How old is my Buck?

4

4W4K3

Joined
Dec 13, 2006
Messages
603
I found this knife in the bottom of an old tool box. Not sure where it came from or how old it is. Any ideas?

The word "Buck" on the tang has an old English looking "B". Maybe italicized is a better term?
It's a "501" model, yet there are no date codes or markings around the model number.

I am not sure of the handle material. I looks black in daylight but the camera flash gives it a more brown/reddish appearance. It appears to have wood grain but there is a noticeable checkered like pattern across the entire scale(s). Maybe it's synthetic? Where the material is worn down a bit from hand use the checkering smooths out and it just looks like wood.
Appears to have nickel plated bolsters and hardware, or perhaps stainless. I am unsure of the blade material.

So short version;

Odd "B" in the "Buck" stamp.
Model # 501, but no date code/marking.
Unknown handle material.
I would guess not very old, or just hardly used. The blade underwent some crude sharpening once but still holds it's original shape, overall the knife is in great shape with a little scratch and blemish on the exterior. It cuts alright, but I'd like to sharpen it myself and get it cutting GREAT.

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:cool:...That 501 "Esquire" was made between 1975 and 1977. Those were the years the rocker rivet was exposed on the 501's...The blade is 440C steel...one of Buck's best steels IMHO...and the handle scales are maroon micarta ( Buckarta )...:)...
 
Wow, fast response. Thanks guys! So this knife is close to twice my age...haha!

I guess the handle scales have faded with time, or just lost some of their luster. This came from a box I kind of inherited with a variety of odd tools, most of which were junk. I guess this is a "diamond in the rough" as they say? Maybe I spelled that wrong.

It wouldn't hold any particular "value" would it? I don't want to use it if it's worth millions or anything haha. If it's not worth much I'd be happy to have another Buck in commission, I broke my last one. :(
 
:cool:...I'd use it. It would be most happy to go back in service I'd wager. It has great steel which can serve you a long time yet...:thumbup:
 
4W4,Welcome. I'd certainly NOT use that knife. With it being 30 something yrs. old and those are hard to come by for most of us. You just happened to get one easy. Those were really top of the line folders when Buck came out w/ them.That stamping is no longer used,that steel is no longer used nor are those slabs on that knife. But do what you want with it. Nice find. DM
 
4W4,Welcome. I'd certainly NOT use that knife. With it being 30 something yrs. old and those are hard to come by for most of us. You just happened to get one easy. Those were really top of the line folders when Buck came out w/ them.That stamping is no longer used,that steel is no longer used nor are those slabs on that knife. But do what you want with it. Nice find. DMPerhaps 50$.
 
I'd probably use it, given it's heavily used condition. If it were mint or near mint, I wouldn't use it. Thing about Bucks is that unless they are extremely rare or special, they are users. Go and read what STR has to say about the very knife you have. He's one of the most knowledgeable people on this forum, and it is a favorite model of his. He modifies these regularly. At best, you might see one like it go for half a hundred on Ebay, if it's in excellent condition. So again, I would enjoy that knife and make it a favorite of mine. It's special because it isn't special, and a darn fine knife. Kinda like a spyderco. It isn't anything great, except they work so darn well, as a user.
 
No it's not in mint condition, blade is scratched and sharpened awkwardly. Handle and hardware are also scratched up, but not chipped or anything. I think I will use it, but with greater care than my last Buck which I snapped (oops).

Thanks for all the help guys! :D
 
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