I don't know about you, but around the Four Wheeler Midwest Bureau in rural Illinois, a pocket knife is part of the daily dress code. It's just matter of time until ya gotta cut some hay bale strings or until you get the overwhelming urge to whittle.
When a Buck Knives press release introducing three new knives crossed my desk I got all giddy. Here's the rundown:
The knife you see above is the new X-Tract Essential, and it's the follow-up to Buck's original X-Tract. It boasts a one-hand operating system; 3-inch drop-point blade made from 420HC stainless steel; Edge2x technology for a sharper blade that stays sharper and is easier to sharpen; Phillips and flathead screwdrivers; and large spring-loaded scissors. It measures just 4 3/8-inches closed and weighs only 4.5 ounces. The X-Tract Essential is available in black, blue or platinum. MSRP is $45. That'll work.
This is the new Redpoint knife. It's claim to fame is its SafeSpin blade rotator that allows you to open it with one finger without touching the blade. Even wearing gloves. The trick is the blade rotator that is built in to the end of the blade. Just pull back on the oversized button on the handle to disengage the lock and open the blade. The Redpoint has a 2 3/4-inch 420HC partially serrated drop-point stainless steel blade; All-Weather Grip thermoplastic and rubber overmold handle; Utility Arch that is large enough for a carabiner and also serves as a bottle opener (yes!); and a stainless steel pocket/belt clip. The Redpoint is available in black, platinum, blue and yellow. It has an MSRP of $34. Great to have in cold weather.
Last but certainly not least is the Bravo tactical knife. This is an extra-rugged, rock-solid folder that is made in America. Its extra beefy, 3 1/2-inch modified tanto blade is made of 154 CM stainless steel that has been glass bead-blasted for a corrosion-resistant, non-reflective finish. It's heat treated to Rc 59-61. It utilizes Besh Wedge technology that offers a triple-edge point design to produce superior tip strength, as well as full-length blade strength. It's available partially serrated or non-serrated. This Bush Wedge technology creates a more rigid and reliable blade for prying, wedging and puncturing. The Bravo measures 5 inches closed and weighs 6.5 ounces. MSRP is $126. That's what I'm talkin' about.