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Benchmade

Benchmade 535 Bugout Folding Knife

Our editorial team reviews specifications, product data, and field-use information to keep pages accurate.

Light All-weather

Durable folding knife for everyday

Cpm-s30v Stainless

Steel 3.24-inch drop-point blade with

58-60 Hrc

Rockwell hardness rating for the

Grivory Synthetic

Handle provides a sure grip

Ambidextrous Benchmade

Axis lock supports easy right-

$200.00
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SKU: WX2*0715478

Overview

Built for hunters and outdoorsmen who want a compact folder that stays ready in changing conditions, this knife pairs a lightweight profile with all-weather durability. The CPM-S30V stainless steel blade is described as tough and corrosion resistant, while the Grivory handle is shaped to provide a secure grip in hand. Benchmade’s ambidextrous Axis lock and reversible pocket clip add practical carry and deployment options for field use. It’s a straightforward choice for everyday kit carry, with the trade-off that its focus is utility and portability rather than a larger, heavier-duty format.

Why Hunters Choose the Benchmade

Lightweight Design

Suits everyday carry and backcountry

Cpm-s30v Stainless

Steel blade is built for

Satin-finished 3.24-inch

Drop-point blade offers versatile utility

Grivory Handle

Secure grip in varied conditions

Ambidextrous Axis

Lock supports easy right- or

Key Features

  • Light and all-weather durable folding knife for everyday kit carry.
  • CPM-S30V stainless steel 3.24-inch drop-point blade with satin finish.
  • 58-60 HRC Rockwell hardness rating for the blade.
  • Grivory synthetic handle provides a sure grip.
  • Ambidextrous Benchmade Axis lock supports easy right- or left-hand use.
  • Reversible pocket clip allows left or right tip-up carry.

Best Used For

  • Hunters and outdoorsmen wanting a light folding knife for everyday kit carry
  • Users needing ambidextrous one-handed operation with the Axis lock
  • Those who prefer a reversible pocket clip for left or right tip-up carry
  • Field users looking for a compact knife with a drop-point blade profile

Specifications

Blade Finishsatin finish
Blade Length3.24 in
Blade SteelCPM-S30V stainless steel
Blade Styledrop-point
Handle MaterialGrivory synthetic
Lock Typeambidextrous Axis Lock
Pocket Clipreversible pocket clip for left or right tip-up carry
Rockwell Hardness58-60 HRC
Sharpening ServiceLifesharp lifetime sharpening and maintenance
WarrantyBenchmade limited Lifetime Warranty

Pros

  • Lightweight design suits everyday carry and backcountry use.
  • CPM-S30V stainless steel blade is built for demanding conditions.
  • Satin-finished 3.24-inch drop-point blade offers versatile utility.
  • Grivory handle provides a secure grip in varied conditions.
  • Ambidextrous Axis lock supports easy right- or left-hand operation.
  • Reversible pocket clip allows left or right tip-up carry.

Considerations & Trade-offs

  • The 3.24" blade length may feel compact for hunters who prefer a larger folder for heavier camp or field tasks.
  • The Grivory handle is focused on keeping weight down, which can be a trade-off if you prefer a more substantial in-hand feel.
  • The reversible pocket clip supports left- or right-side tip-up carry, but it is still a pocket-clip carry setup rather than a dedicated belt sheath option.
  • The satin-finish blade and premium steel are well-suited to demanding use, but this is a higher-priced knife compared with many basic folding options.

Suggested Comparisons

  • Folding hunting knives
  • Everyday carry knives
  • Lightweight pocket knives
  • Ambidextrous folding knives

Suggested Accessories

  • Pocket clip
  • Knife sharpener
  • Knife storage pouch
  • Field maintenance kit

Frequently Asked Questions

What blade style does the Benchmade 535 Bugout use?

It has a 3.24" drop-point blade with a satin finish.

Is the Bugout suitable for left- and right-handed use?

Yes. The ambidextrous Axis lock is designed for easy blade action with either hand, and the reversible pocket clip supports left or right tip-up carry.

What handle material is listed for this knife?

The handle is Grivory synthetic.

Does Benchmade include any warranty or sharpening support?

Yes. The product includes Benchmade's limited lifetime warranty and Lifesharp lifetime sharpening and maintenance.

What steel and hardness rating are provided for the blade?

The blade is CPM-S30V stainless steel and is listed with a 58-60 HRC Rockwell hardness rating.