Benchmade is a company of many names, at least historically. Bali-Song was the original company name, followed by the Pacific Cutlery Corporation, then Benchmade in 1988. One thing has always remained the same, however, they’re exceptional blades.
Two of the most popular folding knives to come out of the Benchmark machine recently are the Benchmade Bugout and the Benchmade Griptilian. Both folding knives are relatively short but there is more to the Bugout vs Griptilian comparison than just blade lengths.
Both knives feature CPM-S30V steel blades, polymer handles (Noryl GTX), and an AXIS lock mechanism. Both feature the trademark butterfly insignia carefully etched into the blade. So what truly separates these two, and does one deserve a place in your pocket over the other?
Bugout vs Griptilian – Detailed Comparison
Bugout
The term bugout comes from the apocalypse scenario—when you must pack a bag with all your survival essentials and “bug out.” It’s called a “bugout bag,” and the Benchmade Bugout knife is representative of that ideal.
While there are some knocks here and there against the CPM S30V steel, it’s only a matter of modernity, especially since the standards in steel blades have advanced in recent years.
However, there is nothing wrong with S30V steel. It’s a high standard, retains excellent corrosion resistance, has solid edge retention, and maintains long-term durability.
Specifications
- Lock Mechanism: AXIS
- Country of Manufacture: USA
- Weight: 1.85 ounces
- Blade Material: CPM-S30V
- Blade Length: 3.2”
- Handle and Blade Length: 7.5”
- Handle: Polymer
- Blade Design: Drop Point
Blade
As we mentioned above, the blade is manufactured in CPM S30V steel. While it’s not going to blow your socks off in terms of modern steel technology, S30V is solid, quality steel. It also holds an edge well, and you don’t have to work it to sharpen it.
Officially 3.24 inches long and .09” thick, the Bugout blade is the perfect tool for quick-cutting needs, like opening a box, trimming your nails, slicing through paracord, or cutting up a pear. In other words, it’s the right blade for several ordinary, everyday tasks.
Design and materials
The handle is made with Noryl GTX Polymer with anodized aluminum studs on each side of the blade. The locking mechanism is well executed in function, allowing you to pull down the lock to release the blade without placing skin in front of the cutting edge. It also features phosphor bronze washers and extremely thin Grivory scales.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Practical
- Solid, longlasting S30V blade
- Excellent AXIS locking mechanism
- Solid grip
- Warranty include blade replacement
Cons
- Pricey for standard specs
- Handle has a cheap feel
Griptilian
The Griptilian is the larger, heavier folding knife of the two, designed for tasks that Benchmade labels “tactical.” That doesn’t mean you’re going to be joining the local SWAT team, but it’s definitely a knife designed for slightly heavier use.
Like the Bugout, the Griptilian is not going to stand out in a crowded field of premium pocket knives. But Benchmade isn’t going for a beauty pageant here—but for practicality and usefulness.
Specifications
- Lock Mechanism: AXIS
- Country of Manufacture: USA
- Weight: 3.82 ounces
- Blade Material: CPM-S30V
- Blade Length: 3.45”
- Handle and Blade Length: 8.07”
- Handle: Polymer
- Blade Design: Drop Point
Blade
Mel Pardue is the specialist behind the blades at Benchmark, and he is known for his exceptional quality. The Griptilian Blade is slightly longer than the Bugout and manufactured in the same, CPM-S30V steel.
The edge retention is excellent, and it’s very easy to sharpen. Like all Benchmade knives, the signature engraved butterfly stamp is present as well. The cutting power and finesse are what you would expect from a Benchmark blade, which always manufactures stand-out blades.
Design and materials
Though this is considered to be a lightweight folding knife, it’s almost three times heavier than the Bugout, and it definitely takes up some extra space in your pocket. The handle is Noryl GTX Polymer with plenty of grip and a natural feel.
The AXIS locking system is present and as functional and responsive as the Bugout. The Griptilian features a jimping as well, which is something that Bugout distinctly lacks. The jimping isn’t very long, but it’s effective and comfortable in conjunction with the blade length.
Pros
- Durable, well-made folding knife
- Pocket clip is reversible
- Features a jimping for extra cutting grip
- AXIS lock system is fantastic
- Solid grip
Cons
- Pricey for standard specs
- Might be too large for some pockets
Similarities Between the Two
From a picture standpoint, the two knives are identical. However, the Griptilian is the larger, heavier folding knife and the addition of the jimping on the Griptilian is both an aesthetic and useful difference. Both knives feature the same steel and similar blade length.
Both knives also feature the same polymer handle, locking mechanism, and thin, Grivory scales for improved grip.
Which is the best for EDC
Due to the size of the Griptilian, the Benchmark Bugout is the knife with the better EDC design. For some with smaller pockets, the Griptilian may be too much. The Bugout is more than capable of handling everyday tasks with an added degree of portability as well.
Bottom Line
Benchmark has a long and storied history of manufacturing excellence, long-lasting, superior knives. With Mel Pardue behind the blade design, that’s not likely to end anytime soon. In terms of versatility and everyday use, both the Griptilian and the Bugout excel.
The heavier weight and larger size of the Griptilian may place it on the back burner in favor of the Bugout for some, though it will most likely boil down to pure preference. Either knife is more than capable of handling everyday tasks.
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