When it comes to knives I have to admit I’m a sucker for the fixed blades. Sure I have a folder on me pretty much everywhere I go. That being said, my collection of fixed blade knives is something I am really proud of. In my opinion, no one does a fixed blade better than Benchmade.
Benchmade has been in business now for over 30 years and has gained a steadfast reputation for high-end knives. They don’t just look nice either. Between the premium steels and quality craftsmanship, they are absolute workhorses. In the rare event, you ever have an issue with your Benchmade their customer service is outstanding as every knife includes a lifetime warranty and even a free lifetime sharpening service (Benchmade Lifesharp).
Out of all their fixed blade designs, the Bushcrafter 162 just speaks to me. The knife is meaty looking without being Rambo sized (9.15″ overall, the blade is 4.4″). The blade made of S30V stainless steel has excellent hardness, edge retention, and weather resistance. Coming in at just over 4mm thick, the blade looks like you could use it to pry something open if you needed too. The handle is a carbon composite G10 which will last forever. Finally, it is constructed with a full tang which means the metal of the blade is one piece that goes all the way to the bottom of the grip. This makes the knife very strong with no failure points. It is also just a really cool looking knife.
Designed as a bushcrafter knife it is designed to perform pretty much any task you could throw at it. The handle even has open rivets through it in case you need to lash it to a stick for a makeshift spear. I have used it to cut a thick rope, baton wood, field dress a deer, start a fire (the leather sheath includes a spot for a Ferro rod which is not included but available from Benchmade as well) and sometimes just to open boxes of gear here at the Outdoor Sports Nation office. From camping to hunting to survival to everyday tasks it can get the job done.
The Benchmade 162 is quite simply the one knife I have that I feel can handle everything I throw at it. The S30v steel is strong enough to not worry about chipping it but still is able to be sharpened fairly easily.
As I said, I’m not quite sure what it is about a good fixed blade knife that appeals to me so much, though I suspect it has something to do with the Macho idea that if I was stranded on a deserted island I could use it to survive by spearing wild hogs and opening coconuts.
Available from Benchmade.com and other authorized dealers, the Bushcrafter 162 can be purchased for $250 ($172.14 on amazon right now). I highly recommend picking this knife up, using it, and giving it to your grandchildren someday. I have no doubt it will last that long.
