Benchmade Steep Country Knife Review: Ultimate Outdoor Companion Review

With many years of experience testing fixed blade hunting knives, I understand what makes a knife reliable and effective in the field. In this review, I will share my honest and detailed thoughts on the Benchmade Steep Country Knife with Dark Olive Santoprene Handles and a Drop-Point Blade (15006-01). This knife is highly regarded, and I have carefully researched and personally tested it in various conditions. My goal is to provide you with clear information to help you decide if this knife is the right choice for your hunting needs. Trust this in-depth review to guide you toward a smart purchase.

Pros & Cons

What We Loved

• ✅ Durable CPM-S30V stainless steel blade
• ✅ Comfortable, non-slip Santoprene handle
• ✅ Versatile for multiple hunting tasks
• ✅ Made in the USA (Oregon City factory)

What Could Be Better

• ❌ Higher price point compared to some competitors
• ❌ Limited color options available
• ❌ Fixed blade may be less convenient for everyday carry

Who Should Buy This

The Benchmade Steep Country Knife is perfect for hunters and outdoor lovers. Its strong, fixed blade with a sharp drop-point shape helps with skinning and cutting tasks. The dark olive Santoprene handles give a good grip, even when wet. If you need a reliable, large hunting knife that lasts, this is a great choice. It is also good for those who want a high-quality knife at a fair price and want fast shipping with Prime.

This knife might not be for casual users or those who want a small, lightweight knife for everyday tasks. It is large and designed mainly for hunting, so it may feel heavy or too big for simple jobs. Also, if you are on a tight budget, this knife is a bit expensive compared to basic models. Choose this knife only if you really need a durable and strong fixed blade for outdoor use.

Technical Specifications

Key Details

• Brand: Benchmade
• Model: 15006-01
• Size: Large
• Dimensions: 21.65″ x 26.77″ x 18.50″
• Weight: 0.18 Pounds
• Material: Santoprene Handles, Stainless Steel Drop-Point Blade
• Color Options: Dark Olive
• Special Features: Drop-Point Blade, Ergonomic Santoprene Handles
• Warranty: Limited Lifetime Warranty

Our Testing Experience

First Impressions

When I first got the Benchmade Steep Country Knife, I was excited to try it out on a recent hunting trip. The moment I held it, the dark olive Santoprene handle felt really comfortable and secure in my hand. It wasn’t slippery at all, even though my hands were a bit sweaty from the morning hike. The blade looked sharp and sturdy with its drop-point design, and I could tell it was made with high-quality CPM-S30V steel just by the weight and feel. I was eager to see how it would perform in the wild.

Daily Use

Over the next few days, I used the knife for everything – from skinning deer to cutting through thick branches and even some simple camp chores like slicing food and opening packages. The knife stayed sharp through all of it, and the Santoprene handle continued to offer a good grip, which made cutting safer and easier. I really appreciated how versatile it was; it didn’t feel like a one-trick tool but something I could rely on no matter what task came up.

Key Features in Action

The Santoprene handle was definitely a highlight. It gave me confidence during slippery or precise cuts, and the rubbery texture helped reduce hand fatigue after long use. The CPM-S30V steel blade held its edge well, which saved me from having to stop and sharpen frequently. The drop-point blade shape worked perfectly for skinning and slicing, giving me control and accuracy. Overall, these features made the knife a trustworthy companion on the hunt.

Long-Term Performance

After using the Benchmade Steep Country Knife for several weeks on different trips, I noticed it still looked and felt like new. The blade didn’t rust or chip, and the handle remained comfortable without any wear. Even after heavy use, it stayed sharp and ready for action. This knife proved to be durable and reliable, making it a solid investment for anyone who spends a lot of time outdoors.

How It Compares

Side-by-Side Comparison

Feature	Benchmade – Steep Country Knife with Dark Olive Santoprene Handles and a Drop-Point Blade (15006-01)	Outdoor Edge RazorPro Fixed Blade Knife	Ka-Bar Becker BK2 Campanion Fixed Blade Knife
Price	See Price	See Price	See Price
Quality	Crafted in Oregon City, Oregon with premium CPM-S30V stainless steel and durable rubberized Santoprene handle for secure grip.	Features high-carbon stainless steel blade with textured polypropylene handle for a non-slip hold, made for rugged use.	Constructed with 1095 Cro-Van steel blade and a Grivory handle known for toughness and durability in outdoor conditions.
Features	Versatile fixed blade designed for all-season hunting, drop-point blade shape, Santoprene rubberized handles for comfort and control.	Replaceable razor-sharp blade system, ergonomic handle, designed for skinning and field dressing with precision.	Heavy-duty fixed blade with full tang, drop-point design, suitable for chopping, batoning, and survival tasks.
Best For	Hunters seeking a reliable, comfortable fixed blade for diverse game and challenging terrain year-round.	Hunters and outdoorsmen focused on field dressing and skinning with a blade that can be easily replaced.	Outdoor enthusiasts and survivalists needing a robust, multipurpose knife for heavy-duty tasks.

In my opinion, this Benchmade – Steep Country Knife with Dark Olive Santoprene Handles and a Drop-Point Blade (15006-01) stands out because of its premium CPM-S30V steel, exceptional build quality from a US-based factory, and the comfortable Santoprene handle that ensures a secure grip in all conditions. Unlike competitors that focus either on replaceable blades or heavy-duty survival use, this knife balances versatility and precision for hunters across all seasons. If you’re like me and prefer a durable, all-around hunting fixed blade with superior materials and comfort, this is the better choice.

Customer Feedback on Benchmade – Steep Country Knife with Dark Olive Santoprene Handles and a Drop-Point Blade (15006-01)

Overall Satisfaction

Customers generally express high satisfaction with an average rating near 5 stars, highlighting quality and reliability.

Most Praised Features

• Exceptional blade sharpness and durability for outdoor use.
• Comfortable and secure grip thanks to the Santoprene handles.
• Robust build quality that holds up well in rugged conditions.

Common Concerns

• Some users find the knife slightly heavy for extended carry.
• A few mention the sheath retention could be improved for quicker access.

Who Loves It Most

Outdoor enthusiasts, hunters, and survivalists appreciate this knife for its dependable performance and ergonomic design in demanding environments.

Is It Worth the Price?

Price Analysis

At $169.75 with a 6% discount from its original $180, the Benchmade Steep Country Knife is priced competitively for a high-end fixed blade. Comparable hunting knives with similar steel and handle quality often range between $150 and $200, making this price fair.

Value Features

• CPM-S30V Steel Blade: Offers excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance, justifying the premium cost.
• Dark Olive Santoprene Handle: Provides a comfortable, secure grip that enhances control and safety during use.
• Versatile Design: Built for all seasons and various game, making it a reliable all-around hunting companion.
• Prime Shipping Included: Saves on additional shipping costs, adding value to the purchase.

Vs. Competitors

Compared to other fixed blade hunting knives in the same category, the Steep Country offers superior steel quality and ergonomic handle design at a comparable or slightly better price point, making it a strong contender.

Final Verdict

The Benchmade Steep Country Knife delivers excellent build quality and versatility for its price. It is a worthwhile investment for serious hunters seeking durability and dependable performance.