There's something special about the Budgie. First and foremost, the blade is wickedly sharp. Granted, it's not the most pointy blade for piercing, but the S35VN takes sharpness to a different level. It's fairly light and strong with good traction on the G-10 handle. It's size makes it very easy to carry in the pocket.
Like others, I've had some issues with opening and closing, but I'm working that.
I've disassembled mine twice and made a few modifications, primarily to smooth out the action. On the first disassembly I filed a detent ramp into the blade lock face to aid in less jerky closing action. It made a significant difference. I also checked out the washers and they appear to be nylon - a material not know to produce the smoothest available action. Phosphor bronze might have been a better choice for this knife. I also left the pocket clip off...for now.
Tonight, I took it apart again and made a few more modifications. First, I extended the detent ramp further up the blade making a more gradual slope and transition. Then, I polished the detent ball track and blade surface where the washer contacts, using 2500 grit wet/dry sandpaper. While I was at it, I used a diamond rod to take the sharp edges off the thumb hole - I've done this on several Vantages too. I wish Buck would have chamfered around those cut outs. Finally, removed some material with a Dremel from the frame lock where it makes contact with the over travel stop, which is actually the head of the pivot barrel. This allowed for an extra few thousandths travel of the frame lock when opening and closing. After a good cleaning and oiling, it's back together and working somewhat smoother. Blade centering has been acceptable throughout, but not perfect.
Here is what I think is going on with the Budgie's action. The frame lock pressure is too great, putting excessive force on the detent ball causing friction against the satin finished blade, requiring more effort to open and close. Even with the pivot adjusted to zero blade play, the force of the lock bar is pushing the blade off center. That might be a result of the nylon washers flexing or giving under pressure.
Lots of things to like about the Budgie, but accepting the fact that it is probably a two-hand opener may be a reality for some. Regardless, I'm contemplating getting the natural G-10 version too!
