Pretty in Pink Means More than Ribbons and Bows to Benchmade Knife Company

Oregon City, Ore., Oct. 18, 2007 -- Benchmade Knife Company in Oregon City, Ore. announces a new product designed for women but intended to help support breast cancer research. The folding pocketknife named the Pink Griptilian is approximately 6.5 inches long and weighs 2.56 ounces. This edged tool is designed for uses like gardening, camping, hiking, fishing, or everyday carry.

10 percent of the wholesale profits from the pink Griptilian knife will go to the Oregon Health and Science University Cancer Institute in Portland, Ore. to benefit the Breast Health Education Program. This program provides medical students, residents and practicing clinicians with standardized training to enhance their ability to detect palpable breast cancer in its earliest form. The program also helps educate the community on all related breast cancer issues.

“Private dollars from corporations like Benchmade are essential in supporting the Breast Health Education Program at OHSU.” Says Elizabeth Steiner, M.D., director of the Breast Health Education Program. “As the need for support of this essential program continues to grow, we are very excited and optimistic about the sponsorship efforts from Benchmade. After all, early detection of breast cancer is the key to early treatment and survival.”

In 2007, Oregon became the first state to require insurance companies to cover yearly breast exams. In addition, the OHSU Cancer Institute operates the only MammaCare training center West of the Mississippi River.

“The pink Griptlian was designed for women who have a need for an edged tool,” states Emily DuPlessis, Benchmade public relations coordinator. “I carry my knife with pride knowing a portion of our sales are helping breast cancer patients all over the world. It’s the right knife for the right cause.”

Benchmade estimates the annual donation to the OHSU Cancer Institute will be greater than $10,000. The company will continue the partnership for the life of the knife.

Griptilian is a registered trademark of Benchmade Knife Co., Inc. For more information about the Pink Griptilian or Benchmade Knife Company visit www.benchmade.com