Benchmade Bugout
About Benchmade Bugout
In 2017, Benchmade shook the knife world with the release of the Bugout. It was the knife people didn't know they were searching for. It was simple, utilitarian, Ergonomic, lightweight, had an ambidextrous lock and opener, and was made with quality materials. In the yeARS since, the Bugout has become one of the best-selling Knives in history. Benchmade truly made the Bugout a knife for everyone, and no collection is complete without one.The Benchmade Bugout comes in two sizes and a multitude of colors, and has great aftermarket customization options as well.
Benchmade Bugout For Sale
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Benchmade Bugout Variations
Knife Critic Score
$235.00
$164.50
$199.75
Specifications |
|||
|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Benchmade | ||
| Category | Folding Knives | ||
| Overall Length | 7.46" | ||
| Closed Length | 4.22" (107mm) 4.22 | ||
| Blade Length | 3.24" | ||
| Blade Thickness | 0.09" | ||
| Blade Steel | S90V M390 S30V Damasteel | ||
| Blade Finish | Satin Cerakote DLC Coated | ||
| Handle Material | G-10 | ||
| Pocket Clip | Tip-Up | ||
| Lock Type | Bar Lock | ||
| Weight | 2.17 oz. | ||
| Country of Origin | USA | ||
| Blade Style | Drop Point | ||
| Blade Edge | Serrated Plain | ||
| Blade Material | CPM 20CV | ||
| Blade Type | Drop Point | ||
| Total length | 7.46 | ||
| Blade Color | Silver/Gray Blue | ||
| Cutting Edge | 3.00" | ||
| Blade width | 1.00" | ||
| Hardness | 58-60 RC | ||
| Blade Grind | Flat | ||
| Finish | Satin | ||
| Edge Type | Plain | ||
| Handle Length | 4.22" | ||
| Handle Width | 1.00" | ||
| Handle Thickness | 0.42" | ||
| Color | Gray | ||
| Frame/Liner | Stainless Steel | ||
| User | Right Hand, Left Hand | ||
| Knife Type | Manual | ||
| Opener | Thumb Stud | ||
| Model | Bugout | ||
| Model Number | 535-2002 | ||
| Best Use | Camp/Hike, Everyday Carry | ||
| Product Type | Knife | ||
Daily Deals
Benchmade Bugout Comparisons
Benchmade Bugout Questions and Answers
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Ratings and Reviews
This is my favorite Benchmade
This Aluminum M390 Bugout just set aside the greptilian, 940, 950, mini grip, and the bugout G-10 version… I will say I think it’s a tie between this and my mini-crooked river for pocket time.
It was almost perfect out of the box. I had a little side-to-side play in the blade so I tightened the pivot and it just kept loosening and giving the blade playback again for whatever…
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reason. (Maybe I was playing with it too much) Anyhow, A little lock-tite and it is perfect. This knife is worth the money. If you’re seeing this before purchasing your first bugout and debating about ivory or g-10 Just buy this version. You’ll save yourself money. If you don’t like aluminum handles (I don’t either and these ones are fantastic) the BHQ exclusive bugout is awesome as well.
Sweet Knife!
Just when you thought the Bugout couldn’t get any better. Benchmade goes and makes this beauty! M390 is a knife steel for winners!
Buy it!
What a great knife. The aluminum scales not only look great they have a solid non flexing feel, good texture and a great shape far superior the the original bugout. The blade was perfectly centered in the frame it was a sharp and with a little polishing of the blade and it's hair popping sharp. A drop of M-Pro 7 oil a minor adjustment of the blade retention screw about an hour of…
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working the Axis-lock & it's buttery smooth, great lockup and No Play in the blade what so ever. Plus Bohler M390 steel and 2.5oz this knife is 100% legit! And if you catch it on sale it's a great bargain considering the quality. Well done Benchmade
Best one
A couple of years ago I ordered a bugout with an ivory handle probably sv30. You could squeeze the handle together. I didn’t like it and sent it back. I began to see this model with the m390 which is my favorite steel and I figured the aluminum handle would be strong. It recently went on sale for and I jumped on it. As soon as I got it I loved it. The handle is darker than the… read more pictures so it looks much better. The grind was a bit off but not enough to worry about but everything else was perfect. No break-in was even needed and the edge was hair-shaving sharp. If you’re sitting on the fence on this go for it. You’ll be happy you did.
What a gorgeous Bugout
The 535BK-4 was definitely on my list, but I scooped this one up since BladeHQ has these on sale at a significant discount at the moment. If you want a -4, this price is irresistible.
All the great qualities of the Bugout but done up in premium materials and with beautiful aesthetics. What's not to love? Fit and finish are flawless on my example too, and it arrived quite…
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sharp. I'm very happy with this knife. It's almost too pretty to put to real use.
Amazing and worth the wait.
I ordered this for the M390 steel. I wasn’t too excited about the handle; so I figured I’d order it and swap the scales with something aftermarket. Was I wrong! This thing is phenomenal. First, the scales are much darker in person and look amazing. Second, the engraving on the scales is not stylistic, it provides amazing grip (which is what I was worried about; it being aluminum).… read more Also, the scales are heavily contoured when compared with the standard Bugout; much thicker at the end, and tapers significantly toward the blade. This is one of my best knives. Wouldn’t change a thing. Standard and exceptional Benchmade quality, upgraded M390 steel on the classic Bugout platform. So glad I grabbed this.
Bugout 353BK-4
Wow, this is the knife that finally shows me how awesome the Benchmade Bugout really is! I love the knife, and the scales in aluminum are a big reason. The scales are beautiful, and they are also much stronger than the plastic versions. This is the Bugout that changed me…
535BK-4 awesome service
Great website and super fast shipping. I love the knife.
DLT Benchmade Bugout in S90V
Perfect service. Always is. I like the general characteristics of the Bugout. Blade shape and size are good for most things. Not obvious in the pocket. The S90V is hard to sharpen (diamond stones required, which I have). Takes a good while. But you can get it satisfyingly sharp and it holds the edge tenaciously. This one is expensive. But I'm going to use it a lot.
First Benchmade owned!
Benchmade Fan now!
Great feel, action and look!
Quality work!
I waited longer for this knife than any other, but it was worth it. The grind is very even as opposed to my last two Malibus, and the edge is as sharp as any I have ever seen out of the box. The action smoothed out quickly after being a bit sticky at first. I think this is the best Bugout ever...
The best Bugout Ever
Real Premium feeling in hands, Love it!
Fabulous!
I have a couple of dozen Benchmade knives. I love how Benchmade does what they do. This is one of the sweetest! I already have Bugouts in CF Elite and Carbon Fiber (and a mini in CF Elite), but I'm very happy to add this to the growing Bugout collection I never expected to accumulate.
Every Bugout is a very good knife. Add beautifully turned aluminum and Benchmade quality…
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and you have a work of art. It's a little heavier (it's a whopping 2.5 oz.), but I'm happy to tote the extra weight. Perfect centering. Smooth action right out of the box. Great job, Benchmade!
Good knife but usual Benchmade problems
Very good looking knife but came with a very bad grind witch could barely cut hair. At the tip it has a very small grind on one side. Blade also came with no lube....My S30V came with a better grind.
Bugout
Decent Iight knife . Dlt is good to buy from
Exceptional Quality!
This is my first Bugout and now I understand why it is loved by so many in the community.
Absolutely wonderful
This is the Pinnacle of bugouts.
The scales are light weight and amazing, the blade is phenomenal. Smooth put of the box needing very little break in.
The listing here says DLC coated but it is in fact not. It's a black Cerakote finish. But don't let that discourage you from this amazing knife. Some of Benchmades best work to date.
Perfect size
Great knife!
Super light!
Seriously. This thing is the Lotus Elise of folding knives. A lot of people complain about the flexible handles, but a knife this light isn't meant to be beaten on like an axe. I love the fast and loose action. The Axis lock is really fun to fidget with. It looks proper in OD green and brass. My only complaint is that the gray finish on the blade scuffs really easily. Does it live… read more up to the hype? Not really, but it's still a damn handy little EDC.
One of the EDC Kings
Not much else to say -- you know the Bugout -- it's the top of the EDC food chain.
Great experience
Everything one could expect in a positive transaction.
Perfect EDC
At first I thought it looked Cheap but after actually using it I absolutely love it ?. Perfect fit in pocket, nice steel, had to put my own razor sharp mirror edge on it with a Hapstone k1
Best Bugout
This is my favorite Bugout. I was hesitant at first because of the price. I watched some reviews and decided to go for it. I'm glad I did. It is a beauty. Go for it!!!
New Favorite Knife
Perfect EDC
Benchmade 535-3 (Best Bugout Ever!)
I have 4 or 5 Benchmade Bugouts. Purchased this one on a whim. I LOVE the carbon fiber scales and the upgraded steel. My “go-to” EDC now.
Closest to perfection available.
I was late to the bugout game and boy do I regret it. This could very well be the best EDC knife ever made. It's light, slim, and it disappears in the pocket. Premium steel that holds an edge very well. The thin blade slices like a dream. The chromium nitride coating on the blade is both beautiful and seems to be holding up to everything I throw at it. My only complaint would be… read more the grivory scales. I wish they'd gone with something a little tougher like G10 or Micarta, even at the cost of added weight and thickness. I'll probably be looking for some aftermarket scales, then it will truly be perfect.
The Best Bugout
I have one of these and in my opinion it is the best one. It is the toughest looking and most tactical/outdoorsy version. The blade has a Military parkerized look to it being dark gray instead of black. The handles are just the right shade of green as well. Kind of a cross between OD green and Flat Dark Earth. I like the style and shape of the blade and handle on this one a lot.… read more It is very flat and weighs hardly anything while being a decent size knife for EDC. Mine locks up very solid and is a sturdy knife for what you would use a knife like this for. Granted you won't be chopping down any trees with it, throwing it, or any other such heavy abuse. Used properly it will serve you well for what a pocket knife is generally used for. The upgraded CPM S30V steel is a nice touch as well. It is easy to make very sharp and holds it well. I am very happy with the purchase and glad I bought it to add it to my toolbox full of EDC knives and daily rotation.
A Winner
I've always liked ultralight EDC and backpacking equipment. When you can have a knife as light as the Bugout and still have it boast of quality materials--it's a winner in my mind. It was a little tight when I first got it. But I took it apart, cleaned it, lubed it, and it has loosened up nicely! It's so small and lightweight that I hardly notice it in my pocket. The blade of S35VN…
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is ideal for EDC. It is sharp and holds an edge. The colors are subdued and makes this an easy knife to carry and not be noticed.
[Update Oct 8, 2020] I've now had this one for a couple of weeks and it has worked its way into my pocket more than any of my other knives. It's light, capable, and has a high fidget factor.
Light and Tight
This is a great EDC! I moved the clip to make it left-hand friendly. Love the one-handed opening action. Just tight enough to feel secure and light enough to carry every day! Great knife!
New Favorite
This thing is great. I was a little worried it wasn't going to live up to the hype - but I can't get over how much I love this little (and super super lite) knife. I haven't been able to put it down since I got it. It's going to be in my pocket for a loooong time.
LEGIT
I wanted something light, durable, and corrosion resistant as I spend a lot of my free time fishing on the Gulf of Mexico. I have cut bait and rinsed my Bugout in saltwater on a couple of different occasions. Most knives I have owned would show signs of rust and discoloration by the time I got home but, NOT my Benchmade Bugout. I do perform a deep cleaning when I do get home but… read more to date no signs of corrosion! I definitely recommend this knife!
Exactly what I was looking for
This is a great blade. Very light and very inconspicuous. Deep pocket carry along with the perfect length blade.makes this my new favorite knife! You cant go wrong with this one!
I love this knife so much I bought 3!
First this is just a great knife out of the box. Perfect size, very light weight, razor sharp, love the axis lock.... I can keep going on. After my first one I started seeing all of the options to make it my own. So now I have a black blade with new copper scales, a gray blade with red scales and a gray blade with brass scales. I love this knife
Perfect EDC Knife!!
This knife is so light and thin I forget I have it on me. The blade come razor sharp from the factory and is backed by a limited lifetime warranty from Benchmade.
SCARY SHARP
I absolutely love my new benchmade, not too big nor small, just the absolute right size and an excellent cutter.Too good at cutting for safety reasons ;),and a dull knife is useless. I have already cut my self multiple times with it, one can say its a baptism by blood. Overall, the best knife for all and i have a microtech. Can't stop playing with it, its too fun and absolutely… read more beautiful.
Not very impressed
I unfortunately found the knife to be rather flimsy and weak in the handle. I understand the knife is designed to be light but I felt you could squeeze the handles together too easily. Blade however is excellent.
Love the Bugout
I have over 50 pocket knives and a few fixed blade knives I picked up over the years. My oldest is a Western leather handle I got sometime around the late 60's. My folders are Schrade, Uncle Henry, Buck and Case along with some oddballs I collected over the years. Case has been my favorite and for the last 20 years my main carry has been a peanut and I now have over a dozen of those,…
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some collectable. Since I retired a year ago, I find myself needing something more than a little peanut can handle. I have big folders and they are not what I want so I started looking into a lightweight EDC that can open and close with a single hand.
I did a lot of research trying to find the perfect EDC knife. Narrowed to Benchmade for their Axis lock and so many great reviews. Decided on the drop point blade in gray and I really like the Ranger Green of the Bugout so that is what I got. I have had it now a couple weeks. I first looked at an assisted knife because I don't know how to open one in a flash. But when I read you can't close an assisted knife with a single hand, I figured I would just have to learn right quick. It kinda reminded me of learning to ski. Once you get it down you wonder why you thought it was so hard. The Bugout has far exceeded what I wanted in an EDC. Sharp. Fit & finish. Light weight. Good looks. Some complain about the scales are too flimsy. They can squeeze the scales together. I might could with a pair of pliers but why would I?
It really is a great knife and is perfect for me but for some reason I find myself looking at other Benchmade knives. I got my eyes on the 940-2 just to have one a little bigger. Then maybe I'll look into something in the smaller size...
My Eleanor
Man, this is sharp. My finger can attest to it. I did a lot of research to get this knife, at the end was between the Freak, the Bailout and the Bugout. I was looking for a bigger EDC but not-knife people friendly. The Bugout matched more that definition but I was not too crazy with the CF Scales, for me it looks cheap, I own a Minigriptillian and that is the thing I don't like…
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about it. So I order a Flytanium copper scales right away. When I got them right away felt how light and tough this knife is out of the box. I can see using it like that if weight is a problem like a bug out bag, now I know why the name, but I wanted a heftier knife so install the copper scales right away. And Im in love with the knife. Is definitely going to be in my daily rotation.
The day after I got it, I was opening some boxes and misshandle the knife and cut myself almost taking out the tip of my left index. It was not like I was doing to much force but man I find very fast how sharp this knife is out of the box. Im going to respect it from now on.
And for Benchmade: Thanks for the cut.
I get it now. Unfortunately.
It’s the perfect EDC. I hate it because there is really no reason to feed my knife obsession any more.
I only buy knives I intend to carry and there is no reason now to keep buying knives. Damn it.
Don’t buy this knife if you want to keep buying carry knives. It will mess you up.
SLICER!
Ok I have a huge collection of knives, and this one just hopped to the front of the line for daily use. I mean, I use the right knife for the job always, but this thing is so light it can go with me anywhere. I don't use a clip so I removed it. I also put a rock scale back spacer in to give it a bit of balance. I have several Benchmade autos and this is my first axis lock, I… read more friggin love the axis. I have big hands and thumb screws don't work to well for my giant thumbs. Axis works great for open and close with either hand. One handed close is key!! Get this thing. If there is any drawback it's that it's a little "slight", meaning I could destroy it easily. But that is the give and take with a light knife. Cheers. PS - DLT was fantastic, zero issues.
Another 5-star review for a great knife, amazing steel, and surprisingly high fidget factor
I just recently purchased a 535 Bugout. Up until know I had been resisting the hype. But I was in the market for a lightweight folder and all roads seemed to lead to a Bugout. I mainly carry either a Hinder X-18 3.5” or an Emerson. But those are big bulky blades and in many cases to much blade for the job or too much weight in the pocket. I finally broke down and picked up… read more a 535 Bugout from DLT. I’m so happy with my purchase. It is a great blade and steel in an ultra lightweight frame/scale. I love the shape of the blade and it seems to be holding up to EDC tasks better than my CM154 based benchmades (which to be honest were still decent). However the one thing I will point out is any Benchmade Axis lock as a super high fidget factor, which is a good thing. I find myself playing/fidgeting with it all day long. And since we are currently “sheltered in place”, it gives me something to do :-)
Good Price for a good knife
For the price this knife is, it feels great in the hand and pretty sturdy with fast opening speed
Dependable and lightweight
I'd heard all of the complaints about Benchmade QC and the Bugout feeling "flimsy" and decided to see for myself. I think people forget that BladeHQ is more than willing to grab you a good one if you ask for it. After receiving mine, I can say I really don’t understand the complaints. Perfect action, centering, and the "flex" is infinitesimal!
Much Better
I recently purchased this knife from DLT. This is a great EDC. I was not impressed with the conventional bugout. I am sure nothing was wrong with it, but I couldnt get passed the way the scales flexed. This is a very light EDC. The scales flex ever so slightly. (I am squeezing as hard as I can in pic.) NOTHING compared to the original. Feels great in the pocket. Very light, you… read more can not feel it is there. I actually went to buy 3 more "First Production" bk2's but was disappointed they were sold out. This is the knive that actually holds up to the hype. No more excuses trying to justify why you like this knife. The perfect EDC.
The only knife I grab in the morning
SUPER lightweight. Axis lock is great action and gets better with use. Pocket clip is deep, small and perfect for the lightweight carry.
First Pocket Knife
I just received the Benchmade Bugout Axis in Ranger Green. This is my first pocket knife purchase. I have played with knives my friends have but never pulled the trigger to buy my own. I did a lot of research prior to purchasing, watching videos, reading blogs and even emailing customer service at Blade HQ. Through all the research the Bugout kept coming up in discussions. So I…
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made the purchase and am so glad I did.
Upon opening the box the first thing I noticed was how light the Bugout was with the Grivory handles. I always wear cargo paints so the green color and the deep pocket clip enable me to EDC the knife and not be noticed by others. It's the lightweight that makes me even forget I am carrying it myself. The ease of opening is fantastic. The locking mechanism took me three tries to master unlocking and closing the knife. This is my new fidget toy that also has a function. I am a supervisor for a construction company and the knife comes out of my pocket for real practical use at least three to four times a day (mainly opening boxes and cutting straps). Everyone I have shown this knife to loves it.
Great knife. I highly recommend for EDC. If you purchase it you will not be disappointed.
Great EDC, poor quality control from benchmade
Benchmade came up with a great knife, its very lightweight and you can cook anything with it. Unfortunately benchmade's QC has fallen a bit lately, and mine arrived with very poor blade centering, causing the blade to slightly drag on one scale making it less flipable than it should be. I sent it back to Benchmade for review and its better, though still not perfect. Be aware of… read more that potential when buying benchmade these days. Still great knives, but can fall short of the other big players in QC.
Best EDC
This was my first Benchmade purchase, before this knife I used to edc mostly Spyderco and some Kershaw but since I got this it hasn't left my pocket. Super lightweight, holds a really sharp factory edge, and sits in the pocket nice with the deep carry pocket clip.
One of the best benchmades of recent years.
The bugout is one of the best knives Benchmade has put out in the last few years. Its so thin it disappears in the pocket. The blade shape is perfect, S30V holds and edge and sharpens easily. You can't go wrong with this one, just buy it.
Fantastic
This knife is fantastic. My first blade over 3 inch and I feel spoiled! Great right out of the box. Looks are a 10/10. Surprisingly light in your pocket.
Excellent EDC knife, so light like its not even there.
Thin, Light, Perfect for EDC. A Bugout has been in my pocket everyday since I got 'em
Excellent
Bought this as a gift but tested it out first. Despite reviews, I found the handle plenty strong. Lightweight, good action. The blade is a nice shape and length - still feels like an EDC knife. Benchmade gets knocked for their quality control, but the particular knife I received was near-perfect out of the box. Axis lock works well. All and all a great knife, and now I'm thinking… read more about picking one up for myself.
Nice... but
Been looking for a while. When I saw the Bugout in Ranger Green, I had to have it. I like a light thin knife that disappears in my pocket. When I received the Bugout it seemed perfect out of the box.
After a very short time the axis lock mech developed a very gritty feel and even jammed a few times. Opening and closing the knife became difficult and felt terrible. At times…
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take two hands to operate the axis mech.
I was very disappointed and ready to send it back, reluctantly. I really wanted to like this knife. As a last resort I removed the blade and blew it out with an air compressor. Reassembled and oiled and now it’s smooth as butter. No jamming, no gritty feel. The axis lock pulls back smoothly and the blade drops freely. Visually I didn’t see anything in the axis lock mech that caused the issue but blowing it out with 60psi of air got rid of whatever was in there. Glad I don’t have to send it back.
This knife is unbelievably light and surprisingly thin. The reported flex in the scales is a bit exaggerated IMO. I’m not hammering this knife into trees. My only complaint right now is the chromium oxide coating on the clip has a lot of drag. It doesn’t slide back in my pocket as easily as I’d like. Hopefully that’ll improve as it wears in.
Perfect, slim, and light EDC
It's just a great knife... Operates smoothly, feels good in hand, steel has good weight and sharp right out of the box. Great knife for a great price that was built to last. If you are looking at this review, stop thinking and just buy it.
I’m torn
I’ve carried it every day since I got it and even though it’s not my favorite, it is quickly moving up the list. Now the only real issue I have is with the company Benchmade itself. Why a company would exclude half if not more of it potential customers buy taking a political stance is beyond me. Probably the only reason this is and will be the only Benchmade knife I ever own.… read more
Axis lock spring has broken twice already
I have owned the knife for a few months. The omega spring has broken twice already. BM will not send replacement springs. Have to mail the knife in on your own dime.
Nice Light Weight Knife
I am a knife collector but I like carrying them as well as admiring them. I was really surprised at how light this knife was. It seems pretty sturdy, I do see a little give in the Grivory handle when squeezed at the middle but do not see this being an issue with its stability. The Ranger Green and smoked gray, chromium nitride coated blade are a really good combination. It's balance… read more point means I can fidget with it fairly easily. I am very happy to add this to my high end knife collection.
My first expensive knife
i like bigger knives because i have big hands, and so i was on the fence about this one. but i wanted a benchmade for my first and so i ordered it and hen it came man it was worth it. i played with it for days just because how it feels in my hand and the axis lock is so nice. of course it is sharp too.
First Big Purchase
I've had this blade for about 2 weeks now, and I have absolutely no complaints. The blades retained it's edge as promised, even against zip ties, rope, and cardboard. At first I wasn't too fond on its light-weight feel, but after a day of carrying, I barely noticed it was there. Definitely would recommend this blade as a EDC/first big purchase.
Perfect EDC knife!
I’ve owned this knife for about 6 moths now and I can honestly say it’s what is in my pocket the most. I’m not super hard use guy but I work in a warehouse and cut a lot of carboard and open a lot of packages. It’s cazy light and a super slicer.
Super light and super tiiight!!
I love this knife. I go camping and like to have a backup knife that just disappears into my pack! For that purpose, this knife is the best! The blade steel is great, the mini deep carry clip is an awesome touch, and the weight is unbelievable. This knife is wonderful.
OMG!
OMG it comes in OD green with a tactical black blade, let's charge about 20% more for it! Nice money grab Benchmade, made for the Pokemon generation "gotta collect them all!" Want to see a better example of this, check out the Gold Class Bugout!
Other than that, it's a nice knife.
Good edc, plastic axis lock is weird
I love the blade shape of this knife, cuts awesome out of the box. Its lightweight and almost a little too lightweight. I've almost put it through the wash twice, thankfully my wife isn't as scatter brained as I am.
The only problem I have with this knife is the axis lock buttons are grivory, which coming from a 940 is just weird feeling on the fingers. Other than that its a…
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great knife and for the price its definitely worth a look.
Lightweight EDC
I absolutely love this knife. I hardly ever notice it in my pocket and with the axis lock it is quick to open and close it. This knife can take a beating and still work on tough tasks.
The best knife for my life
I like the blue one better because the price is more fair. The price of the green and black is ridiculous, however I haven’t found another knife that does what a bugout does. So it is what it is. Benchmade’s quality control and price vs what you get is a complicated thing. So, whatever. I bought it and I’m keeping it.
Great EDC
Perfect edc! Nice and sharp out of box, super light weight, feels great in hand, and disappears in your pocket. I was worried about the polymer handle but it’s built extremely well and tactile feel.
ANYTHING
I went on a spree of buying knives this year, this one finds its way to my pocket or at least in my hands every single day. It’s so lightweight, it feels good, the blade just falls shut and it’s beyond smooth. I believe this knife could do anything you wanted it to do. **Ladies** get this for your man and they’ll marry you (100% scientifically tested).
With the right tweaks a great knife
Thin blade that’s great for slicing and comes in at under 2 oz. it’s the perfect edc knife that disappears in the pocket. I had to loosen the pivot on mine considerably to get things moving smoothly. Do yourself the favor and just get one to see what the hype is all about.
For the GAW ;)
Regardless of all the crap Benchmade has gotten recently this knife is still a gem the coating is nice the scales are a nice color the size is perfect the grind is the edge is amazing the blade steel is top notch and it's an absolute pleasure to carry!!
Perfect EDC!!!
Such a great knife in and out of the pocket. It truly disappears when in there. And it looks dope!!!
Perfect EDC!!
I’ve had my bugout for around 4 months now and I love it. It’s practically weightless, ultra thin, and sharp right out of the box. The bugout is a great choice for a EDC especially with its mini deep carry pocket clip and s30v blade it’s an all around amazing EDC.
It lives up to its reputation, maybe not the name.
The bugout is one sweet knife that lived up to its reputation. The knife coming in at 1.8 oz does literally disappear in your pocket. It is light weight but still provides you with a full sized cutting blade.
I would recommend this as a edc knife if you want to cut down on bulk and still have full sized functionality. Also I like it as a jogging knife because it does not…
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bang around in shorts or sweat pockets.
You may hear people talking about the handle being able to bend. However I find that you need to be using a considerable amount of force to achieve that. I will say if you want a knife for camping or very hard use then the bugout is not the best option.
Over all it is definitely one to have to carry or for a collection. The light weight and full sized blade with good ergonomics makes this a EDC choice for sure.
GOLDYLOCKS
Not too hot not too cold jussssst right. Just enough belly, perfect steel, ultra light but not weak. Texture is just enough, beautiful accents, great colorations didn’t even waste time with a black handle. Opens silky smooth of course, and carry’s like a ghost, Doesn’t feel like it’s there till u reach for it
Bittersweet
Great knife from a company I'm disappoint in. Turns out Benchmade has a long record of donating to anti-gun politicians over the years. Can't say I will continue to purchase from a company that supports restricting the rights of Americans.
Great lightweight EDC
Pros:
-Super lightweight & thin
-Deep pocket clip & great ergonomics
-Razor-sharp out of the box & blade centering was dead on
Cons:
-Not a 'hard use' knife (no handle liners so there will be flex/give in certain situations)
If your looking for a basic EDC lightweight knife that will make you forgot that it's in your pocket, this is it. A knife in hand…
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beats the Kukri left at home. You'll never think twice about putting this in your pocket because it takes up too much space or weighs too much.
I suggest any of the 940 Osborne models (will be +~1 ounce heavier) if you like the size of this knife but are looking for something that feels stouter.
Light weight monster
This knife has gotten a lot of negative feedback but zero complaints from this guy
Overall pretty good knife
Great S30V Blade, slightly off-center but overall great lightweight EDC knife!
For the Fellow who wrote Advertisement Duped Me
Sir,
If the knife was as you say loose or too tight it is warrantied by one of the best knife making companies in the World! Yes, in this case I have to say Benchmade is up there in not only their knife making skills but also their warranty of their product as in if it ever gets dull and you don't want to sharped it or for some reason can't do it right they will do it for…
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the life of the knife. I am retired military and part of my job was to teach, equip, and maintain survival equipment in the USCG. We constantly had to sell our supervisors on the importance of providing excellent gear to our Aircrew and Pilots in case of an aircraft ditching either at sea or on land far away from the civilized population. I enjoyed giving out gear to our guys and gals that I knew would work well and hold up under the most extreme weather environments. So, if that knife somehow slipped past the proper QA of Benchmade I know they are the kind of company that backs their products and would most certainly take care of you so you could give your son a most excellent gift. At last count I own several Benchmades myself so I am speaking with a great deal of product experience and some of the knives I have are over 20 years of age and still perform like a new knife. Better than most knives you can find on the market today. I just keep them lubricated and cleaned up after using in the bush. Contact Benchmade and see if I am right.
Good luck,
Happy Camper
Pretty Overrated Knife
I bought this knife right when it came out and I torture tested it quite a bit. Gotta say the knife has good fit but horrible finish. I bought my first one had it for 2 days before I noticed rust (yes on the coating) thought I just had one that was old or whatever the case was. Returned it and got a new one that was perfectly mint. Same thing. 2 days after owning it it had developed… read more rust. Decided I would just deal with it as the knife isn't that expensive and see how it goes just to be a bit of a guinea pig. I've had quite a few benchmades and spydercos. I'm beyond flabbergasted that this knife has such good reviews. I'ts ok at best but for my money a mini grip is a much smarter buy
Love it
Congrats to whomever made this knife better. This knife is perfect gold.
Perfect
Has substantially less presence in pocket compared to a mini grip and is much lighter. The proportions are great and the action/feel is perfect. If you're thinking about purchasing, go for it.
Love everything but not a go to.......
Have no complaints about fit/finish, love the overall ergonomics. This is my first Benchmade and I am impressed with this knife. Blade was wicked sharp out of box and was addicting to play with due to its light weight and ease of deployment. I do love the short deep carry clip, wish I had this on every pocket knife I owned. However, I am very hesitant to rely on this knife as my… read more sole everyday knife. I understand there is no liners in the handle to save weight but I am afraid to even use it to open a pop top lol! I honestly carry my ESEE Zancudo for backup when I inevitably run into a task I don’t think the Bugout will be able to handle. That’s a big miss on Benchmade’s part but for what it is I really love this knife.
Love This Knife!!
This was my first Benchmade. I was nervous about paying this much for what looks like just another knife. I felt like I was just going to be paying for a name. Wow, was I ever wrong!
I love Love LOVE this knife!!! When I first picked it up I was amazed at how light it was. It’s crazy light! The action is also crazy smooth. I have several knives, but this action is awesome!…
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It flicks open super easy. Both by the thumb stud or by use of the Axis lock. I find myself just flicking and playing with this knife all the time.
A guy at work that I showed it to bought one the next day because of how awesome it was when he handled it. The big problem is that now I have this overwhelming urge to buy another Benchmade. It’s bad, really bad. You may be better off not getting it actually.
Freakin' awesome!
stayed sharp for 3 months even though I used it every day, really tough finish on blade, and is so light I try to go and find it when it's in my pocket. If your thinking about getting it just go for it
Perfection
I am amazed by this knife. It looks great, disappears in my pocket, has superb steel, and is comfortable to work with. A stellar EDC blade.
Not My First 535 Bugout
This model gets an extra star compared to the blue handled model.
I didn't give the original 535 a five star rating mainly because it's not really what the name suggests- a bugout knife.
However, this has to be one of my favorite EDC knifes simply because of its lightweight and thin profile. The included deep carry clip is also a nice touch.
Also, Benchmade's…
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S30V isn't as impossible to put a good edge on as some others I have.
I prefer this Ranger Green version mainly due to color and that anti-reflective chromium nitride coating. A great looking combination.
Benchmade knives are a bit on the pricey side, but you get good quality from them. And, from personal experience, they have a great customer service department and have gone well beyond what I can expect in terms of assisting customers.department and have gone well beyond what I can expect in terms of assisting customers.
Bug out review
The knife had everything I was looking for as soon as I discovered it came in green. The toned down color of the handle, as well as the blade, is a bonus because it's not too scary for those who are afraid. The blade is larger than my old EDC yet so lightweight. I carry it at work and backpacking. Its slim too, you don't know its there. Good blade steel holds an edge. The materials… read more appear to be able to take abuse. I think they hit it out of the park with this one.
Advertising duped me
Hat is off to Benchmade for their advertising skills. Had me sold on a bullet proof, tough as nails knife. Nah. Knife doesn't want to flip open, certainly doesn't drop shut. Sorry a knife at this price doesn't need a "break in". I can pinch the scales until they touch when the blade is out. Feels rather flimsy. It is a gift, it's for my son. I'm sure he will love it. I would return… read more it, but I had the blade engraved. Bummer. This was my first, and probably my last Benchmade. Be a neat knife at the $40 price point..... I suppose I'm just used to my big robust knives that can be used as a pry bar as well.
Super super super light weight!!!
Works well, nice looking. It is so light that I can not feel it when I am carrying it.
Maybe it is too light for its size suppose to be, but it is still a qualified nice knife. When I get use to its weight, it is something I really like to carry everyday. I can put it in my every pocket and no one would notice it.
Well done, benchmade.
NOT FOR BUGGING OUT OR EMERGENCY
I would not want to have this as my only knife if I had to bug out or when disaster strikes. It is very flimsy and more suited for opening bags, mail, packing tape on boxes or cutting twine. Hell even if I was going for a short hike with only a folding knife I'd prefer at least a victorinox farmer or great eastern cutlery bullnose. If I was putting together a car emergency kit this… read more wouldn't go in it either. It feels better in hand than a mini griptilian due to longer scales, but that's the only plus this knife gets. I already sold the one I purchased when it first came out.
For real??
How can a super lightweight knife impress someone who has owned the real deal Grayman dua, Chaves, griptilians, pm2s etc...so much that it leaves me speechless. To pull off a quality fell being so light is remarkable. A true testament to Benchmade. Get one, you owe it to yourself. A+++
Solid, light EDC
I'll have to say, this was better than I thought it would be. I love how light it is, and how thin it it. It's definitely not a harder use knife but that's ok, I like it non the less. This is my first Benchmade and I'm very pleased with it!
Beautiful EDC
Just got mine today and as soon as I had it in hand I knew it was something special. Light yet durable, sleek yet rugged. The blade coating is a thing of beauty and the bronze thumb stud and barrel spacers set it off. Only quarrel, and maybe it's in my head, but coulda shoulda been g10 scales. The frn doesn't feel cheap or weak but for the price should of gotten a little extra.… read more Awesome all around and can't wait to carry it tomorrow
Excellent, lightweight knife
I purchased this specifically for the blade metal and how little this knife weights. I almost returned it because it was stiff and gritty on opening. Blew 65 psi air through the action and open and closed for 30 minutes and it opens smooth a butter. Nice blade, very lightweight, but I am mostly a ZT guy. This is the 2nd Benchmade I have purchased and it's quite nice. Would recommend.… read more This is my new EDC knife for work. This is not a survival knife - this is a knife for opening boxes, cutting zip ties, rubber wire protectors and orange plastic fiber optic cable protectors.
Favorite Knife
I've been carrying knives for years and this one takes the cake. love the axis lock and it's been keeping it's edge nicely.
Nice blade
Been carrying this blade on and off for 3 months now. It's definitely feather light! The knife lock up is solid and the handle scales are comfortable and grippy. I only have two compaints. The blade doesn't fly open very quickly and there are no liners inside the handles. Aside from that it slices like a champ and looks amazing. Ps more colors please!
You won't regret this purchase!!!
Now for start, i will admit that i didn't buy this knife from this website. I bought mine from amazon in which came from DLT Trading. That being said, I have been carrying this knife for about a couple of weeks now and i can honestly say that from the moment i first got it out of the packaging and into my pocket, I instantly fell in love with this knife. From the look of it, to…
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the razor sharp edge, it has everything going for it that i could ever want for a edc knife. This is my ideal knife for every basic edc tasks that i throw at it. Like i said in the title, you absolutely will not regret this purchase. It is a excellent knife and I can barley keep myself from admiring it constantly and wanting to use it constantly. Definitely worth every penny!
Ultra-light, ultra-quality, ultra-good looking, EDC
This knife is absolutely brilliant at being the best at what it's designed for. And "what exactly is it designed for?" You might ask, the answer is EDC, the lightest, best looking, great steel having, best locking mechanism having, EDC there is. Is it great for bug out situations? No, but that's what fixed blades and Cold Steel's triad locks (Recon 1 anybody?) are for. Is it great… read more at being an ultra light, ultra reliable, ultra fast, ultra good looking, ultra one-handed operating, high quality steel scalpel that it was designed to be? ABSOLUTELY! This knife hasn't left my pocket (other than for use) since I got it, the rest of my EDC knives are collecting dust. Is it a little pricey? Maybe a bit, but IMO the S30V steel, AXIS lock, 1.8 OZ weight, and overall beauty and attention to detail makes it worth the price. Just don't go batoning with it and I think you'll be glad you bought it!
Sneaky little blade
I've got 2-3 bigger Benchmades in my knife collection; I decided to check out the Bugout as an every day carry option. The knife is light, so light that I barely notice it's there until I need to cut something. S30V is paper-slicing sharp out of the box. Overall package is smaller than expected, but the knife still fits my average-sized hands nicely. AXIS lock performs as expected.… read more Bottom line: If you want a small knife for EDC, especially if you favor the appendix-style carry or other concealable options, then this is the knife for you.