1989 303

[Russell Payne]

I have a yellow handle 303V and if I read the chart correctly it was made in 1989. I have noticed that the blades are smooth from the spine to the edge compared to the newer 303s I have which have a ridge just below the nail pull. Just wondering if this is a different steel or what was the reason for the difference. I love all my Buck knives.

Remember, what matters to you matters to God because you matter to Him!

 

[Vern Taylor]

Either way, you have a very desirable piece in the yellow handle. They were made in response to a specific request by Smoky Mountain Knife Works and not many were made. I think they got them all except for a very small lot. I'm pretty sure the difference in the "ridge" you describe is the result of a newer way of polishing blades after the stamping process, not because of a different steel. Joe can check with Greg to confirm this.

 

[Joe Houser]

Russell,
Off the top of my head i would say the diference you see shows a knife made by Buck and one made under contract by Camillus. The yellow one was definetly made by us.
Hope this helps,


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Joe Houser
Director of Consumer relations Buck Knives Inc.
Buck Collectors club Administrator and member #123

 

[Russell Payne]

Thanks Vern and Joe. I am not sure I described the blade correctly. It doesn't matter because I like them both. The yellow one was the first Buck knife I ever had. My wife and children gave it to me for my birthday several years ago. I carried it for years. The sawcut handles are smooth now. I still carry it around the house. Glad to know it was made by Buck although Camilus is a good company also. Thanks again guys.