With tremendous popularity since its release in 2017, plenty of colorways both in official releases and aftermarket mods, premium iterations, and even a handful of limited edition collaborations, it would be an understatement to call the Benchmade Bugout a landmark knife. But the Bugout is far from done. Through the years it’s been making improvements to the ultralight knife formula, offering better materials, an even more compact size with the Mini Bugout, and in the case of the 535-3 CF, taking it to the highest levels of materials and construction. If you want to see the Bugout realized to its highest potential, this is the one to add to your EDC.
If you’ve never held or used a Bugout before, it comes with a fair share of features that have contributed to its success as one of the most popular EDC pocket knives. The 3.24“ blade with a 3” cutting edge and versatile drop point shape comes straight from the original 535’s design, as is its use of Benchmade’s iconic AXIS lock for ease of use, secure lockup, and ambidextrous operation. On the 535-3 CF, this blade is executed in top-tier CPM-S90V steel, best known for its excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance. Its dual thumb studs come in Benchmade’s signature blue, and the edge itself is hair-popping sharp right out of the box.
The handles is where the Bugout made its mark, though. On the original 535 these were super light Grivory handles which came without liners for an even lighter carry while still offering a full, four-finger grip. A lanyard hole and reversible pocket clip sealed the deal for its place in everyone’s EDC. While there have been aftermarket carbon fiber handles for the Bugout before, on the 535-3 CF they come stock and contoured for exceptional comfort–no sharp edges, no hotspots. The nature of carbon fiber also allows these handles to be sturdy and rigid while remaining lightweight.
The lanyard hole and barrel standoffs from the original have also been redesigned into a blue backspacer to match the thumb studs, offering a nice pop of color while still keeping the weight down to a hair over 2 ounces.
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The original 535 Bugout has cemented its place in EDCer’s pockets, and now the 535-3 CF sees it in one of its best forms yet. Pick up this premium iteration of one of the best knives you can carry at the link below.
