Benchmade Bugout vs Griptilian: Which Knife Is Best for EDC?
Updated: September 2025 • Author: Blade City Editorial
The Benchmade Bugout 535 and the Benchmade Griptilian series (including the Mini Griptilian 556) are arguably the two most talked-about everyday carry knives from Benchmade. Both feature the famous AXIS® lock, premium steels, and Benchmade’s warranty—but their personalities couldn’t be more different. This guide breaks down design philosophy, ergonomics, blade geometry, and real-world EDC performance to help you decide which belongs in your pocket.
Origins & Design Philosophy
The Griptilian has been a cornerstone of Benchmade’s lineup since the early 2000s. Designed with utility and comfort in mind, it was marketed as a “do-everything” knife for blue-collar EDC. The beefier handle and multiple blade shape options (drop point, sheepsfoot, tanto) made it a versatile workhorse.
The Bugout, on the other hand, launched with ultralight carry as its mission—built around hikers, backpackers, and minimalists who wanted full-length cutting performance in the lightest possible package. Where the Griptilian favors rugged utility, the Bugout favors pocketability.
Size, Weight & Carry Comfort
Bugout: ~1.8 oz for a 3.24" blade. With a deep-carry clip and slim scales, it virtually disappears in jeans, chinos, or even gym shorts. If carry comfort is your #1 priority, Bugout is the clear winner.
Griptilian: Full-size ~3.8 oz with a 3.45" blade; the Mini Grip ~2.5 oz with a 2.91" blade. It fills the pocket more and doesn’t vanish like the Bugout—but gives you more to hold onto.
Blade Shapes & Performance
Both knives excel at everyday slicing, but blade shapes set them apart:
- Bugout: Slim drop point, slicey grind—optimized for cardboard, food prep, and daily cutting.
- Griptilian: Slightly thicker stock; offered in drop point, sheepsfoot, and tanto. It tolerates rougher jobs and tip-stabbing better than the Bugout.
Ergonomics & Handle Design
Bugout: Scales are slim—great for pocket, less so for prolonged hard use. Many users upgrade to aluminum, titanium, or carbon fiber aftermarket scales for stiffness and feel.
Griptilian: Ergonomics are outstanding. The handle is fuller, with palm swells and jimping that lock your hand in. It feels secure for extended work, even if it takes more space in pocket.
Steel & Edge Retention
Benchmade rotates steels depending on trim, but generally:
- Bugout: Frequently CPM S30V in base models; premium trims may use S90V or M390.
- Griptilian: Historically 154CM; common current trims use S30V, with variants and specials appearing over time.
Best Use Cases
- Bugout: Minimalist carry, hikers, ultralight EDC, urban users who value comfort and slicing performance.
- Griptilian: Trades, outdoors, glove use, long cutting sessions, users who want a more substantial tool in hand.
Benchmade Bugout vs Griptilian: Specs Comparison
| Spec | Bugout 535 | Griptilian 551 | Mini Griptilian 556 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Blade Length | 3.24 in | 3.45 in | 2.91 in |
| Weight | 1.8 oz | 3.8 oz | 2.5 oz |
| Blade Stock | ~0.09 in | ~0.12 in | ~0.10 in |
| Steel | S30V (base) | S30V (base) | S30V (base) |
| Ergonomics | Slim, minimalist | Fuller, palm swell | Compact, secure grip |
| Carry Clip | Deep carry | Standard / aftermarket deep options | Standard / aftermarket deep options |
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the Bugout if: You want a knife that disappears in pocket, prioritize weight savings, and mainly slice through cardboard, food, and packaging. Perfect for office carry, hikers, and anyone who values “carry comfort.”
Choose the Griptilian if: You want a more robust handle, need to use the knife for extended periods, or prefer multiple blade shape options. Great for tradesmen, campers, and anyone who values ergonomics over ounces.
Explore our full Benchmade lineup:
FAQ
Is the Bugout stronger than the Griptilian?
No—the Griptilian’s thicker blade stock and fuller handle make it stronger under heavy use. Bugout is strong enough for EDC but is optimized for light weight.
Which knife has better ergonomics?
Griptilian. The palm swells and handle shape are more comfortable in long sessions. Bugout feels slim and minimal but less hand-filling.
Which carries better in pocket?
The Bugout. It is lighter, slimmer, and uses a deep carry clip. Griptilian is thicker and more noticeable.
Can lefties use both knives?
Yes—AXIS® lock is ambidextrous, and both have reversible clips.
Which is more affordable?
Both start at similar price points, though Bugout can run slightly higher in premium versions. Griptilian often has budget-friendlier base trims.
