Benchmade 537FE-02 Bailout

The Benchmade 537FE-02 Bailout is a slim tanto folding knife with a handle in Crater Blue anodised 6061-T6 aluminium and a CPM-M4 blade with a Flat Dark Earth finish. The blade is 85.9 mm long and 2.29 mm thick, and the knife measures 119 mm closed and approx. 205 mm open. It is built to be carried every day and to handle tougher tasks outdoors and at work.

The Bailout is Benchmade's tanto variant of the Bugout platform, with a diamond-textured aluminium handle and a strength-to-weight ratio that suits both hard use and everyday carry. The 537FE-02 arrived in 2023 and stands out with its contrasting combination of a blue handle and FDE blade, while the steel is the same CPM-M4 as in the grey 537GY-03.

CPM-M4, Crater Blue aluminium and AXIS lock

Five features that define the CPM-M4 Bailout:

• CPM-M4 (62–64 HRC): A high-alloy high-speed steel with very high hardness, wear resistance and toughness. It holds an edge longer than S30V and takes hard use, but it is not stainless – the edge must be wiped and kept lightly oiled, especially after exposure to moisture.
• Flat Dark Earth finish: The sand-coloured blade coating protects the blade flats against moisture and wear – important on a steel that is not stainless – and contrasts clearly with the blue handle.
• 85.9 mm tanto blade: The reinforced tip and straight front edge are effective for piercing and cutting hard materials, while the 2.29 mm thick blade still cuts easily.
• Diamond-textured 6061-T6 aluminium: Aluminium gives stiffness at low weight, and the diamond texture grips better than smooth metal. The handle is only 10.41 mm thick and lies flat in the pocket.
• AXIS lock and Mini Deep Carry clip: The crossbar lock works the same from both sides, so the knife is Ambidextrous and can be opened and closed one-handed. The clip lets the knife ride deep in the pocket.

Maintenance and safety

• CPM-M4 is not stainless: wipe the edge after use and give it a thin film of knife oil, especially after rain, sweat or blood.
• Lubricate the AXIS lock and pivot now and then, and never use the knife as a pry bar or screwdriver.
• Keep your fingers clear of the edge when folding the blade, and guide it all the way closed with the lock pulled back.
• Check the regulations in your country before carrying the knife in public.