Yellowhorse Custom Buck 110 Lockback YH417 Review

First Impressions of Yellowhorse Custom Buck 110 Lockback YH417

The Yellowhorse Custom Buck 110 Lockback YH417 isn’t just a knife; it’s a statement piece. The Yellowhorse company has taken a classic, the Buck 110, and elevated it to an art form with unique materials and craftsmanship. This particular model, with its candy cane Fordite agate handle and elk artwork, immediately screams “collector’s item” while hinting at practical usability.

My search for a new everyday carry (EDC) knife wasn’t about pure utility this time. I wanted something that combined function with artistic flair, a knife that would be as comfortable in my pocket as it would be admired on display. The Yellowhorse Custom Buck 110 Lockback YH417 seemed to perfectly bridge that gap.

Unboxing the Yellowhorse Custom Buck 110 Lockback YH417 was a distinct experience. The presentation, from the box to the included leather sheath, felt premium. The immediate impression was one of quality: the weight felt substantial without being unwieldy, and the Fordite handle was even more vibrant in person than in the photos.

I considered a few other custom Buck 110s before settling on this one. A Case Tribal Lock and a Benchmade Hunt Series folder were in the running, but both lacked the unique character I was seeking. The Yellowhorse Custom Buck 110 Lockback YH417 won me over with its bold design and limited edition status (only 25 pieces!).

My initial reaction was excitement tempered with a touch of hesitation. Could something this beautiful truly stand up to the rigors of daily use? I was eager to find out.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Yellowhorse Custom Buck 110 Lockback YH417 to the Test

First Use Experience

I decided to put the Yellowhorse Custom Buck 110 Lockback YH417 through its paces on a weekend camping trip. I used it for everything from preparing food (slicing vegetables, trimming meat) to general camp tasks (cutting rope, feathering sticks for fire starting). The 420HC stainless steel blade proved surprisingly adept.

The wet weather during the trip provided a good test of the handle’s grip. While the polished Fordite is beautiful, it became slightly slick when wet, requiring a firmer hold. There were no issues or functional problems after the first use, though I made sure to clean and dry the blade thoroughly.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of carrying the Yellowhorse Custom Buck 110 Lockback YH417, it’s holding up admirably. I’ve used it for various tasks, from opening packages to light woodworking, and the blade has retained its edge well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear.

The brass bolsters have developed a slight patina, which I personally find adds to the knife’s character. Cleaning is simple: a quick wipe down with a damp cloth keeps the blade and handle looking their best. So far, it’s outperforming other “display” knives I’ve owned, which often sacrificed practicality for aesthetics.

Breaking Down the Features of Yellowhorse Custom Buck 110 Lockback YH417

Specifications

• The Yellowhorse Custom Buck 110 Lockback YH417 has a 3.75-inch blade made of 420HC stainless steel. This steel is known for its good balance of edge retention, corrosion resistance, and ease of sharpening.
• The closed length of this Yellowhorse knife is 4.88 inches, making it comfortable to carry in a pocket or on a belt. It weighs in at 0.66 pounds, giving it a substantial feel without being overly heavy.
• The handle is crafted from candy cane Fordite agate, a unique material made from layers of hardened automotive paint. This gives each knife a one-of-a-kind appearance.
• The blade and bolsters feature elk artwork etching, adding to the artistic appeal. Brass bolsters and a reliable lockback mechanism round out the design.

These specifications are important because they directly affect the knife’s performance and usability. The blade steel determines how well it holds an edge, while the handle material affects grip and comfort. The lockback mechanism ensures safe and secure blade deployment.

Performance & Functionality

The Yellowhorse Custom Buck 110 Lockback YH417 performs admirably for general cutting tasks. The blade is sharp and holds an edge well enough for everyday use. The lockback mechanism is solid and reliable.

The primary weakness is the handle material’s lack of texture. While beautiful, the smooth Fordite can become slippery when wet. It meets expectations for a visually striking, limited-edition knife with decent cutting performance.

Design & Ergonomics

The Yellowhorse Custom Buck 110 Lockback YH417 features excellent build quality. The fit and finish are superb. The handle, while smooth, is ergonomically shaped for a comfortable grip in most conditions.

The knife is reasonably user-friendly, though some may find the lockback mechanism slightly stiff initially. There’s a minimal learning curve for those familiar with lockback folders.

Durability & Maintenance

The knife seems built to last. The 420HC steel is relatively easy to sharpen. The brass bolsters may require occasional polishing to maintain their shine.

Maintenance is straightforward: cleaning and oiling the blade after use is sufficient to keep it in good condition. The Fordite handle requires no special care.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Yellowhorse Custom Buck 110 Lockback YH417 comes with a black leather belt sheath. There are no listed additional customization options directly from Yellowhorse, but the Buck 110 platform has a wide variety of aftermarket parts available.

You could potentially replace the scales, though this would detract from the unique Fordite handle. Lanyard beads or other small accessories can easily be added to the lanyard hole.

Pros and Cons of Yellowhorse Custom Buck 110 Lockback YH417

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Who Should Buy Yellowhorse Custom Buck 110 Lockback YH417?

Perfect for collectors, knife enthusiasts who appreciate unique and artistic designs, and anyone looking for a high-quality EDC knife that stands out from the crowd. This is also an excellent choice for someone looking for a distinctive gift.

This product might not be ideal for those who prioritize pure utility above aesthetics, or those who require a knife for heavy-duty use in consistently wet conditions. Also, budget-conscious buyers may find the price prohibitive.

A must-have accessory is a good quality sharpening stone to maintain the blade’s edge. A small microfiber cloth for cleaning the blade and handle is also recommended.

Conclusion on Yellowhorse Custom Buck 110 Lockback YH417

The Yellowhorse Custom Buck 110 Lockback YH417 is more than just a knife; it’s a piece of art that you can carry with you. The unique Fordite handle and elk artwork set it apart from other knives on the market. While the smooth handle may not be ideal for all conditions, the overall quality and craftsmanship are exceptional.

The price is undoubtedly a factor, but for those who appreciate the artistry and exclusivity, it’s a justified investment. I would highly recommend the Yellowhorse Custom Buck 110 Lockback YH417 to anyone looking for a truly special EDC knife. Consider adding this unique, limited-edition piece to your collection today!