Buck Knives Folding Selkirk Knife Review

Let’s Talk About Buck Knives Folding Selkirk Knife

The Buck Knives Folding Selkirk Knife is a mid-sized, liner lock folder designed for demanding conditions, drawing inspiration from the rugged Selkirk Mountain range. This folding knife is manufactured by Buck Knives, a company renowned for its quality and legacy in the knife-making industry, and it offers a blend of practical features for survival and everyday carry. My experience with tactical gear spans over a decade, giving me a keen eye for quality and functionality, and I’m eager to share my insights into this particular blade.

I needed a reliable folding knife that could handle moderate bushcraft tasks while remaining compact enough for everyday carry. I’ve always valued the durability and dependability of Buck Knives, so the Folding Selkirk caught my eye.

My initial impression upon unboxing was positive; the Micarta handle felt robust, and the blade had a reassuring weight. The fit and finish appeared decent, though I noticed some minor imperfections that are typical of knives in this price range.

Compared to my Benchmade Griptilian (known for its lightweight and customizable grip) and my Spyderco Paramilitary 2 (praised for its ergonomic design and premium steel), the Buck Knives Folding Selkirk Knife offered a different proposition. While the Benchmade prioritizes modularity and the Spyderco emphasizes cutting performance, the Selkirk seemed geared towards ruggedness and all-weather reliability.

Excitement mixed with caution best describes my initial feelings. The Buck Knives Folding Selkirk Knife presented itself as a capable tool, but the sheath’s reported issues tempered my expectations.

Real-World Testing: Putting Buck Knives Folding Selkirk Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Buck Knives Folding Selkirk Knife during a weekend camping trip in the Ouachita National Forest. I used it for various tasks, including preparing kindling, cutting rope, and food preparation. The knife performed adequately in dry conditions.

However, performance declined slightly in wet conditions, as the handle became somewhat slippery despite the Micarta’s texture. Opening the knife one-handed, even with the thumb studs, was a bit stiff initially, requiring some breaking in.

The first-time use revealed the limitations of the sheath; it was difficult to draw the knife quickly, and the retention felt unreliable. I worried about the knife dislodging during more rigorous activity.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the Buck Knives Folding Selkirk Knife has held up reasonably well. The 420HC steel blade has retained its edge, needing only occasional stropping to maintain sharpness. There are some minor scratches on the blade coating, but nothing significant.

The Micarta handle shows no signs of cracking or warping. The sheath, unfortunately, remains a weak point. I found myself seeking aftermarket alternatives to improve carry and retention.

Cleaning the knife is straightforward; a quick wipe-down and occasional lubrication of the pivot point are sufficient. While it outperforms cheaper, generic folding knives in terms of durability and blade retention, it doesn’t quite match the edge retention or overall smoothness of higher-end knives I’ve used.

Breaking Down the Features of Buck Knives Folding Selkirk Knife

Specifications

The Buck Knives Folding Selkirk Knife boasts the following specifications:

• Blade Length: 3.88 inches. This length provides a good balance between utility and portability.
• Closed Length: 5 inches. Compact enough for comfortable carry.
• Blade Material: 420HC Stainless Steel. This steel offers a good balance of corrosion resistance, edge retention, and ease of sharpening.
• Knife Application: Folding Blade. Offers convenience and portability for a variety of uses.
• Included Accessories: Nylon Sheath. Allows for belt carry.
• Blade Shape: Drop Point. A versatile blade shape suitable for a wide range of tasks.
• Handle Material: CNC Contoured Micarta with steel bolster. Provides a secure and comfortable grip.
• Handle Finish: Micarta. Adds texture for improved grip.
• Blade Finish: Stainless Steel. Provides corrosion resistance.
• Sheath Material: Nylon. Lightweight and durable.
• Handle Color: Brown, Black. A neutral and aesthetically pleasing color combination.
• Weight: 7.5 oz. A substantial weight that conveys a sense of durability.
• Color: Brown/Black.

These specifications indicate a knife designed for versatility and reliability in outdoor settings. The 420HC steel is a reasonable choice for its intended use, balancing ease of maintenance with adequate performance.

Performance & Functionality

The Buck Knives Folding Selkirk Knife performs adequately for general cutting tasks. The blade shape is versatile, and the 420HC steel holds a decent edge. However, it is not comparable to premium steels like CPM-S30V or Elmax in terms of edge retention or toughness.

Strengths include its robust construction, comfortable handle, and the included Ferro rod and whistle (integrated into the sheath). The sheath is the primary weakness, lacking secure retention and making the knife difficult to draw quickly.

The Buck Knives Folding Selkirk Knife meets basic expectations for a mid-range folding knife. It provides a reliable cutting tool for everyday tasks and light outdoor use, though the sheath and steel choice limit its performance in more demanding scenarios.

Design & Ergonomics

The Buck Knives Folding Selkirk Knife features a solid build, with the Micarta handle providing a comfortable and secure grip. The steel bolster adds to the knife’s overall robustness. The weight feels substantial, lending a sense of quality.

While the handle is ergonomic, the initial stiffness of the opening mechanism requires some getting used to. One-handed opening improves with use.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the Buck Knives Folding Selkirk Knife should last for years. The 420HC steel is relatively easy to sharpen, and the Micarta handle is resistant to wear and tear.

Maintenance involves regular cleaning and lubrication of the pivot point. Replacing the sheath might be necessary if secure carry is a priority.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Buck Knives Folding Selkirk Knife comes with a nylon sheath that includes a Ferro cerium striker and an integrated whistle. Customization options are limited, but aftermarket sheaths are available for improved carry.

The Selkirk is compatible with universal knife accessories, such as lanyards and sharpening stones. However, specific parts like replacement scales or clips are not readily available.

Pros and Cons of Buck Knives Folding Selkirk Knife

Who Should Buy Buck Knives Folding Selkirk Knife?

The Buck Knives Folding Selkirk Knife is perfect for casual campers, hikers, and general outdoors enthusiasts who need a reliable and affordable folding knife for basic tasks. It’s a good option for those who appreciate the Buck Knives brand and want a knife with added survival features.

Those who require a high-performance knife for demanding bushcraft, survival, or tactical applications should skip this product and consider a knife with a premium steel blade and a more secure sheath.

A must-have accessory is a quality aftermarket sheath. This will significantly improve the knife’s carry and deployment.

Conclusion on Buck Knives Folding Selkirk Knife

The Buck Knives Folding Selkirk Knife is a decent mid-range folding knife that offers a balance of durability, functionality, and affordability. While the 420HC steel and poorly designed sheath limit its performance in demanding situations, it’s a reliable tool for general outdoor use.

The price of $74.99 is justified for a Buck Knives product with its features, making it a reasonable value proposition. I would recommend the Buck Knives Folding Selkirk Knife to those seeking an affordable and reliable folding knife for casual outdoor activities, but with the clear caveat that the sheath needs to be replaced.

Ultimately, the Buck Knives Folding Selkirk Knife is a solid choice for everyday carry and light outdoor tasks, but be prepared to invest in a better sheath to unlock its full potential. Consider adding this dependable tool to your gear collection today.