102 question

Grateful

Grateful

Gold Member
Joined
Oct 5, 2002
Messages
4,527
Hey guys, I have this 102 that I am trying to date. No date codes so it's pre 86 but also no dots that I can see. What gives?
It is stamped :

BUCK
102
U.S.A.

Any help will be appreciated.
Jim
 
Without pictures, i cannot be specific beyond what I say below.

If the stamp is read with the tip of the knife pointing down, it was made in 1972. If the stamp is read with the tip pointing up, it was made between 1973 and 1986. The dot codes were not used on the fixed blade knives except for a short period in 1967 when the only stamp on the blade was BUCK* (dot), with no model number and no USA.

Telechronos:):):)
 
Buck not using dots on the fixed blades does explain why I could not find them.:D Thanks for the info.
Jim
 
There are two spacers at the pommel and finger guard. They kind of look like micarta to me. The second or lower spacer at the finger guard covers that entire side of the finger guard. The side that would be against your finger while using the knife that is. The knife came in the old yellow box.
Jim
 
Thanks . Buck used that stamp and configuration from 1973 into 86 . Then in 1981 changed the spacers (not like yours) for a short time, one in guard and two in pommel . I've not seen a 102 like this . Later Buck changed the spacers to one and one front and pommel from 1981 into 86 . The two piece yellow box was used (with this stamp) from 1973 to sometime in 78 . In 1978 Buck began using the one piece yellow box (yours) . This same box continued in use up until the date codes . Your knife certainly has a blade of 440C steel . DM
 
Well thank you sir very much. You do know your stuff. If I am following you correctly my 102 was made between '78 and '81? I am very pleased to hear that mine has a blade of 440C. When did Buck switch to 425mod?
Thanks again Mr Martin I really appreciate the information.
Jim
 
Grateful, Your welcome . Since, your model has two & two, (we call it) . Two spacers front and rear, finger guard and pommel that makes it 1973-80 . Then your box gets it more specific 1978-80 . Information derived from a box and paperwork is solid . Your fortunate to have it . Buck made the switch to 425M (in fixed blades) with the first date code stampings . Many collectors who traffic here know the same stuff and are more knowledgable than me . I just read your post sooner . Glad we could help as I think many here deserve your apperciation . DM
 
Your model should have thicker steel near the edge and came with a flap over sheath with '102' stamped near the belt loop . DM
 
Your welcome . I have Will Rogers book and have read your quote in it . We have some good dogs too . DM
 
Most of the dogs that I meet are good dogs David and I am always a little sad when I meet some one who doesn't appreciate the value of a good dog. You telling me that you have some good dogs tells me that you are not one of them.
Jim
 
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