Beat the Icon: Benchmade Bugout vs. Alternatives

[@Robs_Nerdy_Knives]

I just bought a blue Bugout as an Eagle Scout award for my best friend’s son. It’s a classic!

[@sammyday3341]

Excellent gift and very considerate of you.

[@Echowhiskeyone]

I was skeptical when I got my Bugout, but it grew on me. Lightweight, good blade, Axis Lock. Near perfect EDC.

[@Marc-Vickers]

Spyderco Sage 5 LW is the only knife I generally carry. Love it.

[@gair1944]

I love my Sage 5 Lightweight also!! Killer knife!

[@BPF80MCar-vi1pg]

You should get the small native it's a peach

[@DullPoints]

Truly excellent video, DCA! Very thoughtful analysis of what makes the Bugout compelling and provides lots of other knifes that highlight each aspect for people to consider. Also so grateful to the other comments giving their EDC all time favorites.

[@louisrodriguez6499]

I love my original bugout but that titanium lock bar will eventually get really gritty when the coating wears off so mine "evolved" with a steel lock bar from etsy and arctic storm carbon fiber scales. I love my bugout even more now and it's more reliable.

[@evictioncarpentry2628]

Benchmade mailed me a new axis bar when I emailed them

[@rioterism]

The Kizer Hic Cup is an awesome EDC knife! I have been wearing it for more than 6 months in my daily rotation and it is super convenient to use, works awesome in terms of opening, locking, etc. It is not that heavy of a knife as well and for a "more budget" edc option - it is a great great blade!

[@jasonmccomas7220]

I’m a bigger fan of my deka and carry it waaaay more than I do any of the two bugouts I have. Although I love both knives, the deka is my go to before the bugout. Love that the deka is G 10 and 20cv and almost impossible to feel the weight difference between the deka and the bugout and because the deka has a more firm handle material and blade steel with longer edge retention that’s why the deka wins for me. Great video! Please keep the Tuesday videos coming!

[@WilliamWallis]

Love my Sage 5 LW. Feels like it was made for my hand.

[@gair1944]

I have a Sage 5 LW also and love it too. It gets a ton of use.

[@lmcq784]

Speaking of SOG’s Terminus XR, I’m surprised you didn’t mention the SOG Ultra XR! It’s ultra lightweight, ultra thin and discrete, and still gives a good sized S35vn blade. When set up / tuned properly, a very fidgety, light, and formidable contender to the Bugout series. Also works as a money clip (not as scary to non-knife people when folded).

[@slickmick6635]

My favorite EDC is the Bugout. Been my preferred EDC for the past couple years. Even over my Spydiechef. I couldn't believe it.

[@sjohnson4882]

I bought the mini bugout when they first came out. For me, perfect size for in town and at home use. If I go to the mountains, I have the regular Bugout and numerous fixed blades. I'm not big on the orange scales on the mini but I haven't lost it yet. The scales are growing on me for that reason. My only "problem" with it is that I often have to check to see if I still have the knife!! It is that light. Fortunately, the pocket clip is excellent and the knife stays in the pocket well. It takes a hair popping edge that is easy to maintain. Keeps the edge well. I do hope they start offering scales that are blue, red, or yellow. I grew up using a Case Stockman that had a yellow handle. I'm very partial to yellow knife handles.

[@TheLastRanger]

Hogue Deka already beat the Bugout IMHO.

[@abc456f]

My opinion too.

[@jacobmiletta3875]

I agree, I love my Deka.

[@vego0991]

Hogue is not a good company in my opinion

[@The_Koolman]

​@@vego0991why

[@vego0991]

@@The_Koolman I have 2 hogue Doug ritters , customer service needs 20 $ a piece to sharpen for free and send back. No bling for their knives , screws, whatever. They just bitches over there. Benchmade is on a plastic kick but my Osborne is my go to. Looking at the bailout.

[@thefrenchkaddict]

The Deka is clearly on of my all time favorites, higher on my list than my (custom) Bugout.

[@abc456f]

Same here. My deka v2 wharnie is one of, if not the best smaller knife I own.

[@Madman6505]

I agree as well. The Deka is compact, thin, light, fidgety, and has a thin, slicy blade.

[@Josef-ck7jd]

@@Madman6505 Have you tried the Hogue Doug Ritter Rsk? It's like the griptilian but better in every way

[@Madman6505]

@@Josef-ck7jd yes I have the mini knifeworks exclusive version with purple-ish handle scales. It is awesome. If someone told me they liked it more then the Deka I wouldn't argue with them.

[@lothar1080]

The name definitely got me. The first time I held one it felt so small and light. I carried a pm2 at the time so this wasn't something I wanted to take out into the woods. Apparently it's up to the task so it might be my first Benchmade.

[@user-fg3qc8bf9g]

The fact that DCA appreciates the thinner blades... was an instant mountain of respect from me. Probally not until I was 30... younger me lived thick beefy blades. But for the last 10 or so years I actually cut things with my knives so I kive the thinner full flat type. And we both have an ongoing affair w the presidio 2. I didn't expect it to be I my pocket for YEARS but it has. Thick enough to survive welding/outdoors. Bushcraft hunting and kitchen... it's like a 308. Not great at anything but does it all a little bit

[@pbrb123]

For very lightweight EDC I find I often have the Bugout in my pocket, but even more often I have a Spyderco Native 5 in one of the more premium steels.

[@Madman6505]

The native is one of my favorites. It fits my hand better than most knives that I've tried... including the Shaman, PM2, and Para 3.

[@christophermaxton7317]

The Native is my daily carry knife!

[@keystonedaytrip238]

The Native 5 is my first “high end” pocket knife. My all time favorite

[@HorseLuvr101]

Cold Steel Airlite in Aus10 is what I bought instead of a Bugout. Steel isn’t as good, but it’s so sturdy and capable, and at $55 I don’t worry if I lose or damage it. I could see the Bugout if I was backpacking because of its weight but I’d be afraid to use it too hard, whereas I would do light batoning with the Airlite with no worries

[@superdave4564]

I’m surprised not to see a Cold Steel Airlight in this list. Although it does have a more traditional style lock than anything shown here.

[@just-dl]

I’ve got a SRM 9202 and a Bestech Ronan coming. I think they might be contenders “off paper.” The SOG might be favorite on this list. It’s been on my wishlist for a year! Along with several others. I’ll come back and update on that idea.

[@tonydiebold4899]

Opinel No. 08 has the Bugout beat on weight, slicy-ness, and price. Finger safe opening and closing as well since it’s a two hand opener.

[@butchbilbrey7871]

I have a Opinel no 8 and absolutely love it and carry it quite often.

[@woodenpotter2483]

Don’t forget the Kizer original or the Kizer drop bear that just came out. I feel like both are right up the same alley as my Bugout.

[@phantomshtter]

Except Chinese made which IS an issue because of questionable steel authenticity. They have no standards or certifications. Above all though is probably no customer support, definitely no warranty.

[@20Quarters]

Love the drop bear

[@larryfisher9972]

Some of those are very cool on their own but the whole point of the bugout is light weight. The only way I would compare anything to the bugout is if it is the same weight or lighter.

[@talisikid1618]

Exactly. And the cheap competitors can’t do that.

[@wartstein8814]

@@talisikid1618 Spyderco can do that. Look at the Salt 2 ffg (in LC 200 N), As light as the Bugout, but imo overall a much better choice.

[@mdubb4855]

Kershaw Fraxion is light but with a liner lock. I don’t trust liner locks.

[@markbrisec3972]

My first Bugout is on its way.... Titanium scales, 50$, Ali Express.. Priceless.. Can't wait for it to come.

[@MrWednesday.23]

I purchased the mini bugout, and at first I thought it was overpriced and felt cheap, but after using it for 6 months I came to realise how good it is and bought the full sized. I personally think the general design, dimensions, weight and materials are good, people complain about the grivory handles but I've found they are strong and durable. Both get regular pocket time. When purchasing anything my priorities are design, fit and finish, materials then price. The Deka seems to be the most obvious alternative, but having never owned one I can't compare them.

[@CapnHilts]

Which do you carry more? Mini or full size?

[@MrWednesday.23]

@@CapnHilts Ive always had a slight preference for smaller knives, so at first the mini got more pocket time, but recently Ive purchased a couple of larger knives that have swayed my opinion, and as such Ive enjoyed carrying the full sized more. In pocket the size and weight difference is pretty negligible, but having that slighly longer blade just makes a lot of my day to day tasks a bit easier. The other deciding factor for me is I got the mini with white handles and the full sized in red. The white grivory does tend to pick up dirt and stains very easily, and rather than creating a used patina, it just looks dirty. The red grivory doesnt have that problem.

[@Pop_Gordo]

The full sized Bugout was my first “nice” edc. I liked it so much that I bought another one and the mini. Nowadays the three versions of the Bugout get a decent amount pocket time in the rotation but I don’t carry them quite as much. When it comes to customization maybe the PM2 is the only other knife that offers more options. The Bugout is a fantastic first “nice” knife imo

[@stevetqp9152]

Nice selection as always, DCA! Personally, not holding "light weight" as a priority in my choice of EDC, I do like a sub-3.5" blade, and prioritize robustness and good scales. Also, I like a handle shape with some finger choil for safety. Not a big fan of thin, "rectangular" handles. Thus, my current choice for a fantastic EDC that meet my criteria is the Off-Grid Viper. It comes in a stonewash or blackwash version, with previously K110 (harder to source) and hence now stout 3.25" Cryo D2 steel "tanto-esque" blade, and nicely textured G10 scales. It also has a "Grid-Lock" liner locking switch, which secures the robust steel liners, and elevates it into the "heavy use" category. Has a nice deep-carry pocket clip. Though not as "slicey" as the Bugout, but still superbly sharp out-of-box, despite a relatively thick, robust blade. I'm fairly sure it can handle somewhat tougher jobs than the Bugout or similar knives. Highly recommended!

[@jaymesdevine7737]

I have a number of bugouts. For everyday carry my favorite is the version with aluminum handles. BK535-4

[@arrowheadguys7637]

Thats the only one I really like tbh. I have a grivory one I'm thinking about gifting to someone, but my wife got it for me so not sure if thats the best plan lol

[@jdisdetermined]

@@arrowheadguys7637 don’t do that, sounds like trouble. Put some g10 or titanium scales on that bad boy. The g10 scales feel way more solid than I thought they would on a bugout.

[@arrowheadguys7637]

@@jdisdetermined Yeah I'm just to the point in my knife collection that its not really worth spending more money to pimp out a Bugout, and as is its not really getting in the carry rotation either, nor is my aluminum Bugout tbh. Least if I gift it chances are it'll be the nicest knife the person I give it to has and they'd appreciate it.

[@dourmoose]

Love my 535-4

[@thomassmyth65]

Compression lock as a lefty is a piece of cake, love my para 2 and 3

[@marklawrence855]

Really hard to beat the bugout, I carry a bugout and a swiss army compact, the 2 of them do it all for me ,very interesting video

[@bushcraftoutdoormesser4933]

Thank you for the amazing comparison. It was very interesting, which other knives are closed to the bugout. But the bugout is really my favorite.

[@antoniotorres3936]

I have the mini bug out. it's razor sharp and the perfect size for a pocket knife. The only problem is it opens up too easily. I used to carry it in my front pocket and it opened up twice on me when I put my hand in and sliced it. I hope they make a similar knife that does not open as easily.

[@diezelvh4133]

Bruh.. use lock tight and tighten up the screw. Or try a 940 mini.

[@whiteyfisk9769]

You can adjust the pivot screw which controls ease of opening..

[@kirkpreston4864]

Everyone don’t forget the Kizer drop bear.It’s a new release so DCA may not have had it at the time of the video

[@victork7831]

I own a Benchmade 531. A very comparable knife to the bugout. 154CM steel, gray and black G10 handle. This model has been discontinued for a while now. I think I would look at the Bailout first if I was looking for another Benchmade.

[@Highway9mm]

I got the same one. Awesome knife!

[@werthliving6745]

Fantastic review as always!!! Love my bugout with the same blue handle. Might get a second custom made one.

[@mattconklin4026]

I've been carrying a benchmade for a few years now. The 555 has been a wonderful simple model, but right now I have the 564 in my pocket

[@KING_OF_FARTS]

I pre-ordered the shootout. I've been waiting for an otf that's centered & lightweight with a very strong steel. 💪🇺🇲

[@arrowheadguys7637]

Thinking I may have to try one out as well.

[@CapnHilts]

Would be cool to see a deep dive on the Bugout vs Mini Bugout. I am currently torn between the two.

[@Maverick09171]

Did you pick one?

[@CapnHilts]

@@Maverick09171 ok, in a way. I cheaped out and got the SOG Terminus XR in D2 for $45, and I actually love it. Its about the same size as the regular bugout and it is super easy to carry in the pocket, you can easily forget its even there. So I am convinced when I have enough fun money that the full size bugout is just fine. NOW, I wouldn't call anyone a fool for getting the mini either of they really want it to be 15% smaller, but personally I would get the full size.

[@Maverick09171]

@@CapnHilts I ordered the mini in white like an hour ago after watching some videos and exploring Reddit. Lol. They’re 20% off at dicks haha

[@CapnHilts]

@@Maverick09171 you wont regret it man, you're getting one of the best knives ever made.

[@Maverick09171]

@@CapnHilts haha thanks man. Would have liked to see both in person before ordering but couldn’t find them local. No worries though. Glad you’re happy with your purchase too!

[@joshcutlip7548]

I prefer the hogue deka myself better blade steel options and handle material for a cheaper if not same price as the bugout.

[@arrowheadguys7637]

Gonna have to disagree. You can get a bugout in S30V, M390, S90V, 3V or M4. Only options on the Deka are 20CV and Magnacut. Also, there are far more scale options for the bugout. The Deka only is available in G-10 or plastic, and has no aftermarket scale support.

[@abc456f]

Right with you. The Hogue able lock is superior to Benchmade's axis lock. Pull down the tabs and the blade just drops shut. Of all my Benchmade's, only my full size crooked river is the one that drops shut without needing any wrist action.

[@Benroe-yz1nz]

The Deka is a fantastic knife. Trying to justify getting another in magnacut lol

[@acid6urns]

@@arrowheadguys7637and all of those steel options on the bugout cost $250+ whereas the deka at the most expensive is $165 for the 20cv and the magnacut is CHEAPER.

[@BL-yj2wp]

@@arrowheadguys7637 Even the S30V is more expensive than the Magnacut Deka though, the premium options from Benchmade are much, much more expensive. And Magnacut is an all-around upgrade to M390/M4, S30V isn't even in the same league.

[@jjabberjaw8822]

My favorite Bugout, or at least Mini Bugout, alternative is the Spyderco Chaparral LW. Pretty lightweight, fully ambidextrous, and very thin and slicy blade. It doesn't have a finger safe locking mechanism, but the back lock with the finger choil makes it pretty safe to close one handed once you get used to it.

[@willb3018]

Being left handed I really appreciate the Bugout beyond all its other class leading attributes. Lightweight is next as it is my EDC. Hard to beat.

[@babydadoo]

Speaking as a lefty: “right handed” compression locks on Spyderco knives aren’t a problem for me at all. I prefer them as I get access to all the handle and blade options instead of only chunky black handles

[@Barry-Sweaty]

Opinel #8! You can buy 6 to 7 opinels for the cost of 1 BM Bugout

[@chrisevenson4263]

Hogue Deka gen2 is hard to beat, carry it more than any other knife in my collection and hardly touch the Benchmade models anymore

[@etherealicer]

Mine came with horrible fit and finish (really rough thumb-studs and crossbar). The blade is great, but the overall design is too busy for me.

[@chrisevenson4263]

@@etherealicer bummer dude. Usually my benchmades need a lot of tuning, break in, and sharpening but my Deka was pristine out of the box

[@etherealicer]

@@chrisevenson4263 Don't care about sharpening and tuning, I can do that. There is no way I can smoothen out thumb-studs or the crossbar without it being visible. Quite interesting how different the experience is for different people. None of my Benchmade came pristine, but all was easy fixeable. But all of my Hogues (3 to this point) needed serious work involving sand-paper.

[@arrowheadguys7637]

@@etherealicer Same here, Hogue has too many sharp edges. If they smoothed out the parts itd make a huge difference. Its useable, but unpleasant to fidget

[@chrisevenson4263]

I hear you both. The Hogue is definitely more aggressive on the studs, crossbar lock, and styling (all of which user preference, I prefer), but when I’m in the $100+ price range for a knife, I’d like it to be sharp, centered, and tuned out of the box. Not having to break in is a bonus. I’m not hating on Benchmades, they are great knives once you figure them out, but I still find myself grabbing the Deka over any of then much more often. As far as other Hogues, I only have the X1 in G10 and CPM154 and that knife I don’t like nearly as much as the Deka, much quirkier than I was expecting, but fit and finish was still excellent

[@JAMESGREGORYKULP1985]

I choose my Cold Steel American Lawman Lockback pocket knife with G-10 handle scales and A 3.5 inch S35VN Stainless steel blade.

[@talisikid1618]

?

[@glennstoutenburg8349]

Thanks for another great video.. Excellent presentation, descriptions, commentary and camerawork.. Appreciate it..

[@dylanhill4195]

I have the benchmade bugout and I loved it, until I got my cold steel air lite. The benchmade became less appealing after at half the cost and how well the air lite preformed in bush tasks. For me in Ontario the benchmade runs in at 189 to 207 and the air lite comes it at 101$. Sure it doesn't have the s30v steel but the aus 10a still holds a fine edge well, very easy to sharpen and the tri ad lock back is super strong.

[@kerryrwac]

Kizer Drop Bear, and the "Axis" lock is tuneable.

[@bill64gr]

Yes but it is fater and heavier

[@deving3370]

The Deka is the reason I don't have a Bugout. It's literally the best knife I've ever used.

[@MrSabram07]

The Terminus XR is Great, the ball bearings just make the blade float. GREAT KNIFE for $55. Also the flippers are great too

[@joewagner6683]

I have never had to replace omega springs on a single Spyderco I own. But I have that Bugout.

[@nevertakeadayoff]

What Spyderco users omega springs?

[@herrelladventures]

I love my bugout. It's in my pocket everyday and no matter how many other knives I've tried they end up collecting dust and I keep going back to my bugout.

[@DragonsinGenesisPodcast]

I’ve seen the torture tests and the Bugout is no slouch. Despite the slightly flexible handle it takes batoning, carving, hard cutting as well as anything in Benchmade’s lineup. One channel compared it to a knockoff and a couple competitors and it was the “flimsy feeling” Bugout that survived while the other knives broke.

[@whatfreedom7]

It feels cheapish and thin but if lightweight is what someone wants it’s great in that category. Disappears in the pocket and you don’t even notice your carrying it. As far as the flex I think it’s people making a big deal out of something that’s not much of a issue. I never hear of the scales breaking just people until ally doing it then complaining about the slight flex. The flex could also be why it doesn’t snap.

[@jeremyl.7563]

I actually have 2 bugouts and I really do not like them. Love Love Benchmade just not this series and ironically one of the main reason people love this knife is why I do not. Just to light. I like a bit of heft. Both Freek models are my favorite not the mini. What else I love is looking forward to your videos every week!

[@arrowheadguys7637]

Same here, the one bugout I found I like is the M390 version with the aluminum scales. The metal handles add just enough weight to make it feel like you are holding something quality.

[@ronbisti4352]

While I prefer Spyderco the Grateful Dead is my favorite band; just got the re-release of Europe ‘72 today

[@averyavenue]

I just ordered some titanium scales for my mini bugout, and I think I'm also gonna get the titanium backspacer too, which will bring my 533's weight from 1.5oz to almost 3oz .

[@aberdeendh]

Benchmade needs to bring back the Griptilian. I loved mine.

[@ironman2326]

It's still listed on their website for sale.

[@edwardschofield6692]

I have a B/O I carry a lot I also carry larger knives most days CRK Inkosi.Bought the Bugout for chores didn't want to use Inkosi for.I was surprised how tuff the little Bugout is holds great edge easy to sharpen.Highly recommend.Have fun enjoy

[@NJP1234567890]

I like the bugouts. Great everyday casual use knives. For those willing to spend a little more I would say get a 940. It’s the best of lightweight and a good outdoor knife imo.

[@jdisdetermined]

It’s just *sooo* damn ugly though. Robot banana.

[@NJP1234567890]

@@jdisdetermined I thought it was ugly for years! But it really grew on me and once I bought one I’ve been in love.

[@arrowheadguys7637]

@@jdisdetermined Its mama said it was unique

[@NJP1234567890]

@@arrowheadguys7637 mama said 940’s was the devil!

[@arrowheadguys7637]

@@NJP1234567890 lol!

[@redbullbundy]

I have one in black flytanium micarta scales and backspacer. It also has titanium clip and screws. I left the blue thumb stud. I usually only carry microtech because I live next to the factory. I put a bugout in my edc lineup because it weighs nothing and has a razor sharp blade. More of a go to church knife. Everyone that loves knives has to have on in the collection.

[@staywoke2198]

I have most of these and PM3 Lightweight is my favorite edc

[@G-Man01]

Kizer Drop Bear, Real Steel Sacra, Bear Ops Rancor IV, Kershaw Iridium, Vosteed Corsair

[@cassshields5106]

I’m surprised to not see the Spyderco Manix 2 lightweight yeah it’s a bit bigger but still very light and finger safe for sure.

[@arrowheadguys7637]

Would have been a better option that the PM3 imo.

[@nevertakeadayoff]

I finally moved away from Benchmade (after a decade) and now the Manix 2 is my EDC! All black, S30V, metal lock and deep carry clip

[@cassshields5106]

@@arrowheadguys7637 I agree the para 3 lightweight is my daily edc but the Manix is still a lightweight option with a similar lock I know it’s not the same but someone who uses the Axis lock won’t have an issue with it. Just seems like a logical choice for this list but yes the para 3 is a better option.

[@cassshields5106]

@@nevertakeadayoff I carried the bugout for almost 2 years exclusively. Then got a Manix and fell in love I still love it but I will say the para 3 lightweight is now my preferred choice of carry.

[@deskopkat]

I am a fan of the Amare fieldbro myself. It is not as light but for me personally I enjoy the reassuring heft.

[@ingy421]

Curious to see this video done today, over a quarter of the way through 2023. I just picked up a Pyrite alt with the thumbhole and reverse tanto blade, but the original pyrite with the thumbstuds and drop point was a very close alternative for the budget people like myself. A bugout is my perfect knife but I can't spend that much currently. Or maybe even a Budget Bugout video after looking for the perfect budget EDC. I wanted a button lock or axis lock, thumbhold for both hands, under 3.5 inch blade and something that looked good, ala the bugout style. Pyrite all day. I also bought a Flissa Axis knife, it has no name. It was 27 bucks and insane for under 30 bucks.

[@knifecenter]

The new Kershaw Heist is the budget Bugout to beat these days as far as I'm concerned. Fantastic knife! -DCA

[@sampayne2473]

The magnacut deka beats this thing out every day.

[@arrowheadguys7637]

I've been carrying the Magnacut Deka to work lately because its so cheap feeling and ugly I wouldn't mind so much if I lose it...

[@jaredwagner7471]

Looking to sell it? Or care to lose it in my direction?

[@arrowheadguys7637]

@@jaredwagner7471 Follow me around long enough you'll prolly get it. The pocket clip is probably the worst of any knife in my collection. Its always falling out.

[@haakonr1]

I’d say the Salt 2 and Pacific Salt 2 in FFG LC200N are Spyderco’s most direct competition to the Bugout. IMO. Very light, fully ambidextrous, slicy, easy and safe to operate.

[@PhantomJM]

A Bugout with titanium Flytanium scales is pretty tough to beat as an EDC. I actually stopped buying knives after carrying it for a while. I just haven't found many other options that measure up to it.

[@jaysonmoore5166]

I've handled a bugout a couple of times, and I wasn't loving the action on the lock. I know Benchmades typically need a bit of a break in period (I've carried a mini and full size Griptillian), but the lock also has a lot of potential for getting gummed up in some work environments. I currently carry a Spyderco Sage 5 LW, and I definitely agree the the POU between the two are very comparable. On top of that the compression lock on the Sage 5 is as smooth as butter out of the box, plus it's not likely to gum up since it's just a leaf spring. Too bad there aren't many interesting steel or color options for it though. Interestingly, I didn't find the Para 3 LW to be as smooth out of the box. I'm guessing that's either due to the full steel liner of the Sage 5 LW or the new pivot bushings Spyderco is beginning to implement. I think my dream knife would be a Spyderco Native with a wire clip and compression lock, but I think that won't happen with the Para 3 LW existing.

[@Salembiertje]

Love the looks of that ANV. Hope they make this knive in a 3 inch version.

[@vwr32jeep]

For $160 I went with Spyderco Native 5. Super lightweight with S110V blade and made in USA. Whenever I look at benchmade, they’re charging way more than the competition. Heck, I can get a USA made Buck 112 Slim with G10 handles and S30V blade for $100. I own a lot of Spydercos… but I don’t own a single benchmade because they charge too much. And I’m fine to leave it that way.

[@genarosepulveda9260]

That is true// im about to pick up my first benchmade just so i can see if its worth it// the knife will be used hard then we will see if its worth the price

[@mylesgalos6465]

Same as the Spydercos, also overpriced, personal preference

[@vwr32jeep]

@@mylesgalos6465 Spyderco pricing seems to be more in line with other knives with the same materials. I’ve been determined to get a benchmade for a long time. But as soon as I start doing comparisons, I can’t justify it. But that doesn’t mean it’s not a great knife. I’m sure ppl love their benchmade as much as I love my Spyderco.

[@vwr32jeep]

@@genarosepulveda9260 My prediction is that the Benchmade you get will perform every bit as great as any of my Spyderco knives. But it’ll still be $50-75 more than a similar Spyderco. That’s where it stops being “worth it” for me.

[@sevensfist_com]

Loving that Saloon background music Bro's!👊🤠👍

[@genelew6631]

Most frequently used knife for so many of us I would guess. Only thing is that its so easy to lose because of the clip sometimes falls loose and and is super lightweight!

[@averageknifeguy6312]

I think everyone should experience the bugout in some form. It is just a very good knife that won me over as I was very weary of the sturdiness of the handles.

[@abc456f]

I have the od green grivory with grey blade. I like the look of it and while I don't see the handles breaking on my kind of use, they really are very flexible. The ad 20.5 uses the same type handle material but it's much stiffer with no flex.

[@nevertakeadayoff]

Garbage knife with the plastic nylon scales. Who wants a knife that flexes in your hand?

[@arrowheadguys7637]

@@abc456f The 20.5 has full steel liners inside the grips, thats why. The Bugout liners don't go quite halfway down the scales

[@abc456f]

@@arrowheadguys7637 Yes, you're right. I forgot about the liners.

[@BrockOfBodom]

I absolutely love the bugout, so I guess it makes sense that I have the Bailout and Redoubt as my work knives

[@jonhughes2488]

Great video DCA and Knifecenter!! Out of the choices, Hogue Deka is the champ. Runner up is WE Banter - thank you

[@elduderino1329]

You forgot to mention that this Italian tungsten carbide blade is almost as brittle as glass and the user must be extra careful with it or it will brake.

[@levi3687]

One of my favorite knives that could compete with the bugout would be the cjrb pyrite

[@Ericstraordinary]

The gen. 2 Hogue Deka beats the Bugout in my opinion.

[@arrowheadguys7637]

I'd be inclined to agree with you if the Deka scales weren't so hideous. Just don't care for how they look or feel, and with absolutely no aftermarket scales available for them and its a big handicap for the Deka.

[@abc456f]

Without a doubt. I have the wharnie version 2 and really enjoy it. The g10 scales are a huge improvement over the bugout's flexible grivory. And the fall shut action of the able lock put Benchmade's axis lock to shame. Overall I prefer larger blades, but the deka is right up there for me for a lightweight, smaller knife.

[@mazepa-slavaukrayini932]

I on the Dockwa and another to Hogue knives and I can assure you that the design effort and material selection employed by Hogue is superior to anything Benchmade produces..

[@arrowheadguys7637]

@@mazepa-slavaukrayini932 lol

[@GOxHAM]

I disagree, the Bugout is a better design. The handle on the Bugout is more ergonomic and comfortable in multiple grips. The thumb studs are also out of the way of the cutting edge on the Bugout. It looks better aesthetically, IMO. The thumb studs protrude too much on Hogue, causing it to accidentally wave out of the pocket. Benchmade’s S30V is also excellent if you actually use your knives. You may be disappointed in Hogue’s Magnacut, but they’ve apparently addressed that.

[@Deibodese]

I always find it kind of funny when people get so excited about the Bugout weighing 1.8 ounces as an ultra-lightweight carry when the Spyderco Dragonfly 2 weighs 1.2 ounces. Not disrespecting the Bugout in any way, just an amusing observation. When I first started carrying my Dfly, I would frequently panic that the knife had fallen out of my pocket because I couldn’t feel it, but every time I’d check I would find that it was still there.

[@aleklockhart1625]

I edc a bugout and love it. When DCA held up the banter with the bugout and said, “these knives share a lot of the same philosophy,” I wanted the point he was making to be that they were both blue hahaha

[@aleklockhart1625]

Ahhh damn he did say they were both blue at the end hell yeah dude

[@rockets4kids]

The Ka-Bar Dozier should have been on this list. It's really the only one that matches the weight of the Bugout.

[@insanogeddon]

The Kabar Dozier D2 will serve all needs at a high level, at a low weight, for a small price even if it doesn't have a good enough mark up to be profitable to promote nowadays it beats out all my others as a daily tool from Spydys to the newest most needed blade that passes through my hands. D2 works great in a hollow grind and with the toothyness of D2 goes forever on industrial tasks and sharpens in seconds to a functional edge on any cr@py mini v-sharpener.

[@fejmather]

Ka-bar Dozier w D2 for a cheap alternative. It doesn't have a crossbar lock but hits most of the other points.

[@mylesgalos6465]

Maybe the most practical edc of all

[@christrouten9606]

I had one of these for about 6 months. It was the chippiest blade I've ever seen. I couldn't even complete a full sharpen on it without significant carbide tear out. I really wanted to love it but it is the worst edc I've ever owned.

[@MikesCarInfo]

Cold Steel Air Lite

[@PeepersonCreedo]

Do they make a crossbar lock version of that knife?? Otherwise seems like just another drop point blade, not too similar

[@Daniel.Liddicoat]

I like the "cross-bar" lock, but most Benchmade folders have blade geometry that I don't like (looking at the Osbourne). They are also too expensive for what I want from a folder. Enter the SOG Terminus XR with it's D2 and flipper tab. It's cheap, it's fidgety and I already like SOG knives. If I had Benchmade money, I'd buy a Deka or AD20.5 . The ANV looks pretty sweet.

[@Madman6505]

My bugout came with the blade scraping the inside of the liner on deployment. I still can't believe they let it leave the factory like that. Seems like it would be a great knife if you get a good one.

[@ThumosTheUnbroken]

Try tightening the main bolt at the pivot

[@Madman6505]

@@ThumosTheUnbroken I tried everything, even completely disassembling the knife and reassembling it using known techniques for centering the blade.

[@crpizarro8241]

I've had the SOG Terminus XR for about a year and I have loved it. Cheap enough to beat it and not worry too much but looks good enough where I can show it off. Action is smooth and lock is super safe. Just sharpening D2 is a pain im the neck.

[@jjm6187]

I love my Para 3 Lightweight Spy 27. I've never enjoyed carrying a knife this much. the weight you forget it's in your pocket.

[@amalgam5107]

I bought a wharncliffe deka and a clip point deka. Loved it so much I had to have both blade shapes.

[@buddy22801012]

Best budget option I’ve found is the KBAR Dozier for around $20 they are hard to beat. Don’t hold an edge as long however I can sharpen it in under 3 min and it’s hair popping sharp again.

[@springer131]

Try the d2 version, about $30-35 and holds a better edge Not gonna compare to the knives on the list but fantastic at the price

[@markcameroon6613]

i have carried many different style folders in alot of different type of environments i find button deploy styles really fail in dirt or sand not one of my fav great review thank you

[@motorcyclemark2889]

I have a Bugout a 940 and other what I consider high dollar edc knives but I prefer to carry my Civivi Elementum button lock I know the 14c28n is not as good of steel as the benchmades s30v and my Spydedcos I own but I just love the Elementum button lock

[@MrPetShopBoy]

I feel like the CIVIVI Badlands-Vagabond for an extra budget option. Great knife for the price.

[@ordinaryaverageguy3233]

The Bugout is helping bring about the end of the pocket anchor. You can have a full size knife without having a 6oz chunk in your pocket. Glad to see the industry heading this way.

[@The4cp]

The Bugout has ruined the knife industry making people want plastic toys instead of real heavy duty knives that can work hard and take a beating. It's awful.

[@kid5Media]

@@The4cp Room for both.

[@DraiDareal]

I came across the kizer drop bear looks pretty good

[@robbeelsas]

Been EDCing the Banter for over a year now, great knife

[@LittleBear1Alpha]

I haven’t seen anyone prove that anything similar to it is better at a cheaper price. DBK showed how well it did in two separate videos. I’d love a cheaper option that does better, but they’d need to prove it.

[@mikeg3811]

Almost bought Bugout, but went with Mini Griptilian instead. Was afraid about size, but is perfect for my preference and weight works for me as well.

[@GarrettRockey]

As a lefty, I will argue that the button lock is actually left-hand biased. I find it easier to operate the button with my left-hand index finger than my right-hand thumb. You compromise your grip (if ever so slightly) when you have to use your thumb to hold the knife AND operate the button. In my left hand, I have 4 fingers to hold the knife, which frees up the index finger to operate the button. Much lefty love for the Civivi Altus!

[@arrowheadguys7637]

I'm righty but agree that button locks work better for me in my left hand

[@shipmate3577]

SOG Terminus XR is fantastic. Feels great in the hand. I was hesitant to buy a SOG since my SOG Flash suuuuucked.

[@davidmercer5561]

I started off carrying the Benchmade mini Reflex auto. Lost it and bought the bug out as a less expensive EDC. Didn't really care for the 6axis lock design but it's grown on me a little and I still use it on work days. I bought a new mini reflex but haven't replaced the bugout.

[@brncntrl]

I'm a lefty who carries the Para3 lightweight and I have no problem whatsoever with the compression lock. For other lefties, the trick is to let the handle rest on your middle, ring, and pinky fingers, then put your forefinger on the other side of the pivot (pinching the handle between your forefinger and middle finger). Then you just engage the lock with your thumb. It looks strange, but it's very safe, works perfectly, and becomes second nature almost immediately. I think there's even a video on youtube where someone demonstrates it.

[@3211Co]

Love-em all! Thanks David.