Buck Knives 110 Slim Heritage Elite: Traditional Craftsmanship with CPM MagnaCut
The Buck Knives 110 Slim Heritage Elite is a modernized interpretation of the classic 110 Folding Hunter model. While the original design set the standard for rugged folding knives for decades, this Heritage Elite version elevates the silhouette to a contemporary level of performance. The knife retains the traditional visual elements—solid brass bolsters and ebony scales—but combines them with a significantly slimmer construction, a deep-carry pocket clip, and advanced CPM MagnaCut steel.
With a total length of 22.0 cm and a 9.5 cm blade, the knife offers the full functionality of a full-size pocket knife, while its weight has been reduced to 153 grams. The proven lockback mechanism securely locks the blade in the open position, ensuring maximum operational safety during a wide range of cutting tasks.
Key Specifications
- Steel type: CPM MagnaCut powder steel
- Hardness: 59 HRC (treated using the Paul Bos heat treatment process)
- Blade length: 9.5 cm
- Blade thickness and shape: Clip point with satin finish
- Handle length: 12.5 cm
- Overall length: 22.0 cm
- Weight: 153 grams
- Locking mechanism: Lockback (back lock)
- Handle material: Genuine ebony with solid brass bolsters
- Carry option: Stainless steel deep-carry pocket clip
Advantages of the redesigned model and MagnaCut steel
- Top-tier steel quality (CPM MagnaCut): Unlike traditional 420HC steel, CPM MagnaCut offers a superior combination of service life (sharpness retention), fracture toughness, and exceptional corrosion resistance. The Paul Bos heat treatment used by Buck optimizes the steel’s microstructure, ensuring the blade remains razor-sharp for a long time while still being easy to maintain.
- Slim profile for everyday carry (EDC): The original Buck 110 is known for its substantial thickness and weight of over 200 grams, which made carrying it in a sheath necessary. The Slim Heritage Elite has a more compact design and weighs 153 grams. This allows the knife to be carried comfortably in a pants pocket without taking up excessive space.
- Discreet carry thanks to the deep-carry clip: The integrated clip ensures the knife sits deep and securely in your pants pocket. The knife remains immediately accessible, while the visible portion is minimal.
- Timeless aesthetics with natural materials: The use of naturally grained ebony combined with polished brass bolsters gives the knife the familiar classic look of the 1964 original, without compromising on modern ergonomics.
- Proven and safe lockback: The lockback mechanism is mechanically simple and extremely reliable. It locks without play and prevents accidental closing, even under heavy pressure on the back of the blade.
The Buck Knives 110 Slim Heritage Elite is built for intensive practical use:
- Operation and Locking: Open the blade with both hands using the thumb slot until the lockback locks into place with a distinct click. To close the knife, press the release bar on the back of the handle and fold the blade back into the handle in a controlled manner.
- Cutting Applications: The fine clip-point tip is ideal for precise cuts and detailed work, while the generous belly of the 9.5 cm blade provides ample cutting surface for woodworking, food preparation, cutting rope, and hunting applications.
- Maintenance: If the mechanism becomes dirty, rinse it with lukewarm water, dry it thoroughly, and periodically apply a drop of mineral oil to the hinge point and the lock. The ebony handle can be treated occasionally with a suitable wood oil to prevent drying out. MagnaCut steel retains its sharpness for a long time; high-quality ceramic or diamond sharpening stones are sufficient for touch-ups.
This pocket knife is designed for users who prefer the character and appearance of a classic American pocket knife but do not want to compromise on modern materials and carrying comfort:
- EDC enthusiasts: Shooters, professionals, and everyday carry users who want a full-fledged 9.5 cm blade that fits discreetly and comfortably in a pants pocket thanks to its pocket clip and slim profile.
- Outdoor enthusiasts and hunters: Campers, bushcrafters, and hunters who benefit from MagnaCut’s rust resistance and extreme toughness in damp and demanding field conditions.
- Enthusiasts and collectors: Admirers of traditional tools and the heritage of Buck Knives, who appreciate the combination of ebony, brass, and modern powder metallurgy.
In practice, the Buck Knives 110 Slim Heritage Elite addresses the biggest drawback of the historic model: its cumbersome weight. The knife feels rigid and solid in the hand, while the slimmed-down construction and pocket clip make it noticeably more comfortable to carry.
The CPM MagnaCut blade performs exceptionally well in terms of edge retention. The factory grind is symmetrical and razor-sharp. During cutting tests on stiff rope, cardboard, and hardwood, the edge shows no micro-damage or noticeable loss of sharpness. The fit between the brass bolsters and the ebony handle is seamlessly finished, and the lockback locks with absolute precision without any play. The 110 Slim Heritage Elite proves that a classic platform, with the right choice of materials, can effortlessly compete with modern tactical folding knives.