Buck Knives Selkirk Survival Knife Review

Let’s Dive into Buck Knives Selkirk Survival Knife

The Buck Knives Selkirk Survival Knife is a fixed-blade knife designed with the outdoorsman and survivalist in mind. Manufactured by Buck Knives, it boasts a 420HC steel blade, a comfortable micarta handle, and a robust sheath with integrated fire starter and whistle. This knife aims to be a versatile tool for a variety of tasks, from basic cutting to emergency fire starting.

I was looking for a reliable, multi-purpose knife that could handle a variety of tasks in the backcountry. Specifically, I wanted something more robust than my usual folding knife but not as bulky or expensive as some of the high-end survival knives on the market. The Selkirk seemed to strike a good balance between capability, price, and portability.

Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed by the Selkirk’s solid feel and clean lines. The micarta handle felt comfortable and secure in my hand, and the blade arrived surprisingly sharp. The sheath, while injection molded, appeared durable and well-designed, with multiple carry options.

Compared to the Gerber Strongarm, which felt a bit too tactical for my needs, and the ESEE 4, which was significantly more expensive, the Buck Knives Selkirk Survival Knife seemed like the perfect compromise. I picked it for its blend of functionality, affordability, and the reputation of Buck Knives. My first impression was excitement, tempered by the knowledge that it’s manufactured in China, but I was eager to put it to the test.

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

First Use Experience

I first tested the Buck Knives Selkirk Survival Knife on a weekend camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. I used it for various tasks, including batoning firewood, preparing food, and carving feather sticks. The knife performed admirably in dry conditions, providing good control and cutting power.

The 420HC steel held its edge well during initial use, and the micarta handle provided a secure grip, even when my hands were slightly damp. I found the sheath easy to use, and the fire starter worked flawlessly to ignite tinder. There were no immediate issues, and I was pleased with its overall performance.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Buck Knives Selkirk Survival Knife has proven to be a reliable and durable tool. There are some minor scratches on the blade coating, but the edge remains sharp with occasional honing. The micarta handle still looks and feels like new, and the sheath shows no signs of cracking or wear.

Cleaning is simple with soap and water, and a light coat of oil keeps the blade rust-free. It outperforms my previous budget-friendly fixed blade, thanks to its superior steel and more comfortable handle. Overall, the Selkirk has exceeded my expectations and proven its worth as a dependable survival knife.

Breaking Down the Features of Buck Knives Selkirk Survival Knife

Specifications

The Buck Knives Selkirk Survival Knife features a 4 5/8 inch drop point blade crafted from 420HC Stainless Steel. This steel is known for its good balance of edge retention, corrosion resistance, and ease of sharpening. The handle is made from CNC Contoured Micarta with steel bolsters, the rear bolster acting as an improvised hammer.

The knife comes with an injection molded nylon sheath designed for both vertical and horizontal carry. Integrated into the sheath are a fire starter and a whistle. These specifications are important because they contribute to the knife’s versatility, durability, and overall suitability for survival situations.

Performance & Functionality

The Buck Knives Selkirk Survival Knife performs its job well, offering a solid balance of cutting power and control. The drop point blade is well-suited for a variety of tasks, from fine carving to more demanding chores like batoning. While the steel isn’t a premium grade, it holds an edge well enough for general use and is easy to resharpen in the field.

Its strengths lie in its overall versatility and comfortable ergonomics. A minor weakness is the blade steel; though adequate, it requires more frequent sharpening compared to higher-end steels. It meets my expectations for a mid-priced survival knife, delivering reliable performance without breaking the bank.

Design & Ergonomics

The Selkirk’s build quality is impressive for its price point. The micarta handle provides a secure and comfortable grip, even when wet, and the steel bolsters add to the knife’s overall robustness. The weight is well-balanced, making it comfortable to use for extended periods.

The design is user-friendly, with no significant learning curve. The sheath is well-designed and provides secure retention, with multiple carry options for added convenience. Overall, the Selkirk is a well-designed and ergonomic survival knife.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the Buck Knives Selkirk Survival Knife should last for many years. The 420HC steel is relatively easy to maintain, requiring only occasional sharpening and cleaning. The micarta handle is highly durable and resistant to wear and tear.

The sheath is made from injection molded nylon, which is tough but can be susceptible to cracking under extreme stress. Easy to maintain and clean, soap and water is generally sufficient. A high-quality knife oil will protect the blade.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Buck Knives Selkirk Survival Knife comes with a durable injection molded nylon sheath that houses an integrated fire starter and whistle. There are limited customization options available directly from Buck Knives. Owners could potentially replace the factory fire starter with a higher-quality alternative, or modify the sheath for enhanced carry options using aftermarket accessories like MOLLE clips. Be sure to check the official Buck Knives website to see if they have updated their options.

Pros and Cons of Buck Knives Selkirk Survival Knife

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Who Should Buy Buck Knives Selkirk Survival Knife?

The Buck Knives Selkirk Survival Knife is perfect for campers, hikers, and anyone who enjoys spending time outdoors and needs a reliable tool for various tasks. It’s also an excellent choice for those looking for a budget-friendly survival knife with essential features like a fire starter and whistle.

Those who prefer knives made in the USA or require a blade steel with superior edge retention might want to skip this product. A good quality sharpening stone is a must-have accessory for maintaining the blade’s edge.

Conclusion on Buck Knives Selkirk Survival Knife

The Buck Knives Selkirk Survival Knife is a solid and versatile tool that offers excellent value for its price. While the 420HC steel and country of origin may be drawbacks for some, the knife’s overall performance, durability, and comfortable ergonomics make it a worthwhile investment.

The price is justified by its functionality, build quality, and included survival features. I would personally recommend the Buck Knives Selkirk Survival Knife to anyone looking for a reliable and affordable survival knife. Add this knife to your gear today and be ready for whatever the great outdoors throws at you!