Flytanium Crossfade Bugout Scales Blue Review

First Impressions of Flytanium Crossfade Bugout Scales Blue

The Benchmade Bugout is a fantastic knife. It’s lightweight, capable, and incredibly popular for everyday carry. However, the factory Grivory scales, while functional, can leave something to be desired aesthetically and in terms of perceived quality. That’s where the Flytanium Crossfade Bugout Scales Blue come in, promising to elevate the Bugout’s feel and appearance.

For years, I’ve customized my knives to better suit my needs and preferences. I was looking for an easy way to add some personality and a more substantial feel to my Bugout without sacrificing its slim profile. The promise of vibrant blue G10 and Flytanium’s reputation for quality aftermarket parts immediately caught my eye.

The scales arrived in simple bulk packaging, which is fine by me, as I’m more interested in the product itself. Picking them up, I immediately noticed the difference in weight and texture compared to the stock scales. The blue G10 has a nice, grippy feel, and the crossfade milling adds a touch of visual interest. My initial thought was, “This will definitely make my Bugout stand out.”

I considered other options, like AWT (Applied Weapons Tech) aluminum scales and some micarta offerings, but the Flytanium G10 seemed to strike the perfect balance of affordability, weight, and aesthetic appeal. The AWT scales, while robust, added a bit more weight than I preferred for a knife designed for lightweight carry. The micarta options were intriguing, but I wanted the pop of color that the Flytanium Crossfade Bugout Scales Blue offered.

My first impression was overwhelmingly positive. I was excited to get them installed and see how they transformed my Bugout. It felt like a simple and effective way to upgrade a knife I already loved.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Flytanium Crossfade Bugout Scales Blue to the Test

First Use Experience

The initial installation was straightforward, utilizing the existing hardware from the stock Bugout scales. I used a Wiha Torx driver set to ensure I didn’t strip any of the screws. After installation, I immediately took my Bugout with the Flytanium Crossfade Bugout Scales Blue on a week-long backpacking trip in the Trinity Alps Wilderness.

The wet conditions of the northern California mountains tested the G10’s grip. Even with damp hands from river crossings and unexpected rain showers, the scales provided a secure and confident hold. I used the knife for various tasks, from food preparation to feathering sticks for fire starting. The enhanced grip from the scales gave me greater control. There were no unexpected issues.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Flytanium Crossfade Bugout Scales Blue have proven to be incredibly durable. There are no noticeable signs of wear and tear, even after being exposed to dirt, mud, and general abuse during hikes and camping trips. I have also carried it daily.

Cleaning the scales is simple; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually all it takes to remove any grime. I haven’t experienced any fading or discoloration of the blue G10, even after prolonged exposure to sunlight. The knife has held up well and continues to deliver.

Compared to my previous experience with the stock Grivory scales, the Flytanium scales provide a significantly improved tactile experience and feel much more substantial in hand. The increased grip confidence is a definite plus, especially in demanding outdoor situations. They have definitely outperformed my expectations, as I thought they might be more for looks, but it turns out they are functional and aesthetic.

Breaking Down the Features of Flytanium Crossfade Bugout Scales Blue

Specifications

The Flytanium Crossfade Bugout Scales Blue are specifically designed to fit the Benchmade Bugout knife. The manufacturer is Flytanium. The scales are made from blue G10 material, which offers a good balance of durability, grip, and weight. They weigh in at a mere 0.06 lbs (approximately 1 ounce).

This low weight is crucial for maintaining the Bugout’s lightweight and EDC-friendly nature. The G10 construction provides a significant upgrade in terms of durability and tactile feel compared to the stock Grivory scales. The crossfade milling pattern adds a visual element and enhances grip. These scales elevate the knife’s appearance.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of these scales is to replace the stock scales, providing an enhanced grip, improved aesthetics, and a more premium feel. They accomplish this exceptionally well. The textured G10 offers a much more secure grip, especially in wet or slippery conditions.

The main strength lies in the improved ergonomics and tactile feel, making the knife more comfortable and confidence-inspiring to use. A potential weakness might be that G10, while durable, isn’t as impact-resistant as materials like aluminum or titanium. They more than meet my expectations, considering that they solve the grip problems I previously had with the Bugout.

Design & Ergonomics

The Flytanium Crossfade Bugout Scales Blue boast a well-thought-out design that complements the Bugout’s existing ergonomics. The G10 material provides a comfortable and secure grip, while the crossfade milling adds a touch of visual flair. The weight is negligible, ensuring that the knife remains lightweight and easy to carry.

The installation process is straightforward, and the scales fit perfectly with no modifications required. There’s virtually no learning curve, as they function identically to the stock scales but with a much-improved feel. It’s a simple plug-and-play upgrade.

Durability & Maintenance

The G10 material is known for its excellent durability and resistance to wear and tear. With proper care, these scales should last for years. The scales are also easy to clean, requiring only a damp cloth to remove any dirt or grime.

The color is impregnated into the G10 material, so it won’t easily fade or scratch off. They seem built to last.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Flytanium Crossfade Bugout Scales Blue themselves are a customization option. They enhance the Bugout’s aesthetic. They utilize the existing hardware from the stock Bugout, meaning you don’t need to purchase any additional screws or standoffs.

The scales are compatible with most aftermarket Bugout accessories. This includes deep carry pocket clips and lanyard beads. They are a solid upgrade for any Bugout owner looking to customize their knife.

Pros and Cons of Flytanium Crossfade Bugout Scales Blue