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Consider purchasing the Buck 110 or the Schrade LB7. You may learn more about how the Schrade LB7 and Buck 110 differ and are similar in this post. Our goal is to support you in making the best purchase possible.
In case you’re looking for a tl;dr, here it is.
- Overall, the Buck 110 is an excellent knife. It will last longer, is built in the USA, has a lifetime warranty, and has steel that is harder and more corrosion resistant.
- Being produced in China, the Schrade LB7 is substantially less expensive. Overall, it doesn’t quite measure up, but for the price, it still represents decent value.
What distinguishes the Schrade LB7 from the Buck 110?
These knives all essentially accomplish the same task. They both weigh a lot for pocket knives, as we’ll see later in the comparisons. They are probably about as heavy as you would prefer in a folding pocket knife, but most people can still use them as an everyday carry.
I would recommend the 110 as a longer-lasting, sharper knife that is made in the USA if you have the extra. With Buck, you can also have personalized engraving to create a wonderful gift or family keepsake.
Variations in steel
Steel 7Cr17MoV is used in the Schrade LB7. For those who are unfamiliar with 7Cr17MoV, it is essentially 440a produced in China.
Due of its somewhat reduced carbon concentration, it is softer, less costly, and frequently used in low-cost blades. It can be sharpened easily, which is a plus, but the overall quality is poorer.
There isn’t a significant inherent advantage that 440a has over 420HC. However, Buck’s heat treatment in this instance makes a significant difference. Thanks to Buck’s heat treatment procedure, which makes a relatively accessible/affordable steel incredibly effective, 420HC has a solid reputation.
Details on the Schrade LB7
Although the LB7 pocket knife is not nearly an American icon like the Buck 110, it has some level of popularity.
Some claim that it is simply a 110 copy.
The rosewood handle of the LB7 looks fantastic and it will perform well on the majority of daily duties you ask of it.
The sheath is pretty comparable to the 110’s as well; excellent value there.
You cannot deny that it offers good value for the money, even though it does not bear the prestige of the Buck name and was not created in the USA.
Details on the Buck 110.
The 110 is Buck’s most well-known knife, as was previously mentioned.
In fact, it might be the most well-liked pocket knife ever made.
Like the LB7, it comes with a leather sheath. The LB7’s has brown leather, while this one is black.Strong lockback technology is used. The strongest folding knife locking mechanism; more durable than, say, frame locks or liner locks.
The knife does take a little longer to open than usual, but whether it matters is up to you.
For a little bit more money, you can also purchase the 110 with finger grooves:
Summary
These knives serve the same purpose overall.
Buck’s 110 should provide slightly greater overall performance while also being significantly more durable. There are many people who still have 110s that have been handed down through families for 30 to 40 years or more.
If money is tight, the LB7 will work just fine.
Pick up a 110, though, if you value durability and purchasing an American-made product. You won’t be let down.
I hope you find what you’re looking for in any case!