The 743BK-01 uses 20CV, Carpenter Technology's powder metallurgy stainless steel equivalent to Böhler M390. Both are high-carbon, high-chromium, high-vanadium PM steels with virtually identical performance in edge retention, corrosion resistance, and edge-taking ability. The DLC Black coating adds a second independent corrosion barrier over 20CV's already outstanding resistance, making the 743BK-01 the most corrosion-protected Mini Narrows variant.

Both use 20CV steel and Grade 5 titanium on the same Mini Narrows platform with the same AXIS lock, carry dimensions, and $500 price point. The 743BK-01 has a DLC Black blade coating and Black anodized titanium handle — fully blacked-out, double-layer corrosion protection, zero reflective surfaces. The 743 has a stonewash blade finish and Gray titanium handle — natural titanium character, blade surface that develops patina with use, more understated carry appearance. Choose the 743BK-01 for stealth carry and maximum corrosion protection; choose the 743 for natural titanium character and a blade that ages with personality.

Both are fully blacked-out DLC titanium AXIS lock folders. The Mini Narrows 743BK-01 has a 2.98-inch 20CV DLC blade at 2.80 oz closed at 4.00 inches for $500 — compact front pocket format, $25 less than the full-size. The full-size Narrows 748BK-01 has a 3.44-inch M390 DLC blade at 3.50 oz closed at 4.60 inches for $525 — more blade length in a larger carry format. Both deliver the same all-black DLC titanium build philosophy; choose based on whether compact carry or more blade reach is the priority.

The 743BK-01 uses Benchmade’s AXIS lock — a hardened steel bar that rides in a channel milled through both handle scales and cams over the blade tang when the knife opens. Releasing it requires simultaneously pressing both sides of the lock bar inward, making it extremely resistant to accidental closure under lateral or spine pressure. The AXIS lock is fully ambidextrous and operable one-handed from either side.

The 743BK-01 has a 2.98-inch blade with an overall open length of 6.96 inches and a closed length of 4.00 inches. Blade thickness is 0.108 inches with a hollow grind. It weighs 2.80 oz with a tip-up right-hand clip.

Yes. The 743BK-01 is manufactured by Benchmade in Oregon City, Oregon. Knifeworks is an authorized Benchmade dealer — every knife is sourced through official channels and eligible for the full Benchmade LifeSharp Warranty.

The 743BK-01 is covered by the Benchmade LifeSharp Warranty: free lifetime sharpening, blade replacement, and mechanical repair. Warranty service is handled directly by Benchmade. Contact Benchmade at benchmade.com for warranty claims or service. Knifeworks is an authorized Benchmade dealer — every knife is sourced through official channels and eligible for full LifeSharp coverage.