Rob, in the 70s, those Buck blades were difficult to sharpen because they were made of 440C with a semi-hollow grind and a thick, convex edge. Once sharpened, they were "famous for holding an edge". You mentioned that your grandfather gave you the knife in the late 70s. Was it new or did he carry it previously? Do you still have the original sheath? Your knife appears to be a...

Forth Version, Brass Spacer/Spring holder separate piece

Variation 1 (1970-1972)
Stamp: BUCK, U.S.A., Inverted, Left hand, 440C steel.
Blade/Butt rivets: Visible on both sides of bolsters, 2 rear, 1 front.
Inlay rivets: 2 (tiny) or 2 small headed.
Rocker rivet: Brass, maybe headed.
Sheath: Black leather. C.
Packaging: 2 piece yellow box about 2” high-(1), Use and Care leaflet undated-(1) **


My childhood knife was a Buck 112 given to me in 1973 - age 12. Like you, I spent many hours sharpening it. Today, it is still my barn and trail knife.