Benchmade 535BK-2 Bugout Folding Knife (S30V)
Benchmade 535BK-2 Bugout Folding Knife (S30V)
Penang Showroom
74F, Jalan Siam
10400 Georgetown PNG
Malaysia
The Benchmade Bugout® 535BK-2 stays true to its minimalist roots while delivering dependable performance in an ultra-lightweight package. Designed for everyday carry, this model features CF-Elite® handle scales that offer excellent strength-to-weight balance with a subtle textured feel for confident grip.
A Black Cerakote® drop-point blade provides enhanced corrosion resistance and a stealthy appearance, paired with Benchmade’s trusted AXIS® Lock for smooth, ambidextrous operation. Finished with a mini deep-carry pocket clip, the 535BK-2 disappears effortlessly into your pocket—making it an ideal companion for both urban carry and outdoor use.
Specifications:
- Overall Length: 7.46" / 189.5mm
- Blade Length: 3.24" / 82.3mm
- Closed Length: 4.22" / 107.2mm
- Blade Thickness: 0.09" / 2.29mm
- Blade Material: S30V Stainless Steel
- Blade Hardness: (58-60HRC)
- Blade Finish: Cerakote®
- Blade Type: Drop Point
- Handle Material: CF-Elite™
- Handle Thickness: 0.42" / 10.67 mm
- Pocket Clip: Mini Deep Carry
- Locking Mechanism: AXIS® Lock
- Weight: 1.8 oz / 51.03 g
- Country of Origin: USA
Swiss army knives aside, for a decade, Bugout is regularly the top selling Benchmade folder knife and arguably the most carried and copied folder in the EDC community. Together with the Osborne, these 2 classics are icons that fronted the popularity of EDC.
This all-black Bugout is ultra-light and inconspicuous in your pocket. Bugout’s Grivory scales is said to be plasticky. A fan review video showed that if you bend it hard enough, it breaks off in two! Alternatively, aluminum and carbon fiber handles are stronger but come with a premium.
This CF-Elite model here, does not cost more. The material is carbon fiber reinforced nylon – stiffer, stronger and lighter than the Grivory. At 1.79oz, it is the lightest full size Benchmade folder in 2025. If you crave something lighter; in 2026, Benchmade is launching a slim aluminum Bugout (like the Narrows), that’s even lighter!
With the advent of EDC choices, the Bugout design seems outdated and costly. There are many out there that looks similar, and many from China that are more fidgety, cheaper and flashier. But ultimately, they are trying to imitate the one and timeless Bugout! Get one (or two!) – it’s a must-have if you are a collector.
