Buck Knives
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About Buck Knives
The Buck Knives story is a quintessential American tale that began in 1902 when Hoyt Buck developed a groundbreaking method for heat-treating steel while working as a blacksmith. His skills proved essential during World War II, as he handcrafted knives for American troops using old file blades.
This eventually led Hoyt and his son Al to establish H.H. Buck & Son in 1945, setting the stage for what would become one of America's most beloved knife companies.
Their game-changing moment came in 1964 with the introduction of the 110 Folding Hunter—a durable, reliable lockback knife that completely transformed what people thought was possible from a folding knife.
Today, Buck Knives remains a family business, led by Hoyt's great-grandson CJ Buck, and they haven't strayed from their roots—American manufacturing and quality craftsmanship. While still famous for classics like the 119 Special and 124 Frontiersman, they've managed to stay current by embracing modern materials and designs without sacrificing their core values.
Their legendary "Forever Warranty" tells you everything you need to know about their confidence in their products, and their partnership with heat-treatment expert Paul Bos helped cement their reputation for making some of the most durable knives around.
What is a Buck knife?
Buck is a popular brand of hunting and outdoor knives known for quality and durability. Founded by Hoyt Buck, Buck Knives pioneered the folding hunting knife, which became an industry standard. Buck knives are widely used for hunting, outdoor activities, and general utility.
Who made Buck Knives?
Buck Knives was founded by Hoyt Buck in 1902 when he developed a unique heat-treating process to create tougher, longer-lasting blades. The company’s official start, however, began in 1945 in San Diego, California, when Hoyt and his son Al established H.H. Buck & Son.
The company has remained family-owned and has built a reputation for high-quality craftsmanship and innovation in the knife industry.
What types of knives does Buck Knives offer?
To cater to various needs and preferences, Buck Knives offers a diverse range of knives—from sporting knives to tactical and rescue knives:
Hunting knives
Designed for field dressing and skinning, the Buck hunting knife is an essential tool for hunters. Some examples:
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Buck General Pro: This large fixed blade knife has a 7.375-inch S35VN steel blade for edge retention and corrosion resistance, making the Buck General Pro ideal for heavy-duty field tasks. Its Micarta handle offers a secure, comfortable grip even in wet conditions, and the overall design provides the durability and balance needed for precise, powerful cuts.
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Buck 119 Special Pro: The Buck 119 Special Pro is a sturdy hunting knife with a 6-inch clip-point S35VN steel blade for long-lasting sharpness and wear resistance in tough environments. The contoured Micarta handle offers a firm grip, and the brass pommel and guard add protection and style. Built for skinning and dressing, this knife provides excellent control and cutting efficiency.
Everyday carry (EDC) folding knives
Compact and convenient, these folding knives are suitable for daily tasks and personal use. Some examples include:
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Buck 110 Folding Hunter: This iconic EDC knife features a 3.75-inch 420HC steel clip-point blade, balancing sharpness and durability for daily tasks. With brass bolsters and ebony wood handle scales, the 110 Folding Hunter combines classic style with reliable performance. The lockback mechanism ensures secure blade locking, making it ideal for everyday and outdoor use. Loved for its strong connection to the Buck heritage, the 110 Folding Hunter knife remains one of Buck’s best-selling models to date.
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Buck 112 Folding Ranger: A compact version of the 110, the Buck 112 features a 3-inch 420HC steel blade, perfect for a smaller, pocket-friendly EDC knife. With its lockback mechanism, brass bolsters, and ebony wood handle, it offers the same classic style and reliable performance in a handier size. Many prefer the 112 for its comfortable, traditional design.
Fixed-blade outdoor knives
Built for durability, these knives are ideal for camping, hiking, and other outdoor activities. Some examples:
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Buck 656 Pursuit Pro: Designed for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts, this knife boasts a 4.5-inch drop-point blade crafted from CPM-S35VN steel. The orange and black Versaflex handle ensures high visibility and a comfortable grip, even in wet conditions. The Buck 656 Pursuit Pro includes a black nylon sheath for convenient belt carry.
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Buck Pathfinder Pro: This versatile knife comes with a 5-inch modified clip-point blade made from CPM-S35VN steel, suitable for a range of outdoor activities. The OD green Micarta handle ensures a reliable grip, even in tough situations, enhancing control during use. The Buck Pathfinder Pro includes a black leather sheath for easy carry.
Tactical and military knives
Engineered for reliability in challenging conditions, these knives meet the needs of tactical professionals. Examples include:
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Buck 838 Deploy Auto: This automatic knife features a 3.25-inch drop-point blade made from 154CM steel, known for its excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance. The Sniper Gray Cerakote aluminum handle provides durability and a secure grip. The Buck 838 Deploy Auto includes a deep-carry pocket clip for convenient carry.
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Buck 112 Elite Auto: An upgraded version of the 112 Ranger, the Buck 112 Elite Auto has a 3-inch S30V steel clip-point blade for enhanced performance. The G-10 handle scales provide a secure grip, and the automatic opening mechanism allows for rapid deployment.
What is a Buck knife used for?
Buck knives are versatile tools used for various activities, including hunting, fishing, camping, and general utility tasks. The design and durability of Buck knives make them ideal for outdoor use.
What is the Buck 110 Auto Elite?
The Buck 110 Auto Elite knife—also called the Buck 110 Hunter Auto Elite—is an automatic version of the iconic Buck 110 folding knife. It features a high-quality S30V steel blade, a handle with nickel bolsters, and G-10 scales. With its automatic opening mechanism, this Buck 110 auto knife is ideal for users who prefer quick, one-handed access.
What is the difference between the Buck 110 auto and the Buck knife 110?
The Buck 110 auto is an automatic, spring-assisted version of the classic Buck 110 folding hunter, while the standard Buck 110 requires manual opening. Both models maintain the classic Buck design and build quality, but the auto offers a faster deployment.
What is the most sought-after Buck knife?
The Buck 110 Folding Hunter is perhaps the most iconic and sought-after model due to its durability, classic design, and popularity among hunters and outdoor enthusiasts. Other highly regarded models include the Buck 119 Special and limited-edition versions of the Buck 110.
Are all Buck knives made in China now?
Not all Buck knives are made in China. While some lower-cost models are manufactured in China, Buck still produces many of its classic knives, such as the 110 and 119, in the USA. Each knife will typically indicate its country of origin.
Are Buck knives USA-made?
Yes, many Buck knives are made in the USA, especially the classic and high-end models. Buck Knives has a factory in Post Falls, Idaho, where they produce a significant portion of their knives.
Here are some of the Buck knife models made in the USA:
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110 Folding Hunter
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112 Ranger Auto
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112 Folding Ranger
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119 Special Pro
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656 Pursuit Pro
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662 Alpha Scout Elite
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663 Alpha Guide Elite
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841 Sprint Pro
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843 Sprint Ops
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General Pro
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Skinner Pro
Why are Buck knives so expensive?
Buck knives are known for their high-quality materials, craftsmanship, and rigorous quality standards, which contribute to their higher cost. The brand also offers a Forever Warranty, ensuring long-term reliability, which adds value to their products.
Can I buy the Buck 110 Auto Elite online?
Yes, the Buck 110 Auto Elite is available online, but please check local regulations, as automatic knives are restricted in certain areas. Authorized Buck retailers like Northwest Knives typically carry this model.
Check out the Buck 110 Auto Elite here.
Where can I find Buck knives for sale?
As a premium knife retailer, Northwest Knives offers a carefully curated selection of high-quality Buck knives to cater to both outdoor enthusiasts and everyday users. We also carry an impressive collection from other top knife brands—including Benchmade, Hogue, Spyderco, and Microtech—ensuring customers can find the perfect option to suit their needs and preferences.
Browse our various knife collections:
For models that are currently out of stock, leave your email address, and we'll notify you as soon as they're available.
Need to connect with our team? Fill out this contact form, and we'll get back to you within 24-48 hours. For urgent questions or concerns, please call 208-884-8626.
