Benchmade started in California in 1988 as the Pacific Cutlery Corp. In 1990 the company moved to Clackamas, Oregon. Benchmade became known primarily as a manufacturer of butterfly, or balisong-style knives, which it continues to manufacture. These knives have been so identified with the company that Benchmade has registered "Bali-Song" as a trademark and logo. As of February 2009, the company employs approximately 150 people. Benchmade has had several years of growth and has expanded both the variety of knives it produces and the facility itself.