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Buck pocket knives revolutionized the folding knife industry when they introduced the Model 110 in 1964. That lockback design proved folders could handle tasks previously reserved for fixed blades. Today, Buck manufactures pocket knives in their Idaho facility alongside imports that maintain their quality standards at accessible price points.
The Buck 110 Folding Hunter remains the most recognizable pocket knife in America, with over 15 million produced since 1964. Made in the USA with brass bolsters and genuine wood handles, it established what people still call a "buck knife" - any lockback folder with traditional styling. At 8.5 inches open with a 3.75-inch blade, it bridges the gap between pocket carry and belt carry.
The Buck 112 Ranger scales down the 110's design to a more pocket-friendly 3-inch blade and 4.25-inch closed length. Also USA made, it provides the same lockback strength and brass/wood construction in a size that disappears in the pocket. Both models use Buck's heat-treated 420HC steel at 57-59 HRC, delivering working sharpness that's easy to maintain.
The Buck 722 Spitfire brings one-handed operation to Buck's USA-made lineup. The thumb hole deployment and mid-lock design create smooth opening action in an aluminum-handled folder that weighs just 3.2 ounces. The four-position pocket clip configures for tip-up or tip-down carry, left or right hand.
For those wanting modern flipper deployment, the Buck 263 HiLine features ball bearing pivot action with a frame lock. The D2 tool steel holds an edge longer than 420HC, while the cleaver blade shape excels at EDC slicing tasks. The stonewashed finish and G10 handle scales provide grip without adding bulk. Available in standard and XL sizes.
The Buck 743 Mini Sovereign introduces button lock technology to Buck's pocket knife lineup. This mechanism allows secure one-handed opening and closing with a simple button press. At 2.625 inches, the blade length suits legal carry in most jurisdictions while the deep-carry clip keeps the knife discreet. The all-stainless construction eliminates handle materials that could crack or wear.
Buck manufactures their heritage models - 110, 112, and select others - in Post Falls, Idaho using American steel and traditional craftsmanship. These USA made knives carry premium pricing but deliver the quality that established Buck's reputation.
Import models like the HiLine and Sovereign series maintain Buck's heat treatment standards and Forever Warranty while hitting lower price points. Buck's quality control ensures these imports meet performance standards regardless of origin.
Buck's lockback mechanism revolutionized folding knives by providing fixed-blade strength in a folder. The design positions a spring bar along the spine that locks the blade open until deliberately released. This keeps fingers behind the blade path during closing - safer than traditional slip joints.
Modern Buck folders add liner locks, frame locks, and button locks to the traditional lockback, each offering different advantages. Liner and frame locks allow one-handed closing, while button locks provide ambidextrous operation. The classic lockback remains on heritage models for those preferring traditional mechanics.
Most current Buck pocket knives include removable or reversible clips for customized carry. Traditional models like the 110 and 112 typically use belt sheaths, though aftermarket clips exist. Modern designs feature deep-carry clips that minimize visibility while keeping knives accessible.
Whether you choose a USA made classic or modern import, Buck pocket knives deliver the cutting performance and reliability that made "buck knife" part of the American vocabulary.
Browse our Buck folding knife selection below, sortable by blade length, lock type, and country of manufacture.