Grading a used Buck knife is difficult.  The blades are very hard, and this makes them difficult to sharpen correctly.

Most folks give up and head for the shop grinder or the neighborhood 'sharpening expert' who heads for the shop grinder.  This can leave the blade uneven and partially sharp or worse.

This also usually results in scratches on the side of the blade where it brushed the running grinder.

Because some tang marks are hard to find or are hard to find at reasonable prices, I try to keep most grades available.

My knives are described accurately to these standards:

Mint = New, unsharpened and unused.  May have slight storage / handling marks and / or patina.

Collector = Used very little.  Blade is full and may have been properly sharpened.  Scales, brass and bolsters are unmarked.  Action is crisp and clean with solid lock-up.

Very Good = Used and well cared for.  Blade is at least 95% full and correct shape. May have slight scratches  on blade, light wear / use marks on scales and brass. Action is crisp and clean with solid lock-up.

Good = Used with minimal care.  Blade is at least 90% and correct shape.  Obvious scratches on blade and wear marks on scales and brass. Action is good with good lock-up.

User = Well used.  Blade may be heavily scratched and / or sharpened out of factory shape.  Tip may be short or stubby.  Scales and / or brass may be worn or damaged.  Action may be slow and / or a little loose.  Serviceable, but no beauty queens here.