Review: Benchmade Shootout CF-Elite

The Benchmade Shootout CF-Elite is a daily-carry knife—and a great one at that. When I first imagined holding it, I expected more heft, but in hand, it’s lighter than I had thought possible. The texured grip ensures a secure hold, and the action is snappy and reliable. The built-in glass breaker is a solid addition, making it even more versatile.

While the Shootout isn’t exactly marketed as a tactical knife, I have no doubt it’ll hold its own in an emergency. The deployment is powerful and the retraction is just as smooth, giving me confidence in its ability to be ready when needed. Like any blade, the Shootout is a weapon—and most weapons need safety. Benchmade has that covered. If the blade somehow deploys unintentionally against a hard surface (which is highly unlikely), the mechanism disengages from the driving spring, preventing the knife from deploying and tearing through your leg or car seat. The mechanism is easy to reset afterward.

The Shootout isn’t cheap, but the quality and reliability make it well worth it. I’ll carry one until I wear it out or lose it—and I don’t see either happening anytime soon. Available at benchmade.com; $325.