While we at FSP stress the importance of firearms and firearms training, there is another important piece of kit that everyone reading should have on their rig (and their person): a knife. Not just an offensive or deadly weapon, a sharp, quality blade can save your life in any number of ways in many kinds of situations. When it’s not doing that, it can make some tasks a heck of a lot easier. Whether it’s whittling, hiking, camping or professional doorbusting, enthusiasts and operators alike depend on blades of all kinds to get them out of jams that no other tool can. For this reason, it is just as important to put thought into your knife, the same way you would with any rifle you would buy.
TOPS knives are made in the USA by craftsmen
With over 100 combined years of Special Forces experience, TOPS knives is built on the knowledge, experience and skills of 12 of our nation’s finest. For over 12 years, TOPS has been designing, making, and selling knives built in this unique environment to an eagerly awaiting audience. Each blade is handcrafted and sold from the TOPS facility in the Rocky Mountains. From 1-inch self-defense blades to 16-inch machetes to modern and original takes on the classic tomahawk, TOPS is known in knife and camping circles, as well as the shooting and military communities. The TOPS team has many well trained, high credential members, below are only a few:
- Seal Team 3, Command Master Chief
- Special Forces A-Team
- Phoenix SWAT
- Marine Force Recon
- SG-FIVE Chief Instructor
- Rhodesian Selous Scouts
- Special OPS Groups
- Tacoma – Street Defense Instructor
- Airborne Rangers
- Martial Arts Instructors
- Mountain States Tactical Officers
- Outdoor Educators
TOPS’ product line proves they are a company who likes to think outside the box. Concepts range from partnerships with bushcraft experts to make excellent bushcrafting knives to combining the best features of several iconic blades into one hybrid package. With this much original thinking, TOPS features several completely original designs, found nowhere else (and certainly not in the US). Their lineup features something for everyone – “from tactical to practical”.
The majority of TOPS knives are made out of 1095 High Carbon Steel, tempered each in their own way for their own application. 1095 is a resilient, easily-sharpened steel. It is arguably the best steel for short-to-mid-length blades, as it combines excellent edge retention while being less brittle than other metals. While not a stainless steel (and therefore requiring some TLC), 1095 is the metal of choice for much of TOPS’ lineup – meaning their combined experience has shown 1095 to be the best for prolonged and hard use.
As we are committed to giving you the full scoop on more than “just guns and gear”, we have begun working with TOPS knives. Soon, we hope to get you a review of one of their most original products. Stay tuned to FSP for the reveal. For more information in the meantime, or to take a look at their extensive catalog, take a look at their site.
