TOPS Knives 11.38in Missile Strike Fixed Blade Knife Review

Let’s Dive into TOPS Knives 11.38in Missile Strike Fixed Blade Knife

The TOPS Knives 11.38in Missile Strike Fixed Blade Knife is a formidable tool designed for those who demand strength and reliability in their outdoor and tactical gear. Manufactured by TOPS Knives, a company known for its rugged and no-nonsense designs, this knife aims to be a versatile companion for survival, bushcraft, and tactical applications. Its spear point blade and robust construction promise a tool that can handle a wide variety of tasks.

I was searching for a fixed blade knife that could serve multiple purposes. I needed something that could handle typical camp chores, light wood processing, and potentially be used for self-defense in the backcountry. The Missile Strike’s overall size and spear point blade profile seemed like a good fit.

Upon unboxing, the Missile Strike immediately felt substantial. The weight, while noticeable, exudes quality, and the coyote brown canvas micarta handle provides a secure and comfortable grip. The blade coating appears durable, and the Kydex sheath is well-formed and provides a secure carry.

I considered the ESEE 6 and the Ka-Bar Becker BK2 before settling on the TOPS Knives 11.38in Missile Strike Fixed Blade Knife. The ESEE 6 is a fantastic knife, but I wanted something with a slightly more aggressive blade shape. The BK2 is a tank, but I felt the Missile Strike offered a better balance of size, weight, and utility.

My initial impression was excitement tempered with a touch of apprehension. The knife’s aggressive design and size suggested it was a serious tool. I was eager to put it through its paces and see if it could live up to its imposing appearance.

Real-World Testing: Putting TOPS Knives 11.38in Missile Strike Fixed Blade Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

I first took the Missile Strike on a weekend camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. The primary tasks included preparing firewood, building a shelter, and food preparation. I tested it in relatively dry conditions with temperatures ranging from 40-60 degrees Fahrenheit.

The knife performed admirably in splitting small logs for kindling. The spear point blade penetrated well, and the full tang construction provided confidence when batoning. It required minimal adjustment to become accustomed to its balance and overall handling.

The only initial issue was the sharpness out of the box. While adequate, it wasn’t hair-shaving sharp. This was easily remedied with a few passes on a strop.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the TOPS Knives 11.38in Missile Strike Fixed Blade Knife has proven to be a reliable and durable tool. There are some minor scratches on the blade coating from use, but no significant signs of wear. The handle remains secure and comfortable.

The Missile Strike has been used for everything from processing larger diameter wood to cleaning fish. The blade has held its edge well, requiring only occasional touch-ups. It has exceeded my expectations regarding overall performance.

Maintaining the knife is straightforward. I clean the blade after each use and apply a light coat of oil to prevent rust. The Kydex sheath is easily cleaned with soap and water. This TOPS Knives knife has performed better than some other fixed blades I’ve used in the past.

Breaking Down the Features of TOPS Knives 11.38in Missile Strike Fixed Blade Knife

Specifications

• The TOPS Knives 11.38in Missile Strike Fixed Blade Knife boasts an overall length of 11.38 inches. This provides substantial reach and leverage for various cutting tasks.
• The blade is 6 inches long and features a spear point design. The spear point makes it well-suited for piercing and thrusting, and offers good control for detailed work.
• It’s constructed from 1095HC steel, known for its excellent edge retention and ease of sharpening. This steel is a popular choice for hard-use knives.
• The blade has a coyote brown coating. The coating provides corrosion resistance and reduces glare.
• The handle is made from coyote brown canvas micarta. This material offers a secure and comfortable grip, even in wet conditions.
• The knife has a full, extended tang. The full tang extends the length of the handle, providing strength and stability.
• There’s a lanyard hole at the base of the handle. The lanyard hole increases carry options.
• A glass breaker is integrated into the pommel. The glass breaker adds utility in emergency situations.
• It comes with a coyote brown Kydex belt sheath. The Kydex sheath offers secure retention and multiple carry options.

These specifications are critical for the Missile Strike’s performance. The blade steel and design dictate its cutting ability, while the handle material impacts comfort and grip. The full tang construction ensures the knife can withstand significant stress without failing.

Performance & Functionality

The TOPS Knives 11.38in Missile Strike Fixed Blade Knife performs admirably in a variety of tasks. The blade holds an edge well, and the spear point design allows for precise cutting and piercing. It’s a capable tool for processing wood, preparing food, and general camp chores.

The Missile Strike excels at tasks requiring penetration, thanks to its spear point blade. Its chopping ability is adequate for its size. The glass breaker is a useful addition for emergency situations, but its effectiveness will vary depending on the glass type.

The knife meets my expectations for a general-purpose fixed blade. It is strong, reliable, and capable of handling most tasks encountered in a wilderness setting.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Missile Strike is excellent. The materials are high-quality, and the construction is solid. The coyote brown canvas micarta handle is comfortable and provides a secure grip, even when wet.

The weight of the knife is noticeable, but it contributes to its overall durability. The Missile Strike is generally user-friendly, with a comfortable handle and intuitive design. There is no significant learning curve.

Durability & Maintenance

The TOPS Knives 11.38in Missile Strike Fixed Blade Knife is built to last. The 1095HC steel is known for its toughness, and the full tang construction ensures structural integrity. With proper care, the Missile Strike should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is relatively simple. Keeping the blade clean and oiled is sufficient for preventing rust. The Kydex sheath requires minimal maintenance.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Missile Strike comes with a coyote brown Kydex belt sheath. There are no other included accessories. Customization options are somewhat limited.

Users could replace the factory Kydex sheath with a custom leather sheath. Aftermarket scales are not widely available, but some users may choose to modify the existing micarta scales. The Missile Strike is compatible with various lanyards and other small accessories.

Pros and Cons of TOPS Knives 11.38in Missile Strike Fixed Blade Knife

Who Should Buy TOPS Knives 11.38in Missile Strike Fixed Blade Knife?

The TOPS Knives 11.38in Missile Strike Fixed Blade Knife is perfect for:

• Survivalists: The robust construction and versatile blade make it a reliable tool for survival situations.
• Bushcrafters: Capable of handling a variety of tasks, from processing wood to preparing food.
• Hunters: The spear point blade is well-suited for skinning and processing game.
• Tactical Users: The glass breaker and aggressive design make it suitable for tactical applications.

This knife may not be ideal for individuals seeking a lightweight or compact knife for casual camping. Those who prefer stainless steel blades for low maintenance should also consider other options.

A must-have accessory would be a quality sharpening stone or strop for maintaining the blade’s edge. A fire starter is also a useful companion tool for wilderness use.

Conclusion on TOPS Knives 11.38in Missile Strike Fixed Blade Knife

The TOPS Knives 11.38in Missile Strike Fixed Blade Knife is a well-built and versatile tool that delivers on its promise of strength and reliability. Its spear point blade, robust construction, and comfortable handle make it a valuable asset for anyone venturing into the wilderness or seeking a dependable tactical knife.

At $189.52, the price is justified given the quality of materials and construction. While the 1095HC steel requires some maintenance, its performance and durability are worth the effort.

I would personally recommend the TOPS Knives 11.38in Missile Strike Fixed Blade Knife to anyone looking for a rugged and dependable fixed blade knife. If you need a knife that can handle a variety of tasks and withstand harsh conditions, the Missile Strike is an excellent choice. Invest in the TOPS Knives 11.38in Missile Strike Fixed Blade Knife and experience the confidence that comes with carrying a quality tool!