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New 112 vs older versions

Posted: Fri Nov 28, 2025 12:32 am
by folderfan
First post. Thanks for having me. I have learned a bunch already from reading through a lot of the older threads on here. I have a Bucklite 422 which I often carry as well as a couple of Chinese Bucks which I don't like much and seldom carry. Nothing really wrong with them but I just don't care for them. I just ordered a new 110 which I hope will be here soon. I have a chance to buy a new 112 for a good price. (I live in Canada so what I think is a good price may not seem so good to most of you) Long story short I can buy a decent used 112 for about the same money. I am capable of cleaning up and changing scales and other fairly simple stuff. I generally prefer older things and after buying a new 110 I'm thinking I might like to get a used 112.

I would appreciate any thoughts in regards to differences between new and older. I did notice the new one has a satin finish blade. I plan for this to be used as an EDC.

many thanks,
Sandy

Re: New 112 vs older versions

Posted: Sat Nov 29, 2025 12:26 am
by robpa
As far as I am concerned age makes no difference. They are equal as far as using value. I like to find the older knives in very good condition, its just more fun.

Re: New 112 vs older versions

Posted: Sat Nov 29, 2025 12:46 am
by Railsplitter
Welcome, Sandy.

The older 112’s had a more squared off frame which in my opinion, is the most noticeable difference from the newer models.

This is a rather horrible picture but the seventh knife from the top on the left is a 2 dot 112. Can’t remember the date it was made without looking it up but I think it was made 1974-1980. All the other 112’s in this picture are much newer. If you look closely you can see the squared off frame that I refer to. The edges of the bolsters on the newer models are chamfered. The earlier models are not.
IMG_2102.jpeg
Here is a picture of the 2 dot by itself along with a close up of the squared bolster. Early 112’s were also made without a nail nick.
IMG_2103.jpeg
IMG_2104.jpeg

Re: New 112 vs older versions

Posted: Sat Nov 29, 2025 1:06 am
by folderfan
Thanks for the replies. From an appearance standpoint I really like the more squared edges of the older versions. The 110 I have coming is new so that will give me an idea once I have it in hand. Finding lots of older 112's online but because I live in Canada shipping costs to or from the States sometimes are as much as the cost of the knife. I can get a new one in Canada easily enough but I'm going to try and clean up an older one before I go that route. I have purchased one from the auction place which will likely need new scales due to some file work which doesn't appeal to me. I have read differing stories about it possibly being a problem for a folding knife to clear the border. We'll see how that goes.
Do all new 110/112's come with a satin finish blade?

many thanks,
Sandy

Re: New 112 vs older versions

Posted: Sat Nov 29, 2025 1:19 am
by Railsplitter
folderfan wrote: Sat Nov 29, 2025 1:06 am Do all new 110/112's come with a satin finish blade?

many thanks,
Sandy
Yes, if they are a standard model. Limited Edition models sometimes have a polished blade and I believe you can also select a polished blade when creating your own knife in Buck’s Custom Shop.

Re: New 112 vs older versions

Posted: Sat Nov 29, 2025 1:30 am
by Railsplitter
If you ever decide to buy a new 112, Note that Buck offers a Web Exclusive 112 in Nickel Silver with a Drop Point blade. You can select the standard 420HC blade steel or S30V.

I have one and it is a very impressive knife.

Re: New 112 vs older versions

Posted: Sat Nov 29, 2025 1:38 am
by folderfan
Very nice looking version. Thanks for the pictures. There are so many standard and special versions the pictures help. It is a bit mind boggling. A big reason for getting a 112 is that although it is a big knife it will suit me better for EDC than the 110.

best regards,
Sandy

Re: New 112 vs older versions

Posted: Wed Dec 24, 2025 9:40 pm
by folderfan
The new 110 arrived as did the 2 dot 112. Right after that I snagged a 2015 112 from the auction place. I have it in hand and I don't think the blade has been touched since the factory. It is still very sharp. The 2 dot is rough but I knew that and I'm planning on cleaning it up and making new scales for it.
If I can tear myself away from the turkey I'll try to figure out how to post pictures.
Merry Christmas,
Sandy