Buck Knives 659 Pursuit Pro Large Folding Drop Point Knife Review

Let’s Talk About Buck Knives 659 Pursuit Pro Large Folding Drop Point Knife

The Buck Knives 659 Pursuit Pro Large Folding Drop Point Knife is a hunting knife designed to bridge the gap between affordability and high-end performance. This knife, manufactured by Buck Knives, boasts features that serious hunters appreciate: namely, S35VN steel and a comfortable, high-visibility handle.

As a gear specialist, I’m always on the lookout for tools that offer the best bang for the buck, and this knife immediately caught my eye. For years I’ve trusted Buck Knives, but I needed a reliable, easily sharpened folding knife for field dressing game without sacrificing durability.

My first impression upon unboxing the Buck Knives 659 Pursuit Pro Large Folding Drop Point Knife was positive. The orange and black handle made it easy to spot, and the weight felt substantial without being unwieldy. The lockback mechanism engaged with a reassuring click, and the S35VN steel blade was impressively sharp right out of the box.

Compared to my older Gerber folding knife with its AUS-8 steel, the Buck Knives 659 Pursuit Pro Large Folding Drop Point Knife immediately felt like an upgrade due to the steel choice. I also considered the Benchmade Bugout, renowned for its lightweight design, but I preferred the more robust feel and larger blade of the Buck. I even looked at the Spyderco Paramilitary 2, but the orange handle on the Buck was a big plus for me since I am prone to setting my knife down and losing it in the brush.

My initial excitement stemmed from the promise of a capable hunting knife that wouldn’t break the bank. I was hoping it would live up to the Buck Knives reputation for quality and deliver a reliable edge in demanding field conditions.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Buck Knives 659 Pursuit Pro Large Folding Drop Point Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Buck Knives 659 Pursuit Pro Large Folding Drop Point Knife during a deer hunting trip in the Pennsylvania mountains. The weather was typically unpredictable with occasional rain and temperatures hovering around freezing.

The knife performed admirably when field dressing a whitetail deer. The Drop Point blade shape proved ideal for skinning, and the S35VN steel retained its edge remarkably well throughout the process. The Versaflex handle offered a secure grip even with wet hands, and the bright orange color made it easy to locate when I briefly set it down on the forest floor.

It took a little breaking in to be able to open the knife easily with one hand using the Thumb Stud, but after a couple of days of use, it was very easy. There were no major issues, although the lockback mechanism felt a bit stiff initially.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the Buck Knives 659 Pursuit Pro Large Folding Drop Point Knife has proven to be a reliable and durable tool. I’ve used it for everything from processing firewood to preparing meals on camping trips.

The blade has held up incredibly well with only minimal signs of wear and tear. The S35VN steel has proven to be as tough as Buck claims, and I’ve only needed to touch it up a couple of times with a ceramic honing rod. The handle shows no signs of damage, and the lockback mechanism remains solid and secure.

Compared to my older knives, the Buck Knives 659 Pursuit Pro Large Folding Drop Point Knife is noticeably superior in edge retention and ease of sharpening. Its overall performance has exceeded my expectations, proving to be a dependable companion in the field.

Breaking Down the Features of Buck Knives 659 Pursuit Pro Large Folding Drop Point Knife

Specifications

• The Buck Knives 659 Pursuit Pro Large Folding Drop Point Knife features a 3.6-inch blade crafted from S35VN Steel. This steel provides excellent edge retention and is relatively easy to resharpen, a crucial factor for a hunting knife.
• The knife has a closed length of 5 inches and an overall length of 9.5 inches. This size makes it comfortable to carry and handle while still providing ample cutting surface.
• It weighs in at 3.8 ounces, a good balance between robustness and portability. You won’t feel like you are carrying a brick, but it isn’t too light.
• The handle is constructed from Versaflex over a glass-filled nylon frame, ensuring a secure and comfortable grip. The black and orange color scheme enhances visibility.
• A lockback mechanism securely locks the blade in the open position, and the knife includes a heavy-duty polyester sheath for safe carry. The sheath helps prevent accidental deployment and protects the blade.
• The Blade Thickness is 0.12 in, thick enough to be useful without being unwieldy. This adds to the overall strength of the blade.
• The Blade Finish is Satin, reducing the odds of glare when in the field. Also, it helps prevent corrosion, and makes the blade easy to clean.

Performance & Functionality

The Buck Knives 659 Pursuit Pro Large Folding Drop Point Knife excels in its primary role as a hunting knife. Its Drop Point blade shape provides excellent control for skinning and field dressing game, while the S35VN steel holds an edge even after extended use.

The knife’s strengths lie in its combination of a durable blade, comfortable handle, and reliable lockback mechanism. It may take some breaking in, but there aren’t any real weaknesses; the lockback mechanism requires two hands to close the knife, but this is a standard feature for lockback knives. The knife is right on par with my expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The Buck Knives 659 Pursuit Pro Large Folding Drop Point Knife boasts a thoughtful design that prioritizes both functionality and comfort. The Versaflex handle provides a secure and ergonomic grip, even in wet conditions.

The weight distribution feels balanced, making it comfortable to use for extended periods. There is a slight learning curve with the lockback mechanism and one-handed opening, but it quickly becomes second nature.

Durability & Maintenance

Built with quality materials and solid construction, the Buck Knives 659 Pursuit Pro Large Folding Drop Point Knife is designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use. With proper care, it should last for many years.

The S35VN steel resists corrosion and is relatively easy to sharpen, and the Versaflex handle is durable and easy to clean. This knife will take care of you, if you take care of it.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Buck Knives 659 Pursuit Pro Large Folding Drop Point Knife comes with a heavy-duty polyester sheath for convenient and secure carry. While there are no specific customization options offered directly by Buck, the knife’s standard design allows for aftermarket modifications such as lanyards or handle wraps.

The knife is compatible with most universal knife sharpeners and cleaning products, making it easy to maintain. The options are not vast for this knife, but you can always customize it for your needs.

Pros and Cons of Buck Knives 659 Pursuit Pro Large Folding Drop Point Knife

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Who Should Buy Buck Knives 659 Pursuit Pro Large Folding Drop Point Knife?

The Buck Knives 659 Pursuit Pro Large Folding Drop Point Knife is perfect for hunters seeking a reliable, high-performance folding knife that won’t break the bank. It is also a great choice for backpackers and campers who need a durable and versatile cutting tool.

This knife may not be ideal for those who prefer a smaller, more lightweight everyday carry knife. If you are looking for a conversation piece, this might not be the right one for you.

A must-have accessory would be a quality knife sharpener, such as a ceramic honing rod, to maintain the blade’s edge. Some users might also benefit from adding a lanyard for enhanced grip and accessibility.

Conclusion on Buck Knives 659 Pursuit Pro Large Folding Drop Point Knife

Overall, the Buck Knives 659 Pursuit Pro Large Folding Drop Point Knife is an excellent value for the money. It offers a compelling combination of high-quality materials, thoughtful design, and reliable performance.

The price is more than justified considering the S35VN steel blade, comfortable handle, and durable construction. Yes, the lockback mechanism can take some getting used to, but it’s a minor tradeoff for a knife that inspires confidence in the field.

I would wholeheartedly recommend the Buck Knives 659 Pursuit Pro Large Folding Drop Point Knife to any hunter or outdoorsman looking for a dependable and affordable cutting tool. If you need a new hunting knife, go grab one today!