Buck 104 Compadre vs Becker BK16

[GPyro]

I prefer the less blocky handle of the BK16. I modified my 104 using a BK16 handle scale as a template, and now I have a 5160 Buck 104 BK16.
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Buck's handles do have a tendency to be a bit "blocky".

 

[Loper]

I prefer the less blocky handle of the BK16. I modified my 104 using a BK16 handle scale as a template, and now I have a 5160 Buck 104 BK16.
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Does that mean you prefer the Becker BK16 over the Buck 104 overall, or just prefer the handle? Did the modification to the handle ion the 104 make it a lot better?

 

[Creaky Bones]

Does that mean you prefer the Becker BK16 over the Buck 104 overall, or just prefer the handle? Did the modification to the handle ion the 104 make it a lot better?

It’s a mixed bag, probably leaning towards the BK16. I much prefer the flat grind of the Becker vs the hollow grind of the Buck, and I like the 5160 steel on the 104 vs the 1095 CroVan on the BK16. The handle modification made the 104 much more comfortable for me. I’ve had my original BK16 for a lot longer and it’s like that old pair of boots you always reach for even if you have fancy new ones.


The better options in my humble opinion are the 3V 104 that’s no longer available, or the BK76 which you can still pick up in Magnacut that comes with denim micarta scales. And yes, I did also modify the handle on my 3V 104, and I gave my 16 a bit of a clip point. If you own it, make it your own.

 

[Loper]

It’s a mixed bag, probably leaning towards the BK16. I much prefer the flat grind of the Becker vs the hollow grind of the Buck, and I like the 5160 steel on the 104 vs the 1095 CroVan on the BK16. The handle modification made the 104 much more comfortable for me. I’ve had my original BK16 for a lot longer and it’s like that old pair of boots you always reach for even if you have fancy new ones.
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The better options in my humble opinion are the 3V 104 that’s no longer available, or the BK76 which you can still pick up in Magnacut that comes with denim micarta scales. And yes, I did also modify the handle on my 3V 104, and I gave my 16 a bit of a clip point. If you own it, make it your own.
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Thank you. This is very helpful.