AllOutdoor Review – Benchmade Saddle Mountain Skinner
Patrik Orcutt 01.30.25
The origin of Benchmade can be traced back to California in 1979, when Les de Asis, the founder, was inspired to create a better quality knife than those he had used during his childhood. Dissatisfied with the poorly made butterfly knives available at the time, Les aimed to leverage the latest materials and manufacturing techniques to revolutionize this market. The initial focus was on crafting high-quality butterfly knives, known as Bali-Songs, as reflected in the company’s logo and name at the time. Using his skills from high school shop classes, Les developed a prototype of his improved knife design. Encouraged by the positive response he received from a local gun store owner who saw the prototype, Les embarked on the journey of creating more knives. This marked the humble beginnings of the company, which initially operated under the name Bali-Song. So, today we are going to take a look at the Benchmade Saddle Mountain Skinner, a hunting-focused blade.
The Saddle Mountain Skinner was provided by Benchmade and while I am allowed to keep these knives indefinitely, it will not change my current or future opinion on any Benchmade Products. Benchmade has not been allowed to preview this review prior to publishing. I loaned this knife out to a local hunter I know to get his take on its performance as I was not able to hun much this past year. With that being said I have still been using this blade for daily tasks.
Specifications – Benchmade Saddle Mountain Skinner
- Blade
- Steel: CPM-S30V stainless steel
- Blade Length: 4.20 inches (10.67 cm)
- Blade Style: Drop-point with slight recurve
- Finish: Satin
- Edge Type: Plain edge
- Handle
- Material Options: Stabilized wood or G10 synthetic
- Handle Length: Approximately 4.70 inches (11.94 cm)
- Grip Features: Contoured with finger grooves, textured surface, and a lanyard hole
- Dimensions and Weight
- Overall Length: 8.70 inches (22.10 cm)
- Weight: 4.30 ounces (121.90 grams)
- Sheath
- Material: Leather with reinforced stitching
- Features: Belt loop, secure snap closure
- MSRP – $220
- Country of Origin – USA
The Blade – Benchmade Saddle Mountain Skinner
The first thing that struck me about the Benchmade Saddle Mountain Skinner was its blade. Benchmade uses CPM-S30V steel for this knife, which is known for its high-performance capabilities. The steel has an excellent balance of edge retention, corrosion resistance, and toughness. Over multiple outings, I found that the blade remained razor-sharp, even after processing a few large beavers. This is not a knife you’ll need to constantly sharpen; it holds its edge remarkably well.
The blade’s drop-point design with a slight recurve is ideal for skinning and processing game. The shape provides exceptional control when working around joints and delicate areas, ensuring clean cuts without damaging the hide or meat. The recurve section enhances slicing capabilities, making it easier to glide through tougher sections of hide. Additionally, the 4.2-inch blade length hits a sweet spot between maneuverability and cutting power.
Benchmade’s application of a satin finish adds a sleek aesthetic while helping to resist stains and minor scratches. The knife’s edge came incredibly sharp out of the box, which is a testament to Benchmade’s attention to detail. Whether you’re making the first incision or performing delicate work, the blade’s performance is consistently impressive.
The Handle -Benchmade Saddle Mountain Skinner
Equally impressive is the handle. Benchmade offers the Saddle Mountain Skinner with options for both stabilized wood and synthetic materials like G10. I opted for the wood version, as it adds a touch of traditional elegance while still being highly functional. The stabilized wood is not only durable but also resistant to moisture, which is crucial for a knife that sees heavy use in the outdoors. Despite several wet and messy tests, the handle has held up beautifully without warping or cracking.
Ergonomics are where this knife truly shines. The handle’s contours fit naturally in the hand, providing a comfortable grip even during prolonged use. The slight palm swell and well-thought-out finger grooves ensure a secure hold, reducing hand fatigue and the risk of slipping. When working with a sharp tool in less-than-ideal conditions, this level of control is invaluable.
The textured surface of the handle adds another layer of grip security. Whether my hands were dry, wet, or covered in blood, the knife never felt like it would slip out of my grasp. Benchmade also included a lanyard hole at the end of the handle, which is a nice touch for those who prefer added security. The balance between the blade and the handle is spot on, giving the knife a nimble, responsive feel that makes it a joy to use.
Skinning Performance -Benchmade Saddle Mountain Skinner
Ultimately, a skinning knife’s primary job is to excel in the field, and the Saddle Mountain Skinner delivers in spades. From what I have been told from my hunting friend, the knife excelled at all skinning tasks from processing beavers to deer. ” The blade’s sharpness and shape allowed me to make clean, precise cuts, minimizing waste and maximizing efficiency. I was able to separate the hide from the muscle with ease, and the knife’s tip provided excellent control for detail work around the face and legs.”
The knife’s size and weight also contribute to its stellar performance. At 4.3 ounces, it’s lightweight enough to carry all day without noticing, yet it feels substantial enough to inspire confidence during use. The balance between the blade and handle ensures that the knife doesn’t feel awkward or cumbersome, allowing for smooth, controlled movements.
Sheath and Additional Features – Benchmade Saddle Mountain Skinner
No review of a hunting knife would be complete without mentioning the sheath, and Benchmade’s offering doesn’t disappoint. The Saddle Mountain Skinner comes with a high-quality leather sheath that’s both functional and attractive. The sheath provides a secure fit, ensuring the knife stays in place even when you’re on the move. It also features a belt loop for convenient carry, allowing you to keep the knife within easy reach at all times.
The attention to detail extends to the sheath’s construction, with reinforced stitching and a sturdy snap closure. Over time, the leather develops a beautiful patina, adding character to an already impressive setup. While I usually prefer Kydex sheaths for their weather resistance, this leather sheath has won me over with its rugged charm and reliability.
Final Thoughts – Benchmade Saddle Mountain Skinner
The Benchmade Saddle Mountain Skinner is a knife that any serious hunter would be proud to own. Its combination of high-quality materials, thoughtful design, and exceptional performance make it a standout tool in the world of hunting knives. The blade’s sharpness and durability, paired with the comfortable and attractive handle, create a package that is as functional as it is aesthetically pleasing.
