Glow Rhino Bugout Handle Scales OD Review

First Impressions of Glow Rhino Bugout Handle Scales OD

The Glow Rhino Bugout Handle Scales OD promise to elevate your Benchmade Bugout knife from a lightweight EDC option to something a bit more unique and functional, especially in low-light situations. Glow Rhino is known for integrating tritium vials into their products, and these scales are no exception. The OD green G10 construction offers a rugged aesthetic, and the promise of enhanced visibility thanks to the tritium lamps is immediately appealing to anyone who appreciates functional upgrades.

I’ve always been drawn to the Benchmade Bugout for its lightweight design and practical blade. However, the factory handle scales always felt a bit… lacking. I was looking for an upgrade that would improve the grip, add some visual flair, and enhance usability in the dark.

Unboxing the Glow Rhino Bugout Handle Scales OD, I was immediately impressed with the machining quality. The OD green G10 felt substantial and grippy, a noticeable improvement over the stock scales. The tritium vials were bright and evenly illuminated, providing a subtle but effective glow.

Compared to other aftermarket Bugout scales, such as those from Flytanium or Rockscale Design, the Glow Rhino scales stood out because of the tritium integration. While others offer different materials like titanium or aluminum, the Glow Rhino scales offer a unique practical benefit that appeals to my need for enhanced visibility in low-light situations. The price point is comparable to high-end aftermarket scales, making the value proposition clear.

My first impression was definitely excitement. The scales look and feel fantastic, and the promise of improved grip and nighttime visibility makes me eager to put them to the test.


Real-World Testing: Putting Glow Rhino Bugout Handle Scales OD to the Test

First Use Experience

I installed the Glow Rhino Bugout Handle Scales OD on my Benchmade Bugout and immediately took it on a weekend camping trip in the nearby mountains. The varied terrain and overnight temperatures provided a good testing ground. The scales felt secure in my hand, even when wet from a brief rain shower.

The increased grip was immediately noticeable compared to the stock scales, especially when processing firewood. The tritium lamps proved their worth during the night, allowing me to quickly locate the knife inside my tent without fumbling for a flashlight. There were no unexpected issues or surprises during this first outing.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular carry and use, the Glow Rhino Bugout Handle Scales OD have held up remarkably well. There are no signs of significant wear or tear, even after being subjected to dirt, moisture, and occasional impacts. The G10 material is clearly durable and resistant to scratches.

Maintenance has been minimal, only requiring an occasional wipe down with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris. The tritium lamps continue to glow brightly, showing no signs of dimming. Compared to previous aftermarket knife scales I’ve used, the Glow Rhino scales have exceeded my expectations in terms of durability and long-term functionality.

Breaking Down the Features of Glow Rhino Bugout Handle Scales OD

Specifications

  • Manufacturer: Glow Rhino
  • Compatibility: Benchmade Bugout
  • Material: OD Green G10
  • Tritium: 2 XL Tritium Lamps
  • Weight: 0.06 lb

The G10 material provides excellent grip and durability while remaining relatively lightweight. The inclusion of two XL Tritium lamps ensures consistent and visible illumination in low-light conditions. The Glow Rhino Bugout Handle Scales OD are specifically designed for the Benchmade Bugout, ensuring a precise fit and easy installation.

Performance & Functionality

The Glow Rhino Bugout Handle Scales OD significantly enhance the functionality of the Benchmade Bugout. The improved grip provides better control and confidence during use, particularly in demanding situations. The tritium lamps offer invaluable visibility in the dark, making it easy to locate the knife or use it for tasks in low-light environments.

The only minor potential improvement could be a slightly more aggressive texture on the G10 for an even more secure grip in very wet conditions. Overall, the scales meet and exceed my expectations for both performance and functionality.

Design & Ergonomics

The OD green G10 provides a tactical and aesthetically pleasing look. The scales add a bit of thickness to the Bugout’s handle, improving the overall feel in hand without sacrificing the knife’s lightweight nature. The design is user-friendly and requires no learning curve.

Durability & Maintenance

The G10 material is known for its exceptional durability and resistance to wear and tear. The tritium lamps are sealed within the scales, protecting them from damage and ensuring a long lifespan. Maintenance is simple and requires minimal effort.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Glow Rhino Bugout Handle Scales OD are a standalone upgrade and do not require any additional accessories for functionality. However, they are compatible with any other aftermarket Bugout accessories, such as upgraded pocket clips or thumb studs. The tritium vials cannot be replaced individually, but are designed to last for many years.

Pros and Cons of Glow Rhino Bugout Handle Scales OD

Pros

  • Exceptional grip thanks to the textured G10 material.
  • Enhanced visibility in low-light conditions with the integrated tritium lamps.
  • Durable construction for long-lasting performance.
  • Easy to install and a perfect fit for the Benchmade Bugout.
  • Aesthetically pleasing OD green color.

Cons

  • Price point may be higher than some other aftermarket scales.
  • Tritium vials are not replaceable.


Who Should Buy Glow Rhino Bugout Handle Scales OD?

The Glow Rhino Bugout Handle Scales OD are perfect for anyone who wants to upgrade their Benchmade Bugout with improved grip and enhanced low-light visibility. This includes:

  • Outdoor enthusiasts (hikers, campers, backpackers) who often find themselves in low-light situations.
  • Tactical users who require quick access to their knife in any environment.
  • Everyday carry enthusiasts who appreciate a functional and aesthetically pleasing upgrade.

Anyone primarily concerned with extreme weight savings might want to explore lighter alternatives, although the added weight of these scales is minimal. There are no must-have accessories needed, but an upgraded pocket clip is always a welcome addition to the Bugout.

Conclusion on Glow Rhino Bugout Handle Scales OD

The Glow Rhino Bugout Handle Scales OD are a worthwhile upgrade for any Benchmade Bugout owner looking for enhanced grip and low-light functionality. The price is justified by the quality of materials, the precision machining, and the invaluable addition of tritium illumination. I personally recommend the Glow Rhino Bugout Handle Scales OD to anyone who values quality, durability, and enhanced usability in their everyday carry knife. Upgrade your Bugout today and experience the difference!

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