Tops Knives TOPS Backup Fixed Blade Knife Review

Let’s Talk About Tops Knives TOPS Backup Fixed Blade Knife

The Tops Knives TOPS Backup Fixed Blade Knife is a compact, purposefully designed tool intended as a secondary blade or for situations where a larger knife is simply overkill. Crafted by TOPS Knives, a company known for its robust and no-nonsense designs, the Backup aims to offer reliable cutting performance in a minimalist package. I was immediately intrigued by its diminutive size and the implied versatility it promises.

I was looking for a small fixed blade that could be easily carried and deployed for detail work, without the bulk of a larger knife. Something for tasks like carving, food prep, or first aid in the field. The Backup seemed to strike a good balance between size, strength, and ease of carry.

My initial impression upon unboxing was one of solid construction despite its small size. The skeletonized handle felt surprisingly secure, and the acid rain finish on the 1095 steel gave it a rugged, well-worn aesthetic. The Kydex sheath was simple, functional, and provided a secure hold.

Compared to other small fixed blades like the ESEE Izula or the Benchmade Hidden Canyon Hunter, the Tops Knives TOPS Backup Fixed Blade Knife distinguishes itself with its extreme minimalism and focus on lightweight carry. While the Izula offers a more substantial handle and the Benchmade boasts premium steel, the Backup excels in its low profile and specialized design intended as a backup to larger tools such as a tomahawk. I ultimately chose the Backup for its intended role alongside my larger tools, and its smaller footprint.

My first impression was excitement tempered with a bit of skepticism about how well such a small knife would perform in demanding tasks. I was eager to put it to the test.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Tops Knives TOPS Backup Fixed Blade Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Tops Knives TOPS Backup Fixed Blade Knife on a weekend camping trip in the Pisgah National Forest. I primarily used it for food preparation tasks, such as slicing vegetables and preparing kindling for a fire. It performed surprisingly well for its size.

The weather was damp, with on-and-off rain throughout the weekend. The acid rain finish on the blade provided decent corrosion resistance, and the skeletonized handle offered a secure grip even when wet. The knife was easy to deploy from the Kydex sheath, making it convenient to access whenever I needed it.

There was a slight learning curve to using such a small knife for tasks I would normally tackle with a larger blade. However, I quickly adapted and found it to be quite capable for detail work. One minor issue was the lack of a full handle, which caused some hand fatigue during prolonged use.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use on various outdoor adventures, the Tops Knives TOPS Backup Fixed Blade Knife has proven to be a reliable tool. It has accompanied me on numerous hiking trips, fishing excursions, and even a few wilderness survival exercises. It’s now a permanent part of my kit.

The 1095 steel has held up well, showing only minor scratches and no signs of chipping or cracking. I’ve noticed some slight discoloration of the blade, which is typical for high-carbon steel and easily addressed with proper cleaning and oiling. The Kydex sheath continues to provide a secure and reliable carry.

Maintaining the Backup is straightforward. I simply clean and dry the blade after each use and apply a thin coat of oil to prevent rust. The skeletonized handle is easy to clean, and the Kydex sheath requires minimal maintenance. Compared to other small fixed blades I’ve used, the Backup has impressed me with its durability and ease of maintenance. It has become my reliable small blade solution in my outdoor arsenal.

Breaking Down the Features of Tops Knives TOPS Backup Fixed Blade Knife

Specifications

• The Blade Length is 2.38 inches. This short blade length makes the knife incredibly easy to conceal and carry, ideal for situations where a larger blade might be impractical or unnecessary.

• The Overall Length is 5 inches. This compact size makes it extremely convenient for neck carry or attachment to a pack or belt without adding significant bulk.

• The Blade Material is 1095 steel. 1095 is a high-carbon steel known for its excellent edge retention and ease of sharpening, though it requires proper maintenance to prevent rust.

• The Knife Application is a Fixed Blade. Fixed blade construction provides superior strength and reliability compared to folding knives, making it ideal for demanding tasks.

• Included Accessories: Black Kydex Sheath. The Kydex sheath offers a secure and lightweight carry option, with excellent retention and durability.

• Handle Material: Skeletonized. The skeletonized handle reduces weight and provides a secure grip, though it may not be as comfortable as a full handle for prolonged use.

• Blade Finish: Acid Rain. The acid rain finish provides a rugged and aesthetically pleasing look, while also offering some corrosion resistance.

• Handle Color: Black. Black is a neutral and practical color for a tactical knife, providing a low-profile appearance.

• Handle Finish: Skeletonized. The skeletonized finish enhances grip and reduces weight.

• Sheath Material: KYDEX. KYDEX offers excellent durability and retention, ensuring the knife stays securely in place during carry.

• Weight: 1.6 oz. The extremely lightweight design makes it easy to carry the knife all day without fatigue.

• Thickness: 0.13 in. This blade thickness provides a good balance between cutting performance and strength.

Performance & Functionality

The Tops Knives TOPS Backup Fixed Blade Knife excels at detail work and tasks where a larger knife would be cumbersome. Its continuous curved blade makes it well-suited for skinning small game and feather sticking. It’s a good choice for small camp tasks.

The knife’s strengths lie in its compact size, lightweight design, and ease of carry. The 1095 steel provides excellent edge retention, and the Kydex sheath ensures secure deployment. However, the skeletonized handle can become uncomfortable during extended use, and the small blade size limits its versatility for larger tasks.

Overall, the knife meets its intended purpose as a lightweight backup blade. It is well-suited for specialized tasks, but not a replacement for a larger, more versatile knife.

Design & Ergonomics

The Tops Knives TOPS Backup Fixed Blade Knife features a minimalist design with a focus on functionality. The skeletonized handle reduces weight and provides a secure grip, while the acid rain finish gives it a rugged appearance. The blade shape is optimized for slicing and detail work.

The build quality is excellent, with durable materials and precise construction. The knife feels solid and well-balanced in hand, despite its small size. The skeletonized handle may not be as comfortable as a full handle, but it provides a secure grip and contributes to the knife’s lightweight design.

The learning curve is minimal. The Kydex sheath is easy to use, and the knife’s small size makes it easy to control and maneuver.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the Tops Knives TOPS Backup Fixed Blade Knife should last for many years. The 1095 steel is durable and can withstand significant abuse, though it requires regular maintenance to prevent rust. The Kydex sheath is also highly durable and should provide reliable performance for the life of the knife.

Maintenance is straightforward. The blade should be cleaned and dried after each use, and a thin coat of oil should be applied to prevent rust. The skeletonized handle is easy to clean, and the Kydex sheath requires minimal maintenance.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Tops Knives TOPS Backup Fixed Blade Knife comes with a Kydex sheath designed for neck carry. It can also be attached to a belt or pack using aftermarket clips or straps.

There are limited customization options available for the Backup, due to its minimalist design. Aftermarket handle wraps can be added to improve comfort and grip. Due to the knife’s fairly specialized design, other accessories are not typically used with the Backup.

Pros and Cons of Tops Knives TOPS Backup Fixed Blade Knife

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Who Should Buy Tops Knives TOPS Backup Fixed Blade Knife?

The Tops Knives TOPS Backup Fixed Blade Knife is perfect for hunters, backpackers, and survivalists who need a lightweight and easily concealable backup blade. It’s also a great choice for anyone who appreciates minimalist design and specialized tools.

This knife is not for those who need a full-sized, multi-purpose knife for heavy-duty tasks. It’s not ideal for those who prioritize comfort over weight.

A must-have accessory would be a small sharpening stone to maintain the blade’s edge in the field. A length of paracord can be added to the Kydex sheath for neck carry.

Conclusion on Tops Knives TOPS Backup Fixed Blade Knife

The Tops Knives TOPS Backup Fixed Blade Knife is a well-designed and executed tool that excels at its intended purpose. It offers a compelling combination of lightweight carry, durable construction, and specialized functionality.

At $91.99, the price is justified considering the quality of materials and the knife’s intended role as a reliable backup blade. It’s a bit of an investment, but you’re paying for a quality product from TOPS Knives.

I would personally recommend the Tops Knives TOPS Backup Fixed Blade Knife to anyone looking for a compact and capable fixed blade for specialized tasks. If you value minimalism, durability, and ease of carry, the Backup is an excellent choice. Check it out and experience the TOPS Knives difference!