August Engineering Grenade Pattern Bugout 535 Handle Scales Review

First Impressions of August Engineering Grenade Pattern Bugout 535 Handle Scales

The Benchmade Bugout 535 is a fantastic EDC knife, known for its lightweight design and overall practicality. However, the stock handle scales, while functional, can feel a bit…plastic. The August Engineering Grenade Pattern Bugout 535 Handle Scales promise to address this by offering a more robust and visually appealing upgrade, transforming the Bugout into something truly special. These scales boast an aluminum construction and a unique grenade pattern, promising enhanced grip and durability.

I was looking for a way to add some heft and personality to my Bugout. The stock scales felt flimsy, and I wanted something that felt more secure in hand. I’d been eyeing aftermarket scales for a while, and the grenade pattern offered a unique aesthetic I hadn’t seen before.

Upon unboxing, the August Engineering Grenade Pattern Bugout 535 Handle Scales made a solid first impression. The aluminum felt substantial, and the machining looked clean. The black anodized finish was evenly applied, and the grenade pattern provided a surprisingly tactile feel.

I considered a few other options, including titanium scales and some G10 variants. Ultimately, I chose these because of the unique grenade pattern and the promise of enhanced grip. The price point also played a role; they offered a good balance of quality and affordability.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited about the potential upgrade in feel and aesthetics, but also a bit concerned about whether the scales would fit properly and how the added weight would affect the overall carry.

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Real-World Testing: Putting August Engineering Grenade Pattern Bugout 535 Handle Scales to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test of the August Engineering Grenade Pattern Bugout 535 Handle Scales involved a weekend camping trip in the nearby mountains. The Bugout accompanied me on various tasks, from food preparation to gear maintenance. The scales were immediately noticeably different in hand compared to the stock scales.

The weather was cooperative, offering a mix of sunshine and light rain. The grenade pattern proved to be especially useful when my hands were damp; it offered a significantly better grip than the smooth plastic scales. I found the knife easier to control, even with wet hands.

Installation was straightforward, taking about 15 minutes with a few basic tools. The fit was snug, with no noticeable play or wobble. The increased weight felt good in hand, adding a sense of solidity without making the knife feel bulky.

Initially, I noticed a slight increase in the overall thickness of the knife. This didn’t create hotspots in my grip but took a little getting used to when reaching into my pocket.

Extended Use & Reliability

After three months of near-daily carry and use, the August Engineering Grenade Pattern Bugout 535 Handle Scales have held up remarkably well. There are no signs of loosening, and the anodized finish still looks great. The grenade pattern shows no signs of wear, and the grip remains excellent.

I’ve used the knife for everything from opening packages to whittling wood. It’s even seen some light prying (something I wouldn’t recommend as a general practice, but sometimes necessity dictates). The aluminum scales show no signs of bending or cracking.

Maintenance has been minimal. I simply wipe the scales down with a damp cloth occasionally to remove any dirt or grime. No special cleaning products are required.

Compared to my previous experience with stock Bugout scales, these are a significant improvement. The aluminum construction provides a much more solid and secure feel, and the grenade pattern enhances grip considerably. They’ve transformed the Bugout from a lightweight, almost disposable knife into a more substantial and reliable tool.

Breaking Down the Features of August Engineering Grenade Pattern Bugout 535 Handle Scales

Specifications

The August Engineering Grenade Pattern Bugout 535 Handle Scales are designed specifically to fit the Benchmade Bugout 535. They are constructed from aluminum, providing a significant upgrade in durability over the stock plastic scales. The color is black, achieved through an anodized finish.

The scales are listed with a weight of 1 lb. However, this is likely the shipping weight and not the actual weight of the scales themselves. In practice, the scales add a noticeable, but not burdensome, amount of weight to the Bugout.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the knife’s feel, durability, and grip. The aluminum construction adds a sense of quality and solidity, while the anodized finish provides corrosion resistance. The grenade pattern is not just aesthetic; it drastically improves grip, especially in wet or slippery conditions.

Performance & Functionality

The August Engineering Grenade Pattern Bugout 535 Handle Scales significantly enhance the overall performance and functionality of the Benchmade Bugout 535. They provide a more secure and comfortable grip, improving control and reducing the risk of slippage. The increased weight adds a sense of stability, making the knife feel more substantial and capable.

The primary strength of these scales is their enhanced grip and durability. The grenade pattern offers excellent traction, even in challenging conditions. The aluminum construction is far more resistant to wear and tear than the stock plastic scales.

One potential weakness is the added weight, which may be a concern for those who prioritize ultra-lightweight carry. The slightly increased thickness may also require some adjustment for those accustomed to the slim profile of the stock Bugout. However, for most users, the benefits far outweigh these minor drawbacks. They exceeded my expectations, giving me a new appreciation for my Bugout.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the August Engineering Grenade Pattern Bugout 535 Handle Scales is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The grenade pattern is not only visually striking but also provides excellent grip. The black anodized finish is durable and complements the overall look of the Bugout.

The build quality is excellent. The aluminum is precisely machined, and the anodized finish is evenly applied. The scales feel solid and well-made.

There is no significant learning curve. The scales are easy to install, and the improved grip is immediately noticeable. The slightly increased thickness may take a little getting used to, but it does not negatively impact ergonomics.

Durability & Maintenance

The August Engineering Grenade Pattern Bugout 535 Handle Scales are built to last. The aluminum construction is highly resistant to wear and tear, and the anodized finish provides excellent corrosion resistance. With proper care, these scales should easily outlast the stock plastic scales.

Maintenance is simple. Occasional cleaning with a damp cloth is all that is required to keep the scales looking their best. No special tools or cleaning products are needed.

Accessories and Customization Options

The August Engineering Grenade Pattern Bugout 535 Handle Scales do not come with any accessories. They are designed as a direct replacement for the stock handle scales. However, the Bugout itself is highly customizable, with a wide range of aftermarket parts available.

These scales are compatible with most standard Bugout accessories, such as aftermarket pocket clips and thumb studs. They do not interfere with the knife’s locking mechanism or blade deployment. The scales provide a solid foundation for further customization.

Pros and Cons of August Engineering Grenade Pattern Bugout 535 Handle Scales

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Who Should Buy August Engineering Grenade Pattern Bugout 535 Handle Scales?

The August Engineering Grenade Pattern Bugout 535 Handle Scales are perfect for Benchmade Bugout 535 owners who want to upgrade the feel, durability, and aesthetics of their knife. They are ideal for anyone who uses their Bugout regularly and wants a more secure and reliable grip. This product is also great for those who appreciate a personalized look and want to make their knife stand out.

Anyone overly concerned with keeping their Bugout feather-light might want to skip this product. Also, individuals who prefer the smooth, unobtrusive feel of the stock plastic scales may not appreciate the added texture of the grenade pattern.

A higher-quality aftermarket pocket clip would be a worthwhile addition to complement these scales.

Conclusion on August Engineering Grenade Pattern Bugout 535 Handle Scales

The August Engineering Grenade Pattern Bugout 535 Handle Scales are a worthwhile upgrade for any Benchmade Bugout 535 owner looking to enhance the feel, durability, and aesthetics of their knife. They offer a significant improvement over the stock plastic scales, providing a more secure grip, increased durability, and a personalized look. The price of $38.99 is justified by the quality of the materials and the overall improvement in performance.

I would highly recommend these scales to anyone who uses their Bugout regularly and wants a more substantial and reliable tool. They have transformed my Bugout from a lightweight EDC knife into something I truly enjoy carrying and using.

If you’re looking to give your Bugout a serious upgrade, don’t hesitate to grab a set of these scales. You won’t be disappointed!