I purchased a Buck 184 that has Buck 184 USA on one side and pat. pend. on the other. I read that this is a rare variation. Any one have any info? Answer appreciated.
I was watching that auction and I'm surprised that it went as high as it did. These are transitional pieces that were made after Mickey Finn applied for the patent on the Buckmaster. Blades on hand were stamped PAT PEND on the opposite ricasso while newly made blades were stamped with a new die that included the PAT PEND line. According to Joe Houser at Buck Knives there were probably a couple hundred of these made.
It is a relatively scarce piece that I hadn't even seen until about 6-8 months ago. Our very own crazy Frenchman Mr. Moon brought it to my attention. Since then I have picked up two of them, both for great prices. Just have to watch for stuff flying under the radar.