Benchmade Now Lets You Pick the Steel and Handle on Its Small Hunting Knife

A newer variant of the knife comes with a four-inch blade, better tuned for smaller game. But until recently, the compact Meatcrafter was only available with the rubber handle and CPM154 steel in a stonewash finish.

Through Benchmade’s Custom program, fans of the knife can now choose between CPM154 and 440C. While the former offers superior edge retention and toughness, 440C is cheaper and boasts better corrosion resistance. Users who want to stay with CPM154 can also choose between three different finishes, including a black coating and polished blade.

Handle with care

The options open up on the handle, where there are a variety of materials and colorways that extend to the bolster and pivot ring hardware, as well.

In place of Santoprene, the custom Meatcrafter 4″ comes in G10, Richlite (a dense, highly sustainable alternative to wood) and carbon fiber — although the latter two bring a $15 and $100 premium, respectively.