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Are you considering purchasing the Buck 119 or the Buck 120? To assist you in making the best purchase choice, this article will provide a clear overview of the differences and similarities of the Buck 119 and 120.
In case you’re looking for a tl;dr, here it is. Both knives are good options from a reputable manufacturer.
- The Buck 119 is the company’s most well-known knife, and for good reason. You can’t go wrong if you want a traditional, dependable 6′′ hunting knife at a fantastic price. This will more often than not be the wise decision. And it’s less expensive.
- Essentially the same knife, the Buck 120 is longer. (both in blade length, and overall). Choose the 120 if you prefer a very huge hunting knife (7 3/8′′ blade).
| Image | Product Name | Editor's Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Buck 119 | Check Price | |
 | Buck 120 | Check Price |
What distinguishes the Buck 119 and Buck 120?
The weight and blade length of these knives are the two main differences.
The 119 Special weighs 7.5oz, has a blade length of 6′′, and an overall length of 10 1/2′′. The 120 General, in contrast, weighs 8.3oz and has an overall length of 12′′ with a larger blade length of 7 3/8′′.
Here, side by side, you can see that the 120 is significantly longer:
The 119 is the ideal length for a hunting knife for the majority of people, and this is shown in its popularity. However, if you like something a little larger, the 120 is a stunning, sturdy knife that will work well.
Overall, more people will find the 119 appealing. The 120 has a place, but only if you prefer having that larger size for yourself. The 120 will be too huge for most people to be comfortable for cleaning and field dressing.
The cost is the last distinction. Given its larger size and heavier weight, the 120 now costs about $40 more than the 119.
Commonalities between the 119 and 120
There is a lot between these two knives.
- They both make use of 420HC steel.
- Similar black phenolic handles and handguards are seen on both.
- Sheaths are essentially the same. (other than length)
- Blades have the same thickness (0.175′′).
- same black and silver style
- Both have blades with a clip point form.
The only factors that matter are cost, size, and weight.
The Buck 119 in more detail
The 119 is among Buck’s most well-known knives, as was previously mentioned. In fact, in terms of current search demand, it is only surpassed by the storied 110 folding hunter.
It makes sense why. Simply put, the 119 is a really fine, well-made, American knife. Camping, fishing, hunting, and other outdoor pursuits are perfect for it. It is quite reasonably priced, has a lovely appearance, and works very well.
Since there isn’t really a need to update it, it has remained unchanged for decades. There are other model possibilities for certain people who want things that are bigger, smaller, shorter, heavier, or anything else. (including the 120).
The phenolic handles on the 119 aren’t the most slip-resistant in the wet, which is also true with the 120. That’s pretty much the only drawback I can think of for the 119. at least when compared to materials like micarta or g10.
The Buck 120 in more detail
In reality, the 120 has been in existence since the 1960s.
It was discontinued and was eventually replaced by the more adaptable 6′′ 119 variant after numerous individuals complained that the blade was simply too long.
For a while, finding a used 120 model was challenging.
Later on, though, it was re-released for individuals who still want a larger hunting knife or merely a stylish weapon for display or collection. On Buck’s website today, you can easily place an order and even add personalised engraving.
Due to its recognisable conventional design and lengthy blade, the 120 was famously utilised by Ghostface in the Scream movie series as well as other movies, such as Friday the 13th.
Last Words on the Buck: Buck 119 vs 120
We sincerely hope that you found this information about the relative advantages of the Buck 119 and 120 to be helpful. The 119 will typically be the more appealing choice.Overall, it is more adaptable, and a 6′′ blade is actually as long as most hunters would like to go.
For fine jobs like cleaning and skinning wildlife, 7 3/8′′ starts to get a little more difficult to handle.
Having said that, the 120 is a great option from a fantastic USA brand if a larger hunting knife fits you.
I hope you find what you’re looking for in any case!