I just bought this knife a day ago, 3 days ago i bought the AFO 2... i bought the AFO 2 because it spoke to me when i saw it, 3 days later, walking through cabela's, i noticed this knife and when i got my hands on it, it too spoke to me, it said "buy me, put me in your pocket", so i listened and i bought it. Its home is now in my pocket. What a beautifully crafted knife, i honestly cant say anything negative about this knife. Functional art. I love the scales, the color combination, the blade & steel used, the weight, the ergo's, the benchmark of how a benchmade bugout should be. Great review dude!
I bought my son the s90V CF one and i bought myself this one. His was deadly sharp, mine is so dull you couldn't cut wet newspaper with it. I just collect them and do not carry it and can sharpen it very easily but Benchmade needs to do some QC before letting these out the door.
Sadly 2 years later from your original message and Benchmade factory edge has somehow gotten worse.... You're literally playing the lottery when ordering a Benchmade knife. Within 2024 I've added 5 Benchmades to the collection. 3 were letter opener sharp while my Osborne 9400 auto & mini freek are literally hair popping sharp. The 3 dull knives were sent to Benchmade to resharpen.
I was forced to order a 535-3 (cf & S90V w/ blue accents) when bladehq offered me a $100 discount on it... Yes, you read that right. However, after accounting for the fact that BladeHQ regularly sells that knife for well under its MSRP as well as the addition of shipping costs, it really ended up guy netting me slightly more than a $50 discount, which is still nothing to sneeze at. Unfortunately, despite my specific request to have whoever picked my knife off the shelf to pick one with drop shut action, I ended up getting an example with the stickiest, grittiest action I’ve ever observed on a Benchmade. So thanks for that, BladeHQ. Ive tried opening and closing the knife repeatedly (aka fidgeting) to no avail. The lock stick has gotten marginally better, but it’s still present on 80% of my attempts to close the knife. The action, I’m afraid, has remained just as terrible as it was out of the box on day 1. Considering sending it back to Benchmade to see what they are willing/able to do about it. Thoughts??
Hey man! Thanks for commenting. Benchmade will definitely take care of you. Now if you don't want to go through letting your knife go for extended period of time, you could try lightly stropping the washers and applying KPL. (Do this at your own risk). I've done this with a couple of my knives and it's worked without fail. Keep in mind, the bugout is a little more difficult to disassemble so I suggest watching my scale swap video on it! You have an awesome weekend! Cheers!
For what it’s worth my BM carbon fiber 940-1 was extremely sticky when I received it (so sticky it would actually get stuck open and I would have to practically pry open the axis lock), and was very tight with no action whatsoever. I didn’t want to send it back because the blade was balanced and I prioritize that above all else. After about a month of fidgeting it got smooth as butter and drops shut. Now it only very slightly sticks if I slam it open which is to be expected. Love it.
I just got mine for 243$ after tax ! 511 tactical gives a 15% military discount every now and then and although it’s only been in my pocket for a few hours I already feel like I love this knife
You should get Aramis-Veyron-CF scales. They are sleek and exceptional quality. I don't have this new variation, but Benchmade CF-Bugout vs. Bugout with Aramis scales, I would go for the Aramis scales every day of the week.
Just picked one up at REI for $235, and I'll get 10% back as dividend. This is one of those knives when you get it in your hand it you think, "OMG I must have this, right now!" Smooth as butter action, the weight and balance are just right. The handle etching is like art deco, yet really contributes to the grip. I'm psyched to have this in my collection!
I just grabbed the same one from Lynch NW with a custom pocket clip for $240. I honestly wish there were more g10 or even micarta bugout options. I can't stand grivory handles....
Can you give me strop and sharpening info on these? How do you know what type of strop or sharpening materials you need for these bugouts? I have the 20cv variant. Thx sir
Newbie here. Any advice would be very helpful. Comparing to the 535-3 Carbon. (Love the Blue) The brand new 535BK-4 has a better blade. Too much knife for a rookie wanting quality? Am I missing the target entirely and should be looking at the 535BK-2? Sometimes I cut corners and have regret. Also, I go big and it becomes ridiculous. Ultimately, I am wanting a good looking knife, quality, EDC for daily stuff. Dad stuff, house stuff, not beating on stuff. Thank You. Have a great day.
For everyday carry, either of these steels should be perfectly fine. S35VN, S90V, M390 are all great steels. M390 is my personal favorite for EDC, especially since italian manufacturers have made them so affordable. My go to is a small fixed blade, the GMF1-F from GiantMouse (nice brand from denmark). solid chunk of M390, perfect balance with a beautiful leather sheath. If you are looking for a USA made folder that is lightweight (important for many Americans it seems :) ), the bugout is just for you. There are also many aftermarket scales if you want to change the looks of a particular version. Check ot Flytanium for these, great quality :) Best wishes from Europe :)
Well... except for the clip... and for me, the ergos are off (grip is too far away from the blade, overall I prefer the Bugout-design and ergos). Other than that, yes, easily my best knife.
Went in to look at the 535-3 cf bug out today but the axis just doesn’t feel as nice as the model you’re reviewing. So I had to get this one as my first Benchmade. But I will be going back in for the mini adamas
Hello, received mine in France. But after observing the edge in x80 magnification, I noticed that it was not regular. Several irregular micro teeth all along. Everything is back to normal after sharpening. I ask myself the question: is this normal for the game BENCHMADE. I received ZERO TOLERANCE, RUIKE, CIVIVI and I did not have this kind of problem.
If you actually use the knife then the cerekote will show wear very easily. Mine has a ton of wear but the coating has held up well enough where you can't see beneath the cerekote so the metal is still covered nicely..... Honestly I think Benchmade should have went with a non-coated blade since it's m390.... You have to litteraly leave the knife out in the rain and humidity for weeks before it even begins to show signs of corrosion.
Okay really need your help please look at your knife and tell me does the aluminum look scratched is it supposed to look that way or did mine come messed up from factory.?
It's still around.... But why go griptillian when you can get a Ritter Hogue. Same designer and a VASTLY superior knife, MUCH better blade steel and also in 2 different sides. You're also getting an American made knife from a company that has the best factory edge in the buisness.
I can appreciate Benchmade giving its consumers multiple options but I can’t understand the hype for the bugout. Overrated and overpriced knife in my eyes.
I just bought this knife a day ago, 3 days ago i bought the AFO 2... i bought the AFO 2 because it spoke to me when i saw it, 3 days later, walking through cabela's, i noticed this knife and when i got my hands on it, it too spoke to me, it said "buy me, put me in your pocket", so i listened and i bought it. Its home is now in my pocket. What a beautifully crafted knife, i honestly cant say anything negative about this knife. Functional art. I love the scales, the color combination, the blade & steel used, the weight, the ergo's, the benchmark of how a benchmade bugout should be. Great review dude!
i had the supreme version of this knife. Switched it for this model and coulnt be happier, the grooves offer a nice grip
Just purchased mine tonight! Can't wait to use this sexy stud of a knife! Thanks for your awesome review, sir! 👍🏽
Just ordered one today. Third of the series for me. Love the Bugout line
These new Bugouts have actually caught my attention.
Love the blade shape, hated the grivory scales. This one I might get.
Seems to be a dope version of the bugout. Great review 👍
I bought my son the s90V CF one and i bought myself this one. His was deadly sharp, mine is so dull you couldn't cut wet newspaper with it. I just collect them and do not carry it and can sharpen it very easily but Benchmade needs to do some QC before letting these out the door.
They'll resharpen it for free for life so..
Sadly 2 years later from your original message and Benchmade factory edge has somehow gotten worse.... You're literally playing the lottery when ordering a Benchmade knife. Within 2024 I've added 5 Benchmades to the collection. 3 were letter opener sharp while my Osborne 9400 auto & mini freek are literally hair popping sharp. The 3 dull knives were sent to Benchmade to resharpen.
I was forced to order a 535-3 (cf & S90V w/ blue accents) when bladehq offered me a $100 discount on it... Yes, you read that right. However, after accounting for the fact that BladeHQ regularly sells that knife for well under its MSRP as well as the addition of shipping costs, it really ended up guy netting me slightly more than a $50 discount, which is still nothing to sneeze at. Unfortunately, despite my specific request to have whoever picked my knife off the shelf to pick one with drop shut action, I ended up getting an example with the stickiest, grittiest action I’ve ever observed on a Benchmade. So thanks for that, BladeHQ. Ive tried opening and closing the knife repeatedly (aka fidgeting) to no avail. The lock stick has gotten marginally better, but it’s still present on 80% of my attempts to close the knife. The action, I’m afraid, has remained just as terrible as it was out of the box on day 1. Considering sending it back to Benchmade to see what they are willing/able to do about it. Thoughts??
Hey man! Thanks for commenting.
Benchmade will definitely take care of you. Now if you don't want to go through letting your knife go for extended period of time, you could try lightly stropping the washers and applying KPL. (Do this at your own risk).
I've done this with a couple of my knives and it's worked without fail. Keep in mind, the bugout is a little more difficult to disassemble so I suggest watching my scale swap video on it!
You have an awesome weekend! Cheers!
For what it’s worth my BM carbon fiber 940-1 was extremely sticky when I received it (so sticky it would actually get stuck open and I would have to practically pry open the axis lock), and was very tight with no action whatsoever. I didn’t want to send it back because the blade was balanced and I prioritize that above all else. After about a month of fidgeting it got smooth as butter and drops shut. Now it only very slightly sticks if I slam it open which is to be expected. Love it.
Just ordered mine from BHQ...you saw that coming. So hyped!
I just got mine for 243$ after tax ! 511 tactical gives a 15% military discount every now and then and although it’s only been in my pocket for a few hours I already feel like I love this knife
This editing vid makes me a fan. You got one new subs, cool video🤙🏼
Welcome to the EDM community! I look forward to seeing you in the comments 👊🏼
@@EverydayMinimalist yes siirr, keep the good stuff coming!
You should get Aramis-Veyron-CF scales. They are sleek and exceptional quality. I don't have this new variation, but Benchmade CF-Bugout vs. Bugout with Aramis scales, I would go for the Aramis scales every day of the week.
Looks quite Art Deco in style. Love it, bought one.
I love it the best model and design of Benchmade
very interesting version of the bugout. Great video Brandon
Thanks Chris! Have an awesome day man.
Just picked one up at REI for $235, and I'll get 10% back as dividend. This is one of those knives when you get it in your hand it you think, "OMG I must have this, right now!" Smooth as butter action, the weight and balance are just right. The handle etching is like art deco, yet really contributes to the grip. I'm psyched to have this in my collection!
I just grabbed the same one from Lynch NW with a custom pocket clip for $240. I honestly wish there were more g10 or even micarta bugout options. I can't stand grivory handles....
So, I'm def diggin the look of this benchmade.... Kiiiiiiiiinda want one....
Oh for sure! Its SPICY!!!
B roll on point as per usual my dude!!!!!!!!
Can you give me strop and sharpening info on these? How do you know what type of strop or sharpening materials you need for these bugouts? I have the 20cv variant. Thx sir
Whats with the zero Coke? Doesnt this knife garner a real Coke?
Can't wait to get my preorder next week! I'm planning on swapping the carbon fiber scales from the 535-3 on this one!
Haha I was thinking the same thing man!
Newbie here. Any advice would be very helpful. Comparing to the 535-3 Carbon. (Love the Blue) The brand new 535BK-4 has a better blade. Too much knife for a rookie wanting quality? Am I missing the target entirely and should be looking at the 535BK-2? Sometimes I cut corners and have regret. Also, I go big and it becomes ridiculous. Ultimately, I am wanting a good looking knife, quality, EDC for daily stuff. Dad stuff, house stuff, not beating on stuff. Thank You. Have a great day.
For everyday carry, either of these steels should be perfectly fine. S35VN, S90V, M390 are all great steels. M390 is my personal favorite for EDC, especially since italian manufacturers have made them so affordable. My go to is a small fixed blade, the GMF1-F from GiantMouse (nice brand from denmark). solid chunk of M390, perfect balance with a beautiful leather sheath. If you are looking for a USA made folder that is lightweight (important for many Americans it seems :) ), the bugout is just for you. There are also many aftermarket scales if you want to change the looks of a particular version. Check ot Flytanium for these, great quality :) Best wishes from Europe :)
Damn,makes me want to get a m390 bugout now,just by your response.
Is it just me or is the Benchmade Anthem the best knife ever?
Well... except for the clip... and for me, the ergos are off (grip is too far away from the blade, overall I prefer the Bugout-design and ergos). Other than that, yes, easily my best knife.
The m390 version looks tempting, but not sure it would take the place of my Anthem, that knife is awesome!
Stoked to get mine on preorder
Went in to look at the 535-3 cf bug out today but the axis just doesn’t feel as nice as the model you’re reviewing. So I had to get this one as my first Benchmade. But I will be going back in for the mini adamas
Cerakote and DLC are a bit different. Great review.
Hello, received mine in France. But after observing the edge in x80 magnification, I noticed that it was not regular. Several irregular micro teeth all along. Everything is back to normal after sharpening. I ask myself the question: is this normal for the game BENCHMADE. I received ZERO TOLERANCE, RUIKE, CIVIVI and I did not have this kind of problem.
This makes me just want to go ahead and get my first ZT 0562Ti.
How does the coating hold up after carry and use on this particular bugout? Thanks for the review
It's cerakote so mines held up good with no wear to the coatong
If you actually use the knife then the cerekote will show wear very easily. Mine has a ton of wear but the coating has held up well enough where you can't see beneath the cerekote so the metal is still covered nicely..... Honestly I think Benchmade should have went with a non-coated blade since it's m390.... You have to litteraly leave the knife out in the rain and humidity for weeks before it even begins to show signs of corrosion.
Which one do you prefer? 535-3 or 535BK-4?
How do you like it?
Is it still worth buying even though it is on sale???
Okay really need your help please look at your knife and tell me does the aluminum look scratched is it supposed to look that way or did mine come messed up from factory.?
Definitely not supposed to look scratched. Mine has nicely machined lines but no scratches whatsoever.
My first benchmade, thank you after pay lol
You should think of reviewing people's edc loadout
lets GO Brandon !... yeah ! I like !
Blade Ops doesn’t show that they have this knife.
It’ll be available to purchase on September 1st!
Cool vid
Just got mine. The handle on mine looks more blue than yours
Make more sharpening videos on the super steels
if the Dutch boys say it is...it is.
Your channel is costing me money bro 😅
$389.95 here in Australia , what a beautiful knife ... I must have one , always wanted M390 ...
Wow that’s double the price, I got mine in US for $200 with a rei discount , it’s worth it though, it replaced my benchmade freek for edc carry
Price is crazy bro. I was sold until the 300 price. But complaining about price is boring I know.
Hmmm... just ordered mine with a discount code from another person who reviewed this. 210.
Hard to believe that for $275 you’re only getting aluminum scales and not titanium…
Guess Titanium would add too much weight for the bugout design.
Magnesium would be an option (and even more expensive).
Flytanium had a version on blade HQ for 200 bucks with s30v steel. Weighs about 2.7 ounces.
This or 5353
I still miss the griptilian
It's still around.... But why go griptillian when you can get a Ritter Hogue. Same designer and a VASTLY superior knife, MUCH better blade steel and also in 2 different sides. You're also getting an American made knife from a company that has the best factory edge in the buisness.
@@TerminalM193 didn’t know. Googling now.
Fun fact the clone on wish says USA on the blade 😂
Нужно брать!
Друг, пришлёшь в Москву?
Cerakote is not DLC. Just a nitpick.
“Feel like I can put it through it’s paces.” Let’s be honest, you’re not doing extreme tasks.
That also means longevity my friend. Edge retention etc. I’m not going to be batoning things with a Bugout 😂
“DLC cerakote” ????
Carry for 4 months and not even a tiny scratch?.....hmmm.....
Right? I have the same knife for only 2 weeks and the cerekote already has tons of scratches from light use.
hmmmm hmmmmmmm 🤔
This knife deserves a coke? Wtf 😂
I can appreciate Benchmade giving its consumers multiple options but I can’t understand the hype for the bugout. Overrated and overpriced knife in my eyes.
@@themittymak I agree BUT I love their umnumzaan
2:00 you're welcome