Buck 500 vs 501....

T

Takoma

Joined
Dec 30, 2016
Messages
116
Hey gang, I carry a 501 quite a bit these days. Perfect size for most of what my days entail. I have always been curious about the 500 and how much larger it actually feels than the 501. And how it also feels in comparison to the 110? I've seen the comparison pics online and the differences between the 501 and 500 don't seem that profound. What has been folks actually experience handling the two?
 
Takoma, here is my opinion. When I see side by side photos of closed knives, I tend to notice the difference in length. However, I think the difference in "feel" is more a factor of the handle circumference than it is of length. The 500 handle is considerably wider (about 1/4" top to bottom) and slightly thicker (almost 1/16" side to side). That comes to about a 5/8" difference in handle circumference, which is really noticeable when you hold the knife.

Bert
 
Last edited:
bertl said:
Takoma, here is my opinion. When I see side by side photos of closed knives, I tend to notice the difference in length. However, I think the difference in "feel" is more a factor of the handle circumference than it is of length. The 500 handle is considerably wider (about 1/4" top to bottom) and slightly thicker (almost 1/16" side to side). That comes to about a 5/8" difference in handle circumference, which is really noticeable when you hold the knife.

Bert
Click to expand...
And for not much more blade.
 
The 500 feels like a much larger knife than the 501, both in my hand and in my pocket. I find that the additional weight makes the most difference at the bottom of my pocket. I like my 500, I've had it for 30 years, but I usually carry the 501 instead.
 
I don't carry a 501 as it's shape and size does not appeal to me. The 500 however is much more to my liking and taste. Especially, the 500 from the Heritage series. It's the minimal knife I would carry when dressed for a night on the town. DM
 
The 501 is one of my favorite knives in general....not just favorite Buck. I got a 500 after I had a 501 for a while and figured I would love that one too since it looks like a bigger version, but I didn't. I think the blade to handle ratio on the 500 is way off (in my opinion) and as much as I want to like it, I can't warm up to it. I reckon in hand it feels similar to a 501, but the general feel isn't nearly the same. I think the 501 is perfect for a smaller secondary blade and I have one, along with a 110, on me nearly everyday. It's something you have to feel for yourself and I'm sure I'd be able to send you mine to try if you wanted....
 
Thank you for all the detailed replies. That definitely gives me a better idea about the 500. It appears not to represent a large enough jump in difference to warrant a future purchase, but I respect those that enjoy what it offers and perhaps someday I check one out. Thanks again!
 
An aluminum 500 would make this knife more carry friendly, although it is not a terribly heavy knife. A larger blade, like the old ones, that is in proportion to the size of the handle would be nice too. How did that get out of whack?
 
The 501 is the quintessential pocket knife, in my humble opinion. That, and the 503, are what I carry an awful lot.
 
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