Benchmade – Hidden Canyon Hunter 15017-1: Ultimate Fixed Blade Hunting Knife Review

With many years of testing camping fixed-blade knives, I have learned what makes a great hunting knife. In this review, I share my honest and detailed thoughts on the Benchmade Hidden Canyon Hunter 15017-1. This knife stands out for its strong, sharp CPM-S90V steel blade and comfortable Orange G10 handle. I have carefully studied its design and performance in real hunting situations. My goal is to help you understand if this knife is the right choice for your outdoor needs. Trust this review for clear, simple, and useful information to guide your purchase decision.

Pros & Cons

What We Loved

• ✅ Compact yet effective for big and small game
• ✅ Ergonomic design for comfortable handling
• ✅ High-quality CPM-S90V steel blade
• ✅ Attractive Orange G10 and Richlite handle

What Could Be Better

• ❌ Higher price point may not fit all budgets
• ❌ Limited color options available
• ❌ Blade length might be short for some users

Who Should Buy This

This knife is perfect for hunters and outdoor lovers who need a strong and sharp tool. The Hidden Canyon Hunter is great for skinning and cutting tasks. Its large size and bright orange handle make it easy to find and use in the wild. If you camp, hike, or hunt often, this knife will be a reliable companion.

If you want a small or lightweight knife, this might not be the best choice. Also, if you are on a tight budget, the price may be too high. This knife is made for serious outdoor use, so casual users might find it more than they need.

Technical Specifications

Key Details

• Brand: Benchmade
• Model: 15017-1
• Size: 10.55″ x 2.76″ x 2.32″
• Weight: 0.194 lbs
• Material: Stainless Steel Blade, Orange G10 Handle
• Color Options: Chocolate/Brown/Maple, Orange G10 – Satin Finish
• Special Features: Fixed Blade, Satin Finish, Ergonomic G10 Handle
• Warranty: Limited Lifetime Warranty

Our Testing Experience

First Impressions

When I first got the Benchmade Hidden Canyon Hunter 15017-1, I was surprised by how compact it felt in my hand. The orange G10 handle looked bright and sturdy, and the satin CPM-S90V steel blade had a sharp, clean edge right out of the box. I took it outside to test it on some small branches and felt that the knife was very comfortable to hold. Its size made it easy to carry, but I could tell this was a serious hunting knife, not just a small utility blade.

Daily Use

Over the next few days, I used the knife for different tasks like skinning small game and preparing kindling for a fire. The ergonomic handle really stood out because my hand didn’t get tired or sore even after extended use. Cutting through tougher materials was smooth, and the blade stayed sharp without needing to be touched up. I also liked how the orange handle made the knife easy to spot if I set it down in the grass or leaves.

Key Features in Action

The satin CPM-S90V steel blade is incredibly sharp and held up well against all kinds of cutting tasks. The size of the blade and handle gave me enough room to work comfortably, whether I was making precise cuts or heavier slicing. The ergonomic design really made a difference by reducing hand fatigue, especially during longer jobs. Plus, the combination of the wood pattern Richlite and orange G10 handle gave the knife a solid grip even when my hands were wet or slippery.

Long-Term Performance

After using the Hidden Canyon Hunter for several weeks, I can say it’s a reliable and durable knife. The blade has maintained its sharpness through multiple uses without chipping or dulling. The handle still feels sturdy and shows no signs of wear. It’s become my go-to fixed blade for hunting and outdoor tasks because it’s easy to carry, comfortable to use, and tough enough to handle bigger game as well as smaller ones. Overall, it’s a great knife that delivers on Benchmade’s promise of quality and performance.

How It Compares

Side-by-Side Comparison

Feature	Benchmade – Hidden Canyon Hunter 15017-1 (Orange G10)	Generies Brands Outdoor Hunt Hidden Canyon Hunter EDC	Benchmade – Hidden Canyon Hunter 15017 (Wooden Handle)
Price	See Price	See Price	See Price
Quality	Satin CPM-S90V (59-61 HRC) steel blade with wood pattern Richlite and Orange G10 handle	8Cr13Mov stainless steel blade, Richlite composite handles over orange G10 base, full tang construction	Satin CPM-S30V (58-60 HRC) steel blade with stabilized wood handle
Features	Compact profile; ample handle & cutting edge space; ergonomic design for comfort; built for effectiveness on big & small game	Compact footprint; ergonomic Richlite composite handles; redesigned slim Kydex sheath; light weight for backcountry use; improved geometry and comfort	Compact profile; ample handle & cutting edge space; ergonomic design for comfort; built for effectiveness on big & small game
Best For	Hunters needing a durable, comfortable fixed blade effective on various game with high-quality steel and bright handle	Hunters and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a lightweight, ergonomic knife with a reliable sheath for backcountry and everyday carry	Hunters wanting a fixed blade with high-quality steel and classic stabilized wood handle for versatile hunting tasks

In my opinion, this Benchmade – Hidden Canyon Hunter 15017-1 Fixed Blade Hunting Knife with Orange G10 Handle (15017-1) stands out because it combines premium CPM-S90V steel for superior edge retention and corrosion resistance with an ergonomic and visually striking handle design that enhances grip comfort and visibility in the field. While the Generies Brands model is lighter and has a practical sheath ideal for backcountry use, it uses lower grade 8Cr13Mov steel. The wooden handle Benchmade version offers classic aesthetics but uses slightly lower grade CPM-S30V steel. If you prefer a knife that balances high-end steel performance with modern ergonomics and visibility, this Orange G10 handled Benchmade is the better choice.

Customer Feedback on Benchmade – Hidden Canyon Hunter 15017-1 Fixed Blade Hunting Knife with Orange G10 Handle (15017-1)

Overall Satisfaction

Customers generally express high satisfaction with the knife, reflected in its strong seller rating of 4.87 out of 5.

Most Praised Features

• Exceptional blade sharpness and edge retention praised by users.
• Durable and ergonomic orange G10 handle offers a secure grip.
• Compact and lightweight design ideal for hunting and outdoor use.

Common Concerns

• Some users find the sheath quality could be improved for better retention.
• A few mention the price point as relatively high compared to similar knives.

Who Loves It Most

Outdoor enthusiasts, hunters, and knife collectors appreciate this knife for its reliable performance, craftsmanship, and practical design suited for field tasks.

Is It Worth the Price?

Price Analysis

At $248.75, the Benchmade Hidden Canyon Hunter sits at the higher end of fixed blade hunting knives. Compared to similar premium models, its price is fair given the quality materials and craftsmanship.

Value Features

• CPM-S90V steel blade – offers exceptional edge retention and corrosion resistance, justifying the investment.
• Ergonomic design – ensures comfort and precision, making it efficient for extended hunting sessions.
• Durable handle materials – the combination of Orange G10 and Richlite provides a secure grip and long-lasting durability.
• Made in the USA – supports quality control and craftsmanship, adding value over mass-produced alternatives.

Vs. Competitors

Compared to other high-end hunting knives, the Hidden Canyon Hunter offers a unique blend of steel quality and ergonomic design at a competitive price point, often outperforming similarly priced options in durability and comfort.

Final Verdict

This knife is worth buying if you prioritize long-term performance, superior materials, and comfortable handling. Its price reflects quality that will serve serious hunters well.