@@jordanfournier4366 quality control yes, but engineering no. The butterfly switches and their mac book screen ribbons were notoriously easy to break or stop working.
I was skeptical about this knife....but I popped on it in a moment of weakness thinking that worst case scenario I would return it. I actually thought I would have serious buyers remorse but I was STUNNED to find out that I LOVE THIS KNIFE! LOOOOVE IT! And I have spidercos, kershaws, Sog and the rest as well. This bugout carries deep and you forget you're carrying it. Amazing steel...the blade is legit...sharp...stays sharp...and it's perfect for an EDC. I've carried it everyday since and I've fallen in love with it. The others are just more bulky when you carry them. Sometimes I can't even get my hands in my pocket without scraping the spydercos especially. This experience is JUST like when I spent 65 bucks on the new Olight S1R baton II. Expensive, but worth EVERY damn penny. LOVE that thing too...no regrets. Now I have my perfect EDC knife and flashlight. Can't get any better.
I got mine from trades (plus about $25) and I am definitely NOT regretting my decision. I have no issues with mine and I’m sorry Nick that yours didn’t meet their specs. It’s a fantastic cutter and a joy to carry. Me personally, I’d rather carry a Benchmade over any other knife. The little quarks everyone gripes about with Benchmade are things I’ve never experienced. Thanks for the video and please continue to keep us informed!
Actually the Bugout is a really tough knife. I pounded one into oblivion as a call out to Wranglerstar almost a year ago. Thing was unharmed after spine whacking, batoning, cross batoning, twisting sideways, and tip testing. I was stunned
@@cupcakebunnyprod well spyderdo is high cause of the warranty too! Haha Kershaw has a good warranty I think. But u wont get a s30v blade no where and expect it to be cheap. I don't think. I paid 50 for a Kershaw and its steel is not that great in my opinion..
Got one of these in the mail yesterday. It's my first Benchmade and I LOVE it. The axis lock is so fun to use, the overall package is tiny compared to my Spydercos, and the blade is perfection. No QC issues with my example either. A+ gem in my book, and fits right in with my PM2 and Sage 2.
AS Nick has mentioned in a few of his other videos, Benchmade has an outstanding warranty and great customer service, you would be a fool to not factor that into the cost... hard to say that about many of your knives imported from overseas!!!!
You have THE best knife channel on TH-cam. Straight to the point (haha no pun intended), best showcase of deployment, very polite and unbiased analysis.
I resisted buying this knife for almost 2 years. Now that I own it, I find it an exceptional design and build. This is a perfect first knife. Sure it would be nicer if it was priced under $100 but I don't find the price outrageous. If you were to own just one knife, I don't think you would regret your decision.. I think it's a classic just like the 940 and Griptillian.
Despite the name I'd say it's more of backpacker's knife than for bugging out. That bright blue color is a alternative to blaze orange for easy finding if dropped in the woods. I didn't think much of it until the store I work in got it in and handling it changed my mind, at the price I think its very fair.
Handled one the other day. Great blade. Love the axis lock and deep carry small pocket clip. Handle and short liner leaves a lot to be desired. I know to improve those features you would add weight, which is one of its big selling points, but I'd trade a little weight for durability. As usual great review. So yea, what you said.
Love this knife! It's much sturdier than people give credit for! And, more important, the dimensions and weight make it much more probable that you're carrying it with you at all times, and as our spiritual guide Shabazz says: "the best knife is the one that you're carrying!".
Nice review as always Nick. I bought the Bugout soon after release; returned it a few days later. Really like the steel and blade shape, so any recommendations on US made knife with similar blade characteristics for under $130 USD??
Well, my first go would be the CIVIVI elementum. It’s a true gem. But it’s not USA made. If you’re saying you want a USA made knife for quality reasons, then that’s not a real reason becuase you’ll find the CIVIVI and WE have some of the best quality control out there in production knives. If you looking for USA made just to support USA companies, then the spyderco shaman and para 3 lightweight are comparable
Bought a the Bugout with the green handles as my first Benchmade back in July of 2018. Carried it for a week or so at a time every other month until recently when BOTH axis lock springs broke in the same spot. Sending it in for service. Seems like a sketchy part to fail being their claim to fame locking mechanism.
Compared the bugout to the mini grip yesterday. For my XL glove sized hands, the mini grip only gets a full three finger grip. The bugout is slightly longer, allowing a full four finger grip and even just slightly a little more. Its perfect for edc with its light weight and slimness. I just haven't made up my mind between the full size griptilian or the bugout. I like the sturdier feel of the griptilian, like I can really abuse it and it will hold its own. If I could make a edc knife, it would be a bugout, with a sheepfoot blade. They will probably come out with that design after I make a decision and buy a regular bugout. Price should be $89-99 on the bugout imo!
Just bought one in 2020. Is it possible they made the scales stiffer somehow? Even with my gorilla mitts, I can’t get the scales to touch each other like that. That being said, the action feels a bit “grindy”. I’ll see how it breaks in.
@@ryancrow2773 I totally got the elite... You basically just upgraded my knife since I had no idea! :P . Turners made no mention when I bought it, but I do recall thinking it rang up a bit expensive compared to the MSRP I saw online. Thanks for pointing that out!
This knife is being presented as a backpacking knife. Backpackers often become ounce counters because weight in long term trips can become difficult to deal with. This knife will appeal to them because of the low weight.
It should named EDC or GripLight/thingrip (light griptilian) for its light weight super thin profile. When I think of Bugout i think heavy use and or versatility. I live this knive dont get me wrong but see it as more of edc role.
I got one and I love it. Now my question, why would I now buy 940? Should I buy it either way (not for collecting purposes) having already workhorses like PM2 or Kershaw Launch 3?
Just picked one of these up today. Went with a half serrated blade. Was looking for an EDC, nothing overbuilt. Went with the lightweight and this review back up my initial guy reaction. This is replacing another Benchmade knife, the Axis system is great.
do keep in mind the axis lock springs break very often. this is my first and only high end expensive knive and that bothered me for the longest time. just a couple of weeks ago i had the courage to fix it after pretty much keeping it in the back of my drawer trying to forget i payed a shit ton for it to break the first week i got it.
If you watch this review and dislike the knife don't dislike the video. Two completely different things kids. Good stuff Nick. I am passing on the knife but good stuff as always.
Managed to pick one up with $45 off. for that price, it's a surprisingly good knife. Just... buy in person. the centering and action on the ones I handled were all over the place. I think I managed to find the single gem that dropped free, was centered, and had a decent grind
Benchmade are not overpriced because of the quality they put in their knives . Did you ever hold a cold steel in your hand ? Those are overpriced , yes cheaper than benchmade but still very overpriced I wouldn't even get paid to carry cold steel crap ...
I knew what I was getting into. The knife is great. But I did not think that the spring will fail on me within 5 months. Maybe 6 years... And they are hard to come by in Europe. :-(
A high point is how friendly they are to recycle after a camping trip. I have problems at those dumpsters sometimes. Especially with tents and sleeping bags. So to have a knife that's so easy to recycle after we use it is a nice bonus.
This is a awesome edc knife , not a bugout knife . Yes , when I first got it I said to myself where did the $114.00 go , because it is soo light and sometimes you associate weight with being cheap or poorly made , but after a few days carrying it , I was like this knife is Frickin Awesome. And Nick hit it on the nose , this could be 1 of the best tools you ever use ," just use the right tool for the job ". So , if your into light weight edc and excellent slicers , you will love this knife too.
I agree with you and disagree with Plutonium. I wonder what Premium Chinese knife he is referring to because I'm not aware of it. I can't understand why so many think $114 is so outrageous. While I resisted getting mine for almost 2 years. Now I have it, its one of my favorites and I highly recommend it.
Nick- I find it weird that none of the youtubers that have reviewed this knife have seemingly noticed or mentioned the fact that this knife comes with a pocket clip that utilizes two (2) screws, yet the knife handle comes with three (3) pilot holes on either side of the handle. Why is this?
I think the 3 holes are a standard Benchmade clip configuration. A deep carry clip can't accommodate the middle screw unless there's a hole In the clip to make that possible. Just my 2 cents worth.
Hey Nick, great video. I’m looking for a knife that is rust proof. I work with swimming pools. I deal with salt, chlorine and muriatic acid on a daily basis. What do you recommend? And what type of maintenance should I be doing to my knives?
A funny thing I thought of when the Tagged Out and Redoubt came out, they kinda used your idea. They just kept the "out" part for the running theme instead of the "bug" part.
@NickShabazz , Would you recommend it as a fruit cutting knife in an orchard? Looking for California legal, thin blade, washable knife, one hand opening and closing for cutting apples, peaches, pomegranate, citrus in hand. Thinking of an opinel 8 Carbone blade and handle with a Para 3 LW one hand operation and a salt series blade or similar.
@@Anton_G_604 Have you ever used the Bugout? And I don't mean looked at it and held it for a minute. I mean USED it. That "plastic" (grivory) handle that you're talking about is way more durable than you'd expect. I really abuse the piss out of mine, and I've needed to sharpen the blade thrice and I haven't had even one slight issue with the handle. Don't believe everything you hear or see. Try things for yourself, then make a judgement call.
@@Anton_G_604 Yeah, their prices are a little outrageous. But in the case of the Bugout, I feel like the price is warranted. Perhaps still a little high, but much more affordable than damn near everything else in their catalog short of the griptilian or mini grip. Give it a shot. If you don't like it, pawn it off on some other sucker.
Generally I'm not into benchmade knives but despite it's price this is a perfect EDC. I don't know why I care and why I feel disappointed... honestly I hoped You would appreciate it more and forget for one second it is a BM product. Thanks for the review Nick.
Well, in a BoB you try to have some redundacies, so I can see having a folder there in case your primary or secondary knife quits on you or if you want to hand out one to another member of your party that maybe is less prepared and a folder doesn't weigh a lot and also doesn't take much space. But only a folder would be fatal, I agree.
alittleolder I should have clarified, that's more what I meant. I keep a Gransfors Bruks Small Forest Axe, a Becker BK7, a Real Steel Buscrafter 2, and a Finn Wolf from Cold Steel. So I do have a folder, but like you said it's more of a tertiary back up 😀.
Would you recommend the Benchmade Griptillian or the Spyderco Paramilitary 2. I was looking on Amazon, and noticed that both are about $120, and was wondering which you thought was better? I am leaning towards the PM2, but I was wondering if you thought the Grip had any advantages. Thanks, I love the videos!
i think the grip fells chunky in the had and plastic like, the PM2 is a great knife but is huge. If you want to spend a little for money I would 100% recommend looking at the 940-2. Either way you can go wrong with the PM@ or the 940-2
Eric Mitchell I own 2 pm2's & 2 griptilians, & I gotta say I usually reach for the grips. It's way more comfortable in my hand, & just all around beefier imo. Love them both. However, as mentioned, save a little more and pick up a BM 940. Best knife I own. And u cannot beat BM warranty
My first kinda expensive knife I love how light it is I barley notice it it still feels pretty solid compared to what people say and also I love all the after market parts you can get eventually I’m gonna take mine apart and void that warranty to make a gorgeous custom bugout
This knife is even more lightweight then me when I put a splash of beer in my lemonade, doll myself up and hang out at the docks. Three shandies and I'm anyones. The first commenter below knows what I mean 👇👇👇👇
I'd be interested in a mini version of this knife. I handled one earlier this week and found it a bit too large and heavy for me. I'm used to carrying a Victorinox.
@@desertrainfrog1691 You can go lighter - for example, the Al Mar Hawk Ultralight is only 28g (1.0 imperial ounce) and the Boker Plus Urban Trapper Petite is 31g. My Victorinox Alox Excelsior is 22g and my Sanrenmu 6040 is 33g. Some Spyderco and Chris Reeve knives are also lighter.
If it's truly a bugout bag, this is a secondary knife. You gotta have a fixed blade, I would recommend a bark river gunny scandi. It's almost an 1/8" in width.
Those both cost about the same as the bugout and bugout mini currently. Some manix and natives run up to around $150-$160 depending on steel from what I’ve seen lately. Shits getting ridiculous.
What's a great edc that has a safety lock like the Kershaw leek or sog Twitch 2 to prevent my kid from easily opening the knife or preventing it from it opening up in my pocket?
Nothing wrong with being lightweight and flexible. Just think there’s lots of lightweight knives that’ll get the job done for way less money. $115 is just incredibly expensive for a small piece of S30V and some plastic. Can we say Cold Steel Holdout III ? Great review Nick. Thanks
if you compare this price to a GEC, Case or lion steel traditional two handed folder which are about the same price or even more this modern folder has all the bells and whistles and improvements like stainless steel, axis lock, one handed open and close and super light weight. Yes I wish this was 70 bucks too but considering those old fashion folders sell for this price or more all day long and people scramble to buy them up instantly in five minutes or less this price of 115 is not as horrible as it may seem at first glance. This may not be a fantastic price but it’s not super way out of line either for what your getting compared to traditionals. That’s my take on it anyway.
Very helpful review. Great knife, but I crossed it off my list. Minimal knife I discovered and purchased this past summer is the Mercator K55K made by Otter in Germany. In production since 1867. I am curious about your thoughts on this knife. Enjoy your reviews. Thanks.
I was just looking at the k55k myself. I'm gonna pull the trigger because it's inexpensive enough to do so at any time, but it recently peaked my interest. Like any knife when I find out about it, I ran to youtube to see if Nick had a review. Alas, no.
I picked up the knifecenter exclusive battle washed bug out a few months ago. It came with a medium-grit edge but with and absolute perfect Apex. Bottom line is if you're looking to carry a pocket knife that you forget that you're carrying this is the one.
The sweetspot for this knife should have been an entry level edc, with either 420hc steel or d2 steel with a pricetag of around 40-50 bucks and definitely under some other name, rather than "bugout".
My bugout I experienced with, had a very stick like blade, I couldn’t fling it out with my thumb or close it by holding the axis lock, it would get stuck every time. I was wanting the fidget type of knife where you can fling the blade back and forth. Did I just get a bad knife?
I kind of had that same issue for a little bit when I first got mine, but honestly you get used to it pretty quickly and it's not much of an issue. The bugout is an amazing knife imo
i was thinking about getting this but now im a little worried about the durability. what knives would you guys recommend for me? (im looking for knives under $200)
Hey Nick, you said that when buying a Benchmade, you should either go into a brick and mortar store or buy from an online retailer who will check the QC. Will companies like BladeHQ and Knifecenter do that for me? I'm thinking of buying a Griptilian soon.
Thanks Nick! Yet another reason you're my favorite TH-camr, you actually make an effort to respond to questions that people might have. Keep being a gem!
my question would be, how well would it survive a bug out bag emergency situation. is any channel willing to take it off the grid for a few days and try and use it as a primary knife (with whatever other knives and tools that you would also include in the bag, but try and use the bug out primarily if possible). what survival channels would do something like that? i wonder if prying would be better due to the extra flex. the flex may allow a certain level of better prying so not to snap the blade sooner, well within reason anyways. anyways, will you need tools or sharpening stones in a survival situation. how brittle is the steel. will it be better if the edge keeps sharp longer vs having to sharpen it, and how hard is it to sharpen on rocks (is that good enough for s30v)? will the pivot need to be adjusted. will an omega spring snap and will that effect my knife in the wild. i would assume most would just have this for camping or long backpacking trips, white water rafting, canoeing, all sorts of out doors stuff. rather than a survival bug out bag knife. or just super light weight EDC.
No doubt the name confounds so many. Bugout to me is an Emergency, short term situation where you have the essential gear you might need during that period. I don't care what a knife is called, but what kind of tool it is. This is a great lightweight, light use EDC knife. I would and do keep a fixed blade in my Emergency bag. The Bugout would already be in my trousers pocket.
I just bought one, and immediately started the process to return it. Not only does the axis lock button on the knife not let me flick it open like I can on my Griptilian, the button is painful to use and it's hard to hold in the hand. That being said, I'm still in the market for a really thin knife, but the fit and finish on this one just isn't there. I was wondering why Benchmade had such a reputation for being hit or miss, and I now I find out why.
I bought a bugout to celebrate a new job I work in the trades but try not to abuse my knives so far after a couple months of use I've only had to lightly touch up the blade the grip feels great in the hand and the light weight is great I recognize it to everyone who asks me about knives
So is the Lady"bug" therefore also a bug-out knife? Hey, anybody notice how similar this is the Benchmade 530 Pardue? I've been looking for a pocket knife - literally, a knife for my dress shirt front pocket - and this fits the bill. I mean, the new CRKT CEO "shirt pocket" knife is heavier at 2.10 ounces, and it was designed specifically to fit in a shirt pocket.
I bought a mini griptialian and was completely underwhelmed with the “flashiness” of the design… until I went and looked at a bugout. This mini grip 556 is so well designed and durable compared to these and less money. I switched the scales out to stainless and it is the most durable, versatile knife I’ve carried. Couldn’t say the same for the bug out. Just feels way too flimsy.
Nick- I can't believe the price of this knife. If there is a bugout situation, I'm reaching for my fixed blades, not some toy knife that can't be a heavy user. This is an overpriced EDC, not a bugout knife. If I need a bugout folder, I have dozens of knives I'd choose over this. Good review.
+Nick Shabazz I completely agree. Especially since the initial promotional material kept sticking it in a backpacking/ultralight setting. That said the knife has survived some rough testing by Drop Forged Survival.
If this is a knife for the bug out bag, light makes sense. But you may not want to be stocking a bug out bag with a knife that is expensive and also somewhat light-duty. A bug out bag would be where you stash a light knife for carrying and maybe a fixed blade for heavy duty work in the woods.
I don't why everybody's bent out of shape about the Bugout's price: high end steel, high end proprietary lock, great warranty, unique concept, made in the USA--how little did you expect to pay? Note that the knife's apparent "flimsiness" or insubstantiality was deliberate, and is what makes the knife unique. Now, maybe good knives in general are overpriced but that's another question. As for Benchmade's supposedly bad quality control.... I wonder how many persons chiming in about this even own a Benchmade; and of those who do own one, how many expect a product to be impossibly flawless if they spend a lot of money on it, and/or have been brainwashed by Internet commentary.
I don't see how the price bothers people at all. this on bladehq is $115 bucks made in the USA, s-30v steel and it's about as much as a full sized Grip..
Burkinater 48 guys if you compare this to a GEC or lion steel traditional which are roughly the same price this has all the modern stuff like steel and lock and weight. Yes I wish this was 70 bucks too but considering old fashion folders sell for this price all day long and people buy up instantly in five minutes or less this is not as horrible a price as it may seem.
What are people doing that requires a sub 2oz knife as opposed to a 3-5oz knife? Serious question. I've never payed attention to knife weight except for one Greyman Satu, which was way bigger than I was expecting. Other than that, the knife's profile has always been way more important to me. I don't mind something being heavy as long as I can get into my pocket. Am I just weird? If someone that has a specific need for something like this could chime in and educate me it'd be greatly appreciated.
The hipsters love the fact that it actually fits into their "skinny jean" pockets....and the light weight doesn't Make their soy boy muscles ache after carrying it for a few hours.
The bugout is and has been my favorite pocket knife for 13-yrs..... I have every knife money can buy and this is my favorite light weight pocket knife....
Hey nick Shabazz have u bad any problems with a benchmade meaning the omega springs breaking on u I love bench made but that is making me not want use mine as much lol
I'm in the process of getting an above 100€ knife (higher quality, seeing as I was sort of a poor-man's-EDC kind of a guy before). I got a Chinese Bugout knockoff, just to see if it was a knife for me when it comes to the design and overall stuff (seeing I am in between the Bugout and Freek), and I didn't like it. After your reviews, I'm into Freek a lot more. Thanks, Nick, you're a godsend. Keep up the good work.
I'm still interested in getting one, especially if I have to send my Griptilian back to Benchmade (because I did something stupid with it) and it fits into the price range I tend to go for when I'm looking at knives that I'm going to carry. I also have a strong tendency to take apart my knives and and can put the axis lock on my griptilian back together with minimal struggle. That being said, I think this would fit nicely into an office-carry situation (clipped into the same pocket as say a smartphone, for instance) or just regular everyday use.
A good knife and an Altoids survival tin is all I need to die in the woods.
a gun?
Micah Knepper this speaks to me
Haha!
Lol. Well at least you're honest.
Word.
And 2 ply of mcdonalds toilet paper. Just in case
If this knife was priced at $80 or even 90, Benchmade would have had way bigger of a hit on their hands.
because it's not flying off the shelf now?
it's a $62 knife at most.
@@edrader Fools and their money are soon parted. Lol
true. I bought it. carried it a couple of weeks and then sold it. what bugged me most was the blade was not centered.
Cheap skate
Butterfly tax is like the Apple tax...
Introducing the Bugout Air! Now with air scales,they are super light and durable and the keyswitches resist dust! We swear, fuck!
Except Apple actually has good quality control.
@@jordanfournier4366 quality control yes, but engineering no. The butterfly switches and their mac book screen ribbons were notoriously easy to break or stop working.
@@jordanfournier4366 this must be a joke ? With apple you pay the big price and you got cheap ass product ...
@@EvilNick81 don't forget the reminder you support slave labor in china....something Benchmade does not for the most part do.
Benchmade's pricing bugs me so i'm out .
kerryrwac
When I saw the price, my eyes bugged out!
All Benchmade knives are usually over 90 bucks and this one is 115, not a big difference.
At about $90 I'd be all over it, but with how popular it is, i doubt it
Zed Word no g10 unless you spend 170. So basically it’s 100 for a plastic handle
@Wolfpack3D A commendable effort on the spelling of warranty.
I was skeptical about this knife....but I popped on it in a moment of weakness thinking that worst case scenario I would return it. I actually thought I would have serious buyers remorse but I was STUNNED to find out that I LOVE THIS KNIFE! LOOOOVE IT! And I have spidercos, kershaws, Sog and the rest as well. This bugout carries deep and you forget you're carrying it. Amazing steel...the blade is legit...sharp...stays sharp...and it's perfect for an EDC. I've carried it everyday since and I've fallen in love with it. The others are just more bulky when you carry them. Sometimes I can't even get my hands in my pocket without scraping the spydercos especially. This experience is JUST like when I spent 65 bucks on the new Olight S1R baton II. Expensive, but worth EVERY damn penny. LOVE that thing too...no regrets. Now I have my perfect EDC knife and flashlight. Can't get any better.
☯️
I got mine from trades (plus about $25) and I am definitely NOT regretting my decision. I have no issues with mine and I’m sorry Nick that yours didn’t meet their specs. It’s a fantastic cutter and a joy to carry. Me personally, I’d rather carry a Benchmade over any other knife. The little quarks everyone gripes about with Benchmade are things I’ve never experienced. Thanks for the video and please continue to keep us informed!
Screw that shit man, para 3 lw is better value and quality, in terms of steel, bd-1n is similar to the performance of s30v so
lol sounds like you have buyers remorse, also it’s pretty ignorant to say you’d carry a Benchmade over ANY other knife
I know you've reviewed the 940-1, but can u review the 940-2 next? It'd be great
Actually the Bugout is a really tough knife. I pounded one into oblivion as a call out to Wranglerstar almost a year ago. Thing was unharmed after spine whacking, batoning, cross batoning, twisting sideways, and tip testing. I was stunned
Its almost humorous how much he hates this knife. But I get it, if a guy doesn't like the feel of a knife, it is what it is.
The Bugout will down in history as a Classic. I love the Bugout.
Classic overpriced benchmade yeah
I don't think of the Bugout as being overpriced. It's definitely a classic up there with the Griptillian and 940.
U are paying extra for the lifetime warranty pretty good investment I think.
@@robbiestewart8179 so many places have the lifetime warranty without the price gouging. Spyderco for example is one, even they are a bit high
@@cupcakebunnyprod well spyderdo is high cause of the warranty too! Haha Kershaw has a good warranty I think. But u wont get a s30v blade no where and expect it to be cheap. I don't think. I paid 50 for a Kershaw and its steel is not that great in my opinion..
And FYI, the clip is named: Mini Deep-Carry clip. I'm almost 100% certain that is the smallest clip Benchmade has put on a knife!
Got one of these in the mail yesterday. It's my first Benchmade and I LOVE it. The axis lock is so fun to use, the overall package is tiny compared to my Spydercos, and the blade is perfection. No QC issues with my example either. A+ gem in my book, and fits right in with my PM2 and Sage 2.
If it was around $80 I would of bought one instantly.
the spyderco delica 4 is around $60. The benchmade is made in the USA and has a better steel. I say somewhere around $80 is fair.
Agreed. $60 is more than fair for this blade. If I'm spending $80 on a blade, it'll be a manix 2.
other countries dont have labor laws like the U.S. does that is why our goods cost more to similar quality products.
Hey I think the price is right, it's one of the best looking knives I've ever seen before
AS Nick has mentioned in a few of his other videos, Benchmade has an outstanding warranty and great customer service, you would be a fool to not factor that into the cost... hard to say that about many of your knives imported from overseas!!!!
You have THE best knife channel on TH-cam. Straight to the point (haha no pun intended), best showcase of deployment, very polite and unbiased analysis.
The one problem they get to play with the knives for free while we don't.
@@jamesharris1493 We all make a living somehow
Still the best review of this knife I've seen.
I bought one after watching your review and it's still my favourite knife.
I resisted buying this knife for almost 2 years. Now that I own it, I find it an exceptional design and build. This is a perfect first knife. Sure it would be nicer if it was priced under $100 but I don't find the price outrageous. If you were to own just one knife, I don't think you would regret your decision.. I think it's a classic just like the 940 and Griptillian.
Screw that shit man, para 3 lw is better value and quality, in terms of steel, bd-1n is similar to the performance of s30v so
Nothing I love more than turning on the Closed Captions for a Nick Video! Always a show lol!
It is now 2021 and these knives have jumped to almost $200.00 That's just crazy.
It is now 2024 and I just paid $223 Canadian dollars plus 13% tax in toronto for my CF elite full size bugout
Yes Sir. Benchmade is just overpriced. There is so much alternative at this price. But 200.00 for ultra cheap scales, no thanks@@HorsepowerHeaven
Despite the name I'd say it's more of backpacker's knife than for bugging out. That bright blue color is a alternative to blaze orange for easy finding if dropped in the woods. I didn't think much of it until the store I work in got it in and handling it changed my mind, at the price I think its very fair.
Handled one the other day. Great blade. Love the axis lock and deep carry small pocket clip. Handle and short liner leaves a lot to be desired. I know to improve those features you would add weight, which is one of its big selling points, but I'd trade a little weight for durability. As usual great review. So yea, what you said.
The Bugout has become my #1 go to. Light and sharp. A little pricey but worth it.
I picked one up for $99.99 on sale at a local shop and I love it. Great for everyday carry. If you catch it on sale, I'd recommend it.
Love this knife! It's much sturdier than people give credit for! And, more important, the dimensions and weight make it much more probable that you're carrying it with you at all times, and as our spiritual guide Shabazz says: "the best knife is the one that you're carrying!".
Great review.... I also. The Delica isn't a bad alternative if you want to save a bit of dough either. Kepp on keeping on!
Really like your reviews. Thanks for putting all the time in.
Nice review as always Nick. I bought the Bugout soon after release; returned it a few days later. Really like the steel and blade shape, so any recommendations on US made knife with similar blade characteristics for under $130 USD??
Well, my first go would be the CIVIVI elementum. It’s a true gem. But it’s not USA made. If you’re saying you want a USA made knife for quality reasons, then that’s not a real reason becuase you’ll find the CIVIVI and WE have some of the best quality control out there in production knives. If you looking for USA made just to support USA companies, then the spyderco shaman and para 3 lightweight are comparable
Bought a the Bugout with the green handles as my first Benchmade back in July of 2018. Carried it for a week or so at a time every other month until recently when BOTH axis lock springs broke in the same spot. Sending it in for service. Seems like a sketchy part to fail being their claim to fame locking mechanism.
Compared the bugout to the mini grip yesterday. For my XL glove sized hands, the mini grip only gets a full three finger grip. The bugout is slightly longer, allowing a full four finger grip and even just slightly a little more. Its perfect for edc with its light weight and slimness. I just haven't made up my mind between the full size griptilian or the bugout. I like the sturdier feel of the griptilian, like I can really abuse it and it will hold its own. If I could make a edc knife, it would be a bugout, with a sheepfoot blade. They will probably come out with that design after I make a decision and buy a regular bugout. Price should be $89-99 on the bugout imo!
Just bought one in 2020. Is it possible they made the scales stiffer somehow? Even with my gorilla mitts, I can’t get the scales to touch each other like that. That being said, the action feels a bit “grindy”. I’ll see how it breaks in.
Are you sure you didn't get the cf-elite?
@@ryancrow2773 I totally got the elite... You basically just upgraded my knife since I had no idea! :P . Turners made no mention when I bought it, but I do recall thinking it rang up a bit expensive compared to the MSRP I saw online. Thanks for pointing that out!
This knife is being presented as a backpacking knife. Backpackers often become ounce counters because weight in long term trips can become difficult to deal with. This knife will appeal to them because of the low weight.
It should named EDC or GripLight/thingrip (light griptilian) for its light weight super thin profile. When I think of Bugout i think heavy use and or versatility. I live this knive dont get me wrong but see it as more of edc role.
They named it what they wanted to name it
I got one and I love it. Now my question, why would I now buy 940? Should I buy it either way (not for collecting purposes) having already workhorses like PM2 or Kershaw Launch 3?
Just picked one of these up today. Went with a half serrated blade. Was looking for an EDC, nothing overbuilt. Went with the lightweight and this review back up my initial guy reaction. This is replacing another Benchmade knife, the Axis system is great.
do keep in mind the axis lock springs break very often. this is my first and only high end expensive knive and that bothered me for the longest time. just a couple of weeks ago i had the courage to fix it after pretty much keeping it in the back of my drawer trying to forget i payed a shit ton for it to break the first week i got it.
If you watch this review and dislike the knife don't dislike the video. Two completely different things kids. Good stuff Nick. I am passing on the knife but good stuff as always.
This paired with flytanium’s copper scales is just about the sexiest knife I’ve ever held.
Managed to pick one up with $45 off. for that price, it's a surprisingly good knife. Just... buy in person. the centering and action on the ones I handled were all over the place. I think I managed to find the single gem that dropped free, was centered, and had a decent grind
overpriced like all benchmades, only thing stopping me from picking one up.
It won't stop me that is a beautiful knife
Screw that shit man, para 3 lw is better value and quality, in terms of steel, bd-1n is similar to the performance of s30v so
Benchmade are not overpriced because of the quality they put in their knives . Did you ever hold a cold steel in your hand ? Those are overpriced , yes cheaper than benchmade but still very overpriced I wouldn't even get
paid to carry cold steel crap ...
@@urielmartinez2161 trust me this is not overpriced ,don't listen to those cheap ass that always want to pay less but don't care to get crap 🤣
@@EvilNick81 you, are calling cold steel trash? I love benchmade but you sir have your head up your ass. Cold steel sold s35vn for cheap
I knew what I was getting into. The knife is great. But I did not think that the spring will fail on me within 5 months. Maybe 6 years... And they are hard to come by in Europe. :-(
A high point is how friendly they are to recycle after a camping trip. I have problems at those dumpsters sometimes. Especially with tents and sleeping bags. So to have a knife that's so easy to recycle after we use it is a nice bonus.
This is a awesome edc knife , not a bugout knife . Yes , when I first got it I said to myself where did the $114.00 go , because it is soo light and sometimes you associate weight with being cheap or poorly made , but after a few days carrying it , I was like this knife is Frickin Awesome. And Nick hit it on the nose , this could be 1 of the best tools you ever use ," just use the right tool for the job ". So , if your into light weight edc and excellent slicers , you will love this knife too.
I agree with you and disagree with Plutonium. I wonder what Premium Chinese knife he is referring to because I'm not aware of it. I can't understand why so many think $114 is so outrageous. While I resisted getting mine for almost 2 years. Now I have it, its one of my favorites and I highly recommend it.
Nick- I find it weird that none of the youtubers that have reviewed this knife have seemingly noticed or mentioned the fact that this knife comes with a pocket clip that utilizes two (2) screws, yet the knife handle comes with three (3) pilot holes on either side of the handle. Why is this?
I think the 3 holes are a standard Benchmade clip configuration. A deep carry clip can't accommodate the middle screw unless there's a hole In the clip to make that possible. Just my 2 cents worth.
Hey Nick, what would you buy. A spyderco sage or a benchmade bugout? Thanks
Hey Nick, great video. I’m looking for a knife that is rust proof. I work with swimming pools. I deal with salt, chlorine and muriatic acid on a daily basis. What do you recommend? And what type of maintenance should I be doing to my knives?
Spyderco spydiechef 🙂
A funny thing I thought of when the Tagged Out and Redoubt came out, they kinda used your idea. They just kept the "out" part for the running theme instead of the "bug" part.
@NickShabazz , Would you recommend it as a fruit cutting knife in an orchard? Looking for California legal, thin blade, washable knife, one hand opening and closing for cutting apples, peaches, pomegranate, citrus in hand. Thinking of an opinel 8 Carbone blade and handle with a Para 3 LW one hand operation and a salt series blade or similar.
Having watched the disassembly video, I almost feel like I cheated since I know how this one will turn out.
The PM2 is $140.40 and the Bugout is $119 as of March 2019.
@@Anton_G_604 Have you ever used the Bugout? And I don't mean looked at it and held it for a minute. I mean USED it. That "plastic" (grivory) handle that you're talking about is way more durable than you'd expect. I really abuse the piss out of mine, and I've needed to sharpen the blade thrice and I haven't had even one slight issue with the handle. Don't believe everything you hear or see. Try things for yourself, then make a judgement call.
@@Anton_G_604 Yeah, their prices are a little outrageous. But in the case of the Bugout, I feel like the price is warranted. Perhaps still a little high, but much more affordable than damn near everything else in their catalog short of the griptilian or mini grip. Give it a shot. If you don't like it, pawn it off on some other sucker.
@@Anton_G_604 Love my PM2. Everyone DOES need a new knife. I just picked up a Benchmade Osborne. Well worth it.
$20 will get you an amazing knife. And para 3 lw is better value and quality, in terms of steel, bd-1n is similar to the performance of s30v so
@@koga8100 ya i bought the para 3 lw and i love it
Generally I'm not into benchmade knives but despite it's price this is a perfect EDC. I don't know why I care and why I feel disappointed... honestly I hoped You would appreciate it more and forget for one second it is a BM product. Thanks for the review Nick.
I have plenty of knives to put in my bugout bag. This one really doesn't present a compelling argument to me to spend that kind of money.
alittleolder Yes, this seems like it would be better suited to the ultralight backpacking community who might even consider this heavy.
Exactly. I really don't care about 1oz more or less
alittleolder Folders don't really have a place in BOBs anyways.
Well, in a BoB you try to have some redundacies, so I can see having a folder there in case your primary or secondary knife quits on you or if you want to hand out one to another member of your party that maybe is less prepared and a folder doesn't weigh a lot and also doesn't take much space. But only a folder would be fatal, I agree.
alittleolder I should have clarified, that's more what I meant. I keep a Gransfors Bruks Small Forest Axe, a Becker BK7, a Real Steel Buscrafter 2, and a Finn Wolf from Cold Steel. So I do have a folder, but like you said it's more of a tertiary back up 😀.
Nick, would you recommend this knife for Peloton carry?
Would you recommend the Benchmade Griptillian or the Spyderco Paramilitary 2. I was looking on Amazon, and noticed that both are about $120, and was wondering which you thought was better? I am leaning towards the PM2, but I was wondering if you thought the Grip had any advantages. Thanks, I love the videos!
i think the grip fells chunky in the had and plastic like, the PM2 is a great knife but is huge. If you want to spend a little for money I would 100% recommend looking at the 940-2. Either way you can go wrong with the PM@ or the 940-2
Eric Mitchell I own 2 pm2's & 2 griptilians, & I gotta say I usually reach for the grips. It's way more comfortable in my hand, & just all around beefier imo. Love them both. However, as mentioned, save a little more and pick up a BM 940. Best knife I own. And u cannot beat BM warranty
My first kinda expensive knife I love how light it is I barley notice it it still feels pretty solid compared to what people say and also I love all the after market parts you can get eventually I’m gonna take mine apart and void that warranty to make a gorgeous custom bugout
This knife is even more lightweight then me when I put a splash of beer in my lemonade, doll myself up and hang out at the docks. Three shandies and I'm anyones. The first commenter below knows what I mean 👇👇👇👇
Unrelated, but I am compelled to respond:
"Thanks very much, me ol' shivering mateys! Now, how much do you charge for a good hard shag?"
Ekybob these comments are absolutely chuckle-worthy. Good job lads
I like shandies....
I'd be interested in a mini version of this knife. I handled one earlier this week and found it a bit too large and heavy for me. I'm used to carrying a Victorinox.
1.8 oz is like as light as most regular knives get.
@@desertrainfrog1691 You can go lighter - for example, the Al Mar Hawk Ultralight is only 28g (1.0 imperial ounce) and the Boker Plus Urban Trapper Petite is 31g. My Victorinox Alox Excelsior is 22g and my Sanrenmu 6040 is 33g. Some Spyderco and Chris Reeve knives are also lighter.
While this is just shy of what I would call large, I don't think it's even in the scale of heavy.
If it's truly a bugout bag, this is a secondary knife. You gotta have a fixed blade, I would recommend a bark river gunny scandi. It's almost an 1/8" in width.
Damn.... Ya had me wanting this knife until you mentioned the price... WOW! I'll stick with my Native 5 and Manix 2...
Those both cost about the same as the bugout and bugout mini currently. Some manix and natives run up to around $150-$160 depending on steel from what I’ve seen lately. Shits getting ridiculous.
Just found your channel. Good review. I'm guessing this knife will get cheaper, or at least will get a decent sale price, as the year winds down.
I reaally like that deep ocean blue color, Not usually a fan of wackier colors but I like this.
What's a great edc that has a safety lock like the Kershaw leek or sog Twitch 2 to prevent my kid from easily opening the knife or preventing it from it opening up in my pocket?
Nothing wrong with being lightweight and flexible. Just think there’s lots of lightweight knives that’ll get the job done for way less money. $115 is just incredibly expensive for a small piece of S30V and some plastic. Can we say Cold Steel Holdout III ? Great review Nick. Thanks
I just like the knife, and I don't mind the price tag, I expected 160, so 115 is fine by me, I'll be picking one up as my first benchmade
Patrick Jennings you like it?
I love this knife for mid level task edc
I feel like 80 or 90 would be a bit more fair
if you compare this price to a GEC, Case or lion steel traditional two handed folder which are about the same price or even more this modern folder has all the bells and whistles and improvements like stainless steel, axis lock, one handed open and close and super light weight. Yes I wish this was 70 bucks too but considering those old fashion folders sell for this price or more all day long and people scramble to buy them up instantly in five minutes or less this price of 115 is not as horrible as it may seem at first glance. This may not be a fantastic price but it’s not super way out of line either for what your getting compared to traditionals. That’s my take on it anyway.
Screw that shit man, para 3 lw is better value and quality, in terms of steel, bd-1n is similar to the performance of s30v so
Very helpful review. Great knife, but I crossed it off my list. Minimal knife I discovered and purchased this past summer is the Mercator K55K made by Otter in Germany. In production since 1867. I am curious about your thoughts on this knife. Enjoy your reviews. Thanks.
I was just looking at the k55k myself. I'm gonna pull the trigger because it's inexpensive enough to do so at any time, but it recently peaked my interest. Like any knife when I find out about it, I ran to youtube to see if Nick had a review. Alas, no.
I picked up the knifecenter exclusive battle washed bug out a few months ago. It came with a medium-grit edge but with and absolute perfect Apex. Bottom line is if you're looking to carry a pocket knife that you forget that you're carrying this is the one.
The sweetspot for this knife should have been an entry level edc, with either 420hc steel or d2 steel with a pricetag of around 40-50 bucks and definitely under some other name, rather than "bugout".
Ryan McCarthy and yet they cant keep it on the shelves.
@@dalrolaalorlad6521 the same can be said about Big Macs too. :)
My bugout I experienced with, had a very stick like blade, I couldn’t fling it out with my thumb or close it by holding the axis lock, it would get stuck every time. I was wanting the fidget type of knife where you can fling the blade back and forth. Did I just get a bad knife?
I kind of had that same issue for a little bit when I first got mine, but honestly you get used to it pretty quickly and it's not much of an issue. The bugout is an amazing knife imo
i was thinking about getting this but now im a little worried about the durability. what knives would you guys recommend for me? (im looking for knives under $200)
Right at $200 is the ZT 0562, which is an excellent knife and got a gem rating from Nick, IIRC.
Wow. This was a greatly informative review. It put the knife in perspective for me. Great job !
What is wierd to me is the fact that in 2022, the pm2 is 171 ish and the bugout can be had for 128
Knife to purchase: This or standard Griptilian??
is the thickness of the whole knife thinner then a medford murauder blade? looks like it lol.
Does Benchmade make a wood handle knife that you like? Thanks
Benchmade crooked river or mini crooked river. Beautiful knife if you haven’t found what you’re looking for
Hey Nick, you said that when buying a Benchmade, you should either go into a brick and mortar store or buy from an online retailer who will check the QC. Will companies like BladeHQ and Knifecenter do that for me? I'm thinking of buying a Griptilian soon.
Yep, both of those should, if you're specific about wanting the centering right, with a smooth action and no blade play
Thanks Nick! Yet another reason you're my favorite TH-camr, you actually make an effort to respond to questions that people might have. Keep being a gem!
my question would be, how well would it survive a bug out bag emergency situation. is any channel willing to take it off the grid for a few days and try and use it as a primary knife (with whatever other knives and tools that you would also include in the bag, but try and use the bug out primarily if possible). what survival channels would do something like that?
i wonder if prying would be better due to the extra flex. the flex may allow a certain level of better prying so not to snap the blade sooner, well within reason anyways.
anyways, will you need tools or sharpening stones in a survival situation. how brittle is the steel. will it be better if the edge keeps sharp longer vs having to sharpen it, and how hard is it to sharpen on rocks (is that good enough for s30v)?
will the pivot need to be adjusted. will an omega spring snap and will that effect my knife in the wild.
i would assume most would just have this for camping or long backpacking trips, white water rafting, canoeing, all sorts of out doors stuff. rather than a survival bug out bag knife. or just super light weight EDC.
No doubt the name confounds so many. Bugout to me is an Emergency, short term situation where you have the essential gear you might need during that period.
I don't care what a knife is called, but what kind of tool it is. This is a great lightweight, light use EDC knife. I would and do keep a fixed blade in my Emergency bag. The Bugout would already be in my trousers pocket.
I wonder if its better than a Civivi Elementum
Is this the mini or the regular?
I carried a bug out bag for 50 yrs before i found out thats what its called .i just called it my pack .
I just bought one, and immediately started the process to return it. Not only does the axis lock button on the knife not let me flick it open like I can on my Griptilian, the button is painful to use and it's hard to hold in the hand. That being said, I'm still in the market for a really thin knife, but the fit and finish on this one just isn't there. I was wondering why Benchmade had such a reputation for being hit or miss, and I now I find out why.
I found one of these laying in a parking lot I thought it was a cheap knife until I Googled it never heard of benchmade till then
I bought a bugout to celebrate a new job I work in the trades but try not to abuse my knives so far after a couple months of use I've only had to lightly touch up the blade the grip feels great in the hand and the light weight is great I recognize it to everyone who asks me about knives
If it was carbon fiber instead of plastic and the price was close to what it is now, I would own it.
Tmankiller72 Check out JT's Knife Life's channel, he has one in carbon fiber. (custom made I think)
Burr. ;3;/ I already purchased one from RogueBladeWorks , it is awesome!!
Knowing benchmade, they'll charge you 160 without breaking a sweat.
@@bebo7002 The carbon fibre version is 10g heavier and costs USD $193.
So is the Lady"bug" therefore also a bug-out knife? Hey, anybody notice how similar this is the Benchmade 530 Pardue? I've been looking for a pocket knife - literally, a knife for my dress shirt front pocket - and this fits the bill. I mean, the new CRKT CEO "shirt pocket" knife is heavier at 2.10 ounces, and it was designed specifically to fit in a shirt pocket.
I bought a mini griptialian and was completely underwhelmed with the “flashiness” of the design… until I went and looked at a bugout. This mini grip 556 is so well designed and durable compared to these and less money. I switched the scales out to stainless and it is the most durable, versatile knife I’ve carried. Couldn’t say the same for the bug out. Just feels way too flimsy.
Nick- I can't believe the price of this knife. If there is a bugout situation, I'm reaching for my fixed blades, not some toy knife that can't be a heavy user. This is an overpriced EDC, not a bugout knife. If I need a bugout folder, I have dozens of knives I'd choose over this. Good review.
+MrGeerbear The name absolutely fell flat. If they’d called this the “Benchmade Ultralight”, I think it’d have gotten a much nicer reception.
Nick Shabazz
I think they should have gone with the "UltraPriced"
+Nick Shabazz I completely agree. Especially since the initial promotional material kept sticking it in a backpacking/ultralight setting. That said the knife has survived some rough testing by Drop Forged Survival.
MrGeerbear it's an edc if you run marathons every day. But if you're not a fun runner it's definitely not gonna be a edc.
If this is a knife for the bug out bag, light makes sense. But you may not want to be stocking a bug out bag with a knife that is expensive and also somewhat light-duty. A bug out bag would be where you stash a light knife for carrying and maybe a fixed blade for heavy duty work in the woods.
I don't why everybody's bent out of shape about the Bugout's price: high end steel, high end proprietary lock, great warranty, unique concept, made in the USA--how little did you expect to pay? Note that the knife's apparent "flimsiness" or insubstantiality was deliberate, and is what makes the knife unique. Now, maybe good knives in general are overpriced but that's another question.
As for Benchmade's supposedly bad quality control.... I wonder how many persons chiming in about this even own a Benchmade; and of those who do own one, how many expect a product to be impossibly flawless if they spend a lot of money on it, and/or have been brainwashed by Internet commentary.
Thanks for reviewing this knife. I was wondering about this one after seeing it on Blade HQ.
I don't see how the price bothers people at all. this on bladehq is $115 bucks made in the USA, s-30v steel and it's about as much as a full sized Grip..
Burkinater 48 not when you can get s110v from Spyderco for the same price
cuddlesdapeaceman357 fair point
Burkinater 48 guys if you compare this to a GEC or lion steel traditional which are roughly the same price this has all the modern stuff like steel and lock and weight. Yes I wish this was 70 bucks too but considering old fashion folders sell for this price all day long and people buy up instantly in five minutes or less this is not as horrible a price as it may seem.
@@gmotionedc5412 basically . its the guys who were instantly over paying on all knives. Its their fault no we pay 130$! For a buggout
I had the same problem with washers..the action got better when i switched the washers around
is the original clip on this titanium or nrormal steel ?
What are people doing that requires a sub 2oz knife as opposed to a 3-5oz knife?
Serious question. I've never payed attention to knife weight except for one Greyman Satu, which was way bigger than I was expecting. Other than that, the knife's profile has always been way more important to me. I don't mind something being heavy as long as I can get into my pocket. Am I just weird?
If someone that has a specific need for something like this could chime in and educate me it'd be greatly appreciated.
The hipsters love the fact that it actually fits into their "skinny jean" pockets....and the light weight doesn't
Make their soy boy muscles ache after carrying it for a few hours.
It occured to me that a digital caliper would be a nice addition for quick size comparisons.
The bugout is and has been my favorite pocket knife for 13-yrs.....
I have every knife money can buy and this is my favorite light weight pocket knife....
It has not been out for 13 years?
Hey nick Shabazz have u bad any problems with a benchmade meaning the omega springs breaking on u I love bench made but that is making me not want use mine as much lol
so nick my budget is 130$ what will you suggest
I'm in the process of getting an above 100€ knife (higher quality, seeing as I was sort of a poor-man's-EDC kind of a guy before). I got a Chinese Bugout knockoff, just to see if it was a knife for me when it comes to the design and overall stuff (seeing I am in between the Bugout and Freek), and I didn't like it. After your reviews, I'm into Freek a lot more. Thanks, Nick, you're a godsend. Keep up the good work.
Where can I get a pm2 for $115? Everywhere I see then they are $135.
brian hilligoss I bought from White Mountain Knives with Slicey Dicey discount a pink one for $99 and free shipping! Hand-scales will get dyed
"Too many freaking knives on my table right now." hahaha...love it!
I cant decide on this, the griptilian or the north fork.
I'm still interested in getting one, especially if I have to send my Griptilian back to Benchmade (because I did something stupid with it) and it fits into the price range I tend to go for when I'm looking at knives that I'm going to carry. I also have a strong tendency to take apart my knives and and can put the axis lock on my griptilian back together with minimal struggle. That being said, I think this would fit nicely into an office-carry situation (clipped into the same pocket as say a smartphone, for instance) or just regular everyday use.
Screw that shit man, para 3 lw is better value and quality, in terms of steel, bd-1n is similar to the performance of s30v so