Product Description
The Benchmade Bugout CF-Elite 535BK-2 delivers all-black stealth aesthetics, stiff carbon-reinforced handle construction, and ultralight EDC carry. Weighing just 1.80 ounces, this 535BK-2 variant pairs a 3.24" CPM-S30V drop point blade in a non-reflective Black Cerakote finish with molded Black CF-Elite handle scales and Benchmade's ambidextrous AXIS Lock mechanism.
CPM-S30V Stainless Steel is a workhorse powder metallurgy steel produced by Crucible Industries to deliver a proven balance of edge retention, toughness, and corrosion resistance. Hardened to 58–60 HRC, the 3.24" drop point blade features a non-reflective Black Cerakote polymer-ceramic coating for added surface durability and a flat grind at 0.090" thin for smooth, low-resistance slicing performance.
- Blade: 3.24" CPM-S30V drop point with Plain edge, Flat grind, Black Cerakote finish, 0.090" thick.
- Handle: Black CF-Elite (carbon-fiber reinforced nylon) scales with textured grip; Stainless steel liners; 4.22" closed, 1.80 oz.
- Deployment + Lock: Ambidextrous dual thumb studs; AXIS Lock mechanism.
- Carry: Reversible deep-carry tip-up pocket clip (right/left carry); 7.46" overall open length.
Ideal for: EDC buyers who want the lightest, stiffest all-black Bugout configuration, tactical users needing a non-reflective stealth folder, and anyone seeking maximum strength-to-weight ratio in a USA-made daily folder.
The Benchmade Bugout in CPM-S30V Black Cerakote with Black CF-Elite (535BK-2) ships same or next business day from Columbia, Louisiana. Knifeworks is an authorized Benchmade dealer.
Benchmade Bugout CF-Elite 535BK-2: Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the most common questions about the Benchmade Bugout CF-Elite (535BK-2).
What is CF-Elite handle material and how does it compare to Grivory?＋
CF-Elite is a carbon-fiber reinforced nylon composite material. It is molded like standard Grivory polymer, but the added carbon fibers increase handle stiffness and rigidity while shaving off a fraction of an ounce (1.80 oz vs 1.85 oz for standard Grivory models).
What steel is used for the Benchmade Bugout 535BK-2 blade?＋
The 535BK-2 features CPM-S30V powder metallurgy stainless steel hardened to 58–60 HRC with a Black Cerakote finish. Designed by Crucible Industries, CPM-S30V provides an optimal balance of edge holding, toughness, and corrosion resistance for daily cutting tasks.
How does the AXIS Lock work?＋
The AXIS Lock uses a hardened steel crossbar that slides forward into place over the blade tang when opened via the dual thumb studs. It provides a rock-solid, fully ambidextrous lockup that allows smooth one-handed opening and closing.
Where is the Benchmade 535BK-2 made, and what warranty covers it?＋
The Benchmade Bugout 535BK-2 is proudly made in Oregon City, Oregon, USA. Benchmade backs the knife with a Limited Lifetime Warranty and free LifeSharp lifetime tuning and sharpening service. Knifeworks does not warranty this product independently.
CPM-S30V STEEL · BLACK CERAKOTE · BLACK CF-ELITE
The Stiffest & Lightest USA-Made All-Black Bugout
A 1.80 oz folder featuring a 3.24" CPM-S30V Black Cerakote drop point blade, Black CF-Elite handle, and ambidextrous AXIS Lock. Questions? Our team carries these knives daily. We ship same or next business day from Columbia, Louisiana.
Call 888-225-9775
Warranty Information
Benchmade Warranty: Benchmade warrants that its genuine products are free from defects in material and workmanship for the life of the product. The warranty does not cover normal wear and tear, rust, accidents, misuse, improper maintenance, or alterations. Benchmade offers free lifetime LifeSharp services for sharpening and inspection. Contact Benchmade directly for warranty and LifeSharp support. Knifeworks does not warranty this product independently.Specifications
| Product Type | Folding Knife | |
| Brand | Benchmade | |
| Product Name | Bugout | |
| Model # | 535BK-2 | |
| Overall Length | 7.46 in | |
| Closed Length | 4.22 in | |
| Blade Length | 3.24 in | |
| Blade Thickness | 0.090 in | |
| Handle Thickness | 0.42 in | |
| Blade Material | CPM-S30V | |
| Blade Hardness (HRC) | 58-60 | |
| Blade Style | Drop Point | |
| Blade Edge | Plain | |
| Blade Grind | Flat | |
| Blade Finish | Black Cerakote | |
| Handle Material | CF-Elite | |
| Handle Finish | Black | |
| Lock Type | Axis Lock | |
| Clip Position | Reversible Tip Up | |
| Weight | 1.8 oz | |
| Origin | USA | |
| Blade Range | 3-3.49 |
