I Need it FAST

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harlycarly

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An older gentleman that has been a next door neighbor at a family camp on a lake in Northern Vermont has sold his property and is moving. We've known each other for 28 years and he's one of the nicest guys you'd ever want to meet. He wasn't the kind of guy that routinely carried a pocket knife. Many years back I gifted him a basic black Buck 425. He lost it and was devastated, so I just got one out of a stash I'd normally kept around for gifting. He's now in his mid 80's and has been carrying this one for at least a dozen years. He would routinely pull it out and show it to me and anyone else that would listen, singing its praises and telling stories of what he'd most recently used it for. I just learned today that he lost it while packing up some stuff for his final move back to his home in Pennsylvania. He is absolutely crushed. I figured no problem, I'll get him another, only to discover they're no longer made. I would GLADLY get him a Nano 283, but even these aren't so readily available. They are leaving in a week to 10 days, so I'm pressed for time. I tried calling the factory but they don't open until the morning. Same with Blade HQ, Knife Center, etc. I really need this as soon as I can get it, and would be willing to pay extra shipping costs if I could be guaranteed it would get to VT quickly. In the past years I also kept a few Nano 283'saround, but I'm out of both. I have a used 425 but really want a new knife if I can. USA made is a must for this old soldier. And a lightweight, plain jane is just what he likes.

Suggestions? We all know that the pandemic has slowed delivery down to a crawl. I really want to put something into his hands next week, as we may never see each other again. What's my best course of action here? Thanks in advance.
 
DLT trading lists the Buck 424 in stock. It looks to be very similar to the 425. They advertise the fastest shipping in the knife industry. So maybe call in the morning and see.

There is also the 524 alumni. They have it in blue, gold and grey.
O.B.
 
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You can fish one out of the bay. I just saw several new in box 425’s. I’m sure you’d get it in a week or less if you choose one with good feedback and quick shipping.
 
are you sure they stopped making the 425 mini buck?
You can always get the 524 alumni in black, basically the same thing but in plain aluminum.
It's the same blade and same frame shape, but in plain aluminum.
 
Thanks for all the suggestions, offers, etc. Truly appreciated. Ended up ordering a 283 off the "Bay", then followed up with a call to the factory for a quick ship. Gonna cross my fingers and hope for the best. If need be I will hand off my 425 (used but excellent shape) and mail him a new Nano if I don't get them before he heads out. I appreciate the help.
 
Hickory n steel said:
are you sure they stopped making the 425 mini buck?
You can always get the 524 alumni in black, basically the same thing but in plain aluminum.
It's the same blade and same frame shape, but in plain aluminum.
Click to expand...
Yep. Just spoke with the factory and confirmed it. Save them in their boxes if you have them.
 
harlycarly said:
Yep. Just spoke with the factory and confirmed it. Save them in their boxes if you have them.
Click to expand...
What kind of condition are you after ?

I've had this one since I was a kid so it's not in the greatest condition and I dremeled in an easy opening notch a long time ago, but if it will do I will send it your way.
I cannot remember the last time I've carried it, and it should go to someone who will.
 
Hickory n steel said:
I've had this one since I was a kid so it's not in the greatest condition and I dremeled in an easy opening notch a long time ago, but if it will do I will send it your way.
I cannot remember the last time I've carried it, and it should go to someone who will.
Click to expand...
I really like that notch! I wish I would have thought of that along time ago. I've carried my Mini Buck daily for many years and opening can be a little tricky because of how low the blade sits in the handle. Mine is getting a little thick behind the edge from so many sharpenings, and may be due for retirement soon. I have extras in reserve for when that happens.



 
Hickory n steel said:
What kind of condition are you after ?

I've had this one since I was a kid so it's not in the greatest condition and I dremeled in an easy opening notch a long time ago, but if it will do I will send it your way.
I cannot remember the last time I've carried it, and it should go to someone who will.
Click to expand...
Thanks for your kind offer. As mentioned, I went with some 283s which I think will arrive in a timely manner. Besides, I'll bet if you slip it into a pocket or on a key ring it will find a place other than the drawer.
 
harlycarly said:
Thanks for your kind offer. As mentioned, I went with some 283s which I think will arrive in a timely manner. Besides, I'll bet if you slip it into a pocket or on a key ring it will find a place other than the drawer.
Click to expand...
The aesthetic of the knife just doesn't appeal to me these days.
I like the classier looking 524 alumni and the 525 gent, but most of all In a knife this size range i prefer the 305 lancer.
 
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