There are some knife companies that appear to think that, for outdoor-focused knives, more aggressive obviously equals better. However, if you ask someone with real field experience, they might tell a different story — one where function and versatility win out over sinister styling. Benchmade’s new USA-made 202 Leuku, a more robust take on a traditional design, certainly fits more into that latter category.
Scandinavian knife makers have been building minimalist, small-form fixed blades — called ‘Puukkos’ — for centuries. It’s this traditional silhouette that Benchmade has called upon for their 202 Leuku. There are some differences, however. For instance, this one is a bit on the bigger side — measuring up at 9.69″ in total, making it a bit better for harder hacking and slicing tasks like cutting up kindling for a fire. But its minimalist design and CPM-3V steel drop point blade also lend themselves to more detail-oriented tasks, like dressing small game or prepping local foliage for a meal. Regardless of the task, it will be made easier thanks to the knife’s comfortable and durable Santoprene handle, which is grippy in just about any conditions. With the potential to be everyone’s new favorite bushcraft blade, the 202 Leuku will be available soon for $165.
