EcoLite is the name of Buck's more modern versions of the classics from the 60's; 110 Folding Hunter and 112 Ranger. The EcoLite knive's handles are made of the light weight material PaperStone instead of brass and wood. EcoLite was offered in two colors; Grass Green and Plum Red, and was in production between the years 2010-2013. My knife is a red Buck 112 Ranger EcoLite from 2011. After falling in love with my 1994 classic Buck 112 Ranger I got curious and ordered it's light weight sibling. I wanted a more pocket friendly folder than the heavy classic and the EcoLite turned out to be a perfect full-size EDC.
Design
The 112's chubby clip point blade is made of Buck's well known stainless steel 420HC that has been their standard steel since 1993. I think the weight balance between handle and blade is a bit better on the EcoLite version than on the classic 112 that has a almost twice as heavy handle than the EcoLite. The chape of the handle is a bit updated on the EcoLite and a Buck logo is added to the handles left side.
The knife's lock back mechanism is nice and tight and works smoothly.
Just as the classic 112 the EcoLite comes with a sheath. But instead of the black leather sheath the EcoLite is delivered with a stuffed black Cordura sheath that can be attached to the belt either horizontal or vertical. One advantage of the EcoLite version compared to the heavier classic is that it's more comfortable to carry in the pocket without a sheath. I like this especially when I'm also moving in urban environments.
Specs
Blade Material: Stainless steel 420HC HRC 58
Blade Length: 75 mm
Blade Thickness: 3 mm
Knife Length: 109 mm / 183 mm
Handle Material: PaperStone and stainless steel
Handle Thickness: 15,3 mm
Knife Weight: 94 g
Holster Material: Stuffed Cordura (synthetic)
Total Weight: 115 g (knife with sheath)
Price: 450 SEK (Sweden 2013)
A Favorite
I'd like to categorize the classic brass 112 as a ultimate hunting folder. Of course the EcoLite 112 also is excellent when taking care of game, but for me this is a ultimate full size EDC for days outside the woods when I need a some what bigger folder. I recognize that the green version seems to be the most popular, but I prefer this red less tactical looking color to my EDC. The Buck 112 Ranger EcoLite is a no fuzz practical and good looking folder delivering high quality at a good price.
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