Paul Bos developed a cryogenic heat treatment process that raises 420HC to 57-58 HRC, delivering approximately 50% better edge retention than standard heat treatment of the same steel. Most companies treat 420HC as throwaway steel - Buck invested in the metallurgy to make it legitimate. You get a blade that sharpens easily on basic stones, resists corrosion in wet environments, and holds an edge through multiple deer without touching up. For hunters who actually use their knives in the field rather than displaying them, this matters more than chasing exotic super steels that chip when you hit bone.
Al Buck introduced the 110 Folding Hunter in 1964, featuring a lockback strong enough to handle gutting and field dressing—tasks that previously required fixed blades. The design became so ubiquitous that people still refer to any lockback folder with brass bolsters as a "buck knife," regardless of the manufacturer. It's the most imitated knife pattern in history because the geometry actually works. Four generations later, Buck still manufactures it in Idaho with the same lock geometry that made it famous.
Are Buck knives actually American-made?
Core models, such as the 110, 112 Ranger, 119 Special, and 102 Woodsman, are manufactured at Buck's Idaho facility. Some budget lines utilize overseas production, but their flagship hunting and EDC knives remain domestically produced. Fourth-generation CEO CJ Buck runs the operation that his great-grandfather, Hoyt, started in 1902 - you're buying from an actual family-owned company, not a brand name owned by a conglomerate.
Why choose Buck over premium brands?
You're getting proven geometry and legitimate heat treatment at prices that leave budget for ammunition and tags. The Forever Warranty covers defects for life, and their repair service handles damaged knives for reasonable fees. Buck delivers reliable tools for people who work, not mall ninjas chasing internet hype.
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