The 4300 CLA Composite Lite Auto is a quick-deployment automatic knife that is sized for everyday carry comfort while providing the performance professionals expect from a Benchmade Black Class knife. The CLA has a contoured black G-10 handle that is both lightweight and strong. A reversible, deep carry pocket clip offers increased discreetness and a proper fit. This model, the 4300BK, has a plain edge, black coated modified drop point blade with push button operation and a front-mounted safety switch.
After carrying the Benchmade Mini Reflex everyday for several years, I decided it was time for a new EDC and boy did I choose the right one for me! The CLA is perfect in size, weight, action and just a beautiful piece of work. If your looking for a new EDC, this one is JUST RIGHT.
I purchased this knife for my cousin. Had it sent directly to him. He called when he picked it up at post office and said it jumped out of his hand when he pushed the button. So I'm guessing it is snappy. He says it is sweet and he likes it. I was pretty sure he would. It's a benchmade. Another satisfied customer and Blade HQ, you rock.!!
My wife wanted a knife. I bought 3 knives and showed them all to her. Of course, she picked this one. She carries it everywhere clipped in her blue jeans pocket. I was kinda hacked she picked this one. Now, I gotta get another one.
This knife was a lot of money, for me anyway. But it was worth it. I absolutely love it. Very light and feels great in the hand and pocket. I recommend it. Definitely the best knife I own. Thanks Benchmade and thanks Bladehq.
This is my first Benchmade product and I am thoroughly impressed. I ended up getting a couple of other Benchmade knives for a few family members, and I will definitely be getting more in the future.
Feels nice and tactical. Great color scheme. Handle feels and looks like carbon. Super smooth and quick blade release with some kick to it. Both sides of the handle have spots for a pocket clip. 1 side has a 2-hole spot for pocket clip and other has 3-hole spot for pocket clip. Good grip. Very sharp out of the box. Comes with great packaging and a case that looks like a case for sun glasses. Easy to clean and has a nice safety button. Paint gets worn and scratched off easily on pocket clip, but they are easy to replace and the worn clip looks good on this knife anyways. Also if the clip's paint does get scratched it won't be very noticeable. Conclusion is yes, this knife is pretty pricy, but it is worth the money because of how amazing it is in every category. Rating: 11/10
Received my Benchmade CLA 4300 from BladeHQ today, and I could not be more pleased with the knife and my purchase. The knife was shipped promptly and arrived in a couple of days. The knife was exactly what I was looking for. Had never seen the knife in person before, so I had to go on reviews available online. I think one of the key selling points for this knife is its weight, or should I say lack there of. At 3.47oz. this is the most I would want to carry clipped to a belt, a pocket or in my pocket. I had considered the Benchmade AFO knife, but the primary drawback I got from the reviews was that knife's heavy weight. That knife weighs in at 5.8oz., which is pretty hefty. The difference being the aluminum handles on the AFO weighs more than the G-10 on the CLA. And I think both knives would serve the same purpose whether it be tactical, survival or EDC. While the aluminum handles would probably hold up being driven over by a car tire, but the G-10 would not. How many times are you going to be in that kind of rough situation. Too often it comes down to weight. Whether hiking or on duty, the less weight you can carry the happier you will be. The blade quality and design is what you would expect from Benchmade. They have made a great knife that will serve you well, without weighing you down.
Looks great and feels nice in the hand. I did not realize how strong the spring. Opens fast! You have to hang on to this one a little bit to keep it from taking off. Friends loved it when I showed them. Nice Benchmade knife!
Let me start by saying I'm a left arm above the elbow amputee. That being said, I carry everything in my right pants pockets. The auto knifes I've had in the past were bulky and heavy. This knife is slim and light weight. I also use my knife as a "rocker knife" when cutting food. I highly recommend this knife.
I've used the 3550, 2550, AFO 2 and the 5000. This is by far the best Benchmade Automatic Knife I've owned. It's light weight and sturdy. I'd highly recommend it to anyone.
This knife was a gift but I absolutely love it...price tag is high for g10 and 154cm but somehow feels worth it when you push the button and that sexy blade flies out and the knife practically jumps out of your hand.
The look, feel, and weight of this knife are great! It has a lanyard hole, safety lock switch, deep clip, and the clip can be mounted on opposite side. However, this knife is really really expensive considering it's made using a mid-range steel like 154CM. In this price range, it should be made with a premium steel like CPM-S90V.