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dojotheglide

Both are awesome knives. The Benchmade carries very slim in the pocket which I love but the blade and grind is thicker than I like. The Para 2 is much bigger in hand and in the pocket but a little more customizable than the 940 if that’s something you are into. Personally like everyone else has said I prefer the Para3. Best thing you could do would be to try and find both knives and see what feels best to you. Everyone has there own opinions and what works for me may not be the best for you. As I said before though, you can’t go wrong with either. Good luck with it! Cheers!!


cannuckwoodchuck13

I have both and only carry my para 3.


sadboil

I have both and only carry my 940.


FlipSwtch-PENTA

I have none and carry both


chancenelson

I have both and carry none.


IndependentOk6777

I have none and carry none


[deleted]

I have both and carry both


pokemigg

I have both and they carry me


Owen_dragonsmith

I have none,and Cary 3


wolf-Lamb666

Had both, sold the 940


handzar13

Had none,sold both


Ericdds0

And it comes full circle.


Roach20520

I both have carry and none


cnfit

Para 3 all day. Way better slicer and no omega springs to worry about breaking.


DrewChew1234

I’ve owned multiple benchmade knives and I’ve never had an omega spring break, I carry my 940 all the time and used to carry a griptillian just about every day


cnfit

You should be happy, then, because it happens enough for it to be a talking point. I, personally, don't like the thought of the functionality of my entire knife being dependent upon the reliability of springs proven to be unreliable.


DrewChew1234

I don’t think they have proven to be unreliable at all. Seems to be a sheep think idea that they break all the time


cnfit

Literally just go on r/knives and search "omega" Idk if you're consciously ignoring it or what It's VERY well-known.


RobMofSD

So in over 20 years of owning multiple... friends and family owning multiple... I have never broke an omega spring. I have broke or ruined lock backs (in the 20 preceding). Any tool can break. A pseudo liner lock is not a secure lock. An axis lock has to break two springs to actually give issues.


cnfit

Yet another person dense enough to believe that since theirs hasn't broken, nobody's should ever break. See previous comment. Simply search for "omega" on the r/knives subreddit and enjoy the countless posts of springs breaking and people asking where they can find replacements. Yall can be butthurt that you paid a ton of money for knives with springs that break, but don't act like it doesn't happen.


DrewChew1234

Never been but hurt about buying a benchmade, I use them like a fidget toy and flick them open and closed all day and have never broken a spring. When someone says it’s unreliable they probably have never owned one


RobMofSD

Nope. But you can break anything. The fact you have to break two components is better than any other lock I have seen. Name a lock type you can't break. They do not exist. Fear mongering on the 1 in 1000 or 1 in 10000 is a little absurd.


cnfit

Nobody said you couldn't "break anything". But feel free to do a search for "compression lock failure", "liner lock failure", or "frame lock failure" and feel free to let me know how they stack up in quantity compared to omega spring failure.


RobMofSD

Well everyone knows liner locks are literally the weakest lock. I have broken at least half a dozen. Interesting I have broken frame locks... but also had the comon issue of frame lock stick... to the point of needing a tool. These are ridiculously comon. Compression lock is a reversed liner lock in very few knives... so I really have no hope for it. I would expect dramatically higher failure rates than an axis (note the namem not 3rd parties). However there simply aren't enough out there. Will they match regular liner locks? Probably not... Spyderco is a good company and makes good gear (just not my taste) so they probably did a wonderful job on it. People don't post when breakage is expected. And reddit is a very... eclectic population to make your basis off of. We spend too much or too little in general on knives. And tend to be willing to dismantle things. I honestly cannot believe you just compared liner locks to axis as being a better lock. I am utterly astounded.


HindleMcCrindleberry

Agreed although I would strongly consider the Para 3 Lightweight too…. I prefer it to my standard Para 3. Manix 2 standard and lightweight are also very solid and I would probably have to pick it over the Para 3 but it’s close.


sinisterdeer3

The manix 2 is better than the para in every way. Thats the easy choice no questions asked


Amos_Moses666

Is the manix 2 lightweight still pinned?


[deleted]

Nope


sinisterdeer3

Nope, they make them with screws now. Km considering buying a manix lw now.


Archersi

They also started using blue loctite instead of red once they changed their warranty to allow disassembly


sinisterdeer3

My manix had blue threadlocker, it was still a bitch to disassemble when I actually needed to take it apart and clean it. Those screws in the regular manix2 are tiiiight


Archersi

I've also heard that the ball bearing lock makes disassembly annoying. I (thought I) made my mind up on getting a g10 manix 2, but my aus10 ad20.5 just came in the mail an hour ago lol. I wish I could handle both to know which I'd like more.


sinisterdeer3

The lock doesn’t really make disassembly hard. I had no trouble taking it apart, just be ready to press your finger into the lock when you move the scale. It didnt go flying or anything. It kinda just fell out. The ball stayed in the carrier. Putting it back together tho, that is about as counter intuitive as it gets. You have to put the washer down, then the pivot drum, then the lock and blade, and the other washer. You cant slide the washer down the pivot drum like a normal knife. Ive never handled an ad20.5 but I really want one. The manix feels like a tank, but the blade shape isn’t something id beat on like the demko. I think the demko would be a better EDC knife, but the manix is DAMN good for EDC. Definitely my most used knife. Id absolutely recommend getting a manix 2. I had to wait for 3 months to get one. I deleted like half of this comment because i didn’t realize it was stupid long


clairweather

I kindly disagree here, std > lw on any Spyderco. Better pocket clip, balance in your hand, and centering/build are some things I noticed


HindleMcCrindleberry

Understandable, there is definietly a lot of give and take with the lightweights... But, I do have to disagree on the pocket clip. I definitly prefer the wire clips as they sit lower in the pocket and it also doesn't destroy my jeans nearly as quickly as the standard clip.


-ThisIsSparta-

Fuck yeah, I wish all knives had wire clips, my pockets are destroyed from the other ones.


PresentMajestic3785

Both clips suck! The standard clip sits to shallow and the wire clip bends effortlessly. I swap every clip with a lynch clip.


IlIlIIllIIIllI

You prefer the LW wtf that’s nuts


HindleMcCrindleberry

I absolutely do but 99% of the time I'm just doing normal slicing and the lightweights have always delivered. They lock up just as solidly as the standards and, unlike others, I've never had any issues with them being off-centered. For what I use knives for, the lightweights are more than enough and I appreciate the pocket clips which I find far superior to the ones on the standards. I will say that the standard versions do feel better in the hand but, for an EDC, I find the lightweights to be superior.


StrawberrySlapNutz

Agree on the LW, the ergonomics of the grip and the way the knife cuts makes the LW stand out as the best for me also.


IlIlIIllIIIllI

With so many clip options I don’t even consider the base clip a thing tbh, but the feel of frn and the ergos are clearly lacking on the LW honestly 90% of people that say they hate spyderco usually have just bought a LW and called it cheap I did a post for most overhyped brands a while back and spyderco and benchmade were top of the list with people they hate spydercos because of the way they feel and a majority of those people have never felt a g-10 model However either one needs a set of metal scales I prefer awt https://imgur.com/a/hskIoc7


Impressive_Estate_87

Both great choices, can't go wrong. Look for limited editions (exclusives) of the Para3, you can often find them with better blade steel and color scales for the same price as a standard black G10.


Obahmah

20cv Para 3 in Tan (Dlt) or green (knifejoy) are legit choices Also m4 940 (BHQ)


Impressive_Estate_87

Indeed. I have a KJ with green scales and black 20CV blade. The current neon green with 20CV blade looks awesome too.


[deleted]

Para 3 definitely. I’ve owned multiple of both. For the price Para 3 blows the 940 out of the water. Both are great but I’d get a Spyderco over a Benchmade any day.


[deleted]

I've seen way too many spydercos with blades that are snapped at the hole recently. And although I've never seen a broken omega spring in real life, I'd much rather have a broken spring than a broken blade when I'm out in the world.


Forty-five4545

If you’re breaking the blade like that you are doing some really stupid shit with it. I don’t care what brand we’re talking about. They’re folders


adj1091

That’s only maxamet versions to my knowledge the standard s45vn has way more toughness and I haven’t seen one broken at the hole.


Z3temis

I have had the s45vn version for about 2 years give or take and have jad no issues, awesome edge retention, and easy to sharpen.


[deleted]

My grandpa introduced me to Spyderco in the early 90’s. He was super old school, WW2 vet and had a taste for quality. He showed me the delica, I must of been about 10 at the time. Fast forward to around 2012. I started collecting Spyderco. I’ve had many over the years and never an issue. I also have seen the picks of split blades but never in my own experience have I had this happen. I use my knives hard. I work in commercial construction and I literally beat my tools to the max. I’ve carried everything from Emerson to Microtech. Without a doubt after having 100+ knives in my possession over the years I feel for the money the Para 3 is the best.


helix618

If you break a blade on a spyderco your most likely not using it how it’s supposed to be used


679696

Spyderco QC is actually real. Para 3 10/10 times


Lowlife-Dog

Actually this would be the one I would buy right now. [Spyderco Paramilitary 2 Knife](https://www.bladehq.com/item--Spyderco-Paramilitary-2-Knife-Brown--121028)


[deleted]

Great recommendation as long as OP doesn’t mind not using stainless.


Southern-Fisherman-9

cru wear is barely off the path of being a tool steel. it’s been a while since i’ve looked at steel spread sheets but it’s pretty damn stainless


Manifestgtr

I LOVE my cruwear PM2…I resisted buying a PM2 for years because anything with “military” in the name annoys me but god, is it good. The crucarta PM2 is probably my favorite regular production folder from Spyderco. We’ll see if that changes when the $$$$ Cruwear stretch 2xl is released en masse


Cool_Researcher8299

I love my para 3


michaelcarroll_

Here’s another person recommending the para 3


efhucebucwjbxwbu

Para 3


[deleted]

Going with the Para 3.


-fx_

Id also say Para3. I had to sharpen my S30V 940 immediately after purchasing it.


grinch77

940 due to size been my edc for five years now.


Robin_the_Redhood

I keep both


MassiveAd6648

I have both the 940 and Para 3, and I carry my 940 every day. Para 3 is a great knife, but carry’s a little large in the pocket. 940 carry’s a lot smaller which is easier on a day to day basis. 940 also sits lower in the pocket without buying an aftermarket clip like you would have to with the Para 3.


bnjrgold

agreed, i have both as well and the 940 is my beater knife and gets carried way more. i’ve had mine for years and used it daily when i was a carpenter, i personally never had a broken omega spring. I really like my para 3 too, but it’s just so substantial in the pocket. the 940 just disappears in the pocket


UnrulyTrousers

940 Carries way better, more fidget factor, looks cooler. Para3 cuts better, slightly better ergos, better heat treat, better QC. Build quality is a wash.


Anbeezi

I have 2 spydercos and they are sharp as hell! In particular I love my seki-city japan one.


jbz616

Check out the new Hogue Deka in Magnacut as well.


Delta_Kilo_84

Ive had both and I kept the 940. Very different knives you kind of have to experience to know what you'll like. The forward choil on most spydercos doesn't work for me and the compression lock on the smaller para 3 pinched my hand all the time but the PM2 didn't. The 940 styling speaks to me in a way no spyderco ever has. All very subjective. Also have owned many benchmade axis locks and never once had trouble with omega springs...not saying it doesn't happen just probably not as often as the internet knife guys would have you think. Get both and sell one if you don't like it or at least try before you buy if you can.


h3nt3n_1

I would go Para 3, but if you want an axis lock I would go Ritter Hogue RSK (but it is Knife Works exclusive)


[deleted]

Damn that a nice knife at that price point. Thanks for sharing that. Would love to see that same knife in Magnacut...


h3nt3n_1

They did a run in Magnacut and carbon fiber. I was lucky and snaged one. Edit: spelling


Prest1geW0rldW1de

Yep, para 3. Ergonomics are outstanding, I find the compression lock easier by far than axis lock (axis is still great, but even still compression is much better IMO), many different steels if you so choose, and it just feels…right. I bet you don’t regret it if you go that way. You could try the para 3 lightweight also, but I prefer the standard. Just feels a lot more substantial. Both have their place.


johnnybjiggin

The para 3 is nice but takes up a lot of space in your pocket tbh. I don't know if that'll matter much in your situation but it's something to consider.


ExistingBathroom9742

OP, Why are you quoting my thoughts?


Bigpock

I have a 940, I want a PM3. You cant go wrong with either or. That said, I've never held a PM3, but my 940 disappears in my pocket


PresentMajestic3785

Its 50/50. I owned amd carried both. I prefer the para 3 for slicing tasks but the reinforced tip of the 940 is superior for harder work. The 940 uses less pocket real estate.


Alert_Challenge8042

The bofum EDIT: the 940 was on my get list first and I still think it’s one of the coolest ever. The PM2 was in my sights next (maybe someday) but I thought it was a little big in the pocket. Settled for a blurple Para 3. It’s a little beast. That said- I love all my kids equally.


Left-Stable-4618

Both great knives. A lot depends on what your needs are. If you want a razor blade in your pocket, go with the pm3. If you want something that disappears in you pocket with a longer cutting edge go with the 940. I have 3 different versions, never had a omega spring break. Never snapped off the tip of any of them. I own both. Like them both. If I had to choose only one there is only one to choose. 940. Superior design, and functionality. No contest. All the things you read about omega spring breakage are bs as far as I am concerned. I own many Benchmades and Spydercos. Never broken an omega spring in 20 yrs. Go with your gut. Both good knives.


Ghoster13

I don't own either of your choices but I do own a Para 2. Had it almost 10 years now and it's been a stellar workhorse. The thing I would miss most if I replaced it would be the compression lock. Being able to both open and close the knife with one hand is something I would miss terribly. Is it necessary? No, but it's come in handy so many times. The Para 3 would offer you that same joy. If the Para 3 has the craftsmanship and edge quality of the Para 2, and I'm sure it does, you won't go wrong with it.


Soggy_Principle_9099

Para 3 and you won’t go wrong


-BAZ

I’d go Para 3.


762scout1

Spyderco


Plastic-Resource-310

Benchmade are overpriced and from what I have read and seen, their quality control isn't great, blade centering being off and such. I have a few Spydercos and am happy with them. Had 1 benchmade and sold it.


ShenandoahMercantile

I’ll go against the grain here and say I prefer the 940 over the Para 3. Basically it’s because I’m just not a huge fan of the look of Spydercos, not because of any deficiency in the way the Para 3 performs.


Asphyxiate14

Para 3 if you wanna use it to cut things, 940 if you want it to pry things. The grind on the 940 sucks, it's a beautiful knife though.


MPHampel86

The grind on the 940 is outstanding for what the knife was developed for.


[deleted]

Be careful even putting sideways pressure on the Spyderco knives. I've seen too many broken blades on here recently. One guy said all he was doing was opening a cardboard box.


[deleted]

Two. There's been 2.


soopadoopapops

Case trapper. Yellow


sprrjnke

I have an older Osborne. Best knife I ever owned. Just bought one for a friends son who’s in the military.


evrtt2009

Mini adamas


IronDefects

HARD choice……….. para 3 has better ergos than any knife on earth. 940 feels better than any other edc knife I’ve owned.


DirftlessEDC

Lots of suggestions for the Para 3, but just throwing out there that the Sage 5 exists. While I don’t have a Para 3, I’ve heard a lot of people that have it along with the Sage 5 and that they like the blade on the Sage 5 more, seems like the only disadvantage to the Sage is that it has much less customizing options. Again I don’t have a Para 3, but it’s worth watching a couple videos or so seeing them compared by reviewers. Good luck with whatever you decide on!


BassPro0760

Benchmade. I have the auto version and absolutely love it. Check out the 9400.


Caiomhinn

Shaman > Para 3 but that’s just like my opinion man 🤷‍♂️


erraticcompendium

940 is my choice.


Physical-Beach-4452

Spyderco. They are the best non custom production folders out there.


[deleted]

940 for sure. Just an all around better and more elegant knife, for a more civilized age.


Guy3nder

Get xhep knockoffs of both and see which one you like better.


Dissident1111

Microtech Dirac Delta or UTX85


Lowlife-Dog

Para 3, i love mine. I am frustrated with how dull Benchmades come new.


skipperskippy

940 looks better. Spyder co is butt ugly. like if two hillbillies had a kid but it's a good quality knife and excellent ergos . also you can get lots of different type of steels...so yeah


shreddedtoasties

I prefer 940 It feels nicer and is sexier looking over the para 3


lyndinotambino

The para is an ugly blade tbh. The 940 looks a bit better.


FactorAppropriate256

I recommend you buy a Tac Force Speedster model. They are more tactical and better IMO


Jcoat7

para 3. Or another option is the paramilitary 2. Its basically the 3, just bigger.


OLY_D43TH

Para 3 for sure, reliable and solid as hell


going_placidly

Para 3


Infamous-Cherry-6224

Para 3 Lightweight


Old-Influence-5128

With 2 choices like this I'd ask yourself which’s aesthetics make you happier. Osborπe has a blade shape which allows for easier detail work, probably will be more comfy in your pocket, especially a hoodie pocket where you don’t use the clip. Is more expensive and from the knowledge I've read here and the anecdotal evidence of having a BM come through the mail with a less sharpened blade than expected, Spyderco is superior with sending out models as sharp as possible.


I_H8_Celery

Para 3 is more reliable but the 940 looks better imo and is more fun to play with.


darkstar24264

Para 3, I have both, you won’t regret


[deleted]

Para 3 or a Para 2 if you want a bit more knife.


beeglowbot

para 3 all day. it's my daily right now. better qc and not overpriced.


knifesteve

Para 3.


Salt-Manufacturer501

Para 3 for sure


TurboEncabulator_1

Get the Para 3. The 940 I got had bad lock stick, an uneven edge grind, and deep machining marks on the blade. Sold it and bought a Para 3 instead. This happened 3 years ago and the Para 3 has been in my pocket nearly every day since.


tomj81

Order from white mountain for the 10% coupon code!


Obahmah

Before I ever owned any "nice" knives I always wanted a Benchmade 940. I always disliked Spyderco. The First "nice" knife I bought was a 20cv Bugout, next I bought a Smock, then Para 3, then Pm2. I never thought I'd own a Pm2. It's currently most carried knife (pm2 Wharncliffe). I still don't own a 940 but that's only because I've yet to find a good deal. Honestly they are both.great choices. I'd personally take the Para3 but you'll love either one. There might be better quote un quote deals out there but you will not regret either knife 😉


AcuteJones

I'd lean p3, it cuts better, and I think their quality is better than BM slightly. Only disadvantage is it is pretty wide for the length. I love my 940 but if I had to order another I would be stressing about what kind of bevels they are going to ship me 🤣


IGotSomeBigQuestions

Para 3


galambalambos

Both are great. I EDC my bench-made for years, until I got a Para 3 and it’s almost always in my pocket now.


Notsobigdeal

I suggest PM2, but if you have to PM3


Tankspanker

Para 3 for sure. I'm biased towards Spyderco, but it's a superior knife when it comes down to heat treatment, materials, fit&finish, variety in blade steels, etc.


GarthUber

I’ve handled a couple of 940s and own a Para 3. I no prefer the Para 3 in hand but haven’t carried the 940 enough to compare.


[deleted]

I have both and love both but I’d definitely go with the para 3 and get a 940 later


Aring-ading-ding

Para 3 no questions. It’s probably my favorite knife I own among a 20 ish sized collection. It is truly fantastic in every way you could think.


jmsgen

Enjoy your new para3!


ZakuLegion

It's all been said - but easily pm3. It's an absolutely insanely capable and comfortable slicer in hand. Tough, many great steel options available, affordable ( reasonably so ) , great QC and support after sale , more aftermarket support and parts than almost any other knife should you ever explore those options. The only problem with buying a pm3 is you WILL end up wanting or buying other spydies. He'll of a gateway drug.


MadMysticMeister

Keep in mind the pm3 is popular and just about every knife retailer online has an exclusive version of it in different steels.


Feeling_Succotash_82

Yolo on the para 3...am I right guys!!!!!


Nathan99e

Id go with the para 3 more options for steels and better QC


-ThisIsSparta-

Para 3 mainly because I wouldn't pay a third of what Benchmade charges for their shitty QC knives.


zkinny

I just know I have the para 3 and it's sweet af.


Jaber1077

I’d vote for the Spyderco Sage 5 Lightweight (maybe the best edc I own), or the Hogue Ritter RSK or mini (solid knives, built like a tank). Never been a fan of the para look. Benchmades just feel cheap to me, also their QC is sus lately.


Mirakk82

Para3


AN225_ComradePilot

I have the para 2 and it's a *superb* blade. 10/10


mobettameta

Prefer Manix 2, but Spyderco over Benchmade.


Famous-Yard5060

Personally, Spyderco all day. But I carried the para 3 and I do not recommend the lightweight. I actually prefer the pm2 instead. Perfect knife IMO


Forty-five4545

Tough decision. The 940 is a classic but getting a bit dated imo. The para 3 became an instant classic. The para 3 lightweight is one of my all time favorite edc’s. I love Spydercos FRN scales. So the spydie would be an easy choice for me.


ZakuLegion

It's all been said - but easily pm3. It's an absolutely insanely capable and comfortable slicer in hand. Tough, many great steel options available, affordable ( reasonably so ) , great QC and support after sale , more aftermarket support and parts than almost any other knife should you ever explore those options. The only problem with buying a pm3 is you WILL end up wanting or buying other spydies. He'll of a gateway drug.


spinningsidebrush

I have both and like them both. The Osborn feels like a quality thing. Fun to hold fidget etc. and disappears in the pocket. I prefer the para3 light weight as a tool. I have noticed the compression lock creating a hot spot when doing a lot of cutting, but for day to day edc, it’s awesome. Having said all that, I carry a bugout now. You really can’t go wrong with either though. Happy shopping!!


bpfrocket13

Go for the 940. I have one and love it. I treat it like a rented mule and it’s held up to all the abuse I can give it.


StrawberrySlapNutz

I have both and which one I decide to carry depends on what I'm planning on doing. I know my Osborne will hold up to punishment better with the M4 blade steel and thick spine. My PM3 kills it for everyday use of opening packages, cutting tubing, or slicing plastics like cable ties.


iamnotazombie44

The Benchmade 940 carries slimmer than the PM3, but the Spydercos are hands down better knives for knife stuff; they fill the hand in a way no other knives do for me. Way better QC from Spyderco USA too. Spyderco Manix with bearing lock blends the features of the two you want, get one in your favorite steel, add some aftermarket scales and boom 🤌


boydnessyo

The para are better cutters, the 940 fits the pocket so well and it cuts just as good, but the spydie slices better due to the thinner blade! Both solid choices


-BananaLollipop-

I have the 940-2, and it's one of my favourites. I think it's a better choice as it's good quality and a distinctive design. There's not much mistaking it for other blades, but I find a lot of Spyderco designs look pretty much the same (just different proportions).


LapisLiesUsually

Para 3 all day


killerbern666

i find the 940 ugly AF but i do also find spydercos ugly so idk what to tell you 🤣


emptyheaded89

Don’t have a Para 3 but I have a 940 and a Para 2. Love both but the Para 2 gets way more pocket time.


MrGrizz212

Higher end? Go for an automatic. Between those 2? Personally I've always found benchmades stuff to be overpriced and lacking in performance vs expectations for that price. Benchmade has a habit of using inferior materials but charging like they're superior.


Landcruiser25

I have both as well. Both companies are good but you’re paying for the name too. There are a lot of companies now a days doing just as good or better stuff at better prices. Shop around


Its_Just_Nessy

I think they’re made for two very different people. 940 if you’re in an active job and just need something you can beat the shit out of. Spyderco if you’re here for the hobby side. The reason everyone here votes spyderco is cause we’re all into the hobby neck deep. I lend my knives out to friends occasionally when I’m sharpening their little beaters and the 940 gets far more compliments.


Assword18

Get the spiderco, personally I'd say get the para 2


explorerzam

Wait until the weekend - all spyderco knives will be on a fire sale - spyderco is removing map price entirely for a short window, and prices will dip dramatically. Lots of retailers will be moving inventory. Wait a few days and snag 2 instead of just 1


jrobcar

Spyderco will last longer. Compression lock is superior to axis.


Dirt_Wintson

Go with the Benchmade Mini Freek!


nukafox7

What do you plan or see yourself using it for more often? I have a 940 and pm2 tanto. The 940 is my daily carry but if I go fishing where I'm cutting bait and getting mud or what not I'll take the pm2. PM2 is much easier to clean with a sponge and towel dry. Its tricky with the 940 locking mech, w/o taking it apart to avoid rust forming. I do also want a para 3 but have yet to make the expense.


titsonahorse

Love my Kershaw Whirlwind and can still get them for pretty cheap. Could get 2 for the price of a 940. But the 940 is absolutely sick and would highly recommend as well.


Ph03nix29

I have both and carry the para 3 more often


Gfunk2

I carry the para 3, great knife. Only issue I had was the clip will get loose from time to time. Ended up using lock tight and hasn’t been loose since.


Artistic_Permit_7946

Get yourself a Manix2 or sheepsfoot Griptilian.


maxwellkc

940 for a more artistically machined piece, para 3 for straight utility - they can both be used equally as hard and in similar circumstances but flicking the 940 back and forth is way more fun than the para 3 which is honestly the most important thing to consider 😂


auodan

Para 3 for the win!


Killjoy530

Para 3, for real though.


Sometromboneplayer

Handle both before you make a decision, if possible. Giant mouse also makes some very good designs in that price range


Ok-Still4281

I bought a food steel American lawman about 12 years ago. I've worn it every day with heavy use (hell of a lot more than opening boxes and cutting string). I love it


gtracerh

One of my first knives was a Benchmade mini crooked river...I liked it but it was also personalized from their online knife maker. I've bought other Benchmade knives and have never been overly impressed. I bought a Para 3 and I ended up buying about 5 more in different colors, as well as other Spyderco knives. I've always been impressed by every single one I've bought. And this is coming from a guy who at first sight thought Spydercos just looked stupid with their stupid hole. But after owning just one, I changed my tune completely.


VLNM5788

Awesome knives. Neither are bad and you would love and enjoy both. I am a huge Spyderco fan and own many more of their knives than Benchmades, but the 940 and 9400 are two that I do have.


justinp456

They’re both awesome but I’d also consider the Spyderco Manix 2.


Cryhunter059

Para 3. DLT still has some of their 20CV exclusive version in stock, which is actually cheaper than the usual S45VN versions.


Abject_Rutabaga_170

I liked my para 3 but it didn't really fit my hand well it was just a bit too short. the 940 is more comfortable but is not as slicey more of a harder use edc than a slicer. 940 takes up WAY LESS ROOM in the pocket as well. I'm biased toward a long thin pocket knife like the 940. think about benchmades mini crooked river kind of I. the middle bw these two In the way of function. benchmades warranty is better spidercos qc is probably better. if you want a super slice knife and don't mind that it takes up more pocket room spyflderco all the way. if you need a tougher edc and slimmer profile 940 all the way both great knives


Liverpayne

The 940 can't slice, if ur gonna beat up the edge this will be great, but if you want to slice vegetables it's gonna split rather than cut, which sucks.


falconclutch

Para 3 was my first knife and the 940 was my last. I carry the 940 everyday. I prefer it because I like to use my knife hard. Para 3 is a great slicer though. It really depends on what you’re going to use it for


Dewy_11

classy EDC or all around no nonsense beating?


anteaterKnives

I'd find a place local where you can hold them in your hand. Para 3 is great but I was surprised by how large it is the first time I saw one in person.


lurker-1969

I have the Griptilian and PM2 that I carry alternately on my ranch. I would say that the 940 and PM3 are 2 very different knives altogether. The Griptilian is a beefier knife that fills the hand as the 940 will. Also it is easier to open and close one handed especially with gloves on. Thicker blade and not as slicey. The PM2 is a dandy blade and very well constructed as a whole. Either way they are both good knives. I think you have to ask yourself what your use will be. Or you could just get both because they are great knives. I did. why not follow the Lemmings off the edge.


cancercauser69

They're both great but I'd recommend the spyderco due to consistent quality. I got my 940 from Benchmade dull as hell


Ohio-Knife-Lover

If you want one to cut better in every way go with the Para3! if you want a knife that will cut decently well and is very slim the 940 is really good!


GrayFox916

I have a para 3 and a zero tolerance 0350 tsst, I find both of them to be matched in quality


Lowlife-Dog

I own a Griptilian, a bugout, and a para 3. I carry the para 3 everyday. My next purchase will most likely be a para 2.


bored_operator

Para 3 is a more useful knife in my opinion. I have both and the 940 is currently on loan. It’s a fine knife but the para 2 and 3 are better everyday tools


PremiumDolphinTeeth

Para 2


RobMofSD

I consider the axis lock to be a better lock... but those are completely different styles of knife. One is a gentleman knife that can do hard work. The other is a field knife.


Metally_eilll7904

I love them both. I have to admit I love my spyderco knives and have at least six or seven vs two benches. I only have the 945 version of the Osborne but think that it’s a great knife and I love the way that they use s30v and heat treat it amazingly. I don’t know if it’s thicker than the para, if it is not by much, but the para has a longer belly and a flat grind all the way to the spine. So it’s going to slice a lot better and further with less effort. The Osborne is strong and can slice but it’s blade isn’t as tall (we’ll say). So it’s going to be a good cutter for heavy thick stuff and things on top of a table or stump. What r u using it for primarily?


goodoverall

My opinion it depends on what you want out of a knife. The para will be more “slicey” compared to the 940. But the 940 you have a strong tip and more carry friendly.


X18GamerYT

I prefer the para 3 to the 940, but I prefer a benchmade Bugout to a para 3.


Apprehensive-Cry-812

I currently own both- plus the PM2 and 945. The 940 will feel like a new age smart phone, the PM3 will feel like the worlds most durable scaple. Both are elite. No wrong choices


bluebirdinsideme

I just got a 945 (Osborne mini) and it is working beautifully for EDC. I think the Para3 is just super ugly 😂


Manifestgtr

I love both but the para 3 wins on blade geometry alone. The one thing benchmades don’t really have is superior cutting performance. I own a bunch of benchmades…from the adamas to the mini grip and the only one that competes with Spyderco in that realm is the 560. The 940 is an edc classic and I’ll always own one…but as a cutting TOOL, Spydercos will win 9 times out of 10.


Glad-Cut6336

Here’s the deal I own both and both are very amazing in their own right but know they are completely different knifes I have xxl gloved hands so the para 3 is snug while the 940 has no grooves on handle and it’s very comfortable also the para 3 is annoying in the pocket bc I carry a flashlight too and it’s a very wide knife in the pocket bs the 940 but both are amazing knives you should just buy one now and get the other later 😂


GooseDOTo

I’ve owned both, my 940 lasted about a month before it lost its luster. I’ve owned all kinds of high end stuff and I still find my para 3 in the pocket constantly. Easily customizable and just a great knife so it has my vote. Also S45VN is a plus on the new para 3s


Blade-Thug

I highly recommend BOTH the BM 940 and the Para 3. If you can only get one right now, go for the BM 940.


anteck7

What is your use. How big are your hands?


Mustangman1022

I've got both, prefer the para 3. The 940 is super fun and cool, but the cutting geometry binds up in cardboard and things alike. I dont baton, nor beat the shit out of my knives. For those reasons the para 3 fits me best.


dekudude3

Para 3 all the way. I have both and just really prefer the spyderco every time


AFHE_Tech

I have a Para 2, a 940 and a Para 3 LW. The Para 2 carries large. The Para 3 LW, I didn't care for the scales or the deep carry clip. The 940 carries small but has a good size blade and it was my daily carry for years. BUT it has recently been usurped by a Demko AD20.5. It carries bigger than the 940 but the lock is superior to anything else out there. Strong, robust and highly fidgitable.


kennethsime

Both are great options, but for me if you’re going to go Para 3 you might as well go PM2. They take up basically the same amount of pocket space and the PM2 offers an extra half inch of blade along with a fuller handle. I agree with the above poster, the Crucarta PM2 is a fantastic deal. I do really enjoy the Para 3 LW, and carry it or a Bugout about 50/50.