First Impressions of August Engineering Bugout 535 Brass Washers
The August Engineering Bugout 535 Brass Washers might seem like an insignificant upgrade at first glance, but for those of us who appreciate the finer details of knife mechanics, they represent a world of potential improvement. Designed specifically for the popular Benchmade Bugout 535, these brass washers promise a smoother, more refined action, addressing a common complaint among Bugout owners: the sometimes gritty or inconsistent deployment. This isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about enhancing the overall functionality and feel of a knife that many rely on daily.
My journey to these washers began with a quest for the perfect Bugout. The Bugout, despite its incredible lightweight design and popularity, always felt like it could be elevated further. I found myself drawn to these August Engineering washers as a potential solution, hoping to unlock the full potential of my knife’s action.
Upon receiving the package, the first thing I noticed was the simplicity of the product. Inside the small pack were six brass washers. They were clean, precisely cut, and visually appealing, hinting at the precision engineering behind them.
I considered other options, like lubricating the existing washers or even trying Teflon washers. However, the allure of brass – known for its smooth gliding properties and resistance to corrosion – ultimately swayed my decision. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism; could such a small and inexpensive upgrade truly make a noticeable difference?
Real-World Testing: Putting August Engineering Bugout 535 Brass Washers to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the August Engineering Bugout 535 Brass Washers involved a complete disassembly and reassembly of my Bugout, a task I’ve performed countless times with various knives. The brass washers replaced the original plastic ones. Immediately, I noticed a difference in the smoothness of the blade deployment.
I tested the knife in my workshop, a moderately dusty environment. The brass washers provided a noticeable reduction in friction compared to the factory plastic washers. The blade opened and closed with a more deliberate and controlled feel.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of carry and use, the August Engineering Bugout 535 Brass Washers have proven to be a worthwhile upgrade. The initial smoothness hasn’t diminished. It’s remained consistent throughout my daily tasks.
The brass washers have shown no signs of wear or corrosion despite exposure to moisture and pocket lint. Maintenance has been minimal; a simple wipe down with a clean cloth is all that’s required. Compared to my previous experience with the stock washers, which often felt gritty and required frequent lubrication, these brass washers have significantly improved the knife’s overall performance and reliability.
Breaking Down the Features of August Engineering Bugout 535 Brass Washers
Specifications
The August Engineering Bugout 535 Brass Washers are designed specifically for the Benchmade Bugout 535. Each pack contains six brass washers. The material is brass, chosen for its low coefficient of friction and corrosion resistance.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the knife’s action and longevity. The use of brass ensures a smoother, more consistent deployment. Also, it reduces wear on the blade and handle.
Performance & Functionality
The August Engineering Bugout 535 Brass Washers perform admirably, delivering a noticeable improvement in the Bugout’s action. The knife opens and closes smoothly with less resistance. This provides a more refined and enjoyable user experience.
The main strength is the enhanced smoothness. Another strength is the reduced friction. The only potential weakness is that brass might be slightly softer than steel, although this hasn’t presented any issues in my testing. Overall, they meet and exceed my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the August Engineering Bugout 535 Brass Washers is simple and functional. They are precisely cut to the correct dimensions for the Bugout 535. The brass material provides a subtle aesthetic upgrade compared to the plastic stock washers.
They are incredibly user-friendly. They require no special tools or skills to install. The slight increase in weight is negligible. This adds no discomfort to the knife’s overall ergonomics.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my weeks of testing, I expect the August Engineering Bugout 535 Brass Washers to last for a significant amount of time. Brass is a durable material that resists corrosion. Also, it holds up well to repeated use.
Maintenance is straightforward. Regular cleaning of the knife is sufficient. The washers themselves require no special care.
Accessories and Customization Options
The August Engineering Bugout 535 Brass Washers themselves are an accessory, designed to enhance the performance of the Benchmade Bugout 535. While there are no specific accessories designed solely for use with these washers, they complement any other modifications made to the knife, such as aftermarket scales or thumb studs. They are compatible with most Bugout 535 configurations.
Pros and Cons of August Engineering Bugout 535 Brass Washers
Pros
- Enhanced Smoothness: The brass washers significantly improve the smoothness of the Bugout’s action. This offers a more refined and enjoyable user experience.
- Reduced Friction: The brass material reduces friction. This results in easier blade deployment and less wear on the knife’s components.
- Corrosion Resistance: Brass is naturally corrosion-resistant. This makes these washers a durable and long-lasting upgrade.
- Easy Installation: Installation is simple. This makes this a user-friendly upgrade for even novice knife enthusiasts.
- Affordable Upgrade: At $7.99, these washers offer a significant performance boost at a very reasonable price.
Cons
- Material Softness: While durable, brass is softer than steel. This could potentially lead to wear over extremely long periods, although I haven’t observed this in my testing.
- Limited Compatibility: These washers are designed specifically for the Benchmade Bugout 535. They may not fit other knife models.
Who Should Buy August Engineering Bugout 535 Brass Washers?
The August Engineering Bugout 535 Brass Washers are perfect for Benchmade Bugout 535 owners. Also, knife enthusiasts are looking for an affordable and effective way to improve their knife’s action. Those who appreciate smooth and reliable performance will find these washers to be a worthwhile upgrade.
Individuals who are completely satisfied with the stock Bugout’s action or who are hesitant to disassemble their knife may want to skip this product. You’ll need to disassemble your knife. A must-have accessory is a high-quality knife lubricant to further enhance the smoothness after installation.
Conclusion on August Engineering Bugout 535 Brass Washers
The August Engineering Bugout 535 Brass Washers are a simple yet effective upgrade that significantly enhances the performance of the Benchmade Bugout 535. They offer a noticeable improvement in smoothness and reliability at an incredibly affordable price. The value proposition is excellent. For only $7.99, you get a substantial upgrade to your knife’s action.
I would personally recommend these washers to any Bugout 535 owner looking to elevate their knife’s performance. Don’t settle for a gritty action. Upgrade to the August Engineering Bugout 535 Brass Washers and experience the Bugout as it was meant to be: smooth, reliable, and a joy to use.