Tops Knives Tahoma Field Knife Review

Let’s Talk About Tops Knives Tahoma Field Knife

The Tops Knives Tahoma Field Knife is a formidable tool, a fixed-blade knife designed for serious outdoor use. Manufactured by TOPS Knives, it’s a blend of brute strength and practical design, intended for tasks ranging from bushcraft to survival situations. The spear point blade and hefty weight immediately suggest a knife that can handle significant abuse.

My search for a reliable, heavy-duty field knife led me to the Tahoma Field Knife. I needed a blade that could withstand the rigors of extended backcountry trips and serve as a reliable tool for various tasks, from batoning wood to preparing game. I wanted something more substantial than my usual lightweight folders.

Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the weight of the Tahoma Field Knife. The heft is reassuring, suggesting a robust build. The Black River Wash finish on the blade is both visually appealing and seems durable. The included black ballistic nylon sheath felt adequate, but I immediately considered upgrading it for long-term carry.

I considered the ESEE 6 and the Benchmade Bushcrafter 162 before settling on the Tops Knives Tahoma Field Knife. The ESEE 6 is a popular choice, but I preferred the spear point blade of the Tahoma. The Benchmade is a fine knife, but the TOPS Knives offering seemed more oriented towards heavy use.

My first impression was excitement tempered with a touch of intimidation. The Tahoma Field Knife feels like a serious tool, one that demands respect and careful handling. I was eager to put it to the test but also aware that its size and weight might not be ideal for every situation.

Real-World Testing: Putting Tops Knives Tahoma Field Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Tahoma Field Knife during a weekend camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. The terrain was varied, with dense forests, rocky hillsides, and a few small streams. My primary tasks were setting up camp, preparing firewood, and general camp chores.

The knife performed admirably in dry conditions but required extra grip effort when wet due to the handle material. The spear point blade made carving and detail work surprisingly manageable. Batoning through moderately sized logs was effortless, which is where the weight was an advantage. I was impressed with the edge retention after cutting through various materials.

The only issue I encountered was the initial learning curve with the grip. The handle’s shape, while comfortable, required a firm hold to prevent slippage, especially during heavy chopping. I also noticed some minor hot spots developing on my palm after prolonged use without gloves.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the Tops Knives Tahoma Field Knife has proven to be a dependable tool. It’s accompanied me on several hiking trips, a week-long survival skills course, and numerous backyard projects. The knife has seen consistent use in diverse conditions.

The Black River Wash finish has held up well, showing minimal signs of wear even after heavy use. The edge retention remains impressive, requiring only occasional stropping to maintain sharpness. I did notice some slight loosening of the handle scales, but nothing that affects performance.

Maintenance is straightforward; I clean and oil the blade after each use, and occasionally tighten the handle screws. Compared to my previous experiences with lighter knives, the Tahoma Field Knife excels in heavy-duty tasks and holds up much better under stress. It’s a clear upgrade in terms of durability and capability.

Breaking Down the Features of Tops Knives Tahoma Field Knife

Specifications

• The Tops Knives Tahoma Field Knife features a Spear Point blade shape, ideal for piercing and general utility. This provides a good balance between slicing and thrusting capabilities.
• It’s classified as a Fixed Blade, offering superior strength and reliability compared to folding knives. Fixed blades are inherently more robust due to the absence of moving parts.
• The knife includes a Black Ballistic Nylon Sheath for safe carry and storage. Ballistic nylon is a durable material, although it may not offer the same level of protection as a Kydex sheath.
• The blade has a Black River Wash finish, providing corrosion resistance and a rugged appearance. This finish also helps to hide scratches and wear marks.
• It weighs in at a substantial 19 oz, making it a heavy-duty tool for demanding tasks. The weight contributes to its chopping power and overall sturdiness.
• The package type is a simple Box, typical for knives in this category. The box is sufficient for shipping and initial storage.
• An Top Edge Sharp Option is available. Allowing for the spine of the blade to be sharpened, useful for finer cutting tasks and providing an alternative cutting edge.
• The blade thickness is 0.19 in, contributing to its strength and ability to withstand heavy use. Thicker blades are less prone to bending or breaking under stress.

Performance & Functionality

The Tops Knives Tahoma Field Knife excels at heavy-duty tasks such as chopping, batoning, and piercing. The spear point blade is well-suited for a variety of cutting tasks.

Its primary strength lies in its durability and ability to withstand significant abuse. The weight and blade geometry provide excellent chopping power. One area for potential improvement is the grip, which could benefit from a more aggressive texture for better control in wet conditions.

The knife met my expectations for a robust field knife. It exceeded them in terms of edge retention and overall durability.

Design & Ergonomics

The Tops Knives Tahoma Field Knife is built with a full tang construction, ensuring maximum strength. The handle is made from Micarta, offering a comfortable and secure grip, though it can be slippery when wet.

The overall design is functional and purposeful, prioritizing durability over aesthetics. While there is a slight learning curve due to its size and weight, the knife is generally user-friendly.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its robust construction and quality materials, the Tops Knives Tahoma Field Knife should last for many years with proper care. The Black River Wash finish provides excellent corrosion resistance.

Maintenance is relatively simple, requiring only regular cleaning and oiling. The handle scales can be easily tightened if they become loose.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Tops Knives Tahoma Field Knife comes with a Black Ballistic Nylon Sheath. While functional, many users may prefer upgrading to a Kydex or leather sheath for improved durability and retention.

Customization options are limited but may include aftermarket handle scales or different sheath options. The knife is compatible with standard sharpening tools and accessories.

Pros and Cons of Tops Knives Tahoma Field Knife

Who Should Buy Tops Knives Tahoma Field Knife?

The Tops Knives Tahoma Field Knife is perfect for survivalists, bushcrafters, and anyone who needs a reliable, heavy-duty knife for demanding outdoor tasks. It’s also well-suited for hunters who require a robust blade for field dressing game.

This knife may not be ideal for those who prioritize lightweight gear or prefer smaller, more nimble blades. It’s also not the best choice for tasks that require fine detail work.

A must-have accessory is a high-quality sharpening stone to maintain the blade’s edge. An upgraded Kydex or leather sheath is also recommended for improved carry and durability.

Conclusion on Tops Knives Tahoma Field Knife

The Tops Knives Tahoma Field Knife is a serious tool for serious users. It’s a powerhouse of a knife, built to withstand the toughest conditions and handle the most demanding tasks.

The price of $218.99 is justified considering the knife’s exceptional durability and performance. It’s an investment in a tool that will likely last a lifetime with proper care.

I would absolutely recommend the Tops Knives Tahoma Field Knife to anyone seeking a reliable and capable field knife. If you need a blade that can handle anything you throw at it, this is it. Don’t hesitate – add the Tahoma Field Knife to your kit and experience the peace of mind that comes with carrying a truly dependable tool.