102 vs 105 for fixed EDC.

[Insipid Moniker]

I like about a 4" blade for fixed EDC, but I have XL hands and the handle on the 102 makes me think it might be a bit too small to use comfortably. The 105 is a little longer in the blade than I prefer, but the handle seems better and it's still light enough that I don't think weight would be an issue.

Any opinions or, if someone would be kind enough, comparison pics between the two handles would be immensely appreciated.

Also, if anyone has any advice about getting a custom horizontal cross draw sheath for whichever I end up with, that would be awesome. Leather or kydex would both be fine.

 

[Uncle Slayton]

if your mitts are xl the 102 will seem dainty which is too bad cause it's an otherwise perfect edc fixer imo

 

[Uncle Slayton]

also consider

https://www.buckknives.com/product/118-personal-knife-micarta-420hc-steel-limited-factory-run/0118BO9-B/

 

[Insipid Moniker]

also consider

https://www.buckknives.com/product/118-personal-knife-micarta-420hc-steel-limited-factory-run/0118BO9-B/

That definitely looks like a solid contender, very much appreciate it!

 

[hunterjrg]

also consider

https://www.buckknives.com/product/118-personal-knife-micarta-420hc-steel-limited-factory-run/0118BO9-B/

I would also recommend the 118 but I really like a 105

 

[BP_]

I would go 117 if you can find one. Sounds like it would be just right, as far as size goes.




Compared to a 119:

 

[Insipid Moniker]

I would go 117 if you can find one. Sounds like it would be just right, as far as size goes.

View attachment 1968924
View attachment 1968925

Compared to a 119:

View attachment 1968926

I am suddenly very annoyed with myself for not asking this question back in March when it was Buck of the Month.

 

[DeSotoSky]

Consider something else, 192 or 212 for instance.

 

[BP_]

I am suddenly very annoyed with myself for not asking this question back in March when it was Buck of the Month.

They are pretty handy. Right in between the 102, which is a little small for my hand, and the 119, which is a bit big to just be carrying around anywhere in town. My favorite is the 5160 version, if you can find one.

 

[GPyro]

Top to bottom:
192
212
105
117
118
102
View attachment 1969021
I lined them all up on the 5 inch line.

Sorry, it could be a better pic.

 

[Insipid Moniker]

Top to bottom:
192
212
105
117
118
102
View attachment 1969021
I lined them all up on the 5 inch line.

Sorry, it could be a better pic.

That's extremely helpful, thank you so much!

 

[DeSotoSky]

I do not have a picture at hand but the short lived 403 Big Sky was a compact knife I really liked. Full width tang and a great sheath.
Here is a link to a thread on them.

Let's see the 403s

403 Big Sky. Let's see the pics of those in our collection. Great full tang knife.

www.bladeforums.com

 

[GPyro]

I agree the handle on the 102 is small. Short and little in diameter.

I think the Vanguard has the best handle of all.
It fills your hand more than any of those others.

I really like the 104 as well. Tho it's a bigger knife, and pretty much only available in 5160.

 

[Grateful]

I really, really tried to like the 102 but as has been said the handle is kinda small if you have large hands.
After using a 192 a bit it became a real favorite. A much better knife than the 102 or 105 imho.

 

[GPyro]

The large Selkirk comes with a sheath that can be set up for horizontal carry.

Yeah it's made in China, and I haven't bought one myself for that reason.....
But I will say I know someone that has one, and it really is a nice knife.

And it's inexpensive, especially BCCI price.

 

[Jeff of the North]

I share your sizing preferences and the 117 is exactly what I was looking for. Generous handle and a workable blade length. The 105 is slightly longer but will do in a pinch when the 117 isn't packed or within reach.

The 118 is another excellent choice if you can find one.

 

[1911bphil]

I have a 105. The handle is ok, but I wish it was larger. I also have XL hands and the handle is not quite as large as I would prefer. Just my humble opinion though.

 

[Vaporstang]

I share your sizing preferences and the 117 is exactly what I was looking for. Generous handle and a workable blade length. The 105 is slightly longer but will do in a pinch when the 117 isn't packed or within reach.

The 118 is another excellent choice if you can find one.

The Buck site currently has the 118 available in Micarta.

 

[eveled]

I have them all and the 212 is the one I carry regularly.