Customer Reviews

Buck 286BK Large Bantam, Lock Back Folding Knife

5 star:		(4)
4 star:		(6)
3 star:		(2)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

I prefer larger folders and the BHW does not dissapoint. In fact, some co-workers tend to be a little put off by it when I pull it out of my pocket to open a box.

The knife arrived quite sharp, holds an edge, and takes an edge easily.

The weight of this knife is unreal for its size. It's a featherweight, but at the same time inspires confidence that it is well-constructed. Except for the pocket clip, which is about the only cheap-feeling part of the knife.

This knife opens quite easily with one hand.

I'd probably make this five stars if the blade were partially serrated.

Though I didn't expect much it was still a disappointment to see a "Buck" blade of this quality. The handle of the knife is constructed entirely of a lightweight plastic, no metal liners or frame. Wonderful for stripping off a few ounces, but compromises the integrity of the entire knife.

It's most evident weakness is it's inability to handle any kind of lateral force on the blade. Just a small amount of pressure on either flat of the blade causes a noticeable and disconcerting flex in the knife.

As for the blade material, it's decent though relatively soft for "high carbon". The Bantam sharpens well enough, though doesn't stay shaving sharp for long. The blade is pretty thick, too thick to use for cleaning game or fish.

For the price it's an alright knife. The Large Bantam is definitely up to opening boxes and envelopes, but unable to perform at the tasks I typically carry a large knife for.

I have the medium and large versions of this knife. The medium is perfect and is my preferred EDC. The large is good but somewhat stiffer to open and close. Get the medium and you will never know it is in your pocket. Also, both of these knives came razor sharp and have retained their edges well.

First off, let me just say, if you want a mid-size knife to carry in your pocket, this is the thing, the blade cuts well, so far it holds a great edge, and the lock is powerful and doesn't budge. There is also ZERO play in the blade. Now for the negatives, I'll start with the belt clip, it's just a little too low on the knife, so that when you sit down, the handle edge pushes into your stomach region quite uncomfortably, plus, the edge is chamfered and angled, so it pushes in even more. The other problem is with the handle, I really can't say it looks like it will last, the plastic just feels so cheap, and there is really no good metal support for it. If they had added some aluminum, some wood, anything, but they didn't. Apart from these two things, this is a great low-mid range knife, and an AMAZING starter if your just getting into them. For the price, you can't go wrong, plus it's made in the US, and there is a lifetime warranty, so when the handle does go, you'll be covered.

i got this to have a better pocket knife,it's very sharp and has a lifetime warranty which is great if it ever breaks but i doubt it will great knife for the money it's no sog or kershaw but it's still a great knife.The only thing i don't like is the composite handle other than that awesome bang for your buck

I was looking for something that was a decent size (but not overkill) and this is a perfect knife for me. It is lightweight, enough so that it could be clipped into a suit really without any indication. The knife didn't come razor sharp, may need some sharpening, but overall, I would suggest this knife to anyone who needs a utility knife and something for a little self defense.

its a buck so its a good knife. only complaint is that the tip doesnt stay sharp for long and the screws on the pocket clip come loose rather easily. lost one screw already. it also feels a little plasticky. but for the money its a great knife to buy as a short used work knife of to take on a camping trip.

This is now my favorite carry with knife. Lightweight, yet extremely durable. This was my first Buck purchase and I think they have me hooked now : ) A must buy.

This is a good looking knife that is not too big or too little. It is quite possible to open this knife one handed using the thumb stud, it just isn't all that fast a process (about as fast as opening a standard pocket knife with two hands). Much smaller than my Gerber knife with nearly the same blade length. I got this for light duty camping work and it works fine for that. Haven't decided if I like the clip on the handle yet (I might take it off).

I recently bought this large Bantam folding knife,and here are the pros and cons:

Pros:Excellent engineering and manufacturing for the steel parts.The U.S.steel blade and steel locking mechanism inside the handle are top quality and precise.The[blade]is substantial,is VERY sharp and snaps into place solidly.No way will the blade accidently close in and chop off your fingers...Buck is the Smith and Wesson of Knives.

Cons:The handle.The cheap made in China plastic handle while long enough to fit a large hand like mine,is featherlite and very thin,making the knife top heavy and harder to get a solid grip.The more expensive Buck folding knives have more substantial handles made with heavier more solid material.

That said the featherlite handle on this Bantam budget knife works well functionally,and it's a very strong,thick epoxy resin type of plastic that will not break easily.

The blade is VERY sharp (yes,that can be a con)and you WILL get cut bad IF you are in any way careless.You CAN safely open the knife one handed with your thumb while keeping the rest of your fingers out of the way,but my thumb was still getting minor cuts,so I filled down bottom inch of blade,purposely dulling its edge--a serrated sawing edge in that location would be best...DO NOT try to close the knife one handed!Tame your ego a little and close the knife with both hands keeping all of your fingers out of the way of the blade edge...I got two deep nasty cuts learning the hard way that these knives are not toys.

To sum up:These cheapest Buck knives are the best for the money,but Buck has the best knives regardless of price if you're willing to spend more.My next Buck pocket knife will be one with a more substantial,heavier handle,hopefully not made in China,which I suspect is where the featherlite,too thin,plastic budget handle was made for my current Buck...If $20 dollars is all you got for a pocket knife,then you'll probably be happy with this one,I am...for now.

Dallas over Bills 44-7...The Buffalo Bills are perpetual heartbreakers!