First Impressions of Flytanium Bugout Backspacer
The Flytanium Bugout Backspacer is a small, seemingly insignificant piece of metal, but it has the potential to dramatically alter the feel and performance of one of the most popular EDC knives on the market: the Benchmade Bugout. I’ve been carrying a Bugout for years, but always felt it lacked a certain heft and rigidity. The Flytanium backspacer, promising to address those issues with a robust brass construction and custom fit, piqued my interest immediately.
For years, I have tinkered and upgraded all my gear, striving for the perfect balance of form and function. The Bugout’s flexible scales and somewhat hollow feel were constant nagging points. I was looking for a simple, effective way to add some rigidity and premium feel to my Bugout without completely replacing the scales.
Upon receiving the Flytanium Bugout Backspacer, I was immediately impressed by its simple, yet elegant design. The antique stonewash finish on the brass gives it a rugged, yet refined look. The weight, while minimal on its own, felt substantial enough to make a difference when installed. Compared to some cheaper, plastic backspacers I’ve seen, the Flytanium offering exudes quality. My initial thought was “this is exactly what my Bugout needed.”
Real-World Testing: Putting Flytanium Bugout Backspacer to the Test
First Use Experience
Installation of the Flytanium Bugout Backspacer was straightforward, thanks to numerous online tutorials for disassembling the Bugout. I first tested the backspacer on a backcountry hiking trip through the White Mountains of New Hampshire. The environment was varied and demanded consistent high performance from all my gear. The addition of the backspacer immediately improved the ergonomics of the Bugout, making it feel more solid and secure in hand, especially when making detailed cuts in the woods.
The wet conditions didn’t seem to affect the backspacer’s performance at all. The stonewashed brass finish provided ample grip even when my hands were damp. There were no surprises, only a noticeable improvement in the overall handling of the knife.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular carry and use, the Flytanium Bugout Backspacer has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of loosening or wear, and the brass has developed a beautiful, natural patina over time. Cleaning is simple – a quick wipe with a cloth is usually all it takes to remove any accumulated grime.
Compared to my previous experience with the stock Bugout, the Flytanium Backspacer is a significant upgrade. The knife feels more substantial and trustworthy, inspiring greater confidence during demanding tasks. The improved ergonomics and rigidity have eliminated the “flex” that always bothered me about the original Bugout scales.
Breaking Down the Features of Flytanium Bugout Backspacer
Specifications
- Material: Antique stonewash finish brass construction provides robust strength and a premium look. The brass is durable and resistant to corrosion in normal use.
- Compatibility: Fits both stock and Flytanium Benchmade Bugout scales ensures a wide range of compatibility for Bugout owners. This makes it a versatile upgrade option.
- Finish: Antique stonewash finish not only looks good but also adds a bit of texture for better grip. It also hides minor scratches and wear well.
- Bulk Packed: Ships without fancy retail packaging, keeping the cost down. It is an efficient way to deliver the product.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the feel, durability, and overall value of the upgrade. The brass construction adds weight and rigidity, while the stonewash finish provides both aesthetic appeal and functional grip.
Performance & Functionality
The Flytanium Bugout Backspacer excels at its primary function: improving the structural integrity and ergonomics of the Benchmade Bugout. It eliminates the flex in the scales, making the knife feel more solid and reliable during use. The added weight, though minimal, contributes to a more balanced and controlled feel in hand.
The main strength is the significant improvement in the overall feel of the knife. It is also easy to install and requires no specialized tools. The only potential weakness is the brass material, which can develop a patina over time (though many users consider this a positive aesthetic trait). Overall, it far exceeds expectations for such a simple accessory.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Flytanium Bugout Backspacer is simple yet effective. The brass material adds a touch of class to the Bugout, while the stonewash finish complements the knife’s utilitarian aesthetic. The weight and thickness are perfectly balanced to provide added rigidity without making the knife feel bulky or unwieldy.
Installation is straightforward, and the ergonomic improvement is immediately noticeable. There’s virtually no learning curve – it’s a simple and intuitive upgrade.
Durability & Maintenance
The Flytanium Bugout Backspacer is built to last. The brass construction is incredibly durable, and the stonewash finish helps to conceal any minor scratches or wear. Maintenance is minimal; a quick wipe with a cloth is usually sufficient to keep it clean.
With proper care, it should easily outlast the lifespan of the knife itself. This robust durability makes it a great value addition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Flytanium Bugout Backspacer is a standalone upgrade and does not come with any additional accessories. Its primary function is to enhance the existing structure and feel of the Bugout. However, it is compatible with a wide range of aftermarket scales and hardware for the Bugout, allowing for further customization.
Many Bugout owners pair the backspacer with aftermarket titanium or micarta scales for a truly custom look and feel. This enhances the overall appearance of the knife.
Pros and Cons of Flytanium Bugout Backspacer
Pros
- Significantly improves the rigidity and feel of the Bugout.
- Durable brass construction with an attractive stonewash finish.
- Easy to install with readily available online tutorials.
- Compatible with both stock and Flytanium scales.
- Adds a subtle, premium touch to the knife’s aesthetic.
Cons
- Brass material will develop a patina over time, which may not appeal to all users.
- Adds a slight amount of weight to the knife (although most will see this as a positive).
Who Should Buy Flytanium Bugout Backspacer?
The Flytanium Bugout Backspacer is perfect for Benchmade Bugout owners who want to improve the knife’s structural integrity and ergonomics. It’s also a great option for those who appreciate high-quality materials and a touch of personalization. The added rigidity makes it ideal for anyone using their Bugout for more demanding EDC tasks.
Those who prefer a lightweight, minimalist knife might want to skip this product. The added weight, though minimal, could be a concern for some users. The backspacer does add some heft to the overall package.
A must-have accessory to complement the backspacer would be aftermarket scales. Choosing a set of Flytanium or other high-quality scales can truly transform the Bugout into a custom, high-performance EDC tool.
Conclusion on Flytanium Bugout Backspacer
The Flytanium Bugout Backspacer is a simple yet transformative upgrade for the Benchmade Bugout. It addresses the knife’s primary weakness – its flexible scales – while adding a touch of premium quality and personalization. The price of $26.99 is more than justified considering the significant improvement in feel and performance.
I would personally highly recommend it to any Bugout owner looking to enhance their knife. It is the ideal upgrade for people who want better feel from the Bugout.
If you’re on the fence, take the plunge – you won’t be disappointed. Upgrade your Bugout today and experience the difference!