Heckler & Koch (HK) is a very well-known name in the firearms industry, producing some of the finest firearms available on the market. Their iconic MP-5 submachine gun has been a weapon of choice for many SWAT and military special operations teams for decades and was a true joy to use while our SWAT team had them. The HK416 is considered by many to be in the top-tier of AR-15 rifles available, and the new HK VP9 has received raving reviews for its ergonomics, smooth trigger, and accuracy.
The Benchmade HK Axis knife with a serrated blade.
Another side of the HK business is a line of branded knives made by famed knifemaker Benchmark. These knives are designed around the same demanding standards that has led HK in its firearms designs for the professional shooter, and follow the HK motto, “no compromise”. The particular model that caught my eye at the SHOT Show floor this year was the HK Axis.
HK Axis
Made for Heckler & Koch by Benchmade, the HK Axis is a remarkable folder with a variety of blade, size, and color options. The Axis is made with very popular G10 textured handles and a stainless steel liner. The G10 handles have a minute criss-cross pattern that provides the user with a superior grip even in the less than ideal conditions like being wet or sweaty.
The HK Axis with tan G10 handles.
Each version of the Axis has the namesake patented ambidextrous AXIS lock, which functions with a small, hardened steel bar that is designed to slide forward and backward in machined slots on both steel liners. The AXIS lock is then positioned over the rear of the blade where it engages a ramped tang portion when opened. There are two omega-style springs, one on each liner, that give the locking bar enough inertia to engage the knife tang. The result is the HK Axis tang is wedged solidly between a sizable stop pin and the AXIS bar itself.
The HK Axis has an optional Tanto blade in addition to the razor and serrated Clip Point blades.
The HK Axis has textured dual thumb studs on the blade for positive textile feel and quick opening. The metal pocket clip can be attached to either side for preference.
Axis Specifications
- Overall Length – 8.34″
- Closed Length – 4.64″
- Blade Length – 3.69″
- Blade Width – 0.146″
- Weight – 4.96 oz.
- Blade Material – D2 Tool Steel
- Hardness – 60-62HRC
- Blade Type – Clip Point or Tanto; Razor or Serrated
- Handle Material – G10 in black or tan
- Handle Width – 0.510″
- Locking Mechanism – AXIS slide-lock, combined with tension bar
- Carry Method – Reversible tip-up pocket clip; Sheath sold separately
- MSRP – $155.00
Axis Mini Specifications
The HK Axis Mini has all of the specifications of the full-size Axis, just in a smaller package.
The HK Axis mini is several inches small than the full-size version.
- Overall Length – 6.50″
- Closed Length – 3.62″
- Blade Length – 2.88″
- Blade Width – 0.146″
- Weight – 2.88 oz.
- Blade Material – D2 Tool Steel
- Hardness – 60-62HRC
- Blade Type – Clip Point or Tanto; Razor or Serrated
- Handle Material – G10 in black or tan
- Handle Width – 0.44″
- Locking Mechanism – AXIS slide-lock, combined with tension bar
- Carry Method – Reversible tip-up pocket clip; Sheath sold separately
- MSRP – $145.00.
The HK Axis Mini also has the tan G10 handle option.
Update
The Heckler & Koch Axis folding knife has been discontinued and none of the dealers seem to have any left in stock. However, there is still some hope if you like this style of blade.
Since these knives are made by Benchmade, you can find several styles very similar to this one. I would recommend looking at the Benchmade Barrage 583 as a close alternative. Also, check out our knife page with a plethora of reviews on blades.