So, how does a 110 stack up against a more modern design?

MeanBeaver

MeanBeaver

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May 4, 2015
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Hey everyone. I've been looking at a 110 at the local wal mart. WOW!! That is one good looking knife. I'm really thinking about buying one but I have to wonder if it's any good for edc. My question to you folks is, how does a 110 stack up against, say a vantage for edc? Do you ever find yourself needing to open it one handed? Is pocket carry out of the question? Or is the weight manageable? Any thoughts on the matter are appreciated.
 
The 110 is a classic for a reason, like the sod buster and it's mini variant they are easy to use, and convenient to carry. However the steel buck uses has never in my opinion been of any stellar quality.
 
As I have 6 Vantages that I rotate out daily. My answer would be because it fits in my pocket it works better for me at work. Yes, I do have a few more 110's but they get a lot less use.
 
The 110 and Vantage are quite different. That being said the 110 can be pocket carried and opened with one hand either with technique or aftermarket accessories. The 420HC steel is quite adequate for everyday use and with the superior Bos heat treat it can hold it's own well enough. Where the 110 does suffer a a slight downside is weight. At 7.2oz some find it a bit much. To me that amount of weight is of no consequence and you may feel the same. The fact is a large Vantage weighs about half as much.
 
If your already asking about the weight of a 110 (as it's a concern) then it's probably going to be a problem for you. It's a large folder and heavy to some. Not heavy to me. I don't pocket carry it. I like to sheath carry, even for a smaller knife. I don't care for pocket clips. The Vantage is much lighter. You can get it in the Sanvik steel. The 110 has been offered in about a dozen steels. DM
 
Ditto edbeau. I have the 110, but it is designed to be primarily a hunting knife...and the best one at that! But when it comes to edc, the Vantage line (both small and large) cannot be beat because of its weight, thin profile, deep pocket clip, quality fit/finish, scale options, and ease of opening. I carry my 8 Vantages more than I carry any other knives in my collection (CS, BM, Spyderco, etc).
 
The Buck 110 is a great knife but you need to carry it in it's sheath. Back when I was in college in the late 70's, I carried one when I worked a janitorial job. I wasn't allowed to carry it in it's sheath as it was visible but was allow to carry it in my pocket. It's weight and size quickly worn out my pockets with holes. Today I still use one for working around the yard and my woods. I think the Vantage is a great choice, but my EDC is a Bucklite Max with a blade comparable to the 110 and a bit cheaper than a Vantage.
 
You could always pick up a Buck 110 Paperstone. It is much lighter than the traditional 110. I really like mine, though to be honest it is not in my EDC rotation. I strongly prefer to carry with pocket clips for EDC. I think of the 110 as more something for taking out camping/hunting/fishing. If I am somewhere where a modern folder would be a problem I am more likely to opt for a slipjoint for EDC. The 110 is a substantial knife, even the lighter paperstone version
 
I'd never pocket a 110 but SHEATHED she's a great knife,40 years in construction, hunting and fishing it's NEVER let me down ,never a problem with tha blade steel.
 
For me, it's a dearly loved knife, stunningly beautiful but rarely carried. It's one of the few knives I would recommend somebody own even if they never carried it.

The knife was made for hunting and IMO, that's where it shines. The fine clip is good for detailed work and the hollow grind does great with meat.

But it won't be the best box cutter and the tip won't take abuse like a drop point will.

In terms of weight, IMO it's too much for front pocket carry and I like a big knife. Better as a back pocket knife or sheath carry.

Get it. It's a beautiful knife.
 
To me, it is a personal choice. The Buck 110 has done well for a lot of folks for quite a while. Our troops in the desert war carry a heck of a lot more gear that I do here at home. If the few ounces of a Buck 110 ever begin worrying me, I'll step on my bathroom scale and see if I should lose five pounds (grins - I already know the answer to that).

The 110 does fine for lots of uses. Some uses may be better served by a different design, which may be a good reason to carry another traditional knife or two. :)
 
I like the 110 but it is heavy for pocket carry, though I used to do it every day. If you can find the 110 Ecolite that will solve your problems. It was just recently discontinued so you can still find them.
 
Depends on your style. I personally love a nice, heavy blade. If you are used to carrying something light, you may not get along with it. It is an excellent blade, though.
 
I edc a leatherman wingman that's 7oz. It's manageable, but it also has a pocket clip. I actually like bucks 420. It's easy to sharpen and lasts long enough for me. I just can't get over what a beautiful knife the 110 is. Ill probably buy the 110 next paycheck and buy a vantage some other time.
 
The 110 is not a pocketknife. That's why it comes with a sheath. Great knife! :thumbup:
 
If you want to carry something the size of a 110 in your pocket but worry about the weight, the bucklite 426 or 422 could also be an option.
 
I just got this 50th 110 as replacement for my original 110 I had gotten 22 years earlier about 6 months ago. To me it can still hold it's own 420HC and all! If the weight is a little much try little brother 112.
 
Thanks pinnah! I like them ether way. I'm going to inherit my buddy's old dot 112 but I'm in no hurry since I would much rather have my friend!
 
As much as I like the idea of a nice leather sheath, I just don't see that method of carry working for me. IA knife in the pocket is fine because I don't have to explain to stupid people why I have a knife. I get tired of explaining it and I would rather not have to. Besides, with Ohio's mysterious knife laws, that could cause issues when I'm in the city. I'm still getting a 110 for a woods knife though.
 
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