TOPS Knives Muley Combo Knife w/ Leather Sheath Review

First Impressions of TOPS Knives Muley Combo Knife w/ Leather Sheath

The TOPS Knives Muley Combo Knife w/ Leather Sheath arrives promising versatility in a compact package. This fixed blade knife, manufactured by TOPS Knives, offers not just one, but two blades – a drop point skinner and a saw blade. My first thought was, “Can a single knife handle really offer both the necessary grip and control for fine skinning and aggressive sawing?” This review will explore that very question.

I needed a reliable knife setup for multi-day backcountry hunts. Weight is always a concern, and carrying separate knives for skinning and processing firewood felt redundant. Could this combo knife replace two tools and lighten my load?

Unboxing the TOPS Knives Muley Combo Knife w/ Leather Sheath, I was immediately struck by the heft. It felt solid, reassuring, and built for hard work. The black and tan G10 handle looked aggressive, promising a secure grip. The leather sheath also exuded quality, though its retention method remained to be seen.

I had been considering a Benchmade Bushcrafter and a Fallkniven F1, both renowned for their single-blade robustness. The Muley Combo, however, offered two blades in a similar overall package size, potentially increasing its utility in a survival situation. The promise of that additional versatility swayed my decision.

My initial excitement was tempered by a slight concern about the handle’s ergonomics when switching between blades. Would it be comfortable and secure enough for both tasks? Only real-world testing would tell.

Real-World Testing: Putting TOPS Knives Muley Combo Knife w/ Leather Sheath to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the TOPS Knives Muley Combo Knife w/ Leather Sheath was a weekend deer hunt in the high desert. The conditions were dry and dusty, with temperatures ranging from cool mornings to warm afternoons. I tested both the skinner and the saw blade extensively.

The drop point skinner performed admirably on the field dressing and skinning. It maintained a sharp edge throughout, even after encountering bone and grit. The saw blade quickly processed small branches for fire starting, proving its utility around camp. However, the handle felt slightly bulky when using the skinner for extended periods.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the TOPS Knives Muley Combo Knife w/ Leather Sheath has proven to be a dependable tool. I’ve used it on multiple hunting trips, camping expeditions, and even around the house. The 154CM stainless steel blade has held up remarkably well.

Despite consistent use, the blades show minimal signs of wear. The G10 handle remains secure and provides excellent grip, even when wet. Cleaning is relatively easy; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth after each use keeps it in good condition. Compared to my previous hunting knife (a Buck 110), the Muley Combo offers significantly more versatility and, surprisingly, similar edge retention.

Breaking Down the Features of TOPS Knives Muley Combo Knife w/ Leather Sheath

Specifications

• Manufacturer: TOPS Knives. TOPS Knives is known for its rugged, no-nonsense designs, and the Muley Combo is no exception.
• Blade Length: 4.75 inches (12.07 cm). This blade length strikes a good balance between control and cutting power, making it suitable for various tasks.
• Overall Length: 9.25 inches (23.5 cm). The overall length provides a comfortable reach without being overly cumbersome.
• Additional Features: Lanyard Hole. A simple but useful feature for securing the knife to your wrist or pack.
• Quantity: 1. You get the knife, the sheath, and a whole lot of potential.
• Color: Multi. The black and tan G10 handle provides a visually appealing and functional grip.
• Length: 23.5 cm. This reiterates the overall length, confirming the knife’s manageable size.

These specifications combine to create a robust and versatile tool. The blade length and steel type are ideal for both skinning and general camp chores.

Performance & Functionality

The TOPS Knives Muley Combo Knife w/ Leather Sheath excels in its intended role as a multi-purpose outdoor tool. The drop point skinner’s geometry allows for precise cuts, while the saw blade efficiently handles small branches and kindling. The full tang construction ensures durability and stability.

The primary strength lies in its versatility. Having both blades readily available eliminates the need to carry multiple knives. The only notable weakness is the slight bulkiness of the handle when focusing on fine detail work with the skinner. Overall, the knife meets and slightly exceeds expectations for a combo tool.

Design & Ergonomics

The design prioritizes functionality and durability. The black and tan G10 handle provides excellent grip, even in wet conditions, and the full tang construction instills confidence. The knife feels well-balanced and secure in hand.

There’s a slight learning curve in becoming proficient at quickly switching between the two blades, but it becomes second nature with practice. The leather sheath is well-made and secure, although a more positive locking mechanism would be welcome.

Durability & Maintenance

The 154CM stainless steel is known for its corrosion resistance and edge retention, suggesting a long lifespan with proper care. The full tang construction adds to the overall durability.

Maintenance is straightforward. Regular cleaning and occasional sharpening are all that’s needed to keep the TOPS Knives Muley Combo Knife w/ Leather Sheath in top condition.

Accessories and Customization Options

The TOPS Knives Muley Combo Knife w/ Leather Sheath comes with a high-quality leather sheath. While there are no directly compatible accessories from TOPS Knives, the lanyard hole allows for adding custom lanyards or fobs.

The sheath’s belt loop is compatible with most standard belts, and aftermarket sheaths can be found if a different carry method is preferred. While customization is limited, the knife is highly functional in its stock configuration.

Pros and Cons of TOPS Knives Muley Combo Knife w/ Leather Sheath

Who Should Buy TOPS Knives Muley Combo Knife w/ Leather Sheath?

Perfect for hunters, backpackers, and survivalists who prioritize versatility and durability in a single tool. It’s also suitable for campers and general outdoorsmen who want a reliable knife for various tasks.

Those who require extreme precision in their knife work or prefer a dedicated tool for each task might find the combo design less appealing. If you need a scalpel-like skinning knife, or a full-sized saw, this isn’t your tool.

A sharpening stone or steel is a must-have accessory to maintain the blades’ edges. Consider adding a custom lanyard for added security and personalization.

Conclusion on TOPS Knives Muley Combo Knife w/ Leather Sheath

The TOPS Knives Muley Combo Knife w/ Leather Sheath offers a compelling value proposition for those seeking a versatile and durable outdoor knife. Its combination of a capable skinner and a functional saw blade makes it a valuable addition to any pack or hunting kit.

At $346.99, the price is justified by the quality of materials, construction, and the added functionality of the dual-blade design. While not perfect, the TOPS Knives Muley Combo Knife w/ Leather Sheath is a solid investment for anyone who values preparedness and efficiency in the outdoors.

I would confidently recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable and versatile tool. If you are looking for a combo knife that can handle a variety of tasks, look no further, add it to your cart and experience it firsthand!