Buck Knives 660 Pursuit Pro Large Folding Guthook Knife Review

The Buck Knives 660 Pursuit Pro Large Folding Guthook Knife: Is It Really That Good?

For years, I’ve relied on a dependable, albeit unremarkable, folding knife for various tasks that extended beyond typical EDC use. It served its purpose for basic campsite chores and occasional workshop needs, but when it came to serious field dressing, it always felt a bit underqualified. This constant underperformance, particularly during a few challenging hunts where efficiency was paramount, spurred my search for a dedicated, high-performance field knife. My exploration led me to the Buck Knives 660 Pursuit Pro Large Folding Guthook Knife, a tool promising both advanced steel and specialized functionality. My initial impression upon unboxing was one of robust construction and thoughtful design; the balance felt right, and the materials exuded a sense of durability. While I briefly considered a few other fixed-blade options known for their gut hooks, the convenience of a folding design ultimately won out for easier carry. My first reaction was one of cautious optimism – could this knife finally be the field dressing workhorse I’d been looking for?

Real-World Testing: Putting Buck Knives 660 Pursuit Pro Large Folding Guthook Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial test of the Buck Knives 660 Pursuit Pro Large Folding Guthook Knife took place during a late-season deer hunt. The crisp morning air and the promise of a successful stalk set the stage. After a clean harvest, the true test began. I found the knife’s S35VN steel held an impressive edge, slicing through hide and muscle with remarkable ease. The integrated gut hook proved its worth immediately, making quick, clean work of the initial abdominal opening without puncturing the intestines, a crucial detail for any hunter.

The Versaflex handle offered a secure grip, even with slightly damp hands from the morning dew. This knife opened effortlessly with a single hand using the prominent thumb stud, a critical feature when your other hand is occupied or gloved. I appreciated the reassuring thunk of the lockback mechanism engaging, providing confidence during more demanding tasks.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over the course of several months and multiple hunting seasons, this folding guthook knife has become an indispensable tool. I’ve used it not just for game, but for various tasks around my workshop, from opening tough packaging to trimming stubborn materials. The S35VN steel has proven exceptionally resilient, maintaining its sharpness through numerous uses with minimal touch-ups.

Durability has been excellent; despite being dropped once on a gravel path (which left only a minor cosmetic scuff on the handle), the knife’s performance remains unchanged. The lockback continues to be solid and reliable, with no signs of play or weakness. Maintenance is straightforward; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth and occasional oiling of the pivot keeps it in prime condition. Compared to simpler folding knives I’ve used previously, the blade retention and overall build quality of this Buck knife are significantly superior, justifying its premium positioning.

Breaking Down the Features of Buck Knives 660 Pursuit Pro Large Folding Guthook Knife

Specifications

The Buck Knives 660 Pursuit Pro Large Folding Guthook Knife boasts a compelling set of specifications designed for serious outdoor use. Its 3.6-inch blade crafted from S35VN Steel is the star, offering superior edge retention and toughness, further enhanced by Buck’s renowned Paul Bos Heat Treat process, hardened to Rc 59-61. The blade’s plain edge is ideal for precise cutting, while the integrated gut hook is perfectly shaped for safe and efficient field dressing.

This model features a lockback mechanism, a tried-and-true system that provides a secure lock during use and requires a deliberate action to disengage. The handle is constructed from Versaflex over a glass-filled nylon base, providing a comfortable and highly visible black and orange grip that reduces hand fatigue during prolonged use. With a closed length of 5 inches and an overall length of 9.5 inches, it strikes a good balance between portability and functional size. The knife weighs a manageable 3.6 ounces, making it easy to carry without adding significant bulk. It also includes a heavy-duty polyester sheath with a belt loop for convenient access in the field.

Performance & Functionality

The primary job of any field dressing knife is to perform efficiently and safely, and the Buck Knives 660 Pursuit Pro Large Folding Guthook Knife excels here. The S35VN steel is the primary driver of its exceptional performance, holding an edge remarkably well even after processing multiple large game animals. I’ve found that a few passes on a ceramic rod are often all that’s needed to bring it back to razor sharpness, a testament to the steel’s composition and Buck’s superior heat treatment.

The gut hook is, without exaggeration, one of the best I’ve encountered on a folding knife. Its curvature and sharpened inner edge allow for precise scoring of the hide and abdominal wall without the risk of accidental punctures. This significantly speeds up the dressing process and minimizes the chances of contaminating the meat. The one-handed opening via the thumb stud is smooth and reliable, even with cold or gloved hands. The lockback mechanism is robust, offering absolute confidence that the blade will not close unexpectedly during strenuous tasks.

Design & Ergonomics

Buck Knives has a long-standing reputation for solid design, and the 660 Pursuit Pro Large Folding Guthook Knife is a prime example. The Versaflex handle is a standout feature, offering a secure, tactile grip that feels comfortable and secure, even when slick with blood or moisture. The high-visibility orange accents on the black handle make it easy to spot if dropped in undergrowth, a practical consideration that I’ve come to appreciate immensely.

The contoured shape of the handle fits naturally in my palm, reducing hot spots and allowing for extended use without discomfort. While it’s a folding knife, the blade deployment with the thumb stud is smooth and ambidextrous, catering to both right and left-handed users. The lockback is easily disengaged with a firm push on the rocker bar, though it does require two hands to close, which is standard for this type of lock and adds to its safety profile. The satin finish on the S35VN blade is attractive and practical, resisting glare and fingerprints effectively.

Durability & Maintenance

The Buck Knives 660 Pursuit Pro Large Folding Guthook Knife is built to last. Given its S35VN steel blade and robust Versaflex/glass-filled nylon handle, it’s designed for heavy-duty use in demanding environments. I’ve put it through rigorous testing, including skinning and quartering large game, and it shows minimal signs of wear. The lockback mechanism remains tight, with no hint of blade wobble even after hundreds of openings and closings.

Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only regular cleaning and occasional light oiling of the pivot to ensure smooth operation. The S35VN steel does require proper care to prevent corrosion, but this is standard for high-performance stainless steels. Buck’s Forever Warranty also provides significant peace of mind, indicating the manufacturer’s confidence in the product’s longevity. I haven’t encountered any significant failure points, though like any folding knife, the pivot area is the most critical point for long-term durability.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Buck Knives 660 Pursuit Pro Large Folding Guthook Knife comes equipped with a heavy-duty polyester sheath. This sheath is well-constructed and features a sturdy belt loop, allowing for secure and accessible carry. It’s designed to protect the knife and keep it readily available during outdoor activities.

While this particular model doesn’t offer extensive factory customization options for the knife itself, its design allows for some personal touches. The glass-filled nylon handle material is durable and resistant to most common chemicals and elements. For those who prefer a different carry method, aftermarket sheath options might be available, though the included one is quite functional. The S35VN steel blade is designed for optimal performance out of the box, negating the immediate need for aftermarket blade modifications.

Pros and Cons of Buck Knives 660 Pursuit Pro Large Folding Guthook Knife

Who Should Buy Buck Knives 660 Pursuit Pro Large Folding Guthook Knife?

The Buck Knives 660 Pursuit Pro Large Folding Guthook Knife is an ideal choice for dedicated hunters who prioritize efficiency and reliability in the field. It’s perfectly suited for anyone who regularly processes medium to large game and values a tool specifically designed for that purpose. Outdoor enthusiasts who need a dependable knife for various camp chores, beyond just field dressing, will also find it incredibly useful.

This knife might not be the best fit for someone seeking an ultra-lightweight EDC knife for minimal tasks or a tactical folder with aggressive serrations. Those on a very tight budget might also find more basic options sufficient. For those who do opt for this knife, consider pairing it with a high-quality field sharpener to maintain that razor edge on longer trips. A good quality cleaning kit would also be beneficial to keep the S35VN steel in pristine condition.

Conclusion on Buck Knives 660 Pursuit Pro Large Folding Guthook Knife

The Buck Knives 660 Pursuit Pro Large Folding Guthook Knife genuinely lives up to its “Pro” moniker, delivering exceptional performance and thoughtful design for its intended purpose. The combination of premium S35VN steel, a perfectly executed gut hook, and a comfortable, high-visibility handle makes it a standout tool for any serious hunter. Its robust construction and reliable lockback mechanism provide confidence in demanding situations, and the edge retention is simply outstanding, minimizing downtime in the field.

While it commands a higher price point, the value is undoubtedly there for those who demand quality and efficiency in their outdoor gear. The ease of field sharpening and the durability of the materials suggest this knife will be a trusted companion for many seasons to come. For hunters who need a specialized, high-performance folding knife that can handle the rigors of processing game, the Buck Knives 660 Pursuit Pro Large Folding Guthook Knife comes with a strong recommendation. It’s not just a knife; it’s a carefully engineered tool that makes a critical part of the hunting experience significantly more manageable and effective.