Buck Knives Pursuit Folding Knife, Large Review

The Buck Knives Pursuit Folding Knife, Large: Is It Really That Good?

The Buck Knives Pursuit Folding Knife, Large is designed with the serious outdoorsman, particularly big game hunters, in mind. Buck Knives, a name synonymous with durable American-made cutlery, has engineered this large-frame folder to tackle demanding tasks. Its robust construction and thoughtful design aim to provide reliability when you need it most.

My search for a capable, large folding knife was driven by a recent, less-than-ideal experience in the field. I found myself needing to process some larger game, and my usual EDC (everyday carry) knife, while reliable for smaller tasks, simply wasn’t up to the scale of the job, leading to prolonged effort and a bit of frustration. I considered a fixed-blade option for a moment, but the convenience and packability of a folder still held significant appeal for general-purpose outdoor carry. My initial impression of this Buck knife is one of solid, no-nonsense craftsmanship, promising a dependable tool.

First Use Experience

My initial foray with the Buck Knives Pursuit Folding Knife, Large took place during a late-season deer hunt, specifically for the field dressing and initial skinning of a mature buck. The knife was deployed immediately after the harvest, and its size felt substantial and reassuring in my hand even before I made the first cut. I tested it in cool, damp conditions, with my hands slightly slick from the environment.

The intuitive nature of this folding knife was immediately apparent; there was no significant learning curve. It opened smoothly with a positive lock-up, and the grip provided by the textured handle was reassuringly secure, even with slightly damp gloves on. My only minor surprise was the slight heft, which, while expected for a large-format folder, did take a moment to adjust to compared to smaller knives.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months and various outdoor excursions, the Buck Knives Pursuit Folding Knife, Large has become a reliable fixture in my gear rotation. It’s seen use not just in hunting scenarios but also around camp for general utility tasks like preparing firewood kindling, cutting paracord, and even some light workshop chores. It has held up remarkably well, showing minimal signs of wear and tear beyond the usual minor scuffs on the handle.

Maintenance has been straightforward. A quick rinse with water after field use, followed by a dry and a light application of a lubricating oil, has kept the pivot smooth and the blade protected. Compared to some budget folders I’ve used that developed blade play or stiff hinges quickly, this Buck knife continues to feel as solid and secure as it did on day one. It certainly outperforms less expensive options in terms of overall build quality and long-term performance.

Specifications

The Buck Knives Pursuit Folding Knife, Large boasts a 3.63-inch Drop Point blade, a design choice that offers a strong, sharp point for piercing and ample belly for slicing, making it ideal for skinning and general butchery. This blade is constructed from 420HC stainless steel, a material known for its good balance of wear resistance and ease of sharpening, which is crucial for a tool that needs to maintain a keen edge in the field. The knife has a closed length of 5 inches and an overall length of 8.625 inches, placing it firmly in the larger-than-average folding knife category.

The handle is made from Glass Filled Nylon, chosen for its durability and ability to provide a secure grip. This material is often favored in outdoor tools for its resistance to the elements. The handle is finished in a distinctive green/black color scheme and features a textured surface that enhances its positive grip, a critical safety feature when working with knives. Stainless steel bolsters add structural integrity and a touch of classic design. The high-visibility, crisscrossing liner-lock mechanism is a noteworthy safety feature, ensuring the blade stays securely in place during use. Each knife also comes with an extra high-visibility logo that doubles as a handguard, adding another layer of safety.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of its primary function, the Buck Knives Pursuit Folding Knife, Large performs exceptionally well, particularly for its intended purpose of big game processing. The Drop Point blade excels at making long, clean slices during skinning, and the robust tip has proven adequate for puncturing tough hides without fear of breaking. The knife’s ability to hold an edge through sustained use in the field is commendable; it remained sharp enough for the majority of my butchering tasks before requiring a touch-up.

Its greatest strength lies in its robust build and the confidence it inspires during demanding tasks. However, a minor weakness could be its size for those accustomed to smaller, more discreet EDC knives; it is undeniably a large folder. While it meets expectations for a large hunting folder, it comfortably exceeds them in terms of build quality and the overall user experience it provides.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Buck Knives Pursuit Folding Knife, Large prioritizes functionality and durability. The glass-filled nylon handle feels solid and substantial, offering a very positive grip thanks to its pronounced texturing. This textured surface is particularly effective when your hands are wet or greasy, preventing accidental slips. The addition of stainless steel bolsters not only reinforces the handle’s structure but also adds a premium feel.

Ergonomically, the knife is comfortable for extended use, though its larger size means it might not suit users with very small hands. The stepped-up, high-carry handle design provides a secure perch for your thumb during hard work. The liner-lock mechanism is robust and disengages with a firm press, ensuring reliable blade retention. The inclusion of a four-way black/green lanyard hole is a practical touch, allowing for various attachment options for added security and accessibility.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its construction from 420HC stainless steel and glass-filled nylon, this knife is built for longevity in rugged environments. I anticipate it will last for many years of regular hunting and outdoor use, assuming basic care is maintained. The stainless steel construction means it’s resistant to rust and corrosion, a vital trait for gear exposed to the elements.

Cleaning is simple: a quick wipe down with a damp cloth and a thorough drying will suffice for most situations. For deeper cleaning or after particularly messy jobs, a bit of soap and water followed by drying and a light oil application on the pivot area will keep it in top condition. There are no obvious failure points, though like any folding knife, the pivot mechanism is the most critical component to keep clean and lubricated.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Buck Knives Pursuit Folding Knife, Large comes packaged in a box that includes an extra high-visibility logo which conveniently doubles as a handguard for the blade. This addition is a thoughtful safety measure, providing an extra barrier between your hand and the sharp edge, especially useful during intense skinning operations. Beyond this included accessory, the knife itself is not designed for extensive user customization in terms of interchangeable parts, which is typical for this class of reliable, fixed-specification tool. However, the four-way lanyard hole allows for personalization with various lanyards or bead attachments to suit individual preferences for carry and retrieval.

Who Should Buy Buck Knives Pursuit Folding Knife, Large?

The Buck Knives Pursuit Folding Knife, Large is an excellent choice for serious hunters, especially those who pursue big game and require a reliable, capable tool for field dressing and initial processing. It’s also well-suited for backpackers, campers, and anyone who needs a robust, larger folding knife for general outdoor utility. Individuals who prioritize durability, a secure grip, and straightforward functionality in their gear will find this knife a strong contender.

Conversely, those seeking a lightweight, compact knife for discreet everyday carry in an urban environment might find this model to be overkill. Users who require highly specialized blades or extensive customization options would also be better served by looking at other knife categories. For anyone purchasing this knife, ensuring you have a good sharpening system at home will help maintain its keen edge for extended periods, maximizing its utility.

Conclusion on Buck Knives Pursuit Folding Knife, Large

The Buck Knives Pursuit Folding Knife, Large stands out as a highly capable and well-built tool, delivering on its promise of reliability for demanding outdoor tasks, particularly big game hunting. Its 420HC stainless steel blade and durable, grippy handle are designed for hard use, while thoughtful safety features like the high-visibility liner-lock and included handguard add practical value. While its size might not suit everyone for daily carry, its performance and build quality at its $74.99 price point offer exceptional value. I would readily recommend this knife to any outdoorsman or woman looking for a dependable, no-nonsense folding knife that can handle the rigors of the field without complaint.