Buck 305 Tiburon prototype

Lets see if we can start unraveling this question with a partial answer. First off the model number of the Tiburon is not 305...As you can see it is a Model 185. It was only offered a couple of years. This one is stamped 2000, off the top of my head I don't know if any other years were made. It went out of the catalog quickly, sorry you can't ask for a new photo I sold mine. Mine was not marked as prototype. As for the knife type, I would call it a divers or kayakers knife. That's why I bought it. The name promoting the knife and design consultant is Ed Gillette a famous whitewater guy from west coast.....

After more searching "Using forum SEARCH". I found this quote from Joe Houser several years ago.

'That model number, 185, has been "recycled" once. It has been used on both the Buckmaster LT and the Tiburon. What does the blade stamp say? There was only one stamping used on the Buckmaster LT so if it says BUCK, 185<, U.S.A., PAT. PEND. , then we know which one it is. Those knives tend to have a broad range of values when going by online auction sales. I see them go for around $200 in fairly new condition without the box.
Hope this helps.'

My '2nd generation' Tiburon was less than that......300


 
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The blade stamp is 305 with a 1997 date code. The Ed Gillette signature is above the index finger cut, not where yours it. "Prototype" is above the blade serrations, below the combo wrench cutout....my blade has a smaller cutout above the serrations, if you can see my pics.
 
Can't see, but it sounds plausible. The only way to know is to send a photo to Joe Houser at Buck knives. If you wish to do this call the Customer Service number and tell them what you are trying to find out and who and how you should contact at the factory.

This is a low production knife from nearly twenty years ago and only long term employees would have knowledge. Your description sounds extremely plausible as a prototype. Your stampings can be in different locations and some cutouts can be different in a knife under development. As a prototype of this model its value will not be greatly increased over production models but would be of interest to someone who collects them or collects Buck prototypes. I don't specifically know any BF member or BCCI member who has come forward as a exclusive prototype collector. This was an unusual knife for its day and has stayed unusual.

300Bucks
 
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