Benchmade Bugout Scales – Installation
In this video, we’ll guide you step by step through the process of replacing Benchmade Bugout Scales on your Benchmade Bugout knife. We’ll also provide some tips and tricks to help you avoid any potential issues during the replacement process. So, let’s get started!
Before we begin, it’s important to note that Benchmade does not offer replacement handles for their knives. However, there are several aftermarket options available from reputable manufacturers that will fit your Benchmade Bugout. One of the most popular options is the Aimfront Benchmade Bugout handle kit.
Installing your new Aimfront Scales
Step 1:
Gather Your Materials To replace the handles of your Benchmade Bugout, you will need the following materials:
-
- Aimfront Benchmade Bugout handle kit
- Torx screwdriver set (T6 and T10 sizes)
- Benchmade Bugout knife
- Loctite 242 or 222
What is a scale? Knife handles are referred to as scales. You will see handles and scales used interchangeably in this article.
Step 2:
Remove the Pocket Clip and set it aside. Flip the knife over and remove the pivot screw (just the screw and leave the pivot in place). Remove the four T-6 screws and remove the scale. Place the new Aimfront scale in place and place the 4 screws after the scale is aligned. Snug the screws, but don’t tighten them.
Step 3:
Flip the knife over to the other side. Remove the four scales. Follow the video closely when removing the pivot so the phosphorus bronze washers stay in place. Remove the factory scale and align the new Aimfront scale. Install the center T-6 screw (don’t tighten… just snug). Follow the video to prepare and install the Pivot. After installing the pivot, install the T-10 Torx pivot screw, after applying a drop of thread locker on the threads. Flip the knife back over and install the remaining three T-6 Torx screws. Snug the screws, but don’t tighten them.
Step 4:
Center the Blade as demonstrated in the video. After the blade has been centered, tighten the T-10 Torx screw. Now you can tighten the remaining T-6 Torx screws on both sides of the knife. We recommend using a thread locker on the pivot and the body/pocket clip screws. Loctite 242 or Loctite 222 will work great to keep your screws in place. After installing the pocket clip adjust the pivot screw tension to dial in the “flip” of the blade. This will come down to personal preference and will most likely be tweaked slightly after several flips.
Step 5:
Test the Knife Once the new handles are installed, test your Benchmade Bugout knife to ensure that everything is working properly. Check the blade centering, the smoothness of the action, and the fit and finish of the new handles.
Congratulations! You’ve successfully replaced the handles of your Benchmade Bugout knife. Now you can enjoy your customized knife with confidence.
FAQs:
Yes, you can replace the handles of your Benchmade Bugout with custom-made handles as long as they are designed to fit the Bugout model specifically.
Yes, you will need a Torx screwdriver set with T6 and T10 sizes to remove the screws and install the new handles.
It is possible to damage your knife if you are not careful during the replacement process.
This is a grey area. If you cause any damage to the knife while installing the scales it is safe to say you will void the warranty. We recommend that you keep your factory scales and install them back on the knife if you are sending it in for service. The best advice is to check Benchmade’s website to see what their current warranty is and if aftermarket scales will affect it.