Patrik Orcutt 01.07.25
When I first held the Rust Orange Grivory Benchmade Bugout, I immediately understood why this knife has such a dedicated following. Benchmade has long been known for creating lightweight, high-performance knives, and this Bugout in Rust Orange Grivory is no exception. After carrying and using it for several months, I can confidently say this knife is a masterpiece of weight and design.
The Benchmade Bugout in Rust Orange Grivory was sent to me for review by Benchmade. While I am allowed to keep these knives indefinitely, it will not change my current or future opinion on any Benchmade Products. Benchmade has not been allowed to preview this review prior to publishing.
- Blade- 3.24″ S30V, drop-point, 58-60 HRC, stonewashed/satin finish.
- Handle- Grivory (lightweight polymer), 4.22″ closed, 0.42″ thick.
- Weight- 1.9oz.
- Overall Length- 7.46″ open.
- Lock Mechanism- Axis Lock.
- Clip- Deep-carry, reversible, tip-up.
- Deployment- Ambidextrous thumb studs.
- Made In- USA.
- MSRP – $200
The first thing that grabbed my attention was the striking rust-orange handle. It’s bold without being garish, offering a perfect balance between standing out and blending in. This color option makes it easy to locate in your gear bag or if you happen to drop it outdoors. The handle material, Grivory, has a slightly textured feel, which initially made me skeptical about its durability and grip. However, it proved itself quickly after I visited a waterfall with it in my pocket. The knife felt featherlight in hand. At just 1.9 ounces, it’s almost unnoticeable in your pocket, making it perfect for EDC (Everyday Carry). Despite its lightweight design, it doesn’t feel flimsy or cheap. The Grivory scales are well-engineered, offering excellent balance between weight and sturdiness.
Blade Performance – Benchmade Bugout with Rust Orange Grivory Grips
The Bugout features a 3.24-inch blade made from S30V steel, a material known for its incredible edge retention and corrosion resistance. Out of the box, the edge was razor-sharp — sharp enough to cut through paper effortlessly and glide through various materials during testing. I definitely did not cut myself with this knife. I used the knife for a variety of tasks, ranging from slicing through cardboard and paracord to finer tasks like whittling and food prep. The blade maintained its edge remarkably well, even after extended use. The drop-point design and flat grind make it versatile enough for slicing, piercing, and detail work. One of my favorite aspects of the blade is the stonewashed finish. Not only does it add a rugged, utilitarian look, but it also hides scratches and wear from daily use. For someone like myself who values aesthetics and functionality equally, this is a big win.
The Handle: To Grivory or not to Grivory?
I’ll admit, I was initially concerned about the Grivory handle. It’s a type of polymer, that I’ve not had much experience with. However, the Bugout’s Grivory scales are surprisingly strong and rigid. They don’t flex much under pressure, even during harder-use tasks. Of course if you apply enough pressure you can break them. The ergonomic design of the handle makes it comfortable for extended use. At 4.22 inches long, it fits my medium-sized hand perfectly, with just enough room for a secure grip. The textured surface adds to the grip, and even when my hands were sweaty or wet, I felt confident using the knife. That said, if you’re someone who prefers heftier knives, the Grivory might feel too light. For me, the weight savings and lack of bulk in my pocket were a plus, especially for hiking and backpacking, where every ounce matters.
The Axis Lock: Smooth and Reliable
The Axis Lock is a great feature of all Benchmade knives, and the Bugout is no exception. I’ve always been a fan of this locking mechanism for its ease of use and reliability. It allows for one-handed opening and closing, which is crucial when multitasking or in situations where you only have one hand free. What I really appreciate is how buttery smooth the lock feels. The blade deploys effortlessly with the thumb studs and locks securely into place with zero blade play. Closing the knife is just as smooth, and I found myself fidgeting with it more than I probably should — it’s that satisfying to operate.
Portability and Carry – Benchmade Bugout with Rust Orange Grivory Grips
The Bugout’s portability is, in my opinion, its greatest strength. At under two ounces and with a super-slim profile, it practically disappears in your pocket. The deep-carry pocket clip ensures that the knife sits low and discreetly, which is a feature I always look for in an EDC knife.
I carried it every day during this review period, whether I was in jeans, shorts, or hiking pants. The lightweight design made it so comfortable that I often forgot it was there. The clip itself is reversible, catering to both right- and left-handed users, which adds to its versatility.
Durability and Maintenance – Benchmade Bugout with Rust Orange Grivory Grips
After weeks of consistent use, the Bugout shows minimal signs of wear. The blade held its edge well, needing only a quick touch-up on my sharpener after heavy cutting tasks. The stonewashed finish is a lifesaver when it comes to hiding scratches, and the Grivory scales still look nearly new. As for cleaning, the open-frame design makes maintenance easy. A quick rinse under running water was all it took to clear out dirt and debris after outdoor use. The S30V steel resists corrosion beautifully, even after exposure to moisture during a rainy hike.
While I love the Bugout, no knife is perfect. Here are a few areas where it could improve:
- Flex in the Handle: While the Grivory handles are durable, there’s a very slight flex if you press hard on them. It doesn’t affect performance, but for those who prefer a more rigid handle material, this might be a drawback. (Upgrading to Aluminum or carbon fiber scales is an option if this bothers you.)
- Price Point: Benchmade knives are known for their quality, but they’re not cheap. The Rust Orange Grivory Bugout is no exception, and while I think it’s worth every penny, budget-conscious buyers might hesitate.
- Blade Thickness: The thin blade is a double-edged sword (pun intended). It’s great for slicing but feels a bit delicate for heavier-duty tasks like prying.
Final Thoughts – Benchmade Bugout with Rust Orange Grivory Grips
The Rust Orange Grivory Benchmade Bugout is an exceptional knife for anyone who values lightweight, high-performance tools. Its combination of a sharp, durable blade, ergonomic handle, and smooth Axis Lock mechanism makes it a joy to use for a wide variety of tasks.
This knife shines as an EDC tool, especially for those who prioritize portability and functionality. Its vibrant rust-orange color adds a touch of personality, and the quality materials ensure it will stand up to daily use for years to come. Yes, there are minor trade-offs, like the slight flex in the handle and the premium price tag, but these are outweighed by its numerous strengths. Whether you’re a collector, an outdoor enthusiast, or someone looking for a reliable pocket knife, the Bugout deserves a spot in your rotation.
