First Impressions of Flytanium Crossfade Bugout Scales Brass
The Benchmade Bugout is a phenomenal knife, celebrated for its lightweight design and EDC practicality. However, its factory polymer scales, while functional, can feel a bit… lacking. That’s where Flytanium steps in, offering aftermarket scales to elevate your Bugout experience, and the Flytanium Crossfade Bugout Scales Brass are a prime example. They promise to transform your featherweight friend into a more substantial, classy tool.
I was initially drawn to the Flytanium Crossfade Bugout Scales Brass as I wanted to add some heft and a touch of personality to my Bugout. I appreciate the knife’s original lightweight nature but sometimes crave a more premium feel in hand. The brass construction promised both durability and a unique aesthetic that would age beautifully over time.
Upon receiving the scales, I was immediately struck by their substantial feel. The stonewash finish is expertly applied, giving the brass a subtly rugged yet refined look. The weight increase is immediately noticeable compared to the stock scales; a welcome change for those seeking a more solid grip. Compared to other aftermarket scale options like aluminum or G-10, the brass offers a unique combination of weight, texture, and potential for a beautiful patina. I opted for the Flytanium scales because of their reputation for quality and the alluring promise of brass.
My first impression was definitely excitement tinged with a bit of anticipation. I was eager to install them and see how they transformed the feel and aesthetics of my Bugout. The promise of adding a touch of classic style to such a modern design was incredibly appealing.
Real-World Testing: Putting Flytanium Crossfade Bugout Scales Brass to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Flytanium Crossfade Bugout Scales Brass-equipped Bugout was a weekend camping trip in the local mountains. The scales immediately improved the knife’s handling during food prep and general camp tasks. The added weight provided a more secure grip, especially when working with wet or slippery materials.
The brass scales performed admirably in the cool, damp mountain air. There was no noticeable slippage or discomfort even with prolonged use. I found that the increased weight made the knife feel more substantial and less like a toy, boosting my confidence during more demanding tasks. No issues arose during this first use. The installation was smooth, and the improved grip and feel were instantly apparent.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular carry and use, the Flytanium Crossfade Bugout Scales Brass have proven to be remarkably durable. The stonewash finish has held up well, and the brass is developing a beautiful, natural patina. Some minor scratches and dings are visible, but they only add to the character of the scales, enhancing the rugged, well-used aesthetic.
Maintenance has been minimal. I occasionally wipe the scales down with a dry cloth to remove any dirt or grime. The brass has not tarnished excessively, and the developing patina adds to the overall appeal. These scales have significantly outperformed the stock polymer scales in terms of durability and feel. They provide a much more secure and confident grip, especially in demanding situations.
Breaking Down the Features of Flytanium Crossfade Bugout Scales Brass
Specifications
The Flytanium Crossfade Bugout Scales Brass are specifically designed as a direct replacement for the factory scales on the Benchmade Bugout knife. These scales are constructed from solid brass with a stonewash finish for enhanced durability and a unique aesthetic.
The installed weight with these scales is approximately 4.13 oz, a significant increase from the stock polymer scales. This added weight provides a more substantial feel in hand, enhancing grip and control. The Flytanium scales utilize the hardware from the stock Bugout, making installation straightforward and hassle-free. The weight difference is crucial for those seeking a more premium feel, as the original Bugout can feel almost too light.
Performance & Functionality
The Flytanium Crossfade Bugout Scales Brass excel in enhancing the overall feel and functionality of the Benchmade Bugout. The added weight improves the knife’s balance and provides a more secure grip, especially during demanding tasks.
The brass construction is incredibly durable and resistant to wear and tear. The stonewash finish hides scratches and helps the scales develop a beautiful patina over time. While the scales perform their intended function flawlessly, they do add significant weight, which may not be ideal for users who prioritize the Bugout’s original lightweight design. Overall, these scales meet and exceed expectations for those seeking a more premium and substantial feel.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Flytanium Crossfade Bugout Scales Brass is both aesthetically pleasing and functionally sound. The scales are precision-machined to perfectly fit the Bugout’s frame, ensuring a seamless and secure installation.
The brass material provides a comfortable and secure grip, even in wet or slippery conditions. The added weight contributes to a more balanced and controlled feel in hand. There is no significant learning curve associated with these scales. Installation is straightforward, and the enhanced ergonomics are immediately apparent.
Durability & Maintenance
The brass construction of the Flytanium Crossfade Bugout Scales Brass ensures exceptional durability. These scales are built to withstand years of use and abuse.
Maintenance is minimal. Occasional cleaning with a dry cloth is sufficient to remove any dirt or grime. The brass may develop a patina over time, but this can be easily polished if desired. The scales are incredibly durable and should last for the lifetime of the knife with proper care.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Flytanium Crossfade Bugout Scales Brass do not come with any additional accessories, as they are designed to utilize the existing hardware from the stock Benchmade Bugout.
While the scales themselves don’t offer direct customization options, they enhance the overall aesthetic and feel of the knife, making it a more personalized tool. These scales are compatible with all standard Bugout pocket clips and aftermarket thumb studs, providing ample opportunity for further customization. The Flytanium scales provide a solid foundation for further customization, allowing users to tailor their Bugout to their specific needs and preferences.
Pros and Cons of Flytanium Crossfade Bugout Scales Brass
Pros
- Significantly enhances the feel and aesthetics of the Benchmade Bugout. The brass construction and stonewash finish provide a premium and classy look.
- Improved grip and control due to the added weight. The increased weight provides a more secure and balanced feel in hand.
- Durable brass construction ensures long-lasting performance. The scales are built to withstand years of use and abuse.
- Easy to install using the existing hardware from the stock Bugout. Installation is straightforward and hassle-free.
- Develops a beautiful patina over time, adding to the unique character of the knife. The natural aging process enhances the aesthetic appeal.
Cons
- Adds significant weight to the Bugout, which may not be ideal for users who prioritize its original lightweight design. The added weight can be a drawback for some users.
- Brass can be prone to scratches and dings, although this adds to the overall rugged aesthetic. The softer metal is more susceptible to cosmetic damage.
Who Should Buy Flytanium Crossfade Bugout Scales Brass?
The Flytanium Crossfade Bugout Scales Brass are perfect for Benchmade Bugout owners who want to add a touch of class and a more substantial feel to their knife. They are ideal for those who appreciate the durability and aesthetic of brass.
Those who prioritize the Bugout’s original lightweight design should skip this product. Those who are particularly concerned about scratches and cosmetic wear may also want to consider alternative scale materials. A must-have accessory is a high-quality microfiber cloth for occasional cleaning and maintenance.
Conclusion on Flytanium Crossfade Bugout Scales Brass
The Flytanium Crossfade Bugout Scales Brass are a fantastic upgrade for the Benchmade Bugout, offering a significant improvement in feel, aesthetics, and durability. The added weight and premium materials transform the Bugout into a more substantial and classy tool.
While the added weight may not be for everyone, the overall improvement in grip, feel, and aesthetics makes the Flytanium Crossfade Bugout Scales Brass well worth the price of $64.00. I would highly recommend these scales to anyone looking to elevate their Bugout experience. Upgrade your Bugout today and experience the difference!