I got my hands on the Codex87 Horizon Edge ahead of its SHOT Show 2026 debut, and it’s clear this isn’t just a cosmetic refresh. Benchmade completely changed how the blade is built, not just how it looks (though it really looks rad).
The knife is based on the Saddle Mountain Skinner, a proven platform with a blade shape that already works for breaking down game. Benchmade left that alone and focused entirely on the cutting edge.
Here’s what’s new.
Blade Materials and Construction
The Codex87 Horizon Edge uses a bi-metal blade construction with two steels applied along a single cutting edge, each chosen for a specific job.
The primary blade steel is Hakkapella Damasteel. It’s tough, corrosion-resistant, and stable under harder use. Along the cutting edge, Benchmade applies CPM Rex 121, a very hard, wear-resistant steel known for exceptional edge retention but limited toughness when used across an entire blade.
Rather than forcing one steel to do everything, Benchmade uses Rex 121 only where edge retention matters most. The result is a single blade that stays sharp longer during fine cutting while maintaining the toughness needed for real field work.
How It’s Made
Benchmade uses a laser-based fusion process to apply powdered Rex 121 directly along the edge, and then heat-treats the blade as a single unified piece. There are no bonded layers and no seams you can feel in use. According to Benchmade, this is the first production hunting knife to apply bi-metal technology this way.
Fit and Handling
In hand, the Codex87 feels balanced and controlled. The handle seems like it will support precise cutting without creating hot spots during extended use. The overall fit and finish feel just as good here as they do on the Saddle Mountain Skinner.
Early Specs
Final retail specs haven’t been released yet, but here’s what’s confirmed:
- Platform: Saddle Mountain Skinner
- Blade construction: Bi-metal, laser-fused edge
- Primary steel: Hakkapella Damasteel
- Edge steel: CPM Rex 121
- Intended use: Big game processing and field work
- Made in the USA
- Handle: Not sure. Some sort of laminated wood.
(Will update once full specs and pricing are available.)
First Look Takeaway
Look, the Codex87 Horizon Edge is a cool knife. The handle has a warm, old-school feel to it, the tech is wildly interesting, and it just looks neat. Since I really loved the Saddle Mountain Skinner, I can’t imagine we’ll dislike this next iteration.
Once I have a chance to get it in the field, I will update with a review.
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