First Impressions of Flytanium Crossfade Bugout Scales Canvas
The Benchmade Bugout is a wildly popular knife, prized for its lightweight design and everyday carry practicality. However, its factory scales, while functional, often leave something to be desired in terms of feel and aesthetics. That’s where the Flytanium Crossfade Bugout Scales Canvas come in. These scales promise to elevate the Bugout experience with a more substantial, tactile, and visually appealing upgrade.
I’ve always appreciated the Bugout’s utility, but its stock scales felt a bit too flimsy for my liking; I longed for a more premium feel. I sought a scale replacement that would add some heft and durability without compromising the Bugout’s slim profile. The promise of a green canvas micarta construction and a unique crossfade pattern drew me to the Flytanium Crossfade Bugout Scales Canvas.
Upon receiving the scales, my initial impression was positive. The green canvas micarta felt solid and well-textured in my hands, a definite upgrade over the stock polymer. The build quality appeared excellent, with clean lines and precisely machined edges. These scales seemed to be a worthwhile upgrade.
Compared to other aftermarket Bugout scales I’ve considered, such as those made from aluminum or titanium, the Flytanium Crossfade Bugout Scales Canvas offered a compelling combination of durability and grip. Aluminum can be slippery, and titanium can be expensive. The micarta construction seemed to strike a perfect balance. I chose these particular scales because I valued the enhanced grip and rugged aesthetic that canvas micarta provides.
My first impression was one of excitement. The Flytanium Crossfade Bugout Scales Canvas promised to transform my Bugout from a simple EDC knife into a more personalized and substantial tool. The feel of the micarta was excellent, and I was eager to install them and see how they performed in real-world use.
Real-World Testing: Putting Flytanium Crossfade Bugout Scales Canvas to the Test
First Use Experience
I installed the Flytanium Crossfade Bugout Scales Canvas on my Bugout and immediately took it with me on a weekend camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. The weather was damp and humid, providing a good test for the micarta’s grip in less-than-ideal conditions. I used the knife for various camp tasks, including food preparation, feather sticking, and cutting cordage.
The micarta scales provided a noticeably improved grip compared to the factory scales, especially when my hands were wet. The added heft also made the knife feel more substantial and controlled during use. Installation was straightforward, utilizing the existing hardware from the stock knife. There were no unexpected issues with fit or alignment.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular carry and use, the Flytanium Crossfade Bugout Scales Canvas have held up remarkably well. There are no signs of cracking, chipping, or significant wear on the micarta. The color has slightly darkened with use, which I find adds to the character of the scales.
Maintenance has been minimal; I simply wipe the scales down with a damp cloth occasionally to remove dirt and debris. The micarta has proven to be resistant to stains and discoloration. Compared to my previous experience with aftermarket aluminum scales on other knives, the Flytanium Crossfade Bugout Scales Canvas are significantly more durable and offer a far superior grip. These scales genuinely elevated the knife’s functionality.
Breaking Down the Features of Flytanium Crossfade Bugout Scales Canvas
Specifications
- The Flytanium Crossfade Bugout Scales Canvas are specifically designed to fit the Benchmade Bugout knife. This ensures a precise fit and easy installation.
- They are constructed from green canvas micarta, a durable and grippy material known for its resistance to wear and tear. The micarta provides a more premium feel compared to the Bugout’s stock polymer scales.
- The scales weigh approximately 0.04 lb, adding a minimal amount of weight to the knife without compromising its lightweight design. This extra weight contributes to a more substantial and controlled feel in hand.
- Installation requires the use of hardware from the stock knife, making the process simple and straightforward. This eliminates the need to purchase additional screws or standoffs.
- The scales are bulk packed, meaning they are shipped without fancy packaging, focusing on the product itself. This helps keep the cost down.
Performance & Functionality
The Flytanium Crossfade Bugout Scales Canvas significantly enhance the Bugout’s performance and functionality. The improved grip provided by the micarta scales offers better control and confidence during use, especially in wet or slippery conditions. The added weight also contributes to a more solid and balanced feel in hand.
The scales address one of the primary criticisms of the stock Bugout: its somewhat flimsy feel. These scales make the knife feel more substantial and durable. There’s really nothing I would improve about these scales; they meet my expectations perfectly.
Design & Ergonomics
The Flytanium Crossfade Bugout Scales Canvas feature a well-designed and ergonomic shape. The crossfade pattern provides a subtle yet effective texture for enhanced grip. The scales are comfortable to hold for extended periods, even during demanding tasks.
The build quality is excellent, with precise machining and clean lines. The scales fit seamlessly with the Bugout’s frame, creating a cohesive and visually appealing aesthetic. There was no real learning curve; the scales feel immediately familiar and comfortable in hand.
Durability & Maintenance
The canvas micarta construction of the Flytanium Crossfade Bugout Scales Canvas ensures excellent durability. The material is resistant to wear, tear, and discoloration. With proper care, these scales should last for years of regular use.
Maintenance is simple; wiping the scales down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and debris. The micarta is also resistant to most common solvents and cleaning agents. The scales appear quite repairable, but given their durability, repairs should be infrequent.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Flytanium Crossfade Bugout Scales Canvas themselves do not come with any additional accessories. However, they are compatible with all standard Bugout hardware and accessories, allowing for further customization. Users can choose to add aftermarket pocket clips, lanyards, or backspacers to personalize their knife.
The scales are also compatible with various aftermarket thumb studs and axis lock bars, further enhancing the Bugout’s functionality and aesthetics. The potential for customization is vast.
Pros and Cons of Flytanium Crossfade Bugout Scales Canvas
Pros
- Enhanced Grip: The canvas micarta provides a significantly improved grip compared to the stock scales, especially in wet or slippery conditions.
- Improved Durability: The micarta construction is more durable than the factory polymer, offering greater resistance to wear and tear.
- Premium Feel: The scales add a more substantial and premium feel to the Bugout, elevating its overall quality.
- Easy Installation: Installation is straightforward, utilizing the existing hardware from the stock knife.
- Aesthetic Upgrade: The green canvas micarta and crossfade pattern provide a visually appealing and unique aesthetic.
Cons
- Adding aftermarket scales will void Benchmade’s warranty.
- The canvas micarta may darken over time with use, which may not be desirable for all users.
Who Should Buy Flytanium Crossfade Bugout Scales Canvas?
The Flytanium Crossfade Bugout Scales Canvas are perfect for Benchmade Bugout owners who want to improve the grip, durability, and overall feel of their knife. They are ideal for:
- Everyday carry enthusiasts: Those who use their Bugout regularly and want a more comfortable and reliable grip.
- Outdoor adventurers: Hikers, campers, and backpackers who need a durable and grippy knife for demanding tasks.
- Knife collectors: Individuals who appreciate high-quality materials and craftsmanship and want to enhance the aesthetic appeal of their Bugout.
Those who should skip this product include individuals who are satisfied with the stock Bugout scales and are not concerned about upgrading the grip or durability. Also, individuals who prioritize maintaining Benchmade’s warranty may want to avoid this upgrade.
A must-have accessory or modification to pair with the Flytanium Crossfade Bugout Scales Canvas would be a high-quality aftermarket pocket clip. This will further enhance the knife’s carry comfort and accessibility.
Conclusion on Flytanium Crossfade Bugout Scales Canvas
The Flytanium Crossfade Bugout Scales Canvas are an excellent upgrade for the Benchmade Bugout. They offer a significant improvement in grip, durability, and overall feel compared to the stock scales. The canvas micarta construction provides a premium feel and a unique aesthetic.
At $45.49, the price is justified for the quality and performance offered. The scales are a worthwhile investment for anyone who wants to elevate their Bugout experience.
I would personally recommend the Flytanium Crossfade Bugout Scales Canvas to any Bugout owner looking for a substantial upgrade. These scales will transform your knife into a more capable and enjoyable tool. Upgrade your Bugout today!
