TOPS Knives A-Klub
TOPS Knives is known for a few key things (among many others): differentially heat-treated 1095 blades, unique, over-built designs, and a readiness for working with out-of-house designers. The new A-Klub checks all those boxes and more, as well as carrying the distinction of being the first officially released TOPS blade designed by a woman, Amanda Kaye.
Kaye, who might be otherwise best-known for appearing on the hit TV series “Naked and Afraid,” has immersed herself in hunting culture and is an active student of Native American survival and bushcraft skills, so she’s no stranger to hard work and overcoming adverse conditions. The TOPS Knives A-Klub bushcraft knife reflects this, drawing design influence from the traditional Native American war club, also known as the “gunstock war club”—hence the A-Klub moniker.
A-Klub’s prominent forward sweeping edge widens dramatically toward the tip, which enables it to to chop very similarly to a kukri design. The handle widens a bit at the pommel to make it easier to hold while the user performs heavy chopping motions.
The dangler-style black Kydex sheath allows the knife to move freely while stowed, as the wearer moves, so it’s less likely to hang up on obstructions (for example while traversing tall grass or thick brush). It is further held securely in place using a beta loop.
As with other hard-working TOPS EDC knives, A-Klub’s blade is fashioned from heat-treated 1095 RC 56-58 steel, and is finished here with Tungsten Cerakote to shield the business end from the elements. The handle is completed with green canvas Micarta panels for durability and a secure grip while performing rigorous cutting tasks, such as clearing brush or chopping firewood.
A-Klub’s overall length is just under a foot and a half, with a 12.38-inch blade that features a full 12 inches of cutting edge real estate. Total weight minus the sheath is 23.8 ounces; with A-Klub stowed in the sheath, the whole package weighs in at just over two pounds (33 total ounces).
A-Klub can be outfitted with various available customization options, including blade serrations, a camo finish, and “Rocky Mountain Tread” grip texturing to enhance purchase on the handle when performing bushcraft tasks. TOPS notes: “This tool is built for hard work. If you like kukri designs but are looking for something a little different, the A-Klub is sure to impress.”
TOPS Knives
A-Klub
Overall Length: 17.88 in.
Blade Length: 12.38 in.
Cutting Edge: 12.13 in.
Blade Thickness: 0.19 in.
Blade Steel: 1095 RC 56-58
Blade Finish: Tungsten Cerakote
Handle Material: Green Canvas Micarta
Weight: 23.8 oz.
Weight w/Sheath: 33 oz.
Sheath Material: Black Kydex
Sheath Clip: Dangler
MSRP: $410
URL: topsknives.com
