I can remember getting my first Buck knife from my dad when I was a kid. Little did I know at the time that the 110 Folding Hunter would still be in my possession some 30 plus years later. That just speaks to the quality of knife that Buck produces. Their quality standards hold true to this day with the Buck 245 Matt Would Go.
History of Buck Knives
Buck Knives is truly a family business. The tradition of quality knives began in 1902 when Hoyt Buck revolutionized the tempering process so the blade’s edge lasted longer than all the knives of that time. In 1945 H.H. Buck and Son was officially born when Hoyt’s eldest son Al joined in. Al’s son Chuck followed suit, followed by Chuck’s son CJ, who to this day is the current President and CEO. CJ has been quoted saying, “We have been helping people thrive with reliable and trustworthy edged products for over a century. Since our own name is on the knife, our quality, focus, and attention to detail are very personal.”
The #245 Matt Would Go
The original knife designed by Matt Leathers, seal team member #245, was brought to Buck by his dad Tim, and an agreement with Buck was made. Enter Buck’s quality and refinement process and the Model number 245 was born. The number 245 is a tribute to his SEAL team class and “Matt Would Go” is a phrase coined by his fellow soldiers and command in recognition of his selflessness and courage.
During his nine years with the US Navy SEALS, Matthew, known as a perfectionist, designed a knife that held up to his own high standards. He used steel from the coil spring of a scrapped Humvee and built his own forge from an old mailbox. I wish I had that kind of smarts!
The ergonomics are better than anything I’ve ever used. The four-inch drop point, fixed blade now made of 5160 Steel is solid, not too wide or heavy, very well balanced. Quality as to be expected when designed by a Navy Seal. The Micarta handle (which is a rigid composite material), is actually really comfortable and the finger grooves provide a perfect grip.
The knife isn’t big, nine inches total with the extended tang, fits well in your hand or on your hip. It comes with a Kydex textured sheath. Combine that with the Tek Lok belt clip (which can be configured for any carry position), and this knife is a real bad ass and could be an EDC for anyone.
With a great backstory and a lifetime warranty from Buck and this knife is a WIN WIN!
Specifications: (courtesy of Buck Knives)
- Blade Length: 4″
- Handle Length: 5″
- Overall Length: 9″
- Blade Steel: 5160 steel
- Thickness: 0.165″
- Handle Material: Camo Micarta
- Sheath Material: Kydex
- Weight: 6.3 oz.
- Made in USA
