: The Laro is built for enthusiasts who enjoy flipping and manipulation, which may not be practical for those seeking a more conventional, straightforward blade.
  4. Smaller Frame: While designed to be EDC-friendly, some users may find the mid-size frame too small for their preferences or tasks that require a larger blade.

$650

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