TOPS Knives Steel Eagle Hunter Point 5in Saw Knife Review

First Impressions of TOPS Knives Steel Eagle Hunter Point 5in Saw Knife

The TOPS Knives Steel Eagle Hunter Point 5in Saw Knife immediately strikes you as a serious piece of kit, a blend of practicality and raw cutting power. TOPS Knives is known for its rugged, no-nonsense designs, and this knife appears to continue that tradition. I was particularly drawn to its sawback blade and full tang construction, features that promised versatility and durability in equal measure.

For years, I’ve struggled with finding a single tool that could handle both detailed cutting tasks and more demanding sawing chores while in the field. Many knives excel at one or the other, but rarely both. The Steel Eagle Hunter Point seemed to offer a solution, combining a sharp hunter’s point blade with an aggressive sawback, all in a compact package.

Unboxing the knife, I was immediately impressed by its heft and solid feel. The black traction-coated 1095HC steel blade looked menacing, and the black linen micarta handle provided a secure, comfortable grip. The Kydex sheath also seemed durable. Compared to my Gerber StrongArm and Benchmade Bushcrafter, the TOPS knife appeared more geared towards heavy-duty tasks, sacrificing some finesse for sheer strength.

I was excited, but also slightly apprehensive. The sawback could be a double-edged sword (pun intended) if not designed and executed properly. I was eager to see if the Steel Eagle Hunter Point could live up to its promise of being a versatile and reliable tool in the field.

Real-World Testing: Putting TOPS Knives Steel Eagle Hunter Point 5in Saw Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

My first opportunity to test the TOPS Knives Steel Eagle Hunter Point 5in Saw Knife came during a weekend camping trip in the Ozark National Forest. I wanted to assess its capabilities in a real-world setting. The weather was cooperative, with a mix of sunshine and moderate humidity.

The Steel Eagle Hunter Point performed admirably. The hunter point blade was perfect for processing small game, making feather sticks, and preparing tinder. The sawback, while initially intimidating, proved surprisingly effective at notching branches for shelter construction. There was a slight learning curve to using the saw without damaging the main blade, but it quickly became intuitive.

After the first day, I noticed a hot spot developing on my thumb where it contacted the micarta handle during extended sawing.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over the past several months, I’ve taken the Steel Eagle Hunter Point on several more camping trips and used it extensively around my property. It has consistently proven to be a dependable and robust tool. There are some signs of wear on the black traction coating, particularly near the saw teeth.

The 1095HC steel blade requires regular oiling to prevent rust, especially after use in humid conditions. Cleaning the saw teeth can be tedious. However, the knife has held its edge remarkably well and only requires occasional touch-ups with a ceramic rod.

Compared to my experiences with other knives, the TOPS offering has stood up to abuse exceptionally well. While it may not be the most comfortable knife for extended fine work, it excels in situations where strength and versatility are paramount. It definitely outperformed my expectations.

Breaking Down the Features of TOPS Knives Steel Eagle Hunter Point 5in Saw Knife

Specifications

• The TOPS Knives Steel Eagle Hunter Point 5in Saw Knife boasts a 5-inch blade made from 1095HC steel, known for its excellent edge retention and toughness. The black traction coating helps to protect the blade from corrosion and reduces glare.
• The overall length is 9.75 inches, making it a relatively compact and easy-to-carry tool. The black linen micarta handle provides a secure and comfortable grip, even in wet conditions.

The full tang construction extends the blade steel throughout the handle, enhancing the knife’s overall strength and stability. The inclusion of a lanyard hole offers additional carry options and enhances retention.

Performance & Functionality

The TOPS Knives Steel Eagle Hunter Point 5in Saw Knife performs its intended job exceptionally well. The hunter point blade is ideally suited for a variety of cutting tasks, from preparing food to processing game. The sawback adds a significant degree of versatility.

One of its strengths is its robust construction, capable of withstanding heavy use. A minor weakness is the handle’s potential to cause hot spots during prolonged use. It meets expectations for strength and versatility, exceeding them in its saw performance.

Design & Ergonomics

The Steel Eagle Hunter Point features a no-frills, utilitarian design. The build quality is excellent, with the blade and handle seamlessly integrated. The weight is substantial but balanced, contributing to a feeling of solidity.

The micarta handle offers a secure grip, but the aggressive texture can become abrasive over time. There’s a small learning curve to mastering the saw, but the knife is generally user-friendly.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its 1095HC steel blade and full tang construction, the TOPS Knives Steel Eagle Hunter Point 5in Saw Knife is built to last. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service. The blade requires regular oiling to prevent rust, and the saw teeth may need occasional cleaning to remove debris.

Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only basic tools and supplies. The Kydex sheath is also durable and should withstand years of use.

Accessories and Customization Options

The TOPS Knives Steel Eagle Hunter Point 5in Saw Knife comes standard with a durable Kydex sheath, which offers secure carry and retention. The knife itself doesn’t offer extensive customization options. However, the lanyard hole allows for attachment of various lanyards or fobs.

Aftermarket sheaths are available for those seeking alternative carry options. The robust construction and simple design also make it suitable for custom handle modifications.

Pros and Cons of TOPS Knives Steel Eagle Hunter Point 5in Saw Knife

Who Should Buy TOPS Knives Steel Eagle Hunter Point 5in Saw Knife?

The TOPS Knives Steel Eagle Hunter Point 5in Saw Knife is perfect for hunters, survivalists, and anyone who needs a robust and versatile cutting tool in the field. It’s also a great choice for those who appreciate TOPS Knives‘ reputation for quality and durability. Someone needing a knife for delicate tasks might consider a different knife.

Those who prioritize comfort over raw cutting power might want to consider a knife with a more ergonomic handle. A must-have accessory is a quality sharpening stone and oil for maintaining the blade.

Conclusion on TOPS Knives Steel Eagle Hunter Point 5in Saw Knife

The TOPS Knives Steel Eagle Hunter Point 5in Saw Knife is a well-built and highly functional tool that lives up to the TOPS Knives reputation for ruggedness. While the handle can be a bit abrasive during extended use, the blade’s performance and versatility more than compensate. At $199.49, the price is justified given the quality of materials and construction.

I would definitely recommend this knife to anyone looking for a dependable and versatile tool for hunting, survival, or general outdoor use. If you need a knife that can handle tough tasks and won’t let you down, the Steel Eagle Hunter Point is an excellent choice. Add it to your gear and experience the TOPS Knives difference for yourself.