One full elk processed, and the Raghorn was still sharp enough that I carried it straight back into the field for (an unsuccessful) rifle season. From field dressing and breaking down the elk all the way to skinning quarters, cutting steaks, and even cleaning up scraps for the grinder, the Raghorn was the only knife I used to process the elk. But fortunately, I had this sharp tool as a trusty sidekick the whole way. With my buddies still trying to fill tags, it fell on me to haul it out and process it, mostly alone. My first big test of the Raghorn came on the second to last day of the Colorado archery elk season when I took a small cow. I started testing it before its release and used it through a full big game hunting season.

Introduced in 2022, the Benchmade Raghorn ($420) is a next-level hunting knife. If you’re in the market for the best hunting knife, period, and are willing to spend more than $300, it’s hard to argue with the Benchmade Raghorn. Best Processing Knife: Benchmade Meatcrafter.Best Replaceable Blade Hunting Knife: Gerber Gear Vital Big Game Folder.Best Ultralight Hunting Knife: Argali Carbon Knife.A Super Value Folding Knife: Morakniv Basic.Runner-Up Hunting Knife: MKC Stonewall Skinner.Best Budget Hunting Knife: Outdoor Edge WildPak 8-Piece Hunting Knife Set.Best Overall Hunting Knife: Benchmade Raghorn.Use the links below to quickly navigate to what piques your interests, and don’t miss our Buyer’s Guide, comparison chart, and frequently asked questions sections. Remember, the animal is already dead when the knife comes into play. It doesn’t need to be big or bulky like some sort of weapon. And a good hunting knife is usually stout enough to crack bone. It should fit well in the hand to protect the user from accidental injury. What to look for? The knife should hold an edge or be easily field sharpened. But the big job, the one it must conquer, is getting the meat field dressed quickly so it’s preserved and will taste great on your dinner plate. Of course, your hunting knife should have secondary characteristics that make it useful for survival, camping, and all-around utility.

Size 10 colorado blades