Buck Knives 117 Brahma Hunting Knife - Classic Full Tang Utility

In this review the Buck Knives 117 Brahma stands out as a compact, dependable fixed blade for hunters and outdoorsmen who want a rugged everyday cutter. The single biggest reason to buy is its combination of a full tang build and a razor-sharp 4-1/2' 420HC clip point blade that balances corrosion resistance with reliable edge retention, making it ready for field dressing, camp chores, and general outdoor work without unnecessary bulk.

Key Features

• 4-1/2' 420HC Stainless Blade: The clip point design and heat-treated 420HC steel deliver a sharp controllable tip for detail work and a curved belly for slicing tasks.
• Full Tang Construction: The solid full tang gives the knife exceptional strength and balance for heavy-duty cutting and long-term durability.
• Phenolic Handle: The black phenolic handle with subtle palm swells provides a comfortable, secure grip during repetitive field work.
• Aluminum Guard and Pommel: These metal fittings add strength and balance while improving the knife's overall handling and appearance.
• Included Leather Sheath: The imported genuine leather sheath with snap fastener and belt loop keeps the knife secure and accessible on the trail.
• Made in the USA: Handcrafted manufacture and Buck's lifetime warranty support the knife's long-term reliability and value.

Who It's For

The 117 Brahma is best for hunters, campers, and anglers who need a compact fixed blade that performs both precision and heavier cutting tasks. Its modest overall length and 4.9 oz weight make it suitable for day trips, backpacking where a reliable short blade is preferred, and anyone who values American-made tools.

Those who should look elsewhere include users who need a full-size hunting knife with a longer blade for large game or heavy batoning, and people wanting a folding pocket knife for ultra-compact everyday carry-the Brahma is a fixed-blade designed for durability and control, not maximum concealment.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Excellent blade quality and sharpness from 420HC steel combined with a controllable clip point.
• Solid, full tang construction offers dependable strength and balance for sustained use.
• Comfortable phenolic handle and aluminum fittings provide secure grip and refined looks.
• Comes with a well-made leather sheath and backed by Buck's lifetime warranty.

Cons

• At 4-1/2' blade length it is smaller than full-size hunting knives, so not ideal for very large game processing.
• Phenolic handle is durable but lacks the thermal cushioning of modern synthetic or rubberized grips for extreme cold use.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The Buck 117 Brahma is a compact, well-made fixed blade that delivers classic styling, dependable full tang strength, and a sharp, versatile 4-1/2' clip point blade. It represents strong value for hunters and outdoors users who want a durable, American-made knife for everyday field tasks, though those needing larger blade length or specialized grip materials should consider other models.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the blade suitable for field dressing game?
Yes, the 4-1/2' clip point with a curved belly and controllable tip is well suited to field dressing and detail cuts.

Does it come with a sheath and can it be belt carried?
Yes, the knife ships with an imported genuine leather sheath that has a snap fastener and belt loop for secure carry.

What warranty covers this knife?
The knife is backed by Buck's long-standing lifetime warranty, reflecting the brand's confidence in build quality.