Buck 317

[John A. Larsen]

I have become interested in 2 bladed folding hunters and today at the Washington Arms Collector Show got a Buck 317 in very nice shape. I would like to know what years the 317 was made. One man told me it was only made for about 3 years, another said it was made for over 10 years. Also what was the steel used? Again one man said 440C, and not certain what steel Buck went to next. Lastly, is their any way to tell what year a 317 was made? Thanks.

 

[300Bucks]

I believe 317's made 1972 to 1990. But one source says only to 1986. No dating by individual year. There are two common models , 72-74ish, tang reads Made in USA with model # on pile side. 1974ish on with BUCK 317 USA on tang. An fairly rare later model varation has a factory serrated secondary blade. Will need someone with the early catalog cd from the Buck Collectors Club source to check on the steel. Early ones might be 440 with later 420 but just a guess. They often are for sale but prices have increased as of late. I think the black sheath and handle looks good on a belt of Harley riders.

 

[John A. Larsen]

300Bucks, thanks. I found the date information on the Buck site, but mine is before that with just Buck, under that 317 and below that U.S.A. so who knows what year it was made. Blade reacted to a diamond hone more like 440C than 420 IMO, but again who knows for sure. In any case it is a very nice knife.