Let’s Talk About Buck Knives Buck Selkirk Small Folding Knife
The Buck Knives Buck Selkirk Small Folding Knife is a compelling option for those seeking a reliable and compact everyday carry (EDC) knife. Crafted by Buck Knives, a company with a long-standing reputation for quality and durability, the Small Folding Selkirk offers a streamlined design coupled with practical functionality. What immediately caught my attention was its promise of being a readily accessible tool for less demanding outdoor situations, a segment often overlooked in the tactical knife market.
I was in the market for a smaller, lighter knife that I could comfortably carry every day without feeling weighed down. My primary need was for a blade that could handle basic cutting tasks around the campsite, during hikes, and for general utility purposes. The Buck Knives Buck Selkirk Small Folding Knife appeared to strike a perfect balance between size, weight, and capability.
Upon unboxing, my first impression was one of understated quality. The CNC contoured Micarta handle felt solid and provided a secure grip, and the knife’s overall weight suggested a robust build despite its compact size. The brown and black color scheme gave it a classic, outdoorsy aesthetic that aligned with my personal preferences.
Compared to my Spyderco Paramilitary 2 and Benchmade Bugout, the Buck Knives Buck Selkirk Small Folding Knife is noticeably smaller and less intimidating. I chose it over the similarly sized CRKT Pilar because of Buck’s reputation for heat treating 420HC steel, which I’ve found to hold an edge better in my experience. The decision also hinged on the Selkirk’s more traditional design and the perceived durability of the Micarta handle over the Pilar’s G10.
My initial reaction was definitely positive; the Buck Knives Buck Selkirk Small Folding Knife seemed to be exactly what I was looking for. It exuded a sense of quality and reliability that instilled confidence in its ability to perform the tasks I intended to use it for.
Real-World Testing: Putting Buck Knives Buck Selkirk Small Folding Knife to the Test
First Use Experience
I first put the Buck Knives Buck Selkirk Small Folding Knife to use on a weekend camping trip in the nearby Appalachian Mountains. The conditions were relatively dry, but the temperature dipped into the low 40s overnight. I used the knife primarily for food preparation, cutting cordage, and whittling small pieces of wood for kindling.
The knife performed admirably in these tasks. The drop point blade proved versatile for slicing vegetables and preparing meat, while the thumb studs allowed for easy, one-handed opening even with slightly gloved hands. I found the grip comfortable and secure, even when my hands were a little damp.
The only minor issue I encountered was that the liner lock felt a bit stiff initially, requiring a bit more pressure than I expected to disengage. However, this seemed to improve with repeated use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Buck Knives Buck Selkirk Small Folding Knife has proven to be a reliable and durable tool. I’ve used it for everything from opening packages at home to assisting with minor repairs on my truck. It’s been with me on multiple hiking trips and even a few fishing excursions.
There are minimal signs of wear and tear. The Micarta handle has held up remarkably well, showing no signs of cracking or chipping, and the blade still locks up tight with no blade play. I’ve noticed a few very minor scratches on the blade, but they are only cosmetic.
The knife is easy to clean. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. I’ve also applied a small amount of mineral oil to the pivot point occasionally to maintain smooth action.
The Buck Knives Buck Selkirk Small Folding Knife outperforms my previous EDC knife, a Kershaw Leek, in terms of overall durability and grip comfort. While the Leek was lighter, the Selkirk feels much more substantial and capable of handling tougher tasks. The superior steel heat treat on the Buck also means I sharpen it far less often.
Breaking Down the Features of Buck Knives Buck Selkirk Small Folding Knife
Specifications
- The Buck Knives Buck Selkirk Small Folding Knife features a 3.25-inch drop point blade, providing a versatile shape suitable for a variety of cutting tasks. This blade length makes it compact enough for easy carry while still offering sufficient cutting edge for most everyday needs.
- The knife has a closed length of 4.25 inches, making it highly pocketable and convenient to carry discreetly. This compact size contributes to its suitability as an EDC knife.
- The blade is made of 420HC stainless steel, a common and reliable steel known for its good balance of hardness, corrosion resistance, and ease of sharpening. Buck Knives is particularly known for their heat treatment of 420HC, yielding excellent performance.
- The Buck Knives Buck Selkirk Small Folding Knife is a folding blade knife, offering a compact and safe carry option. This design makes it ideal for everyday carry and quick deployment when needed.
- A pocket clip is included for convenient and secure carry. This allows the knife to be easily attached to a pocket, belt, or pack.
- The knife has a drop point blade shape, which is versatile for slicing, piercing, and general utility tasks. The drop point is a popular choice for its strength and control.
- The handle features a CNC contoured Micarta with a steel bolster providing a durable and comfortable grip. The Micarta material offers excellent grip even in wet conditions.
- The handle has a brown and black color scheme, giving it a classic and outdoorsy aesthetic. This color combination blends well with most outdoor gear.
- The knife weighs 4.5 oz, striking a good balance between heft and portability. This weight feels substantial enough to inspire confidence without being burdensome.
- The overall color of the knife is Brown/Black. This color combination enhances its visual appeal and makes it suitable for both everyday carry and outdoor use.
Performance & Functionality
The Buck Knives Buck Selkirk Small Folding Knife performs exceptionally well as an EDC knife, excelling at various cutting tasks. Its sharpness, ease of opening, and comfortable grip contribute to its overall functionality.
The blade holds an edge reasonably well, requiring only occasional touch-ups with a honing steel. It is a breeze to sharpen, thanks to the properties of 420HC steel.
The Buck Knives Buck Selkirk Small Folding Knife meets and exceeds expectations for a knife in its price range. Its performance and durability are comparable to more expensive options on the market.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Buck Knives Buck Selkirk Small Folding Knife is excellent, with attention to detail evident in its construction. The materials used, including the Micarta handle and 420HC steel blade, feel solid and durable.
The knife is relatively user-friendly, although the initially stiff liner lock might require a bit of getting used to. The thumb studs make one-handed opening easy and intuitive.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Buck Knives Buck Selkirk Small Folding Knife should last for many years of regular use. Its robust construction and durable materials contribute to its longevity.
The knife is easy to maintain and repair. Sharpening the blade and cleaning the handle are straightforward tasks, and replacement parts are readily available if needed, though the Buck Forever Warranty significantly mitigates that concern.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Buck Knives Buck Selkirk Small Folding Knife comes with a pocket clip, providing a convenient carry option. There are aftermarket deep carry pocket clips available that provide a more discrete carry.
While there are no readily available factory customization options, the Micarta handle could potentially be replaced with aftermarket scales for a personalized look. The standard hardware is robust and reliable, so significant modifications are not generally necessary.
Pros and Cons of Buck Knives Buck Selkirk Small Folding Knife
Pros
- Durable Micarta handle: Provides a secure and comfortable grip, even in wet conditions.
- Reliable 420HC steel blade: Offers a good balance of hardness, corrosion resistance, and ease of sharpening.
- Compact and lightweight: Ideal for everyday carry without feeling cumbersome.
- Easy one-handed opening: Thumb studs allow for quick and convenient blade deployment.
- Affordable price: Offers excellent value for the quality and performance provided.
Cons
- Liner lock can be stiff initially: May require some break-in period for smooth operation.
- Limited customization options: May not appeal to users seeking extensive personalization.
Who Should Buy Buck Knives Buck Selkirk Small Folding Knife?
The Buck Knives Buck Selkirk Small Folding Knife is perfect for:
- Everyday carry enthusiasts seeking a reliable and compact knife for general utility tasks.
- Hikers and campers needing a versatile tool for food preparation, cordage cutting, and minor repairs.
- Individuals looking for an affordable yet durable knife that can withstand regular use.
Who should skip this product?
- Users requiring a larger or more specialized knife for heavy-duty tasks.
- Those seeking extensive customization options or a more tactical aesthetic.
A must-have accessory for the Buck Knives Buck Selkirk Small Folding Knife is a sharpening stone or steel to maintain the blade’s edge. A small bottle of mineral oil can also be useful for lubricating the pivot point and maintaining smooth action.
Conclusion on Buck Knives Buck Selkirk Small Folding Knife
Overall, the Buck Knives Buck Selkirk Small Folding Knife is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a reliable and affordable EDC knife. Its durable construction, versatile blade, and comfortable grip make it a valuable tool for a wide range of tasks.
The price of $49.89 is justified by the knife’s quality and performance. It offers a great value proposition compared to similar knives on the market.
I would highly recommend the Buck Knives Buck Selkirk Small Folding Knife to anyone looking for a dependable and practical EDC option. Its combination of durability, functionality, and affordability make it a standout choice in its category.
If you’re in the market for a reliable and versatile EDC knife that won’t break the bank, the Buck Knives Buck Selkirk Small Folding Knife is definitely worth considering. Add it to your cart and experience the quality and performance that Buck Knives is known for!