All About Pocket Knives

Does anybody know when BUCK started to use Buckcote/Ion Fusion? And what was the last year of manufacture with this Ion Fusion. I have a Vanguard 692 (1996) and 110. Both are Champagne color.

Mark,

Welcome to AAPK...hope you stick around.

If I recall correctly, Buck experimented with Ion Fusion blades back in 2001. As for the Buckcote technology, I can't say for sure. I have a 119 (non-serrated) with the Ion Fusion technology, but it does not have the Buckcote. Buck also did a 119 partially serrated edge Ion Fusion knife. Any Buck knife with the Ion Fusion and sharpened only on one side is going to be a rare knife. I believe Buck only did these knives for a couple of years.

Someone else may come along with more information. Nevertheless, you have two nice collector pieces, imho. Sorry I couldn't provide more info.

MKL77, Thanks for your info. I heard from a friend that Buckcote and Ion Fusion is the same thing. Can't say for sure though. Buckcote is not a coating at all. It was a "fused" process as well. Thus, the new name "Ion Fusing".

I found the answer. First Manufactured date is 1996. Went on sale in the 1997 Buck Knife catalog. Only 8 models had the BuckCote on them. Some were Zirconium (ZrN) and some were Titanium Nitride (TiAIN) (TiN). The final date of production was the early 2000's...