Which bugout and why?

kingston73

kingston73

Joined
Oct 14, 2013
Messages
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So I’m thinking of buying a bugout and right now I’m thinking the smoky mt m4 version. Is it worth the extra $50 compared with the s30v cf elite version? Or is the 20cv version better than either, if I can find one?
 
I love M4, but FWIW I think Benchmades S30v is great. However, if you get the base model you will probably be tempted to upgrade the scales to something more rigid like Ti, CF, or G10. The M4 comes with G10 so if you like it as is there's your price rational.
 
I like the SMKW exclusive a lot. For me personally it’s worth the premium over a stock S30V / FRN (or CF elite). Have a look at what an M4 / G10 Bugout will cost you in Benchmade’s custom shop. Again, personal preference, but I prefer what SMKW is offering over the colours available in the custom shop.

I like the steel attributes (although I’m quite happy with S30V as well), I like the smooth-ish G10 that doesn’t shred pockets (but offers slightly less traction than the FRN / CF Elite) and I like the colours. It makes a change from my various S30V and S90V blades with real CF scales … and one with stock FRN. YMMV

I had a 20CV limited with the natural G10 scales … didn’t blow me away. On paper, the steel was run softer than Benchmade‘s M390 and the 20CV in the Griptillians, dunno why and honestly I probably wouldn’t have realised the difference in use but it bugged me.
 
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I recommend the original blue. Its the least expensive and l would leave it be,I never got why people add copper or brass or ti scales. Your adding weight and I want the Bugout to be extremely light and thin. It is a great edc especially if you can find a deal on one...
 
I think the only reservations most people have on the M4 versions are the cerakote blade coatings.
 
My thought process was this..... The Bugout is very expensive for what you get imo. So I look at what's available and decide what version gives me most bang for buck. Keep in mind its claim to fame is weight savings, a slim and trim edc knife period.
Base model in blue is $131
Cooler colors but same knife is $148
Exclusives with better steel $200+

Then there is the people who buy a Bugout only to throw heavier scales on it like titanium, copper, brass,etc. And imo just ruined what the knife was engineered and designed for but to each their own. I know its fun to customize....

So for me I went with the blue standard version and used points I had accrued to knock the price down a bit. And blue with the idea of being easy to spot if I lose it or set it down somewhere ya know....good luck with what ever you decide.
 
M4 is a great steel on the bugout, I have two versions. You’ll want the G10 because there’s too much flex in the cheaper grivory scales. Any of the SMKW M4 exclusives are fantastic knives, I have the desert warrior version. It’s in my pocket right now. Worth every penny.
 
Good to know, I got the black blade version. It just seems like a good deal to me. I could have bought a used standard one and bought new scales but that would have ended up being at least $150. I figured why not spend a little more and get better steel and scales I actually like.
 
kingston73 said:
Good to know, I got the black blade version. It just seems like a good deal to me. I could have bought a used standard one and bought new scales but that would have ended up being at least $150. I figured why not spend a little more and get better steel and scales I actually like.
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Yes, you’re more likely to get more of your money back when the upgrades come stock. I always lose a lot of money on aftermarket stuff. All the M4 versions with G10 are great. I’m usually disappointed when I buy copper, brass, or titanium (makes it too heavy), and micarta is hit or miss on fit (and flexes). I’m of the mindset that stock configuration, G10 from the factory, in M4 and that’s all the Bugout needs to be ready to rock.
 
Awesome knife once you put Ti scales on it and beef it up. S30V works just fine for me.

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I'd just bump another $50 up to get the CF S90V Bugout. The CF scales look gorgeous.
 
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