Benchmade 535BK-4 Bugout

The Benchmade 535BK-4 Bugout is a lightweight EDC folding knife with a handle in grey 6061-T6 aluminium and an 82.3 mm drop-point blade in M390. The blade is 2.29 mm thick, the knife weighs 71 g and measures 107.2 mm closed – a format that suits both everyday carry and lighter hunting and outdoor use.

The Bugout quickly became one of Benchmade's most popular models, because the slim profile makes the knife almost invisible in the pocket. The 535BK-4 is the neutral grey aluminium version: the same M390 steel and dimensions as the 535BK-07, but without the coloured anodising, and with a stiffer metal handle than the Grivory models in the series.

M390, grey aluminium handle and AXIS lock

Five features that make the aluminium Bugout a durable everyday knife:

• M390 super steel (58–61 HRC): A stainless powder steel with fine, hard carbides that give long edge retention and very high corrosion resistance. It is an obvious choice for a knife used daily, but it needs diamond or ceramic stones for sharpening.
• 82.3 mm drop-point blade: The classic blade shape gives a strong tip and good control in everything from packaging to preparing food outdoors. The blade is 2.29 mm thick and cuts with low resistance.
• 6061-T6 aluminium handle: Aluminium gives a stiff handle and a solid feel in the hand at low weight. It weighs around 20 g more than the Grivory versions, but feels more substantial.
• AXIS lock: The crossbar lock sits across the handle and works the same from both sides, so the knife is Ambidextrous. The blade opens and closes one-handed without your fingers having to go in front of the edge, as they do with a liner lock.
• Mini Deep Carry clip: The clip lets the knife ride deep in the pocket so only a small part is visible, and the slim handle does not dig in when you sit down.

Maintenance and safety

• Wipe the blade after use, and give the AXIS lock and pivot a drop of knife oil now and then – especially after rain and damp.
• Do not use the knife as a pry bar or screwdriver; the thin blade is made to cut.
• Guide the blade all the way closed with the lock pulled back, and keep your fingers clear of the edge.
• Check the regulations in your country before carrying the knife in public.