I carry this knife. Its great. I didn't like the black on the blade but after having it for some time I like how the black makes a mirror edge pop on this. I have it mirrored at a 17 degree bevel and its nice and slicy.
I'm really excited; I've had my preorder in for months and I remember at the time they estimated a July shipping date lol. First look I've had at it in anyone's hand. My dad was a machinist and he would've loved this one! Psyched for it!
The milling is the main reason I want this model. It’s cheaper than making a custom one with that steel. Plus most Ti scales are plain. I do like the new Flytanium cross fade scales though.
Well Zach are there any aftermarket cages in Aluminum or Ti that are wider than stock? I know you can get them for like a Manix 2 but never checked out Benchmade parts
Zach, I’m late to the game with the Bugout family but I just picked this one up today. The action and feel in the hand along with the amazing aesthetics makes this one my new favorite. I am and have been a huge fan of the Benchmade products for a long time now and they’ve hit a home run with this. I will be carrying this over my 940, 945,960, & 565 for now and possibly a very long time moving forward . I’m in love!
I think it's smart that they're making versions that aren't available on the custom shop, assuming that aluminum isn't a custom option. That said, I do wonder about their ability to sell variants long term now that the great choices on the custom shop are available.
Thank you so much for reviewing this before they are released. I’ve been interested in this one but wasn’t 100% sure. You changed my mind, I want one now. Thanks!
Definitely the best looking version of the Bugout so far! That is one great looking knife. Thank you Zach for showing everyone before they are released. Great video once again!
Great video, convinced me to pick this up with the recent REI 20% off sale. I'm not a huge fan of the Bugout but this is the second one I've picked up and it is very nice and I'm happy with the purchase. Thank you again for always putting these videos out.
I’m glad you found this video and gave this edition of the Bugout a try! It is one of the best production ones to date. Have a great rest of your week! I dig those REI coupons too!
I pre-ordered one but then they pushed back the release date by 3 months. I lost patience and spent my budget on an Inkosi instead. I may have some remorse. Did put flytanium micarta crossfade on my Bugout. Maybe Santa is feeling bad for me
@@BuffaloNickel9 I think you’re probably almost definitely right.. Most likely. The biggest flaw of the Bugout is (obviously) the scales and Flytanium micarta fixes that. Plus an Inkosi is…well, pretty damn good.
@@JustGorilla I've sold 10-12 benchmades and a few spyderco since i bought my first Inkosi in s45vn..add 2 Sebenza's later, and I haven't even carried my favorite bug out in months... Of course I kept a few bug outs... they are all wearing flytanium titanium and micarta scales... I'll always have several benchmades in my collection because you just can't beat the axis lock.. But waiting months for the knife in this video... or an inkosi (which are not easy to find @ the moment new), it's a no-brainer... Cheers
I’m not a huge BM fan or a Bugout fan. Knew nothing about this knife. I went to 2 knife shops yesterday. The first had one in stock. I handled it and liked it but figured I’d find something better. Drove another 70 miles to 2nd store. He had a cool Mcusta Tscuhi Damascus and ironwood scales. Hard to find knife. I have a Stingray which is even rarer and sold NOS recently on Amazon for 600. I was just about to say I’d take the Mcusta and I flipped it again and noticed lock bar traveled with harder flip. I googled the Bugout and decided I shoujd really grab that. Flew back to 1st store and bought it, no regrets.
I'd change the red thumb studs and hardware into something a bit more neutral like gunmetal or black and that would make it perfect! My G-10 535 tends to chew the inside of my work pants so I have it in a leather sleeve but the aluminum should solve that.
Sweet variation on the Bugout for sure. Really the sky's the limit on what Benchmade can do with the Bugout at this point, now that it comes in FRN, G10, titanium and aluminum. They should add an aluminum option to the customizer now, with the same grippy pattern used on the G10 scales, or like the aluminum Baliout.
Yeah I just picked one of those up at Northwest armory today I got to physically handle it at the Benchmade store and I said this is my next one so far I'm loving it
I really hope it looks better in person than it does on the video because I just ordered mine this morning and I should have it in my hands in the next two days, I absolutely love my 535-3, I hope I love this one as much as my carbon fiber bug out, I believe I will
You were absolutely correct sir. My 535BK-4 is my absolute favorite!!!! It is the best feeling Benchmade I have had to date, it came in with superb action and dead center, and it is super sharp, can’t ask for any more than that!! Thanks Zach, love the channel brother!!
The scales are likely clear anodized or have some sort of coating, otherwise they would oxidize and turn chalky white. I really like the scales. My current bugout is similar, with the Rockscale Ti and 20cv blade
Finally got one. Big thumbs up on this version! The scales are very well done! The blade grind is not quite symmetrical, but a little better then my original 275 Adamas.
huh? this version comes with m390 blade steel, not k390. k390 is indeed known for hardness and edge retention, but m390 is more known for it's corrosion resistance. just a small note, cuz some people might be scared off thinking k390 is super difficult to sharpen, but you wouldn't need to worry about that with m390 on this benchmade model.
Looks great. I really like the milling on the scales. So many of the aftermarket metal scales are pretty plain and I think this really sets it off. Accent colors look great too...my wishlist just keeps getting longer lol Thanks for showing us.
Those look awesome. Great video. I'm thinking of getting the flytanium black micarta crossfade scales, after watching ur video recently. Can't decide between linen or canvas micarta. Anyone who's seen both, which did you prefer?
Looks pretty hot! Love the fact that the scales are a bit contoured. Also, I’ve always liked a bit of weight, so I’m gonna be in big trouble because I’m definitely getting one. Will the thumb studs and barrel spacers be color optional? Once again, great vid, thanks
Yes it sounds like it will be one for you! The thumb studs and barrel spacers are red on this one. Of course aftermarket, you could order some fun colorful options. Who knows maybe they will add it to the custom knife builder one day....!!!
@@zachstuff I had no idea this was coming. Then I saw Zach’s video pop up in my notifications. I immediately went online to find it. Zach your “stuff” is awesome!!
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.
Hello Tony and welcome to the community!! The Bugout's you have listed will all provide for you a great cutting experience. One of the things to consider between them is the scales/handles. The BK-2 is your standard FRN (plastic) and then you have of course the beautiful carbon fiber or these sweet new anodized aluminum scales on the BK-4. If one of them draws to you as one you would carry over the other, that would be my choice. Price included in the selection of course. The last thing would be the blade coating. Some people don't like the marks which will come with use on the coated blades, and opt for a stone washed finish like on the BK-3. Hopefully this helps and enjoy your first Bugout!!
Looks good been wanting to upgrade my scales on my original Bugout to something stronger that won't flex so much so I can use my Bugout for camping fishing and hiking.
Hi Zach, I heard that this model comes with a steel axis bar instead of titanium. I called Benchmade and the customer service rep confirmed this, but would you mind taking a magnet to your axis bar and confirming? It'd be great if it was steel, since I find there is less possibility of stick
If it was a 4" blade id like it better. But definitely better w aluminum scales&the design on em are killer!! I handled a regular bugout a while back&decided I'd never buy 1 cuz of the springy scales. Well &its way small.
It's great to hear this version is finally coming out. I've been eagerly waiting since last spring before they were delayed. Do you know if there's a certain time on Tuesday they'll go live? Or is it basically whenever the individual company decides to put them up?
Me too Andrew! Very excited for this version to now drop! They are officially released Wednesday September 1st. So most dealers will offer them for sale/presale starting this weekend and ship them for arrival on the 1st. Or walk in purchasers.
@@zachstuff Thanks for your response Zach! I got on the list at a local shop last April, so fingers crossed but there should be one held behind the counter for me on Wednesday.
I bought 2 of those I really like the knives. But Benchmade should be ashamed of the edge they put on their knives especially at the price they are getting for them. Luckly I am able to put a stupid sharp edge on my knives and finish them off with a mirror edge. I got mine for 185.00 each that is why I bought 2 of them, and yes it was from an authorized dealer, so it isn't counterfeit. This is the only knife I have that I love it more each time I pick it up. Here is a heads up on my KME sharpener they recommend to put a sharpie mark on the blade where the jaws clamp down....Don't do that with this knife the sharpie mark was damn near impossible to get off this blade. Also I have a guy in Poland who makes me custom leather sheaths for my knifes he makes them to order "exactly how you want them made" His leather work is like no other I have seen.
Fun info 🤔 the 535 -4 don’t say USA on the blade . Yet it’s made in America 🇺🇸, and it’s not because it’s m390 because they have m390 models with USA on the blade . 2022 year benchmade shows they are not pro America 🇺🇸
I’ve carried mine every day since I got it. In fact I sold my Inkosi to get it. My other knives sit untouched now. This knife is a future classic.
I carry this knife. Its great. I didn't like the black on the blade but after having it for some time I like how the black makes a mirror edge pop on this. I have it mirrored at a 17 degree bevel and its nice and slicy.
I'm really excited; I've had my preorder in for months and I remember at the time they estimated a July shipping date lol. First look I've had at it in anyone's hand. My dad was a machinist and he would've loved this one! Psyched for it!
Have one on preorder as well!
The milling is the main reason I want this model. It’s cheaper than making a custom one with that steel. Plus most Ti scales are plain. I do like the new Flytanium cross fade scales though.
I just wish the bugout has the wider axis lock lugs like the 940. Makes it so much nicer to actuate
Well Zach are there any aftermarket cages in Aluminum or Ti that are wider than stock? I know you can get them for like a Manix 2 but never checked out Benchmade parts
Zach, I’m late to the game with the Bugout family but I just picked this one up today. The action and feel in the hand along with the amazing aesthetics makes this one my new favorite. I am and have been a huge fan of the Benchmade products for a long time now and they’ve hit a home run with this. I will be carrying this over my 940, 945,960, & 565 for now and possibly a very long time moving forward . I’m in love!
Congratulations this is one of my favorite Bugouts! The scales truly make it a great piece. I am glad you are enjoying this one!
I think it's smart that they're making versions that aren't available on the custom shop, assuming that aluminum isn't a custom option.
That said, I do wonder about their ability to sell variants long term now that the great choices on the custom shop are available.
I would like it with a stonewash finished blade instead.
I just picked one up today along with a Emissary 470-1 and picked up the 535BK-2 this past Tuesday!
Those are some good ones!!
Ooh if you find out the hardware is able to swap out with others I think I would do that and put blue in there
I love it, best looking bugout I’ve seen from the factory, a lot of custom ones are nice. I would buy this!
Thank you so much for reviewing this before they are released. I’ve been interested in this one but wasn’t 100% sure. You changed my mind, I want one now. Thanks!
Worry stone scales, right up my alley.
Extra fidget factor is always a plus.
Ty very much for always showing sick knives alot of wouldn't know they existed if it wasn't for peopleike u to show us
Preordered and gonna throw black G10 Flytanium crossfade scales on it.
Definitely the best looking version of the Bugout so far! That is one great looking knife. Thank you Zach for showing everyone before they are released. Great video once again!
Very nice Starburst pattern on the handles, I like this version very, very much Zach.
Shiny racing green where the red is!!
That's a knife worth waiting on now I just need to grab one ✌️
Great video, convinced me to pick this up with the recent REI 20% off sale. I'm not a huge fan of the Bugout but this is the second one I've picked up and it is very nice and I'm happy with the purchase. Thank you again for always putting these videos out.
I’m glad you found this video and gave this edition of the Bugout a try! It is one of the best production ones to date. Have a great rest of your week! I dig those REI coupons too!
I pre-ordered one but then they pushed back the release date by 3 months. I lost patience and spent my budget on an Inkosi instead. I may have some remorse. Did put flytanium micarta crossfade on my Bugout. Maybe Santa is feeling bad for me
No, No, No... you most definitely made the right choice my friend! let me confirm that
@@BuffaloNickel9 I think you’re probably almost definitely right.. Most likely. The biggest flaw of the Bugout is (obviously) the scales and Flytanium micarta fixes that. Plus an Inkosi is…well, pretty damn good.
@@JustGorilla I've sold 10-12 benchmades and a few spyderco since i bought my first Inkosi in s45vn..add 2 Sebenza's later, and I haven't even carried my favorite bug out in months...
Of course I kept a few bug outs... they are all wearing flytanium titanium and micarta scales...
I'll always have several benchmades in my collection because you just can't beat the axis lock..
But waiting months for the knife in this video... or an inkosi (which are not easy to find @ the moment new), it's a no-brainer...
Cheers
I’m not a huge BM fan or a Bugout fan. Knew nothing about this knife. I went to 2 knife shops yesterday. The first had one in stock. I handled it and liked it but figured I’d find something better. Drove another 70 miles to 2nd store. He had a cool Mcusta Tscuhi Damascus and ironwood scales. Hard to find knife. I have a Stingray which is even rarer and sold NOS recently on Amazon for 600.
I was just about to say I’d take the Mcusta and I flipped it again and noticed lock bar traveled with harder flip. I googled the Bugout and decided I shoujd really grab that. Flew back to 1st store and bought it, no regrets.
we at the petroleum institute thank you for sparking up the ole Power Stroke!
I'd change the red thumb studs and hardware into something a bit more neutral like gunmetal or black and that would make it perfect! My G-10 535 tends to chew the inside of my work pants so I have it in a leather sleeve but the aluminum should solve that.
I just picked one up today on Christmas sale for $162.
Sweet variation on the Bugout for sure. Really the sky's the limit on what Benchmade can do with the Bugout at this point, now that it comes in FRN, G10, titanium and aluminum. They should add an aluminum option to the customizer now, with the same grippy pattern used on the G10 scales, or like the aluminum Baliout.
Makes us folks second guessing our most recent pm2 purchase. Nice review Zach!
The scales are awesome, I just wish it had the green spacers and thumb stud from the 20cv bugout.
Yeah I just picked one of those up at Northwest armory today I got to physically handle it at the Benchmade store and I said this is my next one so far I'm loving it
I really hope it looks better in person than it does on the video because I just ordered mine this morning and I should have it in my hands in the next two days, I absolutely love my 535-3, I hope I love this one as much as my carbon fiber bug out, I believe I will
You should be good to go with this one! The scales are terrific and the feel is good!
You were absolutely correct sir. My 535BK-4 is my absolute favorite!!!! It is the best feeling Benchmade I have had to date, it came in with superb action and dead center, and it is super sharp, can’t ask for any more than that!! Thanks Zach, love the channel brother!!
That starburst pattern is fine! Looking forward to seeing if community members customize/ano those scales. Thanks, Zach!
Yes!! I've been waiting for this one!! I've been wanting to pick up a Bugout for awhile now. This is the one!!
The scales are likely clear anodized or have some sort of coating, otherwise they would oxidize and turn chalky white. I really like the scales. My current bugout is similar, with the Rockscale Ti and 20cv blade
Excited for this one, I have it on pre order. Thank you for the first look!
I’ve had mine preordered for sometime. Come on Sept 1st. Can’t wait to have it in hand.
Very nice indeed, but the red thumb studs I dont like, if they were the same color as the handel it would be more appealing, just my opinion.
Love the blade shape, hated the grivory scales. This I like and might have to get one.
Such an awesome looking knife!!! Thanks so much for the look Zach!! Cant wait!!!
Finally got one. Big thumbs up on this version! The scales are very well done! The blade grind is not quite symmetrical, but a little better then my original 275 Adamas.
Man, I think one of the best looking bugouts
I love this model. I’m so glad I picked it
huh? this version comes with m390 blade steel, not k390. k390 is indeed known for hardness and edge retention, but m390 is more known for it's corrosion resistance. just a small note, cuz some people might be scared off thinking k390 is super difficult to sharpen, but you wouldn't need to worry about that with m390 on this benchmade model.
I like it , loving the bugout these days.
Looks great. I really like the milling on the scales. So many of the aftermarket metal scales are pretty plain and I think this really sets it off. Accent colors look great too...my wishlist just keeps getting longer lol Thanks for showing us.
I want a comparison with a Bugout and the new Flytanium scales.
Coming on a video this weekend!
That looks dope! I'm not a fan of red...so I would definitely look forward to a hardware color swap.
That’s a sharp looking Bugout! Dig everything about that one!
Those look awesome. Great video. I'm thinking of getting the flytanium black micarta crossfade scales, after watching ur video recently. Can't decide between linen or canvas micarta. Anyone who's seen both, which did you prefer?
Nice! I like the linen as they are not as rough as canvas. But the Crossfade design is awesome!!
Sick! I love the black liners. I think that’s such a great touch. What tease puttin out the natural g10 940…
Absolute beauty Zach! I’ve never owned a Benchmade, looks like a starter to me!
Looks pretty good, too bad it wasn't Titanium.
Looks pretty hot! Love the fact that the scales are a bit contoured. Also, I’ve always liked a bit of weight, so I’m gonna be in big trouble because I’m definitely getting one. Will the thumb studs and barrel spacers be color optional? Once again, great vid, thanks
Yes it sounds like it will be one for you! The thumb studs and barrel spacers are red on this one. Of course aftermarket, you could order some fun colorful options. Who knows maybe they will add it to the custom knife builder one day....!!!
My new 535-4 is in my pocket as of 5 minutes ago!!!!Very nice!!!
So wonderful!!! Enjoy! 🤙🏼
@@zachstuff I had no idea this was coming. Then I saw Zach’s video pop up in my notifications. I immediately went online to find it. Zach your “stuff” is awesome!!
Well I’m glad you found this one as it’s one of my favorites this year!
I really like this knife and carry a Benchmade daily. Think I'm gonna pull the trigger on this one.
Pre-release! I love it!
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.
Hello Tony and welcome to the community!! The Bugout's you have listed will all provide for you a great cutting experience. One of the things to consider between them is the scales/handles. The BK-2 is your standard FRN (plastic) and then you have of course the beautiful carbon fiber or these sweet new anodized aluminum scales on the BK-4.
If one of them draws to you as one you would carry over the other, that would be my choice. Price included in the selection of course. The last thing would be the blade coating. Some people don't like the marks which will come with use on the coated blades, and opt for a stone washed finish like on the BK-3. Hopefully this helps and enjoy your first Bugout!!
@@zachstuff Great thought behind your suggestions. I appreciate the information greatly!! Too bad I can't afford them all. 🤩 Thank You.
Looks good been wanting to upgrade my scales on my original Bugout to something stronger that won't flex so much so I can use my Bugout for camping fishing and hiking.
Go for it! These scales are great!
Hi Zach, I heard that this model comes with a steel axis bar instead of titanium. I called Benchmade and the customer service rep confirmed this, but would you mind taking a magnet to your axis bar and confirming? It'd be great if it was steel, since I find there is less possibility of stick
Will do! I will share it on my livestream this Sunday!
If it was a 4" blade id like it better. But definitely better w aluminum scales&the design on em are killer!! I handled a regular bugout a while back&decided I'd never buy 1 cuz of the springy scales. Well &its way small.
That's hot, I think that electric green would be fire 🔥 Zach :))
Just got mine today it's freaking awesome 🤯 that's only my second Bugout but I'm so stoked on this also ordered the mini Adamas today😂🔥🤯
Interesting I must say, I like. Might need to check it out. The aluminum and blue would have been so sexy .
That wpuld look perfect with a satin blade❤
Love it, got mine today!
That’s awesome!! Enjoy a fun knife!!
Just got mine today! Love this knife 🔥🔥 great video 🤙🏽
Absolutely love the scales. Great review 👍
Hella sick👍why does the blade say November 2020 if it's new for this year 😄
It was a prototype knife that I was able to review. It's a nice one!
It's great to hear this version is finally coming out. I've been eagerly waiting since last spring before they were delayed. Do you know if there's a certain time on Tuesday they'll go live? Or is it basically whenever the individual company decides to put them up?
Me too Andrew! Very excited for this version to now drop! They are officially released Wednesday September 1st. So most dealers will offer them for sale/presale starting this weekend and ship them for arrival on the 1st. Or walk in purchasers.
@@zachstuff Thanks for your response Zach! I got on the list at a local shop last April, so fingers crossed but there should be one held behind the counter for me on Wednesday.
Thank you Zach now I want another knife 😂
Nice! Thank you !
Wow that looks great
Good looking knife
Does this have washers or bearings?
Washers
@@zachstuff Thanks. I saw someone else on RUclips said bearings.
@@makwaclaw6124 oh weird. Yeah they are on bronze washers. Thanks!
Wow looks pretty cool 😎
I'm not a lanyard fan but I'm rejoicing all the same, you bet 😍😍!
Might be the best l👀kin one I've seen
I am with you, this one is at the top of the list!!
I bought 2 of those I really like the knives. But Benchmade should be ashamed of the edge they put on their knives especially at the price they are getting for them. Luckly I am able to put a stupid sharp edge on my knives and finish them off with a mirror edge. I got mine for 185.00 each that is why I bought 2 of them, and yes it was from an authorized dealer, so it isn't counterfeit. This is the only knife I have that I love it more each time I pick it up. Here is a heads up on my KME sharpener they recommend to put a sharpie mark on the blade where the jaws clamp down....Don't do that with this knife the sharpie mark was damn near impossible to get off this blade. Also I have a guy in Poland who makes me custom leather sheaths for my knifes he makes them to order "exactly how you want them made" His leather work is like no other I have seen.
Yay, another knife I can’t afford
shes a beauty! 🔥😍🔥😍🔥😍
Fun info 🤔 the 535 -4 don’t say USA on the blade . Yet it’s made in America 🇺🇸, and it’s not because it’s m390 because they have m390 models with USA on the blade . 2022 year benchmade shows they are not pro America 🇺🇸
I don’t think this indicates at all that they are not pro America.
Dont get me wrong, I love the knife (I own 3), but I think I'm at the point that I am getting "bugged-out" lol :)
Benchmade's blade replacement is now $90.00 dollars 😞
Nice 👌
Really nice, but out of my comfort zone price-wise. I ought to pick up at least a regular Bugout some day though.
Overall, I think you say overall a lot 🙃
But do you not get to keep it? You have to send it back to BM?
I don't have a bugout yet and this one's sexy but not $230 sexy
Those scales are rad, the price is not.
Nice material choice by benchmade. Aluminum is unstated and titanium is overrated.
Not for me
I really like the sun ray pattern on the handle and obviously the upgraded steel.