Buck PakLite 2.0 Cape Select Black: Full Review & Opinion

The Buck PakLite 2.0 Cape Select Black perfectly embodies the minimalist and ultralight knife philosophy of the PakLite range. Designed specifically for precision work, such as skinning or capping (finely trimming the skin around the head and legs of game), it aims to offer robustness and reliability without unnecessary weight.

First Impressions and Design

From the moment you take it out of its polypropylene case, the lightness of the PakLite 2.0 Cape Select is striking. Weighing approximately 42 to 45 grams (depending on the source, an incredibly low weight), it's completely unnoticeable in a backpack or attached to your gear.

The design is characteristic of the PakLite series: a skeletonized full tang construction. The absence of a traditional handle drastically reduces the weight while ensuring maximum strength, as the blade and handle are made from a single piece of steel.

The "Select" version is distinguished by the addition of removable black nylon/fiberglass (GFN) grip plates on the skeletonized handle. These plates improve ergonomics and grip comfort compared to the bare handle, while remaining lightweight.

Technical Specifications

Characteristic	Detail
Model	PakLite 2.0 Cape Select (0635BKS)
Knife Type	Fixed blade, Full tang
Blade Steel	420HC stainless steel
Blade Shape	Drop Point (ideal for precise cuts and capping )
Blade Length	Approximately 7 cm (2.87 inches)
Blade Finish	Stonewashed (or similar, depending on the version)
Sleeve	Skeletonized with removable black GFN plates
Weight	Approximately 45 grams (extremely light)
Case	Lightweight, multi-position polypropylene
Manufacturing	USA (Post Falls, Idaho)

On-Field Performance

The Blade: Precision and Sharpness

420HC steel is Buck's traditional choice, renowned for its excellent balance of corrosion resistance, ease of sharpening, and good edge retention (especially thanks to Buck's heat treatment).

The Drop Point blade is short (approximately 7 cm) and very maneuverable, making it perfect for the fine and precise work required for capping small to medium-sized game. It offers exceptional control, minimizing the risk of cutting what shouldn't be cut.

Ergonomics: Lightweight and Easy to Handle

This is where the Cape Select truly shines. The handle with its holes, even with the GFN scales, remains slim and elegant. It provides a surprisingly comfortable grip for such a lightweight knife.

• The black grips provide a non-slip and insulating surface, making the grip more comfortable and secure, even in cold weather or with wet hands.
• The serrations (jimping) on ​​the back of the blade and under the handle at the front improve grip and control during precision cuts.

Robustness and Maintenance

Despite its light weight, the full tang construction makes it virtually unbreakable for its intended use. The 420HC steel is easy to clean and resharpen, a major advantage in the field. The polypropylene sheath is simple but provides secure knife retention and offers various carrying options.

✅ Strengths and 🛑 Weaknesses

✅ Strengths	🛑 Weak Points
Extremely lightweight (perfect for minimalist wear).	420HC steel is less high-end than the modern steels (S35VN) of the "Pro" version (but easier to sharpen).
Ultra-robust Full Silk construction .	Short and very specific blade, less versatile than a "Field" knife for heavy-duty tasks.
GFN pads adding comfort and grip security.	A simple, yet functional case.
Excellent Drop Point blade for capping and precision.
Made in the USA and guaranteed by Buck.

Our Verdict

The Buck PakLite 2.0 Cape Select Black is an excellent specialist tool. It's ideal for the hunter who needs a surgical knife for finishing work or for any adventurer looking for an ultra-light and reliable backup knife.

It doesn't replace a full-size camp knife for woodworking, but in its role as a precision knife for field dressing and capping , it's unbeatable in terms of weight/strength/control ratio . If lightness and precision are your priorities, the PakLite 2.0 Cape Select deserves a prime spot in your kit.