I've had a 119 on my hip since I was a child in the forests close to Ft Lewis in Tacoma WA. Now in my mid 40s still have a 119 on my hip in the swamps and woodlands of Alabama. Most guys who say they wouldn't carry a "stick tang" knife in these comments are the same guys watching these goofy videos of people using a knife as an axe or crow bar and aren't true woodsmen to begin with. Use a tool the way it was meant to be used and most will last a lifetime. I've skinned 4 bear ,countless deer, small game, and completed any chore needed around a campfire with the 119 and still carrying the same one to this day, "stick tang" knives made of great quality can last forever if used as a knife! LOL, this design has been around for thousands of years for a reason, but hey, I'm sure these couch commandos know alot more than me. I'm just an old woodsman who's been in a forest or two.
I grew up in Bremerton, and also had a buck 119 since I was 8-9 years old. I used that knife for everything, camping, fishing, hunting, and it held up fine. I lost that knife at some point but my dad gave me a new one around 2006 as a gift. I still use it as my main outdoor/camping/hunting knife. I even take it backpacking occasionally.
I love the 119. I actually did break mine but that was no fault of the knife. It was exactly as you say, I was using it for something a knife isn’t really meant for. Splitting up a small stump (not just kindling, wet green wood after a storm) and using a hammer on the blade, not just another piece of wood. That’s 💯 my fault haha. Will be buying another and taking better care of the next one.
I've had mine since 76. It's never failed me. It's been to the top of many mountains. My trusted friend. I'm on my 3rd sheath. Lots of canoe trips on the upper Hudson River. I will pass it on to my grandson.
@@martinhafner2201mind telling me the difference? I'm not too informed on steels aside from the basics like stainless vs high carbon and high carbon variants like 1095 and 1075
A buddy of mine was a Vietnam Vet. He lost his wife and didn't have any kids. Before he died he gave me his Buck he'd had since Vietnam. I treasure that thing, but I still use it on deer.
"yOu dON't WuNNa NoooOooO!" Yea, I'm sure you opened numerous letters, ration cans, and threw it at numerous trees while infantry patrols did their thing. I'm assuming all your missions were Top Secret, Butterscotch OPS (above even the blackest black ops)?
@@InitialFailureon the one hand, people who talk like him on CZcams are cringy af. Keep it to yourself or talk to a therapist, don’t halfway bring it up on a CZcams comment section because it’s just retarded. On the other hand, Vietnam wasn’t a vacation and most of it wasn’t voluntary, so have a bit of respect for people who were forced to go and probably saw and did stuff they definitely didn’t want to and that most of us haven’t had to endure.
I've had a Buck for decades! My first fixed blade was a Buck120. I've given 119 Bucks to ALL of my kids. 4 boys, 2 girls and they've used and are still using the HELL out of them! It's a great knife,and a GREAT review too Matt!!!
I got my 119 in 2003 and it's not my daily carry but it's been banging around campsites, hunting cabins and trailers for 20 years. It's sharper than I normally prefer a knife of this size but it has absolutely zero problems staying that way. It's a little worn with a few scratches but no rust and I expect another good 20 years out of it. Best money I ever spent on a knife.
@@MattRoseKnives in the review you said something about the way a knife makes you "feel." Well over the years all the edges softened, the finish dulled and the grip has worn in and believe it or not, this knife looks even better than it did when I bought it. Don't be afraid to get it dirty and let it do the things it was made to do. "Wear it in" you won't regret it!
My take on comments…breaks down into two groups: outdoorsmen and working people probably over the age of 40, and soft-handed guys under 25. The former love the knife and collectively have thousands of hours of hunting, fishing, camping and farm use. The latter have thousands of hours of watching you tube reviews in their mom’s basement.
I've had my 119 for about 46 years. It's been all over the place with me. I don't like the phenolic handle, but I wrap rubber bands around it to give it a better grip. And I have big hands, so the handle is a bit small. But I spent money on this knife, and I'm not going to buy a new one to replace it until this one either breaks or gets lost. I'd say I've gotten my money out of it. It's a pretty good knife.
I have an old Buck 119 from the 80's (almost as old as yours) and one of the newer Buck 119 Pro ones with the Micarta handle. Yes, I know the Buck 119 Pro is damn expensive ($200 bucks), but the Micarta handle and S35VN blade are so much better than the old ones. Definitely worth checking out because the hard black slippery handle on the old Buck knives drives me up a wall at times too. I don't know why Buck just didn't quit making that slippery black handle decades ago.
American Classic. I'm in the market for a Buck 120 and 124 but dude, this knife can do anything from cooking to hunting, fishing, camping as long as you use your head. Its not a chopper, but it can split kindling for a fire , even light batoning. Don't ask me, Les Stroud used it for that in Alaska. Don't whack on the guard or handle , ya know, THINK before you do it "knife stuff" . If you use it as a knife, not an axe, chisel, screwdriver or pry bar its fine. I switched years back to Cold Steel, the SRK, because of durability, but its still a great knife. Not to mention if you want handle and steel choices you can order those as well. I have 2X glove size hands and long fingers. The phenolic is slickery.😂 If I'm gonna get nasty, bloody, wet etc, hell bro just get some self adhesive rubber stretch tape, put it on, use it and carefully cut it off when ya finish and get it home to sharpen if needed. You probably will need to hone it, and there's a difference in the two. Also, look into EEZOX for rust and corrosion prevention. That stuff works. I've used it since 1987
As far as the handle, it feels great in my XL hand - I love a thick grip. The handle material I think looks cool as hell, but it is a bit slick. On my buck 120 general I felt I had to put some hockey tape on it. Not so much with the 119 because as a smaller blade I just use it differently. Yes, the black leather sheath is beautiful, but for me it has a major flaw. That being the backwards snap closure. When you're wearing it on your belt it can be a pain in the ass to snap. I don't have too much of a problem with my 119, but the 120 was virtually impossible to snap. I got so frustrated with it I ended up having a custom kydex sheath made for it and now it is world's better.
I purchased mine when I was 19 and use it all the time, one of the few things I still own from my younger days I’m 48 now and last year a purchased one for my sons 18th birthday. I hope it lasts him as long as mine has lasted for me. Best knife ever
As the handle material ages and weathers it develops a texture that I can best describe as micro-porous, with tiny little holes covering the surface making the grip both firm and high traction. I always liked the shape too, good size for the circle of the ring and forefinger, nice swell to fill the palm and center fingers and a narrow tail to give the little finger something to wrap around. What you described sounds like the neck of a beer bottle, hmm?🤔
I don't love the handle either but it wrks cocobolo esthetic one I couldn't get it in my knife shop you have to order it and very expensive so phenolic it is great. Knife though and mine fits my hand also have the 105 pathfinder great knife to ty
I've carried and used a buck 192 vanguard knife every day at work or in the woods hunting and camping 97,I've also got a 119 and it has gotten alot of use over the last 20 years as well and both are still holding up great,once I snagged my boss's wooden handled screwdriver and used my buck knife to carve it to look like a peter then I put it back in his tool bag lol
I have several 119 models. My dad, a knife and gun collector, gives these out to me and my three sons at Christmas every year. Most recently, he gave us 75th year anniversary models which have “75th” “badges” in the handles. I tend to carry Case folding pocket knives everyday and a Cold Steel fixed blade on my belt. I will carry one of my Buck 119s when in the woods, though.
Question. Well actually 2 questions. Is there a difference in the feel of the handle between the regular and the pro handle and is it worth the extra cash? Looking to buy one for general/hard edc
@@danthecarman3424 You will not regret getting the Pro version. It's just beautiful and rugged with the S35V. Just my option. I just collect and really don't use them but I'd bet they will hold up better that the regular "Special" version'
@charliepugh9436 the standard 420hc is actually tougher than s35v but their s35v has better edge retention for cutting abrasive stuff, like cutting through hides of animals and through hard stuff like cutting/ whittling wood.
Everyone had a buck knife or case growing up. That knife was a little too big for me so when I got older and started deer hunting and needed a knife for cleaning deer I got a Buck Proline with the gut hook and serrated blade and the next year just got a Proline with a plain blade no serrations. I have gutted a few deer with it and liked it just fine. We have different butchering knives though old stuff from my friend's dad who knows who made them but awesome steel we just sharpen them once a year.
I work on boilers and chillers and i pick my tools by the feel. They will all do the job but when you are using the tool all day feel makes a difference.
My Mother In-Law just bought me this one from China-Mart for $70. I'd always wanted a 119 or 120 but, always carried a Ka-Bar & never got around to picking up a Buck. The blade was sharp enough to shave with right out of the box which surprised me for such a low dollar knife. The handle fits my average sized had comfortably but, I suspect the very smooth grips would be hard to hold onto if they got bloody. The sheath is of good quality but, the flap wraps around the handle so far that it's hard to unsnap for a quick draw. I press my thumb against the flap & roll the whole knife forward to expose the snap to my fingers but, if being charged by a dog, cougar or a meth head, I'm not confidant that I'd remember the "thumb roll" & get a fast enough draw. It is a classic & a good looker but, so is that Tanto which is another blade I've longed for but, never dropped the cash on. The Tanto is probably the better knife of the two but, at four times the price, it better be.
I have 300 dollar white river knives, and others but I’ve had a buck 119 and it deployed 3 deployments with me to Iraq and Afghanistan, numerous camping trips, being in the field, extensively used, and still have the same one over 20 years old
I own a 119 and although I have rarely used it since I don't get outdoors much anymore, it is a fully serviceable knife for hunting and outdoors tasks. The phenolic handle sucks but it can be wrapped with rubber to improve the grip. Otherwise, the 119 is a fine knife for old school guys like me.
I have an old Buck 119 from the 80's with the 425M steel and a newer 119 Pro with the S35VN steel and Micarta handle. Now, there is a sticker shock with the new 119 Pro with the price of $200. I realize $200 is a lot to spend on a fixed blade knife, but you can really tell the difference with the S35VN blade and the much improved Micarta handle. There is no polished smooth and slippery handle on the 119 Pro, the Micarta is textured just enough to be comfortable, but not slippery at all. This is a major issue with the hard black plastic handles on most 119 models. The S35VN comes with a razor-sharp edge that lasts a longtime without the extra weight you may expect. I really enjoy having an old Buck from the 80's with the new updates in the 119 Pro. It's like the best of both worlds.....old school and new upgrade options to have at the same time.
This is one of !y favorite fixed blades Usually switch between this and an old beat up pal eh 36 when I head out into the woods. Both are really good knives weather your using them or just a colector .
After having this knife for over 20 years and putting it though the stuff I have put it through...this knife is well worth $70. You didnt talk about how you used it so for real...how can you say its not worth the price tag? I wish you can see my 119. All the divets and dings from using a rock to smash the top of the knife to break through the pelvic bone of a deer. I dont know maybe they were made better back then. But all I know is I just put an edge on mine to take it into the woods for it's 23rd hunting season.
People of a certain younger variety really don't use tools the way they're meant to be used these days. I'd be surprised if they used them at all. Everything is a collector's item and meant to be shown off in pristine condition to impress other people and get their ego all worked up rather than actually using the tool as it was intended. I have a feeling these types would fly into an unstable rage over the slightest dent.
You can tell by looking at it. This guy has never used the knife. How can you do a review if you've never used it? He thinks that other knife was cool and that speaks volumes
Such a huge fan of the SCREAM movie franchise where Ghostface uses the buck 120 knife. I have never bought any weapons like this one before cus im only 15 but I wanna buy the 119 or 120 soon cus it looks so freaking sick and not only because its in the scream movies, but I also wanna get into fishing and might as well buy a really good knife for that right? Btw does it rust if you just put it straight onto a display? Im scared it will if I end up doing that
Yeah. Well, it's just a knife. Knives need periodic resharpening regardless of the type of steel. And handles can crack. All of them. Looks at these testimonials from your viewers. Most of the knives talked about are probably older than you. They function fine. How're you doin'?
Good, insightful review. Yes indeed, the Buck 119 is a fine Hunting knife! The Harbor Freight Gordon copy is also a well-made copy at a fraction of the BUCK 119. Have you tested the Harbor Freight Gordon copy?
Yep, she's a good knife. Bought mine back in the mid 80's. I'd have to check the date stamp to be sure. I worked three summers in Yellowstone National Park, and she was always on my belt when hiking and camping. Still have the original sheath. The only other knife that even comes close, is my Recon Tanto, that I also bought in the mid 80's.
So I live in the city. I was recently mugged. I’ve been considering getting something to help appear more intimidating. 1. Is that foolish to think? 2. If not, would this be a good knife to do the job?
I prefer the days when you had a reasonable number of decent knives, some shitty knockoff knives, and Buck knives you knew you could rely on, to choose from. Nowadays we are awash in so much choice and materialism, you can choose from 100,000 different brands and model of knife as well as millions of other consumer choices, yet nothing's really better.
I have a version of this I’m looking at on my tv stand lol.. if it was full tang for the price I’d recommend it I haven’t ever broken it I guess it’s just my thoughts on it lol
Very good review. I have a 75th Anniversary 119 in my collection. I like the knife. BUT hate the 'stick' tang to the point I never carry the knife. If I'm gonna carry a fixed blade, I'm gonna carry a KNIFE that is worthy - as in strong/beefy. I will NEVER carry a stick tang fixed blade knife.
These TECHNICALLY have a fully tang and not a "stick" tang. A stick tang would be much smaller. They are, however relatively small tangs for the uses of a 5" knife.
I've used one of these for years for hunting and camping. The only thing I've done is to trim the guard down to about 1/4 protruding on each side. Just me- I prefer a knife of 5 inch + blade. I've used pocket knives for dressing deer and such, but it's just easier with a proper 5 inch + blade, just like the meat cutters that make their living with knives, just like the mountain men and explorers and trappers that went through unexplored country with those knives when they could have had any other of their choosing.
old man Buck started making those knifes for USA gov, who made a general request for knives for the army as they did not have army knives. I prefer the 119 to the k bar although the only tactical knife is the fairbairn sykes
Got a 121 about 1980, this was my backpacking knife for over a decade, and still gets used very often now. The knife is great, but you need to use it as a knife. Their sheaths suck!
I bought it for 50 from walmart. Then I wanted another and it was 75. Couldn’t do it. I’ll just splurge on a custom 7 inch blade. I want a good survival knife that gives me a good wild west feel. Elegant but rugged. Durable would be good. I’ve always liked my 119 but I feel I need something just a little higher level but the same kinda feel.
I absolutely love the look of the 119, it's almost perfect. If buck made a pro version with black micarta instead of that "green" it would be my favorite.
I only have 3 Bucks, but I love them all. I just don't care for the new fixed blade sheaths. That wrap-around snap tab looks like it would just get in the way.
Mine is from the early 90s. The sheath is a bit different, no drain hole, no plastic insert. It’s held up well for camping. The handle, being Bakelite, is the same stuff as bowling balls, so should be tough. Being smooth though it’s a bit slippery.
@@someperson917 I’m from the UK bro the buck 120 is not big😂, and tbf it shouldn’t be because it’s a hunting knife and made for skinning. Really good knife though, it cuts through stuff like melted butter
I'm not a Buck fan really. I like Case and RoughRider traditionals, Benchmade fixies and mostly carry a Spyderco Manix 2 or Shaman. I just bought a custom BM Crooked River and it's an EDC and hunter that can replace all of the above. It's a modern traditional with a bar lock and for me a perfect knife. With that being said, I'm 54 now and my Buck 119 (1981 3 line stamp build) is still my favorite knife. Mostly because it was my first real knife given to me by Pops in 1982 for my 12th birthday and my first hunting trip with the elders. It was way too long for me and I would cut myself all the time. The joke was the knife had more of my blood on it then all the fish and deer added up. I poked hundreds of holes in the original leather sheath. I've dropped her on the tip at least 20 times over the years. I then learned that the black handle material has a purpose. You can custom carve (file or dremel) it for your hand or application and it will sand and polish up nicely. I have XXL hands with a huge palm so the oversized handle tapering away from the blade is better than the reverse, but you can easily modify it. The steel doesn't hold a razor edge for very long if you use it for anything other than flesh, however it stays sharp enough to barely ever need sharpening. I've used it as a machete, whittler, The best part of the Buck 119 is that it inspires confidence the moment you grab hold of it and I know that I can beat the crap out of it and throw it on my buffer wheel and it looks like it's 1982 all over again.
It's a great gp hunting/camping knife. It's not a survival knife. It has a good size, and you won't look like Rambo walking around with it on your belt. I bought mine in the early 80s, I had a buck120 but it broke at the tang, my 119 is still going strong.
@@TobinHolz Thank you for the response, I ended up purchasing one from walmart for 70 dollars or so, maybe I should've done what you recommended but it's too late now, unless i return it somehow.
Big fan of the bigger knifes I have a smaller knife but I never really care or like to pretty tools because I'm getting them dirty. It's like those fools with those trucks that can't pull anything worthless.
Whenever anything free comes with something, it means it's over priced. If I want one of those mini's for my tool box, my car, my truck, and EDC do I really need four mats? Some waste going on somewhere.
You get what you pay for, you can't surpass the quality of buck knives, when you touch up the edge you'll understand the difference between buck and the knockoffs!
Looks like a Mule Skinner clone. That said, Buck is ok knife stock but would not stand up against my Cold Steel Master Hunter. I like Buck but if you use them a lot expect to sharpen them a LOT.
Have had mine for 30 years, old grind style reputed by unknowledgeable knife "experts" as being difficult to put an edge on, something that is pure bs. The cordura sheath was a disgrace and the best was the pre-1994 (?) sandwich-built type all perimeter stitched sheath. Mine has been all over never let me down but of course I employ it as a knife, nothing else.
Hey CZcams guy.... You're talking about the tip breaking there are several videos on CZcams of guys putting these through car hoods repetitively and the tip doesn't break. Where is your evidence for the tip breaking.... Maybe chopping concrete or something.
ThAt test is meaningless. Its extreme abuse any knife will break. Especially the 119 cause it was designed as a hunting knife for slicing and skinning.
I gutted many a deer with this same knife. I had this knife for well over 20 years and from using it in the field I can honestly say I would not want to have any other knife on my person.
@@MattRoseKnives i just thought that the quality had dropped since i was a kid ,buck knives back then were damned near unbreakable unless you really tried
Dang, what canyon did they drop them off of? LOL, 2 people you know broke Buck knives just dropping them? You sure these weren't Chinese harbor freight "Buck knives" LOL
The 5160, 440, d2, s35, or 420 are. It steels that break from dropping three feet. The most common steels for a 119 would be on the stronger end. 5160 and 420 are very strong steels.
these are the worst knives in gods creation. only good thing is that they're pretty. hard to sharpen and don't hold an edge either! p.s. i used to make knives at gerber(they suck too).
I've gutted around a hundred deer in my life I did start with a smaller knife but for deer you want a bigger blade to cut faster around the anus and enough blade to cut threw the sternum. I have had a buck 119 in my bag for the last couple years for deer.
Why did I need to watch this before I buy? I came here knowing it was a bs clickbait title, and I was not disappointed.
Glad I didn’t disappoint 🫡
@@MattRoseKnives a 420 high carbon stainless steel 😆 LOL ! .....I didn't think there was such a thing ?
I've had a 119 on my hip since I was a child in the forests close to Ft Lewis in Tacoma WA. Now in my mid 40s still have a 119 on my hip in the swamps and woodlands of Alabama. Most guys who say they wouldn't carry a "stick tang" knife in these comments are the same guys watching these goofy videos of people using a knife as an axe or crow bar and aren't true woodsmen to begin with. Use a tool the way it was meant to be used and most will last a lifetime. I've skinned 4 bear ,countless deer, small game, and completed any chore needed around a campfire with the 119 and still carrying the same one to this day, "stick tang" knives made of great quality can last forever if used as a knife! LOL, this design has been around for thousands of years for a reason, but hey, I'm sure
these couch commandos know alot more than me. I'm just an old woodsman who's been in a forest or two.
Haha fair enough! Awesome experience!
I grew up in Bremerton, and also had a buck 119 since I was 8-9 years old. I used that knife for everything, camping, fishing, hunting, and it held up fine. I lost that knife at some point but my dad gave me a new one around 2006 as a gift. I still use it as my main outdoor/camping/hunting knife. I even take it backpacking occasionally.
I love the 119. I actually did break mine but that was no fault of the knife. It was exactly as you say, I was using it for something a knife isn’t really meant for. Splitting up a small stump (not just kindling, wet green wood after a storm) and using a hammer on the blade, not just another piece of wood. That’s 💯 my fault haha. Will be buying another and taking better care of the next one.
Cheap make.
Couch commandos 😂
I've had mine since 76. It's never failed me. It's been to the top of many mountains. My trusted friend. I'm on my 3rd sheath. Lots of canoe trips on the upper Hudson River. I will pass it on to my grandson.
That’s super cool!
What a lucky grand kid!
I think that '76 blade is in 440C. They changed to 420M around '81 and then to 420HC a couple years later.
I'd love to see a picture of that blade
@@martinhafner2201mind telling me the difference? I'm not too informed on steels aside from the basics like stainless vs high carbon and high carbon variants like 1095 and 1075
I've had mine since Vietnam. You don't want to know all the things I've done with that knife. Still have it, still a great knife.
I've read on several forums that soldiers in Vietnam would often buy these to replace their issued knives.
A buddy of mine was a Vietnam Vet. He lost his wife and didn't have any kids. Before he died he gave me his Buck he'd had since Vietnam. I treasure that thing, but I still use it on deer.
"yOu dON't WuNNa NoooOooO!"
Yea, I'm sure you opened numerous letters, ration cans, and threw it at numerous trees while infantry patrols did their thing.
I'm assuming all your missions were Top Secret, Butterscotch OPS (above even the blackest black ops)?
@@InitialFailureon the one hand, people who talk like him on CZcams are cringy af. Keep it to yourself or talk to a therapist, don’t halfway bring it up on a CZcams comment section because it’s just retarded. On the other hand, Vietnam wasn’t a vacation and most of it wasn’t voluntary, so have a bit of respect for people who were forced to go and probably saw and did stuff they definitely didn’t want to and that most of us haven’t had to endure.
You rule.
I've had a Buck for decades! My first fixed blade was a Buck120. I've given 119 Bucks to ALL of my kids. 4 boys, 2 girls and they've used and are still using the HELL out of them! It's a great knife,and a GREAT review too Matt!!!
Awesome man! And thanks!
Best all round knife ever made.
50years down the road and sharpen on a good steel stays razer sharp.
Andkeeps.
Never had a Buck knife fail me. I’m 68.
I got my 119 in 2003 and it's not my daily carry but it's been banging around campsites, hunting cabins and trailers for 20 years. It's sharper than I normally prefer a knife of this size but it has absolutely zero problems staying that way. It's a little worn with a few scratches but no rust and I expect another good 20 years out of it. Best money I ever spent on a knife.
Love hearing stories like that.
@@MattRoseKnives in the review you said something about the way a knife makes you "feel." Well over the years all the edges softened, the finish dulled and the grip has worn in and believe it or not, this knife looks even better than it did when I bought it. Don't be afraid to get it dirty and let it do the things it was made to do. "Wear it in" you won't regret it!
My take on comments…breaks down into two groups: outdoorsmen and working people probably over the age of 40, and soft-handed guys under 25. The former love the knife and collectively have thousands of hours of hunting, fishing, camping and farm use. The latter have thousands of hours of watching you tube reviews in their mom’s basement.
Bit hostile there Jim
100%
Which one are you?
Ageism is as ignorant as racism
I'm over 40 and I'm guilty.
I've had my 119 for about 46 years. It's been all over the place with me. I don't like the phenolic handle, but I wrap rubber bands around it to give it a better grip. And I have big hands, so the handle is a bit small. But I spent money on this knife, and I'm not going to buy a new one to replace it until this one either breaks or gets lost. I'd say I've gotten my money out of it. It's a pretty good knife.
That’s awesome! Definitely got your moneys worth
I have an old Buck 119 from the 80's (almost as old as yours) and one of the newer Buck 119 Pro ones with the Micarta handle. Yes, I know the Buck 119 Pro is damn expensive ($200 bucks), but the Micarta handle and S35VN blade are so much better than the old ones. Definitely worth checking out because the hard black slippery handle on the old Buck knives drives me up a wall at times too. I don't know why Buck just didn't quit making that slippery black handle decades ago.
I've used that knife for 50 years now. Don't abuse it.y'all been watching that dude.
Makes sense man
American Classic. I'm in the market for a Buck 120 and 124 but dude, this knife can do anything from cooking to hunting, fishing, camping as long as you use your head. Its not a chopper, but it can split kindling for a fire , even light batoning. Don't ask me, Les Stroud used it for that in Alaska. Don't whack on the guard or handle , ya know, THINK before you do it "knife stuff" . If you use it as a knife, not an axe, chisel, screwdriver or pry bar its fine. I switched years back to Cold Steel, the SRK, because of durability, but its still a great knife. Not to mention if you want handle and steel choices you can order those as well. I have 2X glove size hands and long fingers. The phenolic is slickery.😂 If I'm gonna get nasty, bloody, wet etc, hell bro just get some self adhesive rubber stretch tape, put it on, use it and carefully cut it off when ya finish and get it home to sharpen if needed. You probably will need to hone it, and there's a difference in the two. Also, look into EEZOX for rust and corrosion prevention. That stuff works. I've used it since 1987
As far as the handle, it feels great in my XL hand - I love a thick grip. The handle material I think looks cool as hell, but it is a bit slick. On my buck 120 general I felt I had to put some hockey tape on it. Not so much with the 119 because as a smaller blade I just use it differently.
Yes, the black leather sheath is beautiful, but for me it has a major flaw. That being the backwards snap closure. When you're wearing it on your belt it can be a pain in the ass to snap. I don't have too much of a problem with my 119, but the 120 was virtually impossible to snap. I got so frustrated with it I ended up having a custom kydex sheath made for it and now it is world's better.
Good to hear!
I purchased mine when I was 19 and use it all the time, one of the few things I still own from my younger days
I’m 48 now and last year a purchased one for my sons 18th birthday. I hope it lasts him as long as mine has lasted for me.
Best knife ever
As the handle material ages and weathers it develops a texture that I can best describe as micro-porous, with tiny little holes covering the surface making the grip both firm and high traction. I always liked the shape too, good size for the circle of the ring and forefinger, nice swell to fill the palm and center fingers and a narrow tail to give the little finger something to wrap around. What you described sounds like the neck of a beer bottle, hmm?🤔
HahHa fair!
Nice video. Tape measure is really handy for measuring. That is if you have it when needed. Good info.
I have four 119's . An early 60's with sheath, one with leather handle, one 1980's I checkered the handle for grip hunting, and one plain new
I got myself the 119 special pro and the 103 pro skinner with the S35V steel. Great set.
Awesome!
I don't love the handle either but it wrks cocobolo esthetic one I couldn't get it in my knife shop you have to order it and very expensive so phenolic it is great. Knife though and mine fits my hand also have the 105 pathfinder great knife to ty
I gave these to all my son’s (4). Though they all covet my Cabela’s Alaskan Guide 119 (S30V, Brass Guard and Pommel, Rosewood Handle)
Awesome!
I've carried and used a buck 192 vanguard knife every day at work or in the woods hunting and camping 97,I've also got a 119 and it has gotten alot of use over the last 20 years as well and both are still holding up great,once I snagged my boss's wooden handled screwdriver and used my buck knife to carve it to look like a peter then I put it back in his tool bag lol
Haha
I have several 119 models. My dad, a knife and gun collector, gives these out to me and my three sons at Christmas every year. Most recently, he gave us 75th year anniversary models which have “75th” “badges” in the handles. I tend to carry Case folding pocket knives everyday and a Cold Steel fixed blade on my belt. I will carry one of my Buck 119s when in the woods, though.
I have the Buck 119 pro with Micarta handle S35V. It's my favorite. Beautiful 😍
Awesome!
Question. Well actually 2 questions. Is there a difference in the feel of the handle between the regular and the pro handle and is it worth the extra cash? Looking to buy one for general/hard edc
Definitely the best option, the standard materials are junk.
@@danthecarman3424 You will not regret getting the Pro version. It's just beautiful and rugged with the S35V. Just my option. I just collect and really don't use them but I'd bet they will hold up better that the regular "Special" version'
@charliepugh9436 the standard 420hc is actually tougher than s35v but their s35v has better edge retention for cutting abrasive stuff, like cutting through hides of animals and through hard stuff like cutting/ whittling wood.
Beautiful knife!
One of my best knifes I take hunting.
Light and fast to sharpen.
Great knife... 50years of usage
It’s a great basic knife 👍🏼
Had mine many years . Just placed an order for 2 custom models !
Hello 👋 my outdoors friend, thank you for sharing this informative review of the Buck #119 knife. Stay safe out there.
You as well!
Everyone had a buck knife or case growing up. That knife was a little too big for me so when I got older and started deer hunting and needed a knife for cleaning deer I got a Buck Proline with the gut hook and serrated blade and the next year just got a Proline with a plain blade no serrations. I have gutted a few deer with it and liked it just fine. We have different butchering knives though old stuff from my friend's dad who knows who made them but awesome steel we just sharpen them once a year.
The cold Steel Master Tanto is one of the best knives of all time. I have ben useing one since 1990.
I work on boilers and chillers and i pick my tools by the feel. They will all do the job but when you are using the tool all day feel makes a difference.
My Mother In-Law just bought me this one from China-Mart for $70. I'd always wanted a 119 or 120 but, always carried a Ka-Bar & never got around to picking up a Buck. The blade was sharp enough to shave with right out of the box which surprised me for such a low dollar knife. The handle fits my average sized had comfortably but, I suspect the very smooth grips would be hard to hold onto if they got bloody. The sheath is of good quality but, the flap wraps around the handle so far that it's hard to unsnap for a quick draw. I press my thumb against the flap & roll the whole knife forward to expose the snap to my fingers but, if being charged by a dog, cougar or a meth head, I'm not confidant that I'd remember the "thumb roll" & get a fast enough draw.
It is a classic & a good looker but, so is that Tanto which is another blade I've longed for but, never dropped the cash on. The Tanto is probably the better knife of the two but, at four times the price, it better be.
I have 300 dollar white river knives, and others but I’ve had a buck 119 and it deployed 3 deployments with me to Iraq and Afghanistan, numerous camping trips, being in the field, extensively used, and still have the same one over 20 years old
I own a 119 and although I have rarely used it since I don't get outdoors much anymore, it is a fully serviceable knife for hunting and outdoors tasks. The phenolic handle sucks but it can be wrapped with rubber to improve the grip. Otherwise, the 119 is a fine knife for old school guys like me.
The way I see it is that there are way too many knives available under $35 for me to mess with that knife. Thanks for the review
I have several knives, and I've had a 119 for years. It feel very natural in my hand.
I have an old Buck 119 from the 80's with the 425M steel and a newer 119 Pro with the S35VN steel and Micarta handle. Now, there is a sticker shock with the new 119 Pro with the price of $200. I realize $200 is a lot to spend on a fixed blade knife, but you can really tell the difference with the S35VN blade and the much improved Micarta handle. There is no polished smooth and slippery handle on the 119 Pro, the Micarta is textured just enough to be comfortable, but not slippery at all. This is a major issue with the hard black plastic handles on most 119 models. The S35VN comes with a razor-sharp edge that lasts a longtime without the extra weight you may expect. I really enjoy having an old Buck from the 80's with the new updates in the 119 Pro. It's like the best of both worlds.....old school and new upgrade options to have at the same time.
This is one of !y favorite fixed blades
Usually switch between this and an old beat up pal eh 36 when I head out into the woods. Both are really good knives weather your using them or just a colector .
Been a Buck guy for years. Got a 110 as a kid, and went to a 119 when I started hunting. They’re workhorse knives, and are king shit in my opinion
I probably have a 119 older than this guy and that handle still looks almost like new.
After having this knife for over 20 years and putting it though the stuff I have put it through...this knife is well worth $70. You didnt talk about how you used it so for real...how can you say its not worth the price tag? I wish you can see my 119. All the divets and dings from using a rock to smash the top of the knife to break through the pelvic bone of a deer. I dont know maybe they were made better back then. But all I know is I just put an edge on mine to take it into the woods for it's 23rd hunting season.
To each their own my friend
People of a certain younger variety really don't use tools the way they're meant to be used these days. I'd be surprised if they used them at all. Everything is a collector's item and meant to be shown off in pristine condition to impress other people and get their ego all worked up rather than actually using the tool as it was intended. I have a feeling these types would fly into an unstable rage over the slightest dent.
You can tell by looking at it. This guy has never used the knife. How can you do a review if you've never used it? He thinks that other knife was cool and that speaks volumes
Hands down best knive made in America take care of it and it will last a lifetime and then some
👍👍👍
I remember that knife feeling strange in the hand, too. The General was in Apocalypse Now on Willard´s hip, thou never used.
Haha indeed
If you want a more outdoor version almost like the CS tanto, get the Outdoorsman😂
I have both the Buck 119 and the Marine K-Bar. I like the feel of the KBar better because of the shape oh the grip ad its heft.
Best bang for the Buck.
Haha well done
Such a huge fan of the SCREAM movie franchise where Ghostface uses the buck 120 knife. I have never bought any weapons like this one before cus im only 15 but I wanna buy the 119 or 120 soon cus it looks so freaking sick and not only because its in the scream movies, but I also wanna get into fishing and might as well buy a really good knife for that right? Btw does it rust if you just put it straight onto a display? Im scared it will if I end up doing that
As long as you keep it clean and nicely oiled with some 3in1 oil your set
My son has a Buck 119 and 115. I have a Buck 119, 120, 124 and 110. Yeah they're very good knives.
Great knives
Yeah. Well, it's just a knife.
Knives need periodic resharpening regardless of the type of steel. And handles can crack. All of them. Looks at these testimonials from your viewers. Most of the knives talked about are probably older than you. They function fine. How're you doin'?
Good, insightful review. Yes indeed, the Buck 119 is a fine Hunting knife! The Harbor Freight Gordon copy is also a well-made copy at a fraction of the BUCK 119. Have you tested the Harbor Freight Gordon copy?
Yep, she's a good knife. Bought mine back in the mid 80's. I'd have to check the date stamp to be sure. I worked three summers in Yellowstone National Park, and she was always on my belt when hiking and camping. Still have the original sheath. The only other knife that even comes close, is my Recon Tanto, that I also bought in the mid 80's.
Awesome man!
Uh-correct me if I’m wrong, but this does have the Buck guarantee, correct? Why worry?
Is it a hollow grind ? Thank you . Cheers p.s. Sorry , you said it has a hollow grind .
SMKW is great. Ive ordered from there.....and been in the store many times. If you like knives....go in there. Its pure happiness for a knife lover.
I like mine , I
just wish the handle was not so slippery especially when wet .
So I live in the city. I was recently mugged. I’ve been considering getting something to help appear more intimidating. 1. Is that foolish to think? 2. If not, would this be a good knife to do the job?
I prefer the days when you had a reasonable number of decent knives, some shitty knockoff knives, and Buck knives you knew you could rely on, to choose from. Nowadays we are awash in so much choice and materialism, you can choose from 100,000 different brands and model of knife as well as millions of other consumer choices, yet nothing's really better.
I have a version of this I’m looking at on my tv stand lol.. if it was full tang for the price I’d recommend it I haven’t ever broken it I guess it’s just my thoughts on it lol
I got a brand new own with a 2023 code, kool, but it a few years it'll just be one that is not so old, lol
Very good review. I have a 75th Anniversary 119 in my collection. I like the knife. BUT hate the 'stick' tang to the point I never carry the knife. If I'm gonna carry a fixed blade, I'm gonna carry a KNIFE that is worthy - as in strong/beefy. I will NEVER carry a stick tang fixed blade knife.
I understand that philosophy, especially if you are a hard user. Still adequately strong for what it is!
These TECHNICALLY have a fully tang and not a "stick" tang. A stick tang would be much smaller. They are, however relatively small tangs for the uses of a 5" knife.
Genuine Katana swords have "stick tangs".
I have 2 of those, my dad bought us bought one. He's gone now. But I still have both.
That baby stick or no stick will slice and dice, owner going on 36 years
I've used one of these for
years for hunting and camping.
The only thing I've done is to trim the guard down to about
1/4 protruding on each side.
Just me- I prefer a knife of
5 inch + blade.
I've used pocket knives for
dressing deer and such, but
it's just easier with a proper
5 inch + blade, just like the
meat cutters that make their
living with knives, just like
the mountain men and explorers and trappers that
went through unexplored country with those knives
when they could have had
any other of their choosing.
old man Buck started making those knifes for USA gov, who made a general request for knives for the army as they did not have army knives. I prefer the 119 to the k bar although the only tactical knife is the fairbairn sykes
Best all round knife.. Can't go past it.
Got a 121 about 1980, this was my backpacking knife for over a decade, and still gets used very often now. The knife is great, but you need to use it as a knife. Their sheaths suck!
Haha fair!
I bought it for 50 from walmart. Then I wanted another and it was 75. Couldn’t do it. I’ll just splurge on a custom 7 inch blade. I want a good survival knife that gives me a good wild west feel. Elegant but rugged. Durable would be good. I’ve always liked my 119 but I feel I need something just a little higher level but the same kinda feel.
I absolutely love the look of the 119, it's almost perfect. If buck made a pro version with black micarta instead of that "green" it would be my favorite.
👍👍👍
Same!
I only have 3 Bucks, but I love them all. I just don't care for the new fixed blade sheaths. That wrap-around snap tab looks like it would just get in the way.
It does👍
Best big game butcher 🔪
👍👍👍
Love that 119 except the rat tang
Same 👍
It's never been a problem for
me. What happened to make
you dislike it ?
Mine is from the early 90s. The sheath is a bit different, no drain hole, no plastic insert. It’s held up well for camping. The handle, being Bakelite, is the same stuff as bowling balls, so should be tough. Being smooth though it’s a bit slippery.
Bakelite isn't manufactured anymore.
It's phenolic resin.
I don’t think that’s boss heat treat but I’m no expert but the ones I have say Bos with a little flame on the blade and are d3 steel
Buck 119 & 120 are beautiful but small and slippery
Small? go any bigger and you got a machete
@@someperson917
I’m from the UK bro the buck 120 is not big😂, and tbf it shouldn’t be because it’s a hunting knife and made for skinning. Really good knife though, it cuts through stuff like melted butter
For sure
I'm not a Buck fan really. I like Case and RoughRider traditionals, Benchmade fixies and mostly carry a Spyderco Manix 2 or Shaman. I just bought a custom BM Crooked River and it's an EDC and hunter that can replace all of the above. It's a modern traditional with a bar lock and for me a perfect knife. With that being said, I'm 54 now and my Buck 119 (1981 3 line stamp build) is still my favorite knife. Mostly because it was my first real knife given to me by Pops in 1982 for my 12th birthday and my first hunting trip with the elders. It was way too long for me and I would cut myself all the time. The joke was the knife had more of my blood on it then all the fish and deer added up. I poked hundreds of holes in the original leather sheath. I've dropped her on the tip at least 20 times over the years. I then learned that the black handle material has a purpose. You can custom carve (file or dremel) it for your hand or application and it will sand and polish up nicely. I have XXL hands with a huge palm so the oversized handle tapering away from the blade is better than the reverse, but you can easily modify it. The steel doesn't hold a razor edge for very long if you use it for anything other than flesh, however it stays sharp enough to barely ever need sharpening. I've used it as a machete, whittler, The best part of the Buck 119 is that it inspires confidence the moment you grab hold of it and I know that I can beat the crap out of it and throw it on my buffer wheel and it looks like it's 1982 all over again.
Go, wear it out in that rain the sheath will tighten up, just like all leather- break it in! Thanks for the vid!
It's a great gp hunting/camping knife. It's not a survival knife. It has a good size, and you won't look like Rambo walking around with it on your belt. I bought mine in the early 80s, I had a buck120 but it broke at the tang, my 119 is still going strong.
Ive had mine for 119 years.
Seriously though... it's better than a kbar
I've killed a lot of rats with mine.
Do you know of any knives that look similar to the buck 119 but are better or cheaper (the gordon one isnt worth it imo)?
The Gordon would be the closest one. Perhaps one of the Rough Ryder knives
@@TobinHolz Thank you for the response, I ended up purchasing one from walmart for 70 dollars or so, maybe I should've done what you recommended but it's too late now, unless i return it somehow.
@@TobinHolz 420 C steel, not 440.
Keep the Buck they come with a Life Time Warranty the cheap Chinese knives don't. The Buck will last your life.
Don't use it to baton, the handle will Crack.
the newer ones suck - sheath really sucks. Mine is over 40 years old, old style sheath (fold over holster style) and does not suck.
Big fan of the bigger knifes I have a smaller knife but I never really care or like to pretty tools because I'm getting them dirty. It's like those fools with those trucks that can't pull anything worthless.
You do not want a thinner handle when you field dress a deer with blood all over your hands - obviously you have never done that!!
Whenever anything free comes with something, it means it's over priced. If I want one of those mini's for my tool box, my car, my truck, and EDC do I really need four mats? Some waste going on somewhere.
You get what you pay for, you can't surpass the quality of buck knives, when you touch up the edge you'll understand the difference between buck and the knockoffs!
The spine doesn't hold it's sharpness when using to strike a ferro rod.
Use a piece of broken hacksaw blade that's available for free everywhere.
Just me- I don't use my knives
for things other than knife chores
@@maxpinson5002 My ferro rod came with a very good striker.
Looks like a Mule Skinner clone. That said, Buck is ok knife stock but would not stand up against my Cold Steel Master Hunter. I like Buck but if you use them a lot expect to sharpen them a LOT.
Have had mine for 30 years, old grind style reputed by unknowledgeable knife "experts" as being difficult to put an edge on, something that is pure bs. The cordura sheath was a disgrace and the best was the pre-1994 (?) sandwich-built type all perimeter stitched sheath. Mine has been all over never let me down but of course I employ it as a knife, nothing else.
I have a Custom 119 with a burlwood handle. Gorgeous! It looks like they discontinued burlwood as an option.
Dang man, I bet that’s killer
The harbor freight $25 replica is a little better. Steel and construction. I almost bought the buck but just wanted a little better knife.
Try the buck 401 KALINGA
I’ll check it out!
Hey CZcams guy.... You're talking about the tip breaking there are several videos on CZcams of guys putting these through car hoods repetitively and the tip doesn't break. Where is your evidence for the tip breaking.... Maybe chopping concrete or something.
Buck needs to use better steel. Not cheap 420. 420 is a Walmart knife. I just buy VG10 steel. The best.
See joe x destruction test of it...
Seen it! Not surprising haha
ThAt test is meaningless. Its extreme abuse any knife will break. Especially the 119 cause it was designed as a hunting knife for slicing and skinning.
@@KnivesSurvival ok but fun and can give some informations about rusting for example.
I gutted many a deer with this same knife. I had this knife for well over 20 years and from using it in the field I can honestly say I would not want to have any other knife on my person.
Fair
Great to hear brought one only for hunting
i used to think buck has a good brand .but i knew 2 people that broke them from dropping them on the ground
They’re good for what they are haha. Not as tough as some others though!
@@MattRoseKnives i just thought that the quality had dropped since i was a kid ,buck knives back then were damned near unbreakable unless you really tried
Dang, what canyon did they drop them off of? LOL, 2 people you know broke Buck knives just dropping them? You sure these weren't Chinese harbor freight "Buck knives" LOL
The 5160, 440, d2, s35, or 420 are. It steels that break from dropping three feet. The most common steels for a 119 would be on the stronger end. 5160 and 420 are very strong steels.
Sorry, I've used a damn 119 for 30 years a cheap 420 & just dropping it and breaking it is BS
these are the worst knives in gods creation. only good thing is that they're pretty. hard to sharpen and don't hold an edge either! p.s. i used to make knives at gerber(they suck too).
Hahahhaha I’m not sure I’d go that far, but I catch what you’re saying
Scream knife.😅
I could be wrong… but I think the scream knife is the 120. 7” blade instead of 6”. But identical in every other way
Have you ever gut an animal?
his hands are softer than a newborn baby's, so take your best guess
I’ve always thought of the 119 as an imitation Ka-Bar military knife.
Are we doing a knife on the buck 119 or not? Just focus on one knife if you're doing a review. Come on man
lol it’s my channel bro. I’ll do what I darn well please 🤣
@@MattRoseKnives I'm not your bro. I'm someone you want to impress.
Maybe he wants to be your bro. Maybe you'd be impressed if you were his bro.
@@KJ-zq3ti it looks like he didn’t care. Just wanted to point that out.
Yeah,this little fella sounds like he’s had a tremendous amount of experience working hard out doors with knives.
I've gutted around a hundred deer in my life I did start with a smaller knife but for deer you want a bigger blade to cut faster around the anus and enough blade to cut threw the sternum. I have had a buck 119 in my bag for the last couple years for deer.
Thanks for the info!
Its a mediocre knife, I rarely use mine but for cleaning deer (with gloves) as it gets to slippery. The sheath is a total POS.
35 year old one does well
Smokey Mountain Knife Works used to be a reasonable company. I don't see reasonable in their prices anymore.
Yeah just depends on the blade being purchased
You’re lying about that one. I love SMKW prices. Everyone is going up because of inflation, but SMKW is competitive