Benchmade Bugout vs. Spyderco Paramilitary 2: A Personal EDC Comparison
When it comes to everyday carry (EDC) knives, the Benchmade Bugout and the Spyderco Paramilitary 2 (PM2) are two standout options that have earned their places in the pockets of enthusiasts worldwide. As an owner of both—a sleek all-black Bugout and a PM2 adorned with custom copper scales and a black blade—I’ve had ample opportunity to assess their strengths and nuances. Here’s a detailed comparison based on personal experience, supplemented by insights from the EDC community.
EDC
J.R. Windzar
2/25/20253 min read
Design and Aesthetics
Benchmade Bugout: Designed with minimalism in mind, the Bugout boasts a slim profile and lightweight construction. Its all-black variant exudes a modern, tactical appeal, making it both discreet and stylish.
Spyderco Paramilitary 2: The PM2, especially with copper scales, offers a robust and substantial feel. The copper not only adds a unique aesthetic but also develops a distinctive patina over time, enhancing its character and appeal.
Size and Weight
Bugout: Weighing approximately 1.85 ounces, the Bugout is exceptionally light, making it ideal for daily carry without added bulk. Its slim design ensures it sits comfortably in the pocket.
Paramilitary 2: With the addition of copper scales, the PM2's weight increases to 7.17 ounces, providing a heft that some users find reassuring. While more substantial than the Bugout, many appreciate this weight for the sense of durability it imparts.
As one user noted on Reddit:
"I carry the Bugout more often because it tucks away in your pocket so easily but I choose the Paramilitary for more heavy duty use." (Reddit)
Blade and Performance
Bugout: Equipped with a 3.24-inch CPM-S30V steel blade, the Bugout offers excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance. Its drop-point design is versatile for various tasks.
Paramilitary 2: The PM2 features a slightly longer 3.44-inch blade, often crafted from premium steels like CPM-S30V or CPM-CruWear. Its full-flat grind ensures efficient slicing capabilities.
A YouTube review comparing the PM2 in CruWear and the Bugout in S30V provides an in-depth analysis of their blade performances.
Ergonomics and Handling
Bugout: Its ergonomic handle and lightweight nature make the Bugout comfortable for extended use. The AXIS lock mechanism allows for smooth, ambidextrous operation.
Paramilitary 2: The PM2's design offers a solid grip, and the added weight from copper scales enhances its balanced feel. The Compression Lock is both secure and easy to operate.
Personal Preference
In my experience, the Benchmade Bugout has become my go-to EDC knife due to its lightweight and compact nature, making it barely noticeable in the pocket. However, there are times when I appreciate the heft and substantial feel of the Spyderco Paramilitary 2, especially during tasks that require a more robust tool. The evolving patina on the copper scales adds a personal touch that I cherish.
Community Insights
Discussions among knife enthusiasts often highlight similar sentiments:
"The Bugout is about as light and slim as it gets for that blade length. The PM2 in comparison is significantly larger, heavier, and beefier, a more durable hard use knife." (Reddit)
"I gotta say, though, the Bugout is seriously impressive! The best thing is the weight; this thing is a feather." (Spyderco)
Alternative EDC Knives to Consider
If you're intrigued by the Bugout and Paramilitary 2, here are some other popular EDC knives that might catch your interest:
Spyderco Para 3 Lightweight: A more compact version of the PM2, offering similar performance in a smaller package.
Benchmade Mini Griptilian: Known for its versatility and ergonomic design, it's a favorite among EDC enthusiasts.
Hogue Deka: A lightweight knife featuring quality materials and a sleek design, often compared to the Bugout.
Kershaw Bel Air: A lightweight EDC knife with an Axis style lock, representing Kershaw's answer to the popular Benchmade Bugout and Hogue Deka.
Conclusion
Both the Benchmade Bugout and the Spyderco Paramilitary 2 are exceptional knives, each with its own set of advantages. The Bugout excels in portability and everyday convenience, while the Paramilitary 2 offers robustness and a unique aesthetic appeal, especially with custom scales. Your choice ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. Personally, the Bugout's lightweight design makes it my primary EDC, but the Paramilitary 2 remains a cherished part of my collection for those times when I desire a more substantial tool.
Benchmade Bugout Available here
Spyderco Paramilitary 2 Available here
Flytanium Scales Available here
Complete PM2 knife Available here
Note: Knife preferences are highly subjective. It's advisable to handle each model personally to determine which best suits your needs.
