First Impressions of Flytanium Bugout Backspacer Black
The Benchmade Bugout is a hugely popular knife, prized for its lightweight design and EDC-friendly profile. However, some find the stock polymer scales and open backspacer a bit lacking in premium feel. That’s where aftermarket parts like the Flytanium Bugout Backspacer Black come in, promising to enhance both the aesthetics and structural rigidity of this beloved knife.
I was initially drawn to the Flytanium Bugout Backspacer Black seeking to add a touch of personalization and robustness to my own Bugout. The stock polymer backspacer felt a bit flimsy, and I wanted something that could withstand more demanding use without compromising the knife’s inherent lightweight nature. After eyeing various titanium and aluminum options, the canvas micarta of the Flytanium backspacer appealed to me for its unique texture and subtle, understated look.
Upon receiving the backspacer, my first impression was positive. The matte black canvas micarta had a satisfyingly grippy texture, and the part felt surprisingly substantial for its diminutive size. Flytanium‘s reputation for quality was immediately evident in the clean lines and precise machining. Compared to other backspacers I considered, like anodized aluminum options that might show wear easily, or polished titanium that could be too flashy, the micarta seemed like the perfect balance of durability, style, and practicality.
My initial excitement proved justified – the Flytanium Bugout Backspacer Black immediately improved the perceived quality of my Bugout. It wasn’t a dramatic transformation, but a subtle upgrade that added a touch of class and reassurance.
Real-World Testing: Putting Flytanium Bugout Backspacer Black to the Test
First Use Experience
I installed the Flytanium Bugout Backspacer Black prior to a week-long backpacking trip in the Appalachian Mountains. This provided ample opportunity to assess its performance in a challenging outdoor environment. The conditions ranged from dry and sunny to humid and rainy, giving the micarta backspacer a thorough test.
The immediate improvement was in the overall feel of the knife. With the Flytanium backspacer, the handle felt more solid and secure in hand, especially when applying pressure during tasks like food preparation and carving feather sticks. The added rigidity eliminated the slight flex I had previously noticed in the stock polymer backspacer. No issues arose during the week; the backspacer stayed firmly in place and didn’t exhibit any loosening or movement.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular carry and use, the Flytanium Bugout Backspacer Black has proven to be a worthwhile addition. The micarta has held up remarkably well, showing no signs of chipping, cracking, or significant wear. The textured surface has actually improved slightly with use, developing a subtle patina that enhances its grip.
Cleaning is a breeze; a quick wipe with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove any dirt or grime. I’ve occasionally used a mild soap and water solution for more stubborn messes, with no adverse effects on the micarta. Compared to the stock polymer backspacer, which always felt a bit “plasticky,” the Flytanium backspacer has provided a noticeable upgrade in both feel and durability. The enhanced rigidity is a definite improvement, and the visual appeal is a welcome bonus.
Breaking Down the Features of Flytanium Bugout Backspacer Black
Specifications
- The Flytanium Bugout Backspacer Black is constructed from matte finish black canvas micarta. This material provides excellent grip, durability, and a unique aesthetic.
- It is specifically designed to fit both stock Benchmade Bugout scales and Flytanium aftermarket Bugout scales. This ensures compatibility regardless of your chosen handle configuration.
- The backspacer weighs in at a mere 0.01 lb (approximately 4.5 grams). This minimal weight addition ensures the Bugout retains its lightweight EDC character.
These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the knife’s performance and user experience. The micarta offers a superior grip compared to polymer, while the precise fit and minimal weight addition maintain the Bugout’s overall balance and ergonomics. The light weight is especially critical for an EDC knife like the Bugout.
Performance & Functionality
The Flytanium Bugout Backspacer Black excels at its primary function: enhancing the structural rigidity of the Bugout’s handle. By replacing the stock polymer backspacer with the more robust micarta component, the handle feels significantly more solid and secure. This translates to improved control and confidence during use, especially when applying pressure or working with tougher materials.
While the backspacer doesn’t directly affect the blade’s performance, the improved handle feel indirectly contributes to better cutting control and precision. One minor point for improvement might be slightly more contoured edges for enhanced comfort, but this is a minor quibble. Overall, the Flytanium backspacer meets and even exceeds expectations for its intended purpose.
Design & Ergonomics
The matte black canvas micarta offers a subtle and understated aesthetic that complements the Bugout’s overall design. The textured surface provides excellent grip, even in wet or slippery conditions. The weight is negligible, ensuring the Bugout remains a comfortable and easy-to-carry EDC knife.
Installation is straightforward, requiring only basic disassembly and reassembly of the Bugout. There is no learning curve involved; the Flytanium Bugout Backspacer Black seamlessly integrates into the knife’s existing design.
Durability & Maintenance
Canvas micarta is known for its durability and resistance to wear and tear. The Flytanium Bugout Backspacer Black is no exception. With proper care, it should last for many years of regular use.
Maintenance is simple; a quick wipe with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove any dirt or grime. Micarta is also relatively resistant to chemicals and solvents, making it easy to clean even after exposure to harsh substances. The material is extremely durable.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Flytanium Bugout Backspacer Black is a standalone component, not requiring any additional accessories for installation or use. However, it pairs well with other aftermarket Bugout parts, such as Flytanium scales or upgraded blade steels. The black micarta also provides a neutral base for further customization, allowing users to personalize their Bugout with different colored hardware or lanyards.
It’s fully compatible with any other modification or customization one might want to add. The backspacer is meant to enhance the base build of the knife.
Pros and Cons of Flytanium Bugout Backspacer Black
Pros
- Enhanced Handle Rigidity: Provides a more solid and secure feel in hand compared to the stock polymer backspacer.
- Improved Grip: The textured canvas micarta offers excellent grip, even in wet or slippery conditions.
- Durable Construction: Canvas micarta is known for its durability and resistance to wear and tear.
- Subtle Aesthetic Upgrade: The matte black finish adds a touch of class and personalization to the Bugout.
- Easy Installation: Installation is straightforward, requiring only basic disassembly and reassembly of the knife.
Cons
- Price: While not exorbitant, the Flytanium Bugout Backspacer Black is more expensive than some other backspacer options.
- Limited Color Options: Currently only available in black, which may not appeal to all users seeking to customize their Bugout.
Who Should Buy Flytanium Bugout Backspacer Black?
The Flytanium Bugout Backspacer Black is perfect for Bugout owners who want to enhance the feel and durability of their knife without adding significant weight. It’s ideal for EDC enthusiasts, outdoor adventurers, and anyone who appreciates a subtle aesthetic upgrade. Anyone looking for a more premium feel to their Bugout will find this product worthwhile.
Those who are perfectly content with the stock polymer backspacer or are on a very tight budget may want to skip this product. It is a subtle but noticeable difference.
A lanyard would be a beneficial accessory to add with the backspacer. It makes it easier to get out of your pocket.
Conclusion on Flytanium Bugout Backspacer Black
The Flytanium Bugout Backspacer Black is a well-designed and thoughtfully executed upgrade for the Benchmade Bugout. It provides a noticeable improvement in handle rigidity, grip, and overall feel, without compromising the knife’s lightweight and EDC-friendly nature. While the price may be slightly higher than some other options, the quality and durability of the Flytanium product justify the cost.
At $16.99, the Flytanium Bugout Backspacer Black represents a worthwhile investment for Bugout owners seeking to elevate their knife’s performance and aesthetic appeal. It’s a subtle but significant upgrade that adds a touch of class and reassurance to this already excellent EDC blade.
I would wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone looking to improve their Bugout experience. Go ahead and treat your Bugout to this fantastic upgrade – you won’t be disappointed!
