Benchmade Kitsari – 3.15″ Z-12Ultra PM Plain Hawkbill Blade, Black G10 Handle – 213BK-2601

The Benchmade Kitsari 213BK-2601 is a thin, lightweight everyday-carry folder with a hawkbill blade, the first hawkbill knife Benchmade has made. Its concave edge draws material into the cut for efficient slicing, paired with black G10 scales milled in a radial pattern and Flat Dark Earth PVD-coated hardware.

Z-12Ultra PM is a powder metallurgy tool steel that Benchmade says offers exceptional edge retention and toughness at high hardness, here 62-64 HRC. In daily use, that means a hawkbill edge that keeps biting through cord, tape, and packaging between sharpenings. The trade-off is care: as a tool steel, it should be kept clean, dry, and lightly oiled. The 0.090″ blade keeps the knife slim at 2.29 oz.

• Blade: 3.15″ Z-12Ultra PM hawkbill with a plain concave edge, 0.090″ thick, 62-64 HRC.
• Handle: Black G10 scales milled with a radial pattern, with Flat Dark Earth PVD-coated hardware; 4.33″ closed, 0.42″ thick, 2.29 oz.
• Deployment + Lock: Benchmade AXIS Lock holds the blade open and releases from either side of the handle.
• Carry: Slim, light EDC profile; 7.48″ overall.

Ideal for: EDC carriers who cut a lot of cord, rope, and packaging; users who want a hawkbill in a slim, light folder; and Benchmade collectors who want the brand’s first hawkbill.

Care note: Z-12Ultra PM is a tool steel. To keep it from staining or rusting, wipe it clean and dry after use and keep a light coat of oil on the blade.

Benchmade Kitsari: Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to the most common questions about the Benchmade Kitsari (213BK-2601).

What lock does the Benchmade Kitsari 213BK-2601 use?

The Kitsari uses Benchmade’s AXIS Lock. A spring-loaded steel bar rides in slots on both sides of the handle and engages a ramp on the blade tang to hold the blade open. To close, pull the bar back with your thumb from either side and fold the blade, keeping your fingers clear of the edge. The lock works the same for left- and right-handed users.

What is a hawkbill blade good for, and how do I sharpen it?

A hawkbill has a concave, downward-curving edge that draws material into the cut instead of letting it slide off. That makes it efficient for pulling cuts through cord, rope, zip ties, tape, carpet, and packaging. It is less suited to long push cuts or food prep. To sharpen the curved edge, use a tapered or round ceramic or diamond rod so the abrasive can reach the inside of the curve.

What is Z-12Ultra PM steel?

Z-12Ultra PM is a powder metallurgy tool steel that Benchmade says offers exceptional edge retention and toughness at high hardness. On the Kitsari, it is hardened to 62-64 HRC, so the edge holds up well through cord, tape, and cardboard between sharpenings.

How do I care for a Z-12Ultra PM blade?

Z-12Ultra PM is a tool steel, so it needs a little more care than a typical stainless blade. Wipe it clean and dry after use, especially after exposure to water or sweat, and keep a light coat of oil on the blade to prevent staining or rust. Because it is hard and wear resistant, diamond or ceramic sharpeners work best.

What comes with the Benchmade Kitsari 213BK-2601?

The 213BK-2601 ships as a folding knife with no sheath included. Packaging and included items are set by Benchmade and are subject to change.

What warranty covers the Benchmade Kitsari 213BK-2601?

Benchmade covers its authentic knives with a lifetime warranty against defects in materials and workmanship, plus its LifeSharp program, which offers lifetime cleaning, oiling, sharpening, and adjustment to factory specifications. Contact Benchmade directly for warranty terms and service.

Z-12ULTRA PM · HAWKBILL · AXIS LOCK

Benchmade’s First Hawkbill

A 2.29 oz folder with a 3.15-inch Z-12Ultra PM hawkbill blade, black G10 scales, and an ambidextrous AXIS Lock.

Specifications