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John just introduced a new model inspired by Bob's Forrester Folder. Overall a very well done piece. Picture by John Barker

Below are some comparison pictures of the Benchmade Production Onslaught and a custom Forrester by Bob. Bob had always admired the AxisLock designed by Benchmade, and wanted to license it for use. He even went as far as producing a Stalker blade to fit into an existing AxisLock handle. There are some slight differences: * The handles are set up for ambidextrous opening with the hole cutout, and the Pinkie slot in the lower handle, in both sides of the handle. Yet, the clip can only be installed on the right side. * The clip is based on Bob's version. But whereas Bob hand form each one to match the folder, the Benchmade clips are stamped. * The swedge on the custom is beautifully hollow ground, as compared to the flat ground swedge on the Benchmade. * The Benchmade is slightly longer. Most likely due to changing the pivot geometry to accommodate the AxisLock. Overall, the execution is outstanding, and I think Bob would have been pleased with the result. Except for the choice of mode...

For 2010, Benchmade is releasing a folding knife based on Bob's Forrester model, called the Onslaught. This is good news for Forrester fans who really fancy the saber-tip leaf shaped blade. It will come with Benchmade's Axis lock. A locking system that Bob really appreciated. Link to the Onslaught on Benchmade's website is: http://www.benchmade.com/products/741 When it is released, I'll post a comparison between it and the custom Forrester.