Benchmade - 490 Amicus AXIS-Assist Black Aluminum

The Benchmade 490 Amicus AXIS-Assist Flipper Knife is a slim, lightweight assisted-opening folder built for everyday carry, field use, and general cutting tasks. It combines a premium CPM-S90V stainless steel drop-point blade with a black anodized 7075-T6 aluminum handle, delivering strong edge retention, corrosion resistance, and a refined low-profile carry design.

The 490 Amicus uses Benchmade’s AXIS-Assist mechanism with a flipper opener and integrated safety for fast, controlled deployment. At approximately 2.88 ounces with a 3.20-inch blade, it offers full-size cutting performance in a compact package. Shop more premium folders in our Benchmade collection or browse additional options in our Hunting Knives collection.

AXIS-ASSIST FLIPPER OPENING

The 490 Amicus pairs a flipper opener with Benchmade’s spring-assisted AXIS-Assist mechanism. Once the blade is manually moved beyond the assist point, the spring helps complete deployment for quick one-handed opening.

CPM-S90V DROP-POINT BLADE

The 3.20-inch satin-finished drop-point blade is made from CPM-S90V stainless steel and hardened to approximately 59–61 HRC. S90V is a premium powder-metallurgy steel valued for excellent wear resistance, edge retention, and corrosion resistance.

BLACK 7075-T6 ALUMINUM HANDLE

The black anodized 7075-T6 aluminum handle keeps the Amicus rigid and lightweight while maintaining a smooth, streamlined shape that carries easily in a pocket.

DEEP-CARRY REVERSIBLE POCKET CLIP

A reversible tip-up pocket clip supports discreet everyday carry and allows the knife to be configured for either side. The slim handle and lightweight build make the 490 especially well suited for users who want a premium assisted folder without unnecessary bulk.

FEATURES

• Benchmade 490 Amicus folding knife
• AXIS-Assist assisted-opening mechanism
• Flipper opener
• Integrated safety
• CPM-S90V stainless steel blade
• 59–61 HRC blade hardness
• 3.20-inch drop-point blade
• Satin blade finish
• Plain cutting edge
• Black anodized 7075-T6 aluminum handle
• Reversible tip-up deep-carry pocket clip
• Lightweight everyday-carry design

SPECIFICATIONS

• Model: 490 Amicus
• Mechanism: AXIS-Assist
• Opening: Flipper
• Lock Type: AXIS
• Blade Steel: CPM-S90V stainless steel
• Blade Hardness: 59–61 HRC
• Blade Length: 3.20 in.
• Blade Thickness: 0.09 in.
• Blade Style: Drop Point
• Blade Finish: Satin
• Edge: Plain
• Overall Length: 7.72 in.
• Handle Material: 7075-T6 aluminum
• Handle Color: Black
• Handle Thickness: 0.48 in.
• Weight: 2.88 oz.
• Pocket Clip: Reversible, tip-up

BENCHMADE 490 AMICUS FAQ

Is the Benchmade 490 Amicus an assisted-opening knife?
Yes. The 490 uses Benchmade’s AXIS-Assist mechanism, which provides spring-assisted deployment after the opening motion is initiated with the flipper.

What blade steel does the Benchmade 490 Amicus use?
The 490 Amicus uses CPM-S90V stainless steel hardened to approximately 59–61 HRC. S90V is known for excellent edge retention, wear resistance, and corrosion resistance.

How long is the Benchmade 490 Amicus blade?
The Amicus has a 3.20-inch drop-point blade and measures approximately 7.72 inches overall when open.

What is the Benchmade 490 handle made from?
The handle is made from black anodized 7075-T6 aluminum, providing a rigid and lightweight foundation for everyday carry.

Does the Benchmade 490 Amicus have a safety?
Yes. The AXIS-Assist system includes an integrated safety for additional control during carry and handling.

Is the pocket clip reversible?
Yes. The 490 Amicus uses a reversible tip-up deep-carry pocket clip, allowing the carry position to be configured for either side.