When I focussed on US made folding knives in the late 1970's the 112 Ranger was my first love. But in those times they were nearly impossible to get in Germany. A sled-dog musher friend from Switzerland, who had lived in Alaska for some years, did import my first Bucks directly from a knife shop in Anchorage.
BTW I also had noticed a Colt Barry Wood, which my Swiss friend always carried in the pocket of his parka, reminding him on his Alaska times, where a locking folder without spring would be better in harsh and cold weather conditions.
And of course I have that knife too in my actual collection.
Let me show You my two first edition 112s from 1969, brass spring holder and black Micarta scales. The integral bolsters and liners are of cast brass, which You can see on the inclusions, even factory polished. One has been refinished by Leroy Reemer, who had worked at the Buck Custom Shop in the 1980's, the other one is original. And I love that original black leather pouch with lots of character. I would be curious to know, what stories those two beauties could tell.
Thanks for looking,
Uli