I have both and either would do fine. The BM Puukko is probably more versatile due to its slimmer blade, while the Master Hunter excels at game prep. It also has a larger grip though both are probably the same material. As far as heat treat goes, I don't think I could tell the difference of a couple points. I believe the Benchmade is 62 HRC.How would the Benchmade Puukko 3V compare to the CS Master Hunter 3V? I may be able to get a good deal on the Puukko...
I prefer the full flat grind of the Master Hunter but it looks like the Puukko is a little thinner blade. I know the Puukki isn't marketed as a hunting knife, but it looks like it might fit the bill and the price is good. I have read that initially the heat treat was soft on the Benchmade 3V but supposedly that has been corrected?
I've used these over the years: D.H. Russell Canadian Belt Knife, Marble's Campcraft, Roselli Erapuukko, CS SRK, CS Red River Elk Skinner, Dozier K1 General Purpose, Buck 119. They'll all do the job but the Master Hunter stands out.For comparison sake, what other hunting knives do you have/use? Thanks!
How would the Benchmade Puukko 3V compare to the CS Master Hunter 3V? I may be able to get a good deal on the Puukko...
I prefer the full flat grind of the Master Hunter but it looks like the Puukko is a little thinner blade. I know the Puukki isn't marketed as a hunting knife, but it looks like it might fit the bill and the price is good. I have read that initially the heat treat was soft on the Benchmade 3V but supposedly that has been corrected?
Let's not forget the 118 as well!
Bladehq has the Benchmade Steep Country on sale for $85. That is a great price for a great knife.
https://www.bladehq.com/item--Benchmade-Steep-Country-Black-Fixed--24207
Yes. The handle is great and it really works well as a hunting knife. I really wanted the BM Bushcrafter as I have a couple of other hunting knives I sold it and bought the Bushcrafter which works well as a hunting knife too.I have been looking at that very knife. Have you used it? I agree it looks like a great deal!
Not sure about the quartering with a knife only. I used a saw or a axe/hatchet for the backbone, ribs, and pelvis.
C&C (a supporting dealer) has the Buck 103 "Skinner" and a couple other 100 series fixed blades (and the 110/112) available with 5160 blades.
Buck isn't doing a lot of special orders due to the Covid, so they might be out of some of the exclusive to them 5160 knives.
ESEE 3 or 4 in S35VN...nice all around drop point with nice belly
Also consider Cold Steel Pendleton Hunter in VG-1