Buck Saunter Knife
- Last updated: 22/10/2024
Buck has recently upped the presentation of its knives significantly, and they now come in a very nice presentation box that sits within a protective sleeve. Inside, the knife comes in a soft cloth bag with a drawcord, and the box is packed with paper straw.
On test
The Buck Saunter is a UK-legal everyday carry with a non-locking blade less than 3” long. So, with due consideration for your environment and situation, it makes a really nice pocketknife.
The 2.375” long blade is 2.5mm thick and is made of 154CM stainless steel, a high-end metal originally developed for use in jet engine turbine components back in the ‘70s. It is hard and has high wear and corrosion resistance, making it an ideal material for knives. Edge retention is very good, and when it does need attention, it is much easier to sharpen than some other high-end steels. Available with either a clip-point or drop-point blade profile, the Saunter is a user-friendly and practical tool, and it comes razor-sharp straight out of the box. The clip-point blade allows for better control when working on more detailed tasks, while the drop-point is more suitable for everyday duties. There is a long nail notch in the back of the blade to aid opening, and the non-locking slip joint holds the knife securely with no play whatsoever.
The Micarta handle is well-shaped and textured to give an excellent grip in all conditions, and you can carry out detailed work very easily without your hand moving or slipping. The handle is available in either black or green, and at the back end of the knife, there is a large lanyard slot that will accommodate either a cord or a leather strap.
The size and shape of the Saunter are just right for any small tasks that you might need to do, and although small, it is not difficult to hold onto like some smaller knives can be. With the clip-point blade, you can easily joint a chicken or prep a rabbit, and the materials used in the knife can be cleaned with boiling water, without sustaining any damage.
Conclusion
The Saunter is a good quality pocketknife, and at just 2.3oz, it is a very light and compact little tool. There is no getting away from the fact that it is expensive, but the build quality and the materials used justify the price tag. All of the parts marry up perfectly, with no open or uneven joints, and they function very smoothly. The knife is built to last and carries Buck’s famous ‘Forever Warranty’ should there prove to be any defects. As a general-purpose everyday carry, my preference is the drop-point version, but both blade profiles are very strong and practical. If you are looking to upgrade to a top-quality pocketknife, then the Saunter is well worth considering.