Buck 119 vs 120
Having field-tested both the Buck 119 Special and 120 General quite extensively, I believe I can be of service in helping you to understand the real differences in their respective advantages and limitations. Both-the $85 119 and the $110 120-represent Buck’s traditional hunting knife design ethos, yet each serves different roles in the field.
Buck 119 vs 120: A History of These Knives
The Buck 119 Special began in 1945 and quickly turned into Buck’s flagship hunting knife. Al Buck designed it specifically for returning WWII veterans who wanted a reliable outdoor knife. The 120 General, released in 1964, was a more substantial brother to the two, for the larger game and serious field work. Little has changed regarding both knives during the decades as proof of good designs.
While many knife makers have moved to more tactical styling, Buck maintained these traditional patterns while updating their heat treat processes. The 120’s larger size made it particularly popular among elk and moose hunters, while the 119 became the go-to for general hunting tasks.
Technical Specifications
Buck 119 Special: Blade Length: 6.0 inches Overall Length: 10.5 inches Weight: 7.5 oz Steel: 420HC Handle: Black Phenolic Sheath: Genuine Leather Price Range: $80-95 Buck 120 General: Blade Length: 7.375 inches Overall Length: 12 inches Weight: 8.3 oz Steel: 420HC Handle: Black Phenolic Sheath: Genuine Leather Price Range: $100-120
Buck 119 vs 120: Real-World Experience
I’ve used both knives extensively over multiple hunting seasons, processing everything from whitetail deer to elk. Their performance differences become most apparent during actual field use. Breaking In Neither knife requires significant break-in. The phenolic handles provide good grip from day one, though the 120’s larger handle takes longer to feel natural in hand.
oth leather sheaths need conditioning and wear time to conform properly to your belt. I noticed the 120’s longer sheath requires more break-in to prevent rubbing while walking. Daily Use The 119’s more manageable size makes it easier to carry and maneuver. During a week-long elk hunt last fall, I found myself reaching for the 119 more often for general camp tasks.
The 120’s longer blade excels at specific tasks but can feel unwieldy for routine cutting chores. Field Dressing Here’s where size really matters. Processing a large bull elk, the 120’s longer blade provided excellent reach for initial field dressing cuts and made quick work of skinning. The 119 required more positioning but offered better control for detailed work around joints and during meat removal.
Buck 119 vs 120: Performance Details
Edge Retention Both knives use Buck’s 420HC steel with their proven heat treat. During last season’s elk camp, I processed two animals with the 120 before needing more than stropping. The 119 handled similar workloads, though its shorter blade meant more strokes per cut. Buck’s heat treatment elevates this budget-friendly steel to impressive performance levels.
Maintenance Needs These knives respond exceptionally well to basic maintenance. A few passes on a leather strop keeps them sharp during extended field use. When they need proper sharpening, standard stones work perfectly – I use a basic Arkansas stone set. Both take a razor edge easily, making field maintenance straightforward even for beginners. Carry Experience The 119’s sheath rides well on a standard belt, though it can catch on brush during stalks.
The 120’s longer sheath presents more challenges – during a steep mountain hunt, I found it occasionally hitting my leg while climbing. Both sheaths offer good retention but benefit from a leg tie for active hunting. Handle Comfort The 119’s handle suits most hand sizes well, providing good control for extended use. During a full day of processing, fatigue wasn’t an issue.
The 120’s larger handle fills the hand more completely and excels with heavy gloves, though users with smaller hands might find it overwhelming for precise work. Lock/Tang Performance Both feature full-tang construction that’s proven reliable through decades of use. I’ve never experienced any handle loosening or blade play, even after hard use including occasional bone contact. The brass guards and pommels add durability while maintaining traditional aesthetics.
Buck 119 vs 120: Long-Term Assessment
After multiple seasons of hard use, both knives show remarkable durability. The brass fittings develop an attractive patina but remain structurally sound. The phenolic handles resist damage impressively – even after dropping my 120 on rocks several times, it shows only minor scratches. The 420HC blades have resisted corrosion well, despite exposure to blood, rain, and snow.
Regular cleaning and light oiling keep them pristine. The leather sheaths age gracefully but require consistent maintenance to prevent weather damage. Future durability concerns are minimal. These designs have proven themselves over generations of hunters. With basic maintenance, either knife should last a lifetime of hunting seasons.
Buck 119 vs 120: Pros/Cons & Buying Guide
Buck 119 Advantages:
- Better balance for general use
- Easier to carry and maneuver
- More versatile for varied tasks
- Lower price point
Buck 119 Limitations:
- Less reach for larger game
- Shorter blade for skinning cuts
- May feel light for heaviest tasks
Buck 120 Advantages:
- Superior for larger game
- Excellent skinning length
- More substantial feel
- Better for longer cutting strokes
Buck 120 Limitations:
- Can be unwieldy for detail work
- Heavier to carry
- More challenging to pack
- Higher price point
Best deals typically appear during Father’s Day sales and pre-season hunting promotions. Watch for 20-25% discounts during these periods.
Alternatives
Ka-Bar USMC Fighting Knife ($80) Similar size to the 119, with more combat-oriented design. 1095 steel offers good toughness but needs more rust prevention. Consider this for a more tactical option at a similar price point. Bark River Bravo 1.5 ($225) Higher-end alternative with premium steel options. Better materials but significantly more expensive. Choose this if budget allows for a premium hunting knife with superior edge retention.
Buck 119 vs 120: Final Thoughts
For most hunters, the Buck 119 provides better overall utility. Its size handles most hunting tasks while remaining manageable for general use. The 120 really shines for dedicated big game hunters or those preferring a more substantial knife for primary field dressing duties. Both represent excellent value in traditional hunting knives. The proven 420HC steel, Buck’s excellent heat treat, and lifetime warranty make either a safe investment.
Choose based on your typical quarry size and comfort with larger knives rather than absolute performance metrics. Where to buy: I recommend buying through authorized dealers like BladeHQ or Smoky Mountain Knife Works to ensure authenticity and warranty coverage. Both retailers offer excellent customer service and competitive pricing.
For most users, I’d recommend starting with the 119 for its versatility and lower price point. The additional length and heft of the 120 might be better suited if your work mostly deals with larger game or you simply like a more substantial knife. Whichever way you take it, you will get a proved design that with good care, it will serve many generations.