Buck Knives 112 Slim Select Lockback OD Folding Knife Review

First Impressions of Buck Knives 112 Slim Select Lockback OD Folding Knife

The Buck Knives 112 Slim Select Lockback OD Folding Knife arrives promising a modern take on a classic design. Buck Knives is a name synonymous with American knifemaking, and the 112 Ranger is a legendary model. This “Slim Select” variant, with its OD green handle and focus on lightweight carry, seemed like an interesting evolution, blending tradition with modern sensibilities.

As an outdoor gear specialist, I’m always on the lookout for a reliable folding knife that can handle everyday tasks without weighing me down. I’ve carried everything from beefy fixed blades to minimalist keychain knives, and the Buck Knives 112 Slim Select Lockback OD Folding Knife appeared to strike a balance between utility and portability. I hoped it would be a solid everyday carry option, capable of tackling everything from opening packages to preparing kindling in the field.

Upon unboxing, the knife immediately felt lighter than expected, a definite plus for pocket carry. The OD green handle, while made of nylon, provided a decent grip, and the lockback mechanism snapped open with a satisfying click. Its slim profile was also immediately noticeable, making it a far cry from the heftier traditional 112.

Compared to my Benchmade Bugout, known for its ultralight design, the Buck Knives 112 Slim Select Lockback OD Folding Knife felt slightly more robust, but still significantly lighter than my older, brass-bolstered 112. The Spyderco Paramilitary 2, another popular EDC choice, offered a different blade shape and locking mechanism, but the Buck Knives 112 Slim Select Lockback OD Folding Knife had a more classic, less tactical aesthetic. I chose this Buck Knives offering for its familiar design, American heritage, and the promise of reliable performance in a slim, lightweight package.

My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. While the materials weren’t as premium as some of my other knives, the overall build quality seemed solid for the price. I was excited to put it through its paces and see if it could live up to the Buck Knives name.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Buck Knives 112 Slim Select Lockback OD Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Buck Knives 112 Slim Select Lockback OD Folding Knife on a weekend camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. The weather was damp, with persistent drizzle making everything slick and challenging. The knife was primarily used for food preparation, whittling feather sticks for fire starting, and cutting cordage.

Despite the wet conditions, the nylon handle provided a surprisingly secure grip. The blade, while not the sharpest out of the box, held an edge reasonably well after a quick touch-up. Opening and closing the knife with wet hands proved a little tricky at first, but the lockback mechanism felt solid and reliable.

One minor issue I noticed during initial use was the thumb stud’s small size. It was slightly difficult to engage with gloves on, requiring more deliberate effort than knives with larger, more pronounced studs. Otherwise, the knife performed adequately for basic camp tasks.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Buck Knives 112 Slim Select Lockback OD Folding Knife has proven to be a reliable, if not exceptional, tool. The blade has required occasional sharpening, but it hasn’t chipped or rolled even after some moderate abuse. The lockback mechanism remains strong and secure, with no signs of play or loosening.

The OD green nylon handle has held up well to daily wear and tear. While it shows some minor scratches and scuffs, there’s no cracking or warping. Cleaning is simple; a quick rinse with water and a wipe down is usually all that’s needed.

Compared to my experiences with other EDC knives, the Buck Knives 112 Slim Select Lockback OD Folding Knife sits squarely in the middle ground. It’s not as rugged as a full-tang fixed blade nor as refined as some higher-end folders, but it offers a good balance of durability, portability, and affordability. It hasn’t blown me away with exceptional performance, but it has reliably performed its intended function without fail.

Breaking Down the Features of Buck Knives 112 Slim Select Lockback OD Folding Knife

Specifications

The Buck Knives 112 Slim Select Lockback OD Folding Knife features a 3-inch blade made from 420HC steel. This steel is known for its ease of sharpening and decent corrosion resistance, making it a practical choice for everyday use. The closed length of the knife is 4.25 inches, contributing to its slim and pocketable profile.

The handle is constructed from OD green molded nylon, which keeps the weight down and provides a textured gripping surface. It also features a lockback mechanism for secure blade deployment and closure. A pocket clip is included for convenient carry, and the knife ships in a simple box.

These specifications are important because they dictate the knife’s intended use and overall performance. The blade length is suitable for a variety of tasks, while the steel offers a good balance between sharpness and durability. The nylon handle contributes to the knife’s lightweight design and ease of maintenance.

Performance & Functionality

The Buck Knives 112 Slim Select Lockback OD Folding Knife performs admirably for general cutting tasks. The 420HC blade sharpens easily and holds a reasonable edge for EDC purposes. The lockback mechanism provides a secure lockup, inspiring confidence during use.

However, the thumb stud could be improved. Its small size makes it less accessible with gloves on, and deploying the blade one-handed can sometimes be a challenge. The overall performance is solid, but there’s room for refinement.

The knife largely meets expectations for an affordable EDC option. While it doesn’t excel in any particular area, it provides reliable cutting performance in a lightweight and easily carried package. It is ideal for simple everyday tasks around the house and basic outdoor use, and a user requiring a super-sharp, high-retention edge for hunting or bushcrafting will likely be disappointed with the 420HC blade material.

Design & Ergonomics

The Buck Knives 112 Slim Select Lockback OD Folding Knife boasts a classic, understated design. The slim profile makes it comfortable to carry in a pocket without feeling bulky. The OD green handle provides a decent grip, though the nylon material doesn’t offer the same premium feel as wood or G10.

The knife is relatively user-friendly, although the thumb stud could be more prominent. The lockback mechanism is intuitive and easy to operate with one hand once you are familiar with it. Overall, the design prioritizes functionality and portability over premium materials.

Durability & Maintenance

The Buck Knives 112 Slim Select Lockback OD Folding Knife is built to last, with reasonable care. The 420HC steel is resistant to corrosion, and the nylon handle is durable and easy to clean. The lockback mechanism is robust and should withstand years of use with proper maintenance.

Maintaining the knife is simple. Regular cleaning with soap and water, along with occasional oiling of the blade and pivot point, will keep it in good working order. Sharpening the blade is also straightforward, thanks to the user-friendly nature of 420HC steel.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Buck Knives 112 Slim Select Lockback OD Folding Knife comes with a pocket clip, which can be attached to either side of the handle. There are not many aftermarket accessories specifically designed for this particular model, but the pocket clip is a useful and welcome addition.

It may be possible to modify the knife with aftermarket thumb studs, but I have not verified this compatibility. Unlike some knives, which have readily available scale replacements or other customization options, the Buck Knives 112 Slim Select Lockback OD Folding Knife offers limited opportunities for personalization.

Pros and Cons of Buck Knives 112 Slim Select Lockback OD Folding Knife

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Who Should Buy Buck Knives 112 Slim Select Lockback OD Folding Knife?

The Buck Knives 112 Slim Select Lockback OD Folding Knife is perfect for anyone looking for an affordable, reliable, and lightweight EDC knife. It’s ideal for casual campers, hikers, and everyday users who need a versatile cutting tool without breaking the bank. It’s a good option for those who appreciate a classic design and want a Buck Knives product without the bulk and weight of traditional models.

Those who prefer a more robust or tactical knife with premium materials should skip this product. If you need a knife for heavy-duty tasks, or if you prioritize a high-end fit and finish, you’ll likely be disappointed. Additionally, individuals who struggle with fine motor skills may find the thumb stud too small and difficult to operate.

A must-have “accessory” is a good sharpening stone. While the 420HC steel is easy to sharpen, a dull blade is a useless blade.

Conclusion on Buck Knives 112 Slim Select Lockback OD Folding Knife

The Buck Knives 112 Slim Select Lockback OD Folding Knife is a solid, no-frills EDC option that delivers reliable performance at an affordable price. While it doesn’t have the premium materials or cutting-edge features of some higher-end knives, it’s a practical and dependable tool for everyday tasks. Its light weight and slim profile make it easy to carry, and the lockback mechanism provides a secure blade lockup.

The value proposition is excellent. For around $40, you get a Buck Knives product with a functional design and decent materials.

I would recommend the Buck Knives 112 Slim Select Lockback OD Folding Knife to anyone looking for a budget-friendly EDC knife that can handle a variety of tasks without weighing them down. If you’re seeking a reliable and classic design from a trusted American brand, the Buck Knives 112 Slim Select Lockback OD Folding Knife is a worthy contender. Grab yours today!