Produced during the Nighthawk’s very first year, this example of the Buck 650 dates from 1994 and features one of the model’s most interesting configurations for collectors. Its ‘650\’ marking, corresponding to Buck’s date code for 1994, is accompanied by the words ‘PAT. PEND.’ (Patent Pending), characteristic of the earliest production runs.

The Nighthawk stands in stark contrast to the traditional models that had, until then, built Buck’s reputation. With its solid black-finished Bowie blade, imposing integrated guard and ergonomic synthetic handle, the 650 reflects the evolution of American cutlery in the 1990s towards fixed-blade knives with a more tactical, military and outdoor focus.

This first version is also distinguished by its ‘All Black’ configuration, featuring an entirely black handle. Subsequent generations of the Nighthawk would undergo various aesthetic changes, notably the introduction of two-tone black and green handles, making these early examples instantly recognisable.

The large Bowie-style blade combines a raised tip with a particularly robust grind. Its geometry and the knife’s substantial construction perfectly embody the Nighthawk philosophy: to offer an American fixed-blade knife capable of withstanding intensive use, prioritising durability, reliability and a secure grip.

The synthetic handle features a textured surface punctuated by numerous raised patterns that enhance grip. Its wraparound shape, complemented by a particularly pronounced guard, ensures a secure grip even during demanding use.

The blade markings are a key feature for collectors. They include:

BUCK
650\
U.S.A.
PAT. PEND.

The symbol ‘\’ corresponds to the year 1994 in the dating system used by Buck, enabling this particular knife to be precisely identified as belonging to the model’s first year of production.

Another particularly notable feature is that this Nighthawk has retained its original black Buck sheath, as well as its period ‘The Nighthawk’ presentation box. The presence of these items is now far more unusual than that of the knife alone, and enhances the appeal of this set for a Buck collection.

The knife is also in a very fine condition, which is particularly noteworthy for a model that is now over thirty years old.

A Buck that is decidedly different from the classic 119 Special or 124 Frontiersman: less traditional, but representative of an important period in the modern history of the American manufacturer. In this 1994 ‘First Year’, ‘All Black’, ‘Patent Pending’ configuration, complete with its original box and sheath, the 650 Nighthawk is now a particularly interesting variant of the model.

Technical specifications of the Buck 650 Nighthawk First Year 1994:

Total length of the knife: approx. 29.5 cm
Blade length: approx. 16.5 cm
Blade steel: 420HC
Blade profile: Bowie / Clip Point
Edge: smooth
Blade finish: black coating
Knife handle: non-slip synthetic material
Handle colour: black, First Generation All Black
Guard: integrated
Construction: Full tang
Knife sheath: original Buck black nylon
Box: original ‘The Nighthawk’ box
Blade marking: BUCK 650\ U.S.A. PAT. PEND.
Buck date code: \
Year of manufacture: 1994
Generation: First Year / first generation
Manufacturer: Buck Knives
Country of manufacture: USA