From field-dressing game to processing primals at the tailgate, a dependable hunting knife is essential for navigating the wild with confidence. The best hunting knives combine sharpness, strength, and control, designed to perform in the harshest conditions and built to last a lifetime. In this guide, we explore what makes a great hunting knife and highlight standout blades from Benchmade’s trusted collection.
What to Look for in a Hunting Knife
Edge Retention & Steel Quality
A dependable hunting knife needs to stay sharp through frequent and demanding use, especially when dealing with fibrous hide or hard bones. Look for blades made with high-performance steel that balances edge retention, corrosion resistance, and durability —qualities essential when processing game in the field or tackling hard-use scenarios.
Ergonomics & Grip
A comfortable, secure grip can make all the difference, especially in wet conditions or when wearing gloves. Prioritize handle materials that offer slip resistance, durability, and comfort over long sessions in the field.
Blade Style & Versatility
Drop-point blades are versatile and generalized for most tasks, while clip-point or gut hook options allow for more specificity, precision, and control. Consider what tasks you'll use your knife for most frequently.
Fixed vs. Folding
Fixed-blade knives are strong, simple to clean, and built for heavy-duty use. Folding knives, on the other hand, are great for hunters who prioritize compact carry and multitasking.
Best Benchmade Hunting Knives by Use Case
Most Versatile Hunting Knife: Saddle Mountain Skinner
A favorite among Whitetail deer hunters, the Saddle Mountain Skinner is built for fast, clean field dressing in unpredictable terrain and weather. With the precision needed for delicate work and the durability to handle repeated use, it’s a reliable blade for hunters who demand performance from the moment of harvest.
This fixed-blade knife features a wide drop-point profile made from premium CPM-S30V (15002) or CPM-S90V stainless steel (15002-1), offering excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance. Its full-tang construction adds strength, while the contoured handle ensures a secure grip, even in cold or wet conditions. The exaggerated belly provides an ample curved edge for slicing and separating skin and muscle. Designed for smooth, controlled cuts when skinning and processing big game, the Saddle Mountain Skinner is a trusted companion throughout the season.
Best Big Game Knife: Raghorn®
Ready for demanding backcountry hunts, the Raghorn is engineered for cutting efficiency and lightweight performance. Built with high-performance CPM-CruWear® tool steel—known for its excellent edge retention, hardness, and toughness—it excels in field dressing and processing large game. The carbon fiber handle keeps weight to a minimum without compromising durability, while the Boltaron® sheath offers a low-profile, secure carry option that easily mounts to a pack or belt. Enlarged jimping through the ricasso provides added traction when using a pinch grip, giving hunters better control during detailed work.
Best Skinning Knife: Hidden Canyon Hunter
This compact fixed-blade hunting knife is crafted for hunters who value maneuverability and control. Designed with a premium stainless steel blade, it offers reliable edge retention and corrosion resistance, making it perfect for detailed fieldwork and precision cuts. The contoured handle, made from stabilized wood, provides enhanced durability and resistance to environmental changes, while offering a secure and comfortable grip. Paired with a fitted sheath for convenient belt or pack carry, it’s an ideal everyday companion for hunters seeking performance in a smaller profile.
Best for Butchering: Meatcrafter®
The Meatcrafter® features a flexible trailing-point blade crafted from high-quality stainless steel, offering both excellent corrosion resistance and durability. The application of Benchmade's SelectEdge® sharpening technology imparts an ultra-fine edge optimized for push-cutting and enhanced edge-holding. Designed for hunters who prioritize precision and efficiency, it excels at trimming, boning, and slicing tasks during game processing. Whether you're at camp or working in the field, this knife delivers smooth, controlled cuts that make butchering feel effortless.
Best Folding Hunting Knife: Taggedout®
The Taggedout® is a high-utility folding knife designed for backcountry hunters who prioritize low weight without compromising cutting power. It features a clip-point, thin-ground MagnaCut blade, offering exceptional edge retention, toughness, and corrosion resistance, ideal for slicing through game or tough materials. This knife is outfitted with premium carbon fiber handle scales for added rigidity and strength, along with an orange anodized lanyard backspacer.
How to Choose the Right Hunting Knife
Choosing the right hunting knife requires considering your specific needs and the unique characteristics of your hunting environment. Here are the key factors to guide your decision:
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Game Type: For larger animals like elk or deer, a full-sized fixed blade offers the strength and reach needed. Smaller game can be handled with compact knives that offer better control for detail work.
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Terrain & Duration: If you're hiking deep into backcountry terrain, prioritize lightweight knives that won’t weigh down your pack. For basecamp or vehicle-supported hunts, you have more flexibility to bring heavier-duty tools.
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Climate Conditions: Wet, cold, or humid environments require knives with grippy, weather-resistant handles that won’t slip or degrade over time.
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Blade Preferences: Drop-point blades are great all-purpose options, especially for skinning. Clip-point blades provide added precision, while gut hooks are useful for field dressing without piercing organs.
Still unsure which hunting knife fits your style? Use our Knife Finder Tool to discover your perfect match.
Knife Maintenance in the Field
Even the best knives require some maintenance to maintain peak performance. Benchmade knives are built for durability, but regular upkeep ensures your edge stays razor-sharp in any condition.
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Clean your blade after every use, especially after dressing game animals.
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Keep a compact field sharpener on hand, like the Guided Field Sharpener, to maintain your edge between uses.
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Store your knife in a dry, safe place to avoid corrosion or damage.
- Take advantage of our free LifeSharp® Service whenever your knife begins to dull. We will restore the edge to factory specs and extend the life of your knife as often as you need.
Why Hunters Trust Benchmade
We stand behind our knives with the promise of performance, reliability, and craftsmanship. Here’s why Benchmade continues to earn the trust of seasoned hunters:
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Manufactured, assembled, and finished at our Global HQ in Oregon—ensuring quality control and consistency from start to finish.
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Backed by decades of experience and deep expertise in the knife industry, we deliver tools that consistently meet the highest standards.
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Built with premium materials and engineered for elite edge performance.
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Supported by our LifeSharp® Service and lifetime warranty.
Final Thoughts
Your knife is more than a tool; it’s a trusted companion. Whether you're trekking deep into the wilderness or posted up at camp, Benchmade hunting knives deliver the precision, resilience, and performance hunters rely on. Ready to gear up? Use our Knife Finder Tool to match your hunt with the perfect blade.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best blade shape for hunting?
Drop-point blades are the most versatile for hunting due to their acute tips and ample bellies, especially during field dressing.
Should I choose a fixed or folding hunting knife?
Fixed blades are stronger and easier to clean, making them ideal for game processing. Folding knives offer convenience and compact carry, and they can double as EDC knives out of the field.
What steel is best for hunting knives?
Look for high-performance steels that strike a balance between toughness, edge retention, and corrosion resistance—qualities vital in the field.
How do I clean a hunting knife after use?
Wipe the blade clean, use warm water and mild soap if needed, dry thoroughly, and store in a dry place. Use oil to protect carbon steels.