TOPS Knives is no stranger to hard-use knives that are ready to take on everything from tactical to the backwoods. Providing one of the best heat treats in the industry, the company’s knives are made to handle anything thrown at them. For this reason, TOPS Knives’ bushcraft models, like the Brush Wolf and Backpacker’s Bowie, are always fan favorites.
The TOPS Knives Brush Wolf
When it was decided I was reviewing the Brush Wolf from TOPS Knives, I was immediately intrigued by this unique knife from its photos. But when I actually had it in my hand, my excitement grew exponentially.
Right out of the box, I instantly knew this knife would be an interesting candidate for in-the-field testing. Visually, the knife is perplexing. On one hand, it sports a unique blade-heavy design that suggests problems with its overall balance from the get-go. However, on the other hand, its multi-functional blade, with all its intricacies, just begged me to pick it up and start cutting things.
And you know what? Once secured in my grip, my concern about balance quickly disappeared. In fact, as cliched as it may sound, my hand contoured around the handle as if I just slipped on a glove.
Believe me, every finger finds its home around the knife’s handle, locks in, and stays put with an unrelenting grip. There’s an old saying that a knife should be an extension of one’s hand, and the Brush Wolf exemplifies this.
The Brush Wolf in Detail
Once firmly in hand, I was able to observe the details of both the blade and handle. The knife is like a discreet Jack-of-all-trades with a multitude of features built into the design.
The Nessmuk-shaped blade design allows for a surprisingly large cutting edge. Additionally, its stout tip can be used to bore or puncture holes in natural items like wood, leather, or freshly killed animal hide.
Located mid-way along its spine, a series of teeth can be used to saw through fibrous materials like a pro. It can also aid in trap or shelter building by notching wood for the attachment of snare wire or cordage.
The handle also has discreet features, such as dual (one on each side) bow drill holes for fire-building. Likewise, an integrated, reinforced lanyard hole allows for attaching a paracord for additional retention during use.
Because this knife is meant for the deep and, at times, overgrown outdoors, it comes with a natural leather sheath with a dangler belt-loop attachment. I attached it to my own belt and simulated traveling through thick underbrush. It offered both free-flowing movement and a no-fail snap that held firmly in place.
In the Field
This knife performed exceptionally well in the cutting tests. It can perform larger chopping and slicing tasks, as well as precision duties like shaving wood for tinder or notching thin saplings for shelter building.
No matter which task was being done, I was able to maintain exceptional control of the knife.
No matter if you’re into hunting, camping, survival preparedness, exploring, or any other deep outdoor activities, this knife can indeed take up the job as your trusty sidekick.
As mentioned, it immediately felt comfortable in my hand. So, even after just a little time in use, the Brush Wolf will growl loudly and show its teeth to anything that stands in its way.
For more information, please visit TOPSKnives.com.
TOPS Knives Brush Wolf Specs
| Steel Type | 1095 RC 56-58 |
| Handle Material | Green Canvas Micarta |
| Blade Length | 6.50 inches |
| Overall Length | 12.13 inches |
| Overall Weight | 17.70 ounces (with sheath) |
| Sheath Material | Brown Leather |
| Country of Origin | USA |
| MSRP | $300.00 |
TOPS Knives Backpacker’s Bowie
Stout, stocky, and tough-as-hell—that’s the consensus surrounding TOPS Knives Backpacker’s Bowie knife.
The key word in this knife’s description is backpacker’s. Those who backpack regularly know that the weight of their pack can mean the difference between success and failure. Too much weight can bog you down.
This knife was specially designed for those who want the toughness and reliability of a Bowie knife without the typical heft that often accompanies it. Simply stated, this knife accomplishes this goal and a whole lot more.
The Backpacker’s Bowie in Detail
While unpacking the knife, I immediately noted its overall size and weight. It did indeed appear to be a reduced-sized Bowie knife. However, what surprised me the most was its abundant girth, notable weight, and overall solidness, which was evident once I picked it up.
This knife didn’t skimp on any of these characteristics by reducing it to be practical for a backpacker. In fact, the more I held it, the more it felt comfortable in my larger-than-normal hand due to its stocky design.
Though I normally describe and critique a knife’s accessories later on, I have to chime in on the included sheath. Though TOPS Knives could have opted for a larger leather sheath, they chose Kydex for this outdoor helper. I applaud them for it.
I clipped the knife with its sheath to my belt, and it virtually disappeared. This means I noticed very little weight or obstruction from the knife. This is a valuable feature for backpackers or anyone wanting a knife at arm’s reach without it becoming cumbersome.
In the Field
The blade itself exuded durability and I liked that. Too often, a knife’s blade appears too dainty to be effective and ultimately fails, proving my initial observation. This one wasn’t that at all.
It sports a 4.5-inch blade with just over four inches sharpened and ready to cut. The tip offers puncturing capabilities, while the back spine features jimping and a notch useful for breaking wire or grasping cordage.
Its handle provided me with a comfortable, hefty grip, which allowed greater control and stability during my cuts and thrusts into my test materials. My fingers found their place immediately with the ergonomic grip and remained “locked” in for the duration of use.
The Backpacker’s Bowie is definitely a unique knife. I would highly recommend this for anyone wanting a primary blade for minimalistic adventuring, a backup blade for survival situations, or just a trusty go-to blade as you traverse your unpredictable day. It exudes overall durability and may very well outlast you on your next backpacking adventure.
For more information, please visit TOPSKnives.com.
TOPS Knives Backpacker’s Bowie Specs
| Steel Type | 1095 RC 56-58 |
| Handle Material | Green Canvas Micarta |
| Blade Length | 4.50 inches |
| Overall Length | 8.25 inches |
| Overall Weight | 7.20 ounces |
| Sheath Material | Black Kydex |
| Country of Origin | USA |
| MSRP | $210.00 |
