Buck No. 503 Prince Please help me narrow down year 1972-1986

[Mitch110]

Buck No. 503 Prince Please help me narrow down year 1972-1986


Hello,

Is there any way to narrow down the production year of this 503 Prince by looking at the markings ?

Thank you in advanced for any input or advice.

 

[David Martin]

I can help you narrow down it's date of mfg.. Buck brought out the 503 in March 1977 as yours looks. No other change occured until 1981 when the handle material was changed to birch laminate. None of the 500 series knives were brought out before 1975. DM

 

[Mitch110]

Thank you for the clarification. Much appreciated.
Mitch

 

[Haebbie]

Well, David, as I remember the first series of the 503 had three visible pins. Buck hided the rocker Pin in 1978. that would narrow the production time from 78 to 81. But I am not sure. What do you think?
Haebbie

 

[David Martin]

Yes Sir. That did happen but it was with the 501. DM

 

[Haebbie]

Thank you, David, may be that I changed something.

Haebbie