Image unavailable
Benchmade 535SL-13 Bugout Folding Knife
Our editorial team reviews specifications, product data, and field-use information to keep pages accurate.
$350.00
View on Sportsmans Guide
You'll be taken to Sportsmans Guide to complete your purchase.
Hunter's Outpost earns a commission from affiliate links at no extra cost to you.
SKU: WX2*0745957
Overview
Built for hunters and outdoorsmen who want a compact folder that can move easily from daily carry to backcountry tasks, this knife pairs a 3.24" drop-point blade with a lightweight, streamlined design. The CPM-S90V blade and Cerakote Crushed Silver finish give it a refined, hard-use feel, while the Crater Blue anodized aluminum handle adds a distinctive look without unnecessary bulk. An AXIS lock provides secure, ambidextrous operation, and the mini deep carry pocket clip keeps it discreet when carried. It is a practical choice for those who value a premium folding knife for general field use, emergency tasks, and everyday utility.
Why Hunters Choose the Benchmade
Cpm-s90v Steel
A 3.24-inch drop-point profile
Cerakote Crushed
Silver finish on the blade
Crater Blue
6061-T6 anodized aluminum handle
Axis Lock
Mechanism for secure, ambidextrous operation
Mini Deep
Black oxide finish
Key Features
- Lightweight folding knife designed for everyday carry and emergency use.
- CPM-S90V 3.24-inch drop-point blade with Cerakote Crushed Silver finish.
- Crater Blue 6061-T6 anodized aluminum handle.
- AXIS lock mechanism for secure, ambidextrous operation.
- Mini deep carry pocket clip with black oxide finish.
- Includes Benchmade limited lifetime warranty and Lifesharp lifetime sharpening and maintenance.
Best Used For
- Hunters wanting a lightweight folding knife for camp chores and everyday carry
- Users who need a compact knife for city-to-trail transitions and emergency tasks
- Right- or left-handed users who value secure, ambidextrous AXIS lock operation
- Knife users looking for a premium folder with deep-carry pocket clip convenience
- Owners who want a folding knife with included lifetime sharpening and maintenance support
Specifications
| Blade Finish | Cerakote Crushed Silver |
|---|---|
| Blade Length | 3.24 in |
| Blade Shape | drop-point |
| Blade Steel | CPM-S90V |
| Handle Color | Crater Blue |
| Handle Material | 6061-T6 anodized aluminum |
| Hardware | Turquoise anodized hardware |
| Lock Mechanism | AXIS lock |
| Model | 535SL-13 Bugout Folding Knife |
| Pocket Clip | Mini deep carry pocket clip |
| Pocket Clip Finish | black oxide |
| Sharpening And Maintenance | Lifesharp lifetime sharpening and maintenance |
| Thumb Stud | Turquoise anodized thumb stud |
| Warranty | Benchmade limited Lifetime Warranty |
Pros
- CPM-S90V steel blade with a 3.24-inch drop-point profile
- Cerakote Crushed Silver finish on the blade
- Crater Blue 6061-T6 anodized aluminum handle
- AXIS lock mechanism for secure, ambidextrous operation
- Mini deep carry pocket clip with black oxide finish
- Includes Benchmade limited lifetime warranty and Lifesharp sharpening and maintenance
Considerations & Trade-offs
- The 3.24" blade and folding format make it compact for carry, but it is still a knife intended for general chores and emergency use rather than a dedicated large-game processing tool.
- The anodized aluminum handle and premium finish add refinement, but they may be less forgiving of hard use than simpler, more utilitarian materials.
- The AXIS lock offers secure, ambidextrous operation, yet any folding knife introduces moving parts that require more attention than a fixed blade.
- The S90V steel is described as highly wear-resistant, but premium steel can also mean sharpening and maintenance are more deliberate than with basic steels.
Suggested Comparisons
- Lightweight folding knives
- Everyday carry knives
- Backcountry utility knives
- Premium folding knives
Suggested Accessories
- Pocket clip
- Knife sharpener
- Knife storage pouch
- Maintenance cloth
Frequently Asked Questions
What steel does the Benchmade 535SL-13 Bugout use?
It uses CPM-S90V steel for the 3.24" drop-point blade.
What kind of handle and finish does this Bugout have?
The handle is Crater Blue 6061-T6 anodized aluminum, with turquoise anodized thumb stud and hardware for contrast.
Is the Bugout suitable for left- or right-handed use?
Yes. The AXIS lock is described as providing secure, ambidextrous operation.
Does this knife come with a pocket clip?
Yes. It includes a mini deep carry pocket clip with a black oxide finish.
What warranty or service information is provided?
The product includes Benchmade limited Lifetime Warranty and Lifesharp lifetime sharpening and maintenance.