The Benchmade Bugout is one of the brand’s most popular everyday-carry and outdoor knives. This year, Benchmade refreshed the model with two notable additions that sharpen its appeal for both tactical users and minimalists.
At SHOT Show, Benchmade introduced a fully blacked-out Bugout and a smaller Mini Bugout, offering a darker aesthetic and a compact option for those who prefer a scaled-down, ultralight folder.
Benchmade 535 BK-2 Bugout
Blacked-out knives have a strong following among tactical users, and the 535BK-2 delivers a subdued, low-reflective finish across blade, handle, hardware, and pocket clip. The matte, fully blacked aesthetic reduces visibility and gives the knife a cohesive, understated look.
Beyond its appearance, the new Bugout benefits from Benchmade’s CF-Elite handle technology. The updated construction reduces weight compared with previous versions while improving rigidity and strength under load—a meaningful upgrade for users who demand durability without added bulk.
BLADE LENGTH 3.24” [8.23 cm]
BLADE THICKNESS 0.090” [2.286 mm]
OPEN 7.46” [18.95 cm]
CLOSED 4.22” [10.72 cm]
WEIGHT 1.8 oz [51.03 g]
HANDLE THICKNESS 0.42” [10.67 mm]
Available now for $170
Benchmade 533 Mini Bugout
Responding to demand for a smaller Bugout, Benchmade introduced the 533 Mini Bugout. It comes in two colorways and blade finishes: an orange Grivory handle with a satin CPM-S30V blade, or a white Grivory handle paired with a black-coated CPM-S30V blade. Both maintain the model’s materials and performance characteristics in a much smaller package.
The Mini Bugout preserves the full-size’s quality and edge retention while weighing just 1.5 ounces. With a closed length of about 3.7 inches, it’s compact enough for a pocket or small container yet retains functional blade length and cutting capability for everyday tasks and light outdoor use.
BLADE LENGTH 2.82” [7.16 cm]
BLADE THICKNESS 0.090” [2.286 mm]
OPEN 6.49” [16.48 cm]
CLOSED 3.704” [9.41 cm]
WEIGHT 1.5 oz [42.52 g]
HANDLE THICKNESS 0.412” [10.46 mm]
Available now from $140–$160
